Effect of soluble fiber intake in lipid and glucose levels in healthy subjects: a randomized clinical trial

Consumption of a Sourdough-Leavened Croissant Enriched with a Blend of Fibers Influences Fasting Blood Glucose in a Randomized Controlled Trial in Healthy Subjects

BACKGROUND

An incorrect lifestyle, including diet, is responsible for the worldwide dramatic increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Increasing dietary fiber consumption may lead to health benefits, and reformulation of bakery products may be a strategy to globally improve the diet.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to assess the impact of a 2-wk breakfast consumption with a sourdough-leavened croissant containing a blend of dietary fiber from 10 sources (4.8 g/100 g, croissant enriched with dietary fibers [FIBCRO]), compared with a control croissant (dietary fibers 1.3 g/100 g, CONCRO) on daily energy intake, appetite, metabolic variables, and the gut microbiome.

METHODS

Thirty-two healthy participants were randomly allocated to 2 groups consuming FIBCRO or CONCRO. Participants self-recorded their diet and appetite through 7-d weighted food diaries and visual analog scales every day over the 2 wk. At baseline and after the intervention, fasting blood and urine samples, and fecal samples were collected beside blood pressure, anthropometry, and body composition. Serum glucose, lipids, C-reactive protein, and insulin according to the official methods and serum dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPPIV) activity by photometric method were measured. Polyphenols and urolithins in urines were analyzed by Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), whereas gut microbiome in feces by shotgun metagenomics.

RESULTS

FIBCRO consumption improved fasting blood glucose compared with CONCRO (mean changes from baseline -2.0 mg/dL in FIBCRO compared with +3.1 mg/dL in CONCRO, P = 0.022), also reducing serum DPPIV activity by 1.7 IU/L (P = 0.01) and increasing urinary excretion of urolithin A-sulfate by 6.9 ng/mg creatinine (P = 0.04) compared with baseline. No further changes in any of the monitored variables or in the gut microbiome were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggested that a 2-wk consumption of a sourdough croissant claimed as "source of dietary fiber" improved fasting glycemia compared with a conventional sourdough croissant in healthy subjects. The reduced serum DPPIV activity and increased bioavailability of urolithin likely contributed to determine that effect independently from gut microbiome changes. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04999280.

Soluble Dietary Fibers as Antihyperlipidemic Agents: A Comprehensive Review to Maximize Their Health Benefits

The number of hypercholesterolemic people is increasing rapidly worldwide, with elevated lipid profiles representing a major risk factor of coronary heart diseases. Dietary intervention was shown to improve the lipid profile, thus enhancing the quality of life. Dietary fiber is a nondigestible form of carbohydrates, due to the lack of the digestive enzyme in humans required to digest fiber, and is classified according to its water solubility properties as either soluble (SDF) or insoluble dietary fiber (IDF). Consumption of SDF is associated with several health benefits such as reduced lipid levels, lower blood pressure, improved blood glucose control, improved immune function, and reduced inflammation. SDF has been shown to lower blood cholesterol by several action mechanisms including directly due to the gelling, mucilaginous, and viscous fiber nature, and indirectly due to its fermented products and modulation of the gut microbiome. This review aims to provide a holistic overview on how SDF impacts the lipid profile. We start by providing an overview of the chemical structure of the major SDFs including mucilage, gums (gum arabic and guar gum), pectin, and inulin.

Are all fibres created equal with respect to lipid lowering? Comparing the effect of viscous dietary fibre to non-viscous fibre from cereal sources: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Although compelling evidence from observational studies supports a positive association between consumption of cereal fibre and CVD risk reduction, randomised controlled trials (RCT) often target viscous fibre type as the prospective contributor to lipid lowering to reduce CVD risk. The objective of our study is to compare the lipids-lowering effects of viscous dietary fibre to non-viscous, cereal-type fibre in clinical studies. RCT that evaluated the effect of viscous dietary fibre compared with non-viscous, cereal fibre on LDL cholesterol and alternative lipid markers, with a duration of ≥ 3 weeks, in adults with or without hypercholesterolaemia were included. Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register were searched through October 19, 2021. Data were extracted and assessed by two independent reviewers. The generic inverse variance method with random effects model was utilised to pool the data which were expressed as mean differences (MD) with 95 % CI. Eighty-nine trials met eligibility criteria (n 4755). MD for the effect of viscous dietary fibre compared with non-viscous cereal fibre were LDL cholesterol (MD = -0·26 mmol/l; 95 % CI: -0·30, -0·22 mmol/l; P < 0·01), non-HDL cholesterol (MD = -0·33 mmol/l; 95 % CI: -0·39, -0·28 mmol/l; P < 0·01) and Apo-B (MD = -0·04 g/l; 95 % CI: -0·06, -0·03 g/l; P < 0·01). Viscous dietary fibre reduces LDL cholesterol and alternative lipid markers relative to the fibre from cereal sources, hence may be a preferred type of fibre-based dietary intervention targeting CVD risk reduction.

Multi-Omic Analyses Reveal Bifidogenic Effect and Metabolomic Shifts in Healthy Human Cohort Supplemented With a Prebiotic Dietary Fiber Blend

Dietary fiber, a nutrient derived mainly from whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes, is known to confer a number of health benefits, yet most Americans consume less than half of the daily recommended amount. Convenience and affordability are key factors determining the ability of individuals to incorporate fiber-rich foods into their diet, and many Americans struggle to access, afford, and prepare foods rich in fiber. The objective of this clinical study was to test the changes in microbial community composition, human metabolomics, and general health markers of a convenient, easy to use prebiotic supplement in generally healthy young participants consuming a diet low in fiber. Twenty healthy adults participated in this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study which was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03785860. During the study participants consumed 12 g of a prebiotic fiber supplement and 12 g of placebo daily as a powder mixed with water as part of their habitual diet in randomized order for 4 weeks, with a 4-week washout between treatment arms. Fecal microbial DNA was extracted and sequenced by shallow shotgun sequencing on an Illumina NovaSeq. Plasma metabolites were detected using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry with untargeted analysis. The phylum Actinobacteria, genus Bifidobacterium, and several Bifidobacterium species (B. bifidum, B. adolescentis, B. breve, B. catenulatum, and B. longum) significantly increased after prebiotic supplementation when compared to the placebo. The abundance of genes associated with the utilization of the prebiotic fiber ingredients (sacA, xfp, xpk) and the production of acetate (poxB, ackA) significantly changed with prebiotic supplementation. Additionally, the abundance of genes associated with the prebiotic utilization (xfp, xpk), acetate production (ackA), and choline to betaine oxidation (gbsB) were significantly correlated with changes in the abundance of the genus Bifidobacterium in the prebiotic group. Plasma concentrations of the bacterially produced metabolite indolepropionate significantly increased. The results of this study demonstrate that an easy to consume, low dose (12 g) of a prebiotic powder taken daily increases the abundance of beneficial bifidobacteria and the production of health-promoting bacteria-derived metabolites in healthy individuals with a habitual low-fiber diet.

Characterisation and in vivo evaluation of Araucaria angustifolia pinhão seed coat nanosuspension as a functional food source

Araucaria angustifolia seeds from South America are culturally important; however, the seed coat is generally discarded and it has yet to find a beneficial commercial impact. Herein, we propose a new formulation for the use of the seed coat for the production of a food source. A nanosuspension was developed under two conditions, bleached and unbleached treatment. Initial characterisation of the seed coat, as well as the nanosuspension, was conducted, in which nanofibrils with antioxidant activity and high values of phenol and sterol classes with health-promoting ability were detected by GC-MS; however, after bleaching, the compounds were removed. The nanosuspension induced a decrease in cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose levels and weight gain when added to the daily rat diet. No significant differences were determined when bleach treatment was used, suggesting that dietary fibre plays a more significant role. Histology analysis and biochemical markers reported no toxicity from the rat ingestion of the nanoformulation.

Psyllium husk intake and risk of type 2 diabetes: an evidence-based scientific and regulatory review of a qualified health claim conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received a petition from a company requesting that FDA issue an authorized health claim for the relationship between psyllium husk and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. After an initial assessment of the available scientific evidence, FDA determined that significant scientific agreement was lacking for this substance-disease relationship, whereupon the company agreed to have its petition reviewed as a qualified health claim. This article describes the process FDA used in conducting an evidence-based review of the science underpinning the proposed claim and addresses certain safety issues associated with psyllium husk that FDA considered in its review of the petition. Of the 6 studies from which scientific conclusions could be drawn, as identified through FDA's review, psyllium husk significantly improved plasma glucose levels and insulin sensitivity in only 1 study. Therefore, FDA's enforcement discretion letter for this qualified health claim stated: "Psyllium husk may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, although the FDA has concluded that there is very little scientific evidence for this claim."

The prebiotic fiber inulin ameliorates cardiac, adipose tissue, and hepatic pathology, but exacerbates hypertriglyceridemia in rats with metabolic syndrome

Prebiotics ameliorate dysbiosis and influence metabolism and the immune system, but their effects on cardiovascular complications in metabolic disorders remain largely unknown. We here investigated the effects of the soluble fiber inulin on cardiac, adipose tissue, and hepatic pathology as well as on metabolic disorders in DahlS.Z-Leprfa/Leprfa (DS/obese) rats, an animal model of metabolic syndrome (MetS). DS/obese rats and their homozygous lean (DahlS.Z-Lepr+/Lepr+, or DS/lean) littermate controls were fed a purified diet containing 5% or 20% inulin from 9 to 13 wk of age. The high-fiber diet ameliorated hypertension, left ventricular inflammation, fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction; attenuated adipose tissue inflammation and fibrosis; and alleviated the elevation of interleukin-6 levels, without affecting insulin resistance, in DS/obese rats. In addition, high fiber intake ameliorated lipid accumulation, inflammation, and fibrosis; attenuated the reduction in AMPK activity; upregulated sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c gene expression; and increased the expression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein gene in the liver of DS/obese rats. It also mitigated increases in total and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels but increased the triglyceride concentration in serum in these rats. None of these parameters were affected by high dietary fiber in DS/lean rats. The proportion of regulatory T cells in adipose tissue was influenced by dietary fiber but not by genotype. Our results indicate that inulin exacerbates hypertriglyceridemia but alleviates hypertension and cardiac injury as well as adipose tissue and hepatic pathology in MetS rats.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Prebiotics ameliorate dysbiosis and influence metabolism and the immune system, but their effects on cardiovascular complications in metabolic disorders remain largely unknown. Inulin ameliorated hypertension, cardiac injury, and diastolic dysfunction without affecting obesity or insulin resistance in a rat model of metabolic syndrome. The favorable cardiac effects of inulin may be related to inhibition of systemic inflammation associated with a reduction in circulating interleukin-6 levels. Additionally, inulin exacerbated hypertriglyceridemia but alleviates adipose tissue and hepatic pathology in these animals, as well as increased the number of regulatory T cells in adipose tissue.

Effects of soluble fiber supplementation on glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Soluble dietary fiber is prompted as an important part of reducing blood glucose, ameliorating insulin resistance and controlling body weight. Thus, we performed this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to quantify and synthesize the effects of soluble fiber supplementation on glycemic control and BMI modification in adults with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane databases until February 13, 2020 to identify RCTs that detected the effects of soluble fiber supplementation on glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. A random-effects model with the generic inverse variance method was used to analyze the pooled data. The meta-regression and subgroup analyses were conducted to identify the variables that influenced the pooled results. The robust error meta-regression model was used to conduct the dose-response test. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was undertaken to evaluate the overall quality of the evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 29 RCTs (33 comparisons) involving 1517 participants were identified in this meta-analysis. Results showed that supplemental soluble dietary fiber significantly reduced glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c, MD -0.63%, 95% CI [-0.90, -0.37]; P < 0.00001), fasting plasma glucose (FPG, MD -0.89 mmol/L, 95% CI [-1.28, -0.51]; P < 0.00001), fasting insulin (SMD -0.48, 95% CI [-0.80, -0.17]; P = 0.003), homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, SMD -0.58, 95% CI [-0.86, -0.29], P < 0.0001), fructosamine (SMD -1.03, 95% CI [-1.51, -0.55]; P < 0.0001), 2-h postprandial plasma glucose (SMD -0.74, 95% CI [-1.00, -0.48]; P < 0.00001), and BMI (SMD -0.31, 95% CI [-0.61, -0.00], P = 0.05) compared with control diets in patients with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, dose-response meta-analyses presented that a daily dosage of 7.6-8.3 g was recommended.

CONCLUSION

Intake of soluble fiber supplementation is effective in improving glycemic control and BMI level in type 2 diabetes and is also a convenient way to help individuals meet standard dietary fiber needs. But due to the evidence of substantial heterogeneity in most pooled estimates, further long-term and high-quality RCTs are needed.

Postprandial Blood Glucose and Insulin Responses of Horses to Feeds Differing in Soluble Fiber Concentration

In humans, the consumption of soluble fibers reduces glycemic response after a meal. We hypothesized high soluble fiber diets would reduce and delay postprandial glucose and insulin responses in horses. In a 4 × 4 Latin square design experiment, four Quarter Horse geldings were adapted to diets containing orchardgrass hay (ORCH) or ORCH with 1 of 3 treatment ingredients: molassed sugar beet pulp (BEET), almond hulls (HULL), or steam-crimped oats (OATS). Blood was serially sampled for 6 hours after feeding 0.15% body weight (BW) of the treatment ingredient (meal test) or 1.1 g starch/kg BW from oats plus the treatment ingredient (starch test) to evaluate glycemic and insulinemic responses. Glycemic response during the meal test peaked between 60 and 90 min after feeding (P < .05) and tended to be altered by diet (P = .071) and diet × time (P = .076). Serum insulin was affected by diet (P = .008), time (P < .001), and diet × time (P < .001) during the meal test, with concentrations lower in ORCH compared with BEET and OATS (P < .05). In the starch test, glucose was lower (P < .05) in ORCH and HULL compared with BEET and insulin was lower (P = .046) in ORCH compared with BEET. In both tests, horses took longer (P < .05) to consume HULL, likely influencing postprandial responses. Future research integrating the functional properties of feeds with physiological responses will be necessary to elucidate how soluble fiber affects postprandial glucose metabolism in horses.

Fruits

Fruits come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. This chapter will cover selected fruits that are known to be healthy and highly nutritious. These fruits were chosen due to their common usage and availability. Since it is not possible to cover all health benefits or essential nutrients and important phytochemicals of the fruit composition, this chapter will focus on the key valuable constituents and their potential health effects.

Changes in Plasma Acylcarnitine and Lysophosphatidylcholine Levels Following a High-Fructose Diet: A Targeted Metabolomics Study in Healthy Women

Background: The consumption of high amounts of fructose is associated with metabolic diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Objective: To determine the effects of high fructose intake on plasma metabolomics. Study design: We enrolled 12 healthy volunteers (six lean and six obese women, age 24–35 years) in a crossover intervention study. All participants carried out three diets: (1) low fructose (<10 g/day); (2) high fructose (100 g/day) from natural food sources (fruit); and (3) high fructose (100 g/day) from high fructose syrup (HFS). Outcome measures: The primary outcome was changes in plasma metabolites measured by targeted metabolomics. Results: High compared to low fructose diets caused a marked metabolite class separation, especially because of changes in acylcarnitine and lysophosphatidylcholine levels. Both high fructose diets resulted in a decrease in mean acylcarnitine levels in all subjects, and an increase in mean lysophosphatidylcholine and diacyl-phosphatidylcholine levels in obese individuals. Medium chain acylcarnitines were negatively correlated with serum levels of liver enzymes and with the fatty liver index. Discussion: The metabolic shifts induced by high fructose consumption suggest an inhibition of mitochondrial β-oxidation and an increase in lipid peroxidation. The effects tended to be more pronounced following the HFS than the fruit diet.

Boiled, sprouted, and raw cowpea-incorporated diets modulate high-fat diet-induced hypercholesterolemia in rats

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of processed (boiled and sprouted) cowpea-incorporated experimental diets on serum cholesterol and serum antioxidant capacity in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed Wistar rats. Seven weeks old male Wistar rats were fed 20% fat as a control (CD), for comparison with 20% fat-enriched diets containing 20% whole raw cowpea diets (Bombay Raw Diet; BRD and MI35 Raw Diet; MRD), boiled cowpea diets (Bombay Boiled Diet; BBD and MI35 Boiled Diet; MBD) and sprouted cowpea diet (Bombay Sprouted Diet; BSD) for 6 weeks. The increase in serum total cholesterol as a result of high-fat diet was significantly countered by boiled and raw cowpea-incorporated diet-fed rats. Increased serum non-HDL-C level caused by HFD was significantly (p < 0.05) countered by raw, boiled, and sprouted cowpeas, while HDL-C was increased by raw MI and boiled Bombay incorporated diets. Boiling has improved the hypocholesterolemic ability of Bombay cowpea and BBD has significantly (p < 0.05) modulated serum HDL-C level and liver weight in rats. These findings were supported significantly high soluble fiber content in processed cowpea powder than that in raw cowpea powder. The decrease in serum antioxidant activity as a result of HFD was significantly countered by BRD. Processing has reduced the antioxidant activity in cowpeas and serum antioxidant activity in rats. Cecal lactobacilli population was significantly high in all cowpea diet-fed groups compared to control. Modulated serum cholesterol level in cowpea diet-fed rats was accompanied by dietary fiber composition, antioxidant activity in cowpeas and fecal weight, cecal weight and cecal lactobacilli population in rats compared to control. Both processed and raw cowpea-incorporated diets have modulated HFD-induced hypercholesterolemia by modulating serum antioxidative capacity, cholesterol metabolism, and cecal fermentation.

Can healthy motivated British adults achieve the revised UK government fibre recommendations of 30 g per day? Results from a preliminary study

BACKGROUND:

UK Government recommendations for dietary fibre intakes have recently increased to 30 g per day, well below current population intakes.

AIM:

This study aimed to explore whether the target for dietary fibre intake could be achieved and the effects on markers of cardiometabolic health.

METHODS:

In this 4-week high-fibre intervention study, 15 participants were instructed to achieve dietary fibre intakes of 30 g/day.

RESULTS:

Dietary fibre intakes significantly increased post intervention (16.0 ± 8.1 g/day, p < 0.001). No significant changes in glucose and triglyceride concentrations were observed and there was a significant increase in average body weight (0.7 ± 1.2 kg, p = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study shows that achieving the new dietary fibre recommendations of 30g/day is achievable, in the short term, in a sample of British adults without any observed effect on health markers.

Effects of psyllium vs. placebo on constipation, weight, glycemia, and lipids: A randomized trial in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic constipation

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of baked psyllium supplementation versus those who received a placebo on constipation symptoms, body weight, glycemic and lipids control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic constipation.

METHODS

In a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial, 51 patients with T2D and chronic constipation with body mass index (BMI) 20-47 kg/m² received either 10 g of psyllium pre-mixed in cookies twice per day or placebo cookies for 12 weeks. Constipation symptoms, body mass index (BMI), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and lipid profile were determined at the beginning and end of 4, 8, and 12-week period. Constipation was evaluated with a stool diary (ROME III).

RESULTS

The psyllium group showed improvement in constipation symptoms, body weight, glucose and lipid values compared with the baseline and the placebo group. Body weight and FPG decreased from baseline in the psyllium group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.056, respectively). The differences (95% CI) of absolute change of body weight (-2.0 (-3.0, -1.0) kg; P < 0.001), FPG (-13.6 (-24.3, -2.9) mg/dl; P = .040), and HbA1c (-1.7 (-2.9, -0.5)); P = 0.002) between the groups were statistically significant. Cholesterol (-21.5 (-25.6, -14.4); P < 0.001), triglycerides (-20.0 (-32.3, -7.7); P = 0.021) and constipation symptoms (1.5 (0.4, 2.3); P < 0.001) decreased in the psyllium group. The compliance was good and no adverse effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

In patients with T2D and chronic constipation, psyllium supplementation decreased constipation symptoms, body weight, glycemic, cholesterol, and increased HDLC levels.

Effects of Higher Dietary Protein and Fiber Intakes at Breakfast on Postprandial Glucose, Insulin, and 24-h Interstitial Glucose in Overweight Adults

Dietary protein and fiber independently influence insulin-mediated glucose control. However, potential additive effects are not well-known. Men and women (n = 20; age: 26 ± 5 years; body mass index: 26.1 ± 0.2 kg/m²; mean ± standard deviation) consumed normal protein and fiber (NPNF; NP = 12.5 g, NF = 2 g), normal protein and high fiber (NPHF; NP = 12.5 g, HF = 8 g), high protein and normal fiber (HPNF; HP = 25 g, NF = 2 g), or high protein and fiber (HPHF; HP = 25 g, HF = 8 g) breakfast treatments during four 2-week interventions in a randomized crossover fashion. On the last day of each intervention, meal tolerance tests were completed to assess postprandial (every 60 min for 240 min) serum glucose and insulin concentrations. Continuous glucose monitoring was used to measure 24-h interstitial glucose during five days of the second week of each intervention. Repeated-measures ANOVA was applied for data analyses. The HPHF treatment did not affect postprandial glucose and insulin responses or 24-h glucose total area under the curve (AUC). Higher fiber intake reduced 240-min insulin AUC. Doubling the amount of protein from 12.5 g to 25 g/meal and quadrupling fiber from 2 to 8 g/meal at breakfast was not an effective strategy for modulating insulin-mediated glucose responses in these young, overweight adults.

The role of alginates in regulation of food intake and glycemia: a gastroenterological perspective

Regulation of food intake through modulation of gastrointestinal responses to ingested foods is an ever-growing component of the therapeutic approaches targeting the obesity epidemic. Alginates, viscous and gel-forming soluble fibers isolated from the cell wall of brown seaweeds and some bacteria, are recently receiving considerable attention because of their potential role in satiation, satiety, and food intake regulation in the short term. Enhancement of gastric distension, delay of gastric emptying, and attenuation of postprandial glucose responses may constitute the basis of their physiological benefits. Offering physical, chemical, sensorial, and physiological advantages over other viscous and gel-forming fibers, alginates constitute promising functional food ingredients for the food industry. Therefore, the current review explores the role of alginates in food intake and glycemic regulation, their underlying modes of action and their potential in food applications.

Effects of a Bioavailable Arabinoxylan-enriched White Bread Flour on Postprandial Glucose Response in Normoglycemic Subjects

The beneficial effects of soluble fibers on carbohydrate metabolism are well documented. In this regard, we tested an arabinoxylan-enriched white bread flour, obtained by a patented process by which the bran extracted from the milling process is enzymatically hydrolyzed in order to separate the soluble fraction fiber from the insoluble fiber. We recruited 24 healthy normoglycemic volunteers [Age 34-61 ± 12.5 y; Body Mass Index (BMI) 22.1 ± 2.5 kg/m(2); Waist circumference (WC) 84.43 ± 8.0 cm; Fat Mass (FM) 22.7 ± 8.0%] attending the Dietetics Outpatient Clinic of the Internal Medicine Department at IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy. Subjects acutely consumed arabinoxylan-enriched white bread (weight: 100 g) or isoenergetic control breads, in a double-blind crossover study design. Plasma glucose levels were measured just before bread administration and 30 minutes afterwards. The 30-minute peak postprandial glucose concentrations after arabinoxylan-enriched meals were significantly lower than after the control meal (107±4.6 mg/dL vs. 121 ± 5.2 mg/dL; p < 0.05). The here-reported results show how postprandial glucose responses were improved by ingestion of the arabinoxylan-enriched meal. Further studies are needed to clarify whether daily consumption of arabinoxylan-enriched bread will benefit patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Dietary fiber and blood pressure control

In the past few years, new strategies as dietary fiber to control blood pressure levels are emerging by developing new bioactive components of foods. The implicated mechanisms are under research.

Systematic review of the mechanisms and evidence behind the hypocholesterolaemic effects of HPMC, pectin and chitosan in animal trials

Dietary fibres have diverse mechanisms in reducing plasma cholesterol, which could be useful for treating high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The objective of this review is to determine the state of the evidence for the cholesterol-lowering effects of three selected fibres and their mechanisms, using the most recent animal trials. Therefore, a systematic review was conducted for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), pectin and chitosan in Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library. All fibres reviewed reduced total cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) and LDL-C. Pectin gave a small, and chitosan an impressive rise in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). A limitation of this study is the variety of animal models, each with distinct cholesterol profiles. Possible publication bias was also detected. In conclusion, chitosan seems to be the most promising of the studied fibres. A dietary fibre could be designed that yields the best cholesterol-lowering effect, using experiences in tailoring physicochemical properties and primarily exploiting the biophysical mechanisms of action.

Boosting the Food Functionality (In Vivo and In Vitro) of Spirulina by Gamma Radiation: An Inspiring Approach

Foods (natural or processed) containing known biologically active compounds, which supplies clinically established and well-documented health benefits, are termed as functional food. Study objectives were to boost food functionality of spirulina, to optimize the required radiation dose, and to test functionality of spirulina both in vitro and in vivo. For this purpose fat binding capacity, sugar binding capacity, hydration property, antioxidative property, total polyphenol content were assessed at different radiation doses. A total of 30 rats were divided into three groups to carry out in vivo experiments to validate the outcomes of in vitro experiments. Targeted physico-chemical properties of spirulina were increased at their maximum level at 15 kGy radiation dose. In vivo experiments validated the outcomes of in vitro experiments. Though gamma radiation improves food functionality of spirulina at various radiation doses, but the optimum dose is recommended as 15 kGy.

Medicinal plants contain mucilage used in traditional Persian medicine (TPM)

CONTEXT

Conventional therapies using mucilage plants greatly used by practitioners in Iran. The usage of mucilages is rooted in traditional knowledge with a history of more than 4000 years. Scientific assessment of these historical documents could be valuable for finding new potential usage in the current medicine.

OBJECTIVE

This study assembled an inventory of mucilage plants considered important therapeutic aids for alleviating the ailments in ancient Persian medicine and compared therapeutic applications of ancient times with current findings of medicinal mucilages in the same plant species.

METHODS

A literature search compiled some main traditional manuscripts of Persian medicine, including the book of AlHavi, Canon of Medicine, Zakhireh-iKharazmshahi, Qarabadine-kabir, Tohfat ol Moemenin, and Makhzan-ol-advieh, and select mucilage plants used in treating the mouth and respiratory system disorders. Also, current investigations on related subjects were considered through a search of the Pub Med and Google Scholar databases.

RESULTS

In Iran, the application of medicinal plants contains mucilage date back to ancient times. In mentioned medieval Persian books, 20 medicinal plants containing mucilage were identified. Mucilages have been traditionally used via oral or topical routes for a variety of disorders. According to this study, most of the cited medicinal plant species were used for their mucilaginous, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects.

CONCLUSIONS

A scientific evaluation of these historical documents can give an insight into the ideas of the past and be valuable in finding new data on clinical use of the mucilages that should lead to future opportunities to investigate their potential medicinal use.

Association of dietary fiber intake with serum total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in Urban Asian-Indian adults with type 2 diabetes

CONTEXT

There is little data correlating dietary fibre (DF) intake and cardiovascular risk in Asian Indians with diabetes.

AIM

To assess the DF intake and its association with lipid profile (total serum cholesterol and low density lipoprotein [LDL] - cholesterol levels) in urban Asian Indians with diabetes.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Dietary assessment using validated Food Frequency Questionnaire was conducted in 1191 free-living adults with known diabetes in the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study. Subjects taking medication for dyslipidemia, and those with cardiovascular disease and implausible energy intake (n = 262) were excluded, leaving 929 participants. Anthropometric and relevant biochemical parameters were measured using standardized techniques.

RESULTS

Diabetic individuals who consumed DF < median intake (29 g/day) had a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia (49.5% vs. 40.1% [P = 0.01]) and higher LDL cholesterol (46.2% vs. 35.5% [P = 0.001]) than those in the > median intake of DF group. The risk of hypercholesterolemia (odds ratio [OR] =1.38 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.85], P = 0.04), and high LDL cholesterol (OR: 1.43 [95% CI: 1.06-1.94], P = 0.02) was higher among those whose DF intake was less than the median. Serum triglycerides and high density lipoprotein cholesterol were not associated with DF intake. The main sources of DF were vegetables and legumes.

CONCLUSION

In urban Asian Indians with diabetes, lower DF intake is positively related to total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

Effects of alginate and resistant starch on feeding patterns, behaviour and performance in ad libitum-fed growing pigs

This study assessed the long-term effects of feeding diets containing either a gelling fibre (alginate (ALG)), or a fermentable fibre (resistant starch (RS)), or both, on feeding patterns, behaviour and growth performance of growing pigs fed ad libitum for 12 weeks. The experiment was set up as a 2×2 factorial arrangement: inclusion of ALG (yes or no) and inclusion of RS (yes or no) in the control diet, resulting in four dietary treatments, that is, ALG-RS- (control), ALG+RS-, ALG-RS+, and ALG+RS+. Both ALG and RS were exchanged for pregelatinized potato starch. A total of 240 pigs in 40 pens were used. From all visits to an electronic feeding station, feed intake and detailed feeding patterns were calculated. Apparent total tract digestibility of energy, dry matter (DM), and CP was determined in week 6. Pigs' postures and behaviours were scored from live observations in weeks 7 and 12. Dietary treatments did not affect final BW and average daily gain (ADG). ALG reduced energy and DM digestibility (P<0.01). Moreover, ALG increased average daily DM intake, and reduced backfat thickness and carcass gain : digestible energy (DE) intake (P<0.05). RS increased feed intake per meal, meal duration (P<0.05) and inter-meal intervals (P=0.05), and reduced the number of meals per day (P<0.01), but did not affect daily DM intake. Moreover, RS reduced energy, DM and CP digestibility (P<0.01). Average daily DE intake was reduced (P<0.05), and gain : DE intake tended to be increased (P=0.07), whereas carcass gain : DE intake was not affected by RS. In week 12, ALG+RS- increased standing and walking, aggressive, feeder-directed, and drinking behaviours compared with ALG+RS+ (ALG×RS interaction, P<0.05), with ALG-RS- and ALG-RS+ in between. No other ALG×RS interactions were found. In conclusion, pigs fed ALG compensated for the reduced dietary DE content by increasing their feed intake, achieving similar DE intake and ADG as control pigs. Backfat thickness and carcass efficiency were reduced in pigs fed ALG, which also showed increased physical activity. Pigs fed RS changed feeding patterns, but did not increase their feed intake. Despite a lower DE intake, pigs fed RS achieved similar ADG as control pigs by increasing efficiency in DE use. This indicates that the energy utilization of RS in pigs with ad libitum access to feed is close to that of enzymatically digestible starch.

The effect of dietary intervention on paraffin-stimulated saliva and dental health of children participating in a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to study the impact of dietary intervention on the properties of paraffin-stimulated saliva, and on dental caries.

STUDY DESIGN

At 7 months of age 1062 infants (540 intervention; 522 controls) started in the prospective, randomized Special Turku Intervention Project (STRIP) aimed at restricting the child's saturated fat and cholesterol intake to prevent atherosclerosis of adult age (www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT 00223600). At 3 years of age, every fifth child was invited to an oral sub-study, and 148 (78 boys) children attended. At 6, 9, 12 and 16 years of age 135, 127, 114 and 88 children were restudied, respectively. Dietary intakes of carbohydrates, protein, saturated fat, calcium, phosphate, and fibre were regularly recorded using 4-day food records. Height and weight were regularly monitored. Paraffin-stimulated saliva samples were collected at 6, 9, 12 and 16 years of age, and analyzed for flow rate, buffer capacity, calcium, phosphate and proteins. Dental health was recorded and expressed as d3mft/D3MFT, and as time of caries onset.

RESULTS

Dietary intakes of calcium, phosphate and fibre, and salivary flow rate increased with time in both groups (p<0.001, GLM for repeated measures). Fibre intake and salivary flow rate were higher in the intervention than in the control group (p=0.042 and p=0.0394, respectively, GLM for repeated measures). There were no correlations between dietary intakes and salivary concentrations of calcium or phosphate. Children who did not have caries experience (d3mft/D3MFT=0) during the entire follow-up had higher salivary calcium than those who had caries already at 3 years of age. The association between salivary calcium and caries onset was significant up to 12 years of age. Toothbrushing frequency was statistically significantly associated with caries-onset at ages 6 (gamma statistic 0.457, p=0.046) and 12 years (gamma statistic 0.473, p=0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

The current long-term dietary intervention increased children's paraffin-stimulated salivary flow rate. The concentration of salivary calcium was directly correlated to dental health. Higher salivary flow rate in the intervention group is believed to be due to higher fibre intake in the intervention group.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic potential of a high fiber diet in healthy versus diabetic rabbits

The aim of this study was to investigate potential hypoglycaemic and hypolipidemic effects of Plantago ovata husk included in the diet, in healthy and diabetic rabbits. We also examined the effects of this fiber in other biochemical parameters. Two groups of 18 rabbits were used. The first group was fed with standard chow and the second with chow supplemented with Plantago ovata husk (3.5 mg/kg/day). On day 14 diabetes mellitus was induced by the intravenous administration of alloxan (80 mg/kg). After an oral glucose load (3 g), glucose, insulin, and other biochemical parameters were determined on day 14 (healthy rabbits) and on day 28 (diabetic rabbits). In healthy rabbits, fiber did not modify glucose or insulin levels but decreased significantly total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, atherogenic index, and glycosylated hemoglobin. In diabetic rabbits, fiber was more beneficial in mild diabetics than in severe diabetics with significant decreases in glucose levels and increases in insulin concentrations. In these animals fiber caused an important reduction in cholesterol, indicating a beneficial effect of Plantago ovata husk in diabetic rabbits. Although further studies in patients are necessary, we think that Plantago ovata husk offers interesting perspectives to be administered to patients with diabetes mellitus.

High dietary fiber intake prevents stroke at a population level

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This research was aimed at clarifying whether high dietary fiber intake has an impact on incidence and risk of stroke at a population level.

METHODS

In 1647 unselected subjects, dietary fiber intake (DFI) was detected in a 12-year population-based study, using other dietary variables, anagraphics, biometrics, blood pressure, heart rate, blood lipids, glucose, insulin, uricaemia, fibrinogenaemia, erytrosedimentation rate, diabetes, insulin resistance, smoking, pulmonary disease and left ventricular hypertrophy as covariables.

RESULTS

In adjusted Cox models, high DFI reduced the risk of stroke. In analysis based on quintiles of fiber intake adjusted for confounders, HR for incidence of stroke was lower when the daily intake of soluble fiber was >25 g or that of insoluble fiber was >47 g. In multivariate analyses, using these values as cut-off of DFI, the risk of stroke was lower in those intaking more that the cut-off of soluble (HR 0.31, 0.17-0.55) or insoluble (HR 0.35, 0.19-0.63) fiber. Incidence of stroke was also lower (-50%, p < 0.003 and -46%, p < 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher dietary DFI is inversely and independently associated to incidence and risk of stroke in general population.

Is carbohydrate intake in the first years of life related to future risk of NCDs?

Studies on children's carbohydrate intake, especially fibre intake, and its associations with later health are rare. The current recommendations for fibre intake in children are based on average assumptions and data extrapolated from intakes in adults. Generally, increase in whole-grain consumption and decrease in sucrose intake are considered healthy. Due to fibre's high bulk volume however, excessive dietary fibre has been feared to decrease energy density have effects on growth, at least in developing countries and in children consuming very restricted diets. Furthermore, it has been speculated that if fats are reduced from the diet, it may become high in sucrose. In STRIP study, which is a long-term, randomized controlled trial designed to decrease the exposure of children to known risk factors of atherosclerosis, carbohydrate intakes have been investigated in detail in children aged 13 months to 9 years. The intervention was successful in decreasing saturated fat intake and cholesterol concentrations throughout childhood and adolescence. The study results also show that a higher than average fibre intake does not displace energy or disturb growth in children and that children with high fibre intake have better dietary quality than those with low fibre intake. Dietary fibre intake associated with lower serum total cholesterol concentrations whereas increases in total carbohydrate, sucrose and fructose intakes associated with increases in serum triglyceride concentrations. In conclusion, from the point of view of CHD risk factor prevention, efforts aiming at increasing the fibre intake while restricting that of refined sugar seem justified in the child population in developed countries.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

NCT00223600.

The role of diet in prevention and management of type 2 diabetes: implications for public health

The aim of this review is to examine the current scientific knowledge on the relationship between diet and Type 2 diabetes and consider further implications for public health. The review focuses on the main nutritional elements which have been identified as significant in the prevention and management of Type 2 diabetes. Research findings on the role of carbohydrate, fiber, alcohol, and individual fatty acids are discussed, while the role of specific micro-nutrients and the influence of obesity are comprehensively presented. The association between dietary habits and Type 2 diabetes etiology and management is also reviewed, in order to examine the positive effects of adherence to a healthy dietary pattern, including the plausible role of the Mediterranean diet.

Urinary enterolignan concentrations are positively associated with serum HDL cholesterol and negatively associated with serum triglycerides in U.S. adults

Fiber-rich diets are associated with favorable lipid profiles, but the specific compounds and the mechanisms behind this effect are yet to be fully understood. Lignans are fiber-related polyphenols that have been associated with lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between dietary lignan exposure, measured as the urinary concentration of their metabolites, enterolactone and enterodiol, and serum lipids in a representative sample of U.S. adults. We carried out a cross-sectional analysis of data from 1492 adults who participated in the 1999-2004 NHANES. The mean urinary concentration of enterolignans in U.S. adults was 1.9 μmol/L. The multivariate-adjusted mean differences comparing the highest and lowest enterolignan tertile were 0.06 mmol/L for HDL cholesterol and -0.17 mmol/L for TG (P < 0.05). In spline regression models, we also found an inverse association between serum TG and urinary enterolignan concentrations. Serum HDL cholesterol levels increased linearly with increasing enterolignan concentrations. Modest or no associations were found between enterolignan concentrations and serum LDL cholesterol or total cholesterol. In conclusion, enterolignan concentrations are associated with lower serum TG concentrations and greater HDL cholesterol concentrations in U.S. adults.

Evidence-based guideline of the German Nutrition Society: carbohydrate intake and prevention of nutrition-related diseases

The relative contribution of nutrition-related chronic diseases to the total disease burden of the society and the health care costs has risen continuously over the last decades. Thus, there is an urgent necessity to better exploit the potential of dietary prevention of diseases. Carbohydrates play a major role in human nutrition - next to fat, carbohydrates are the second biggest group of energy-yielding nutrients. Obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipoproteinaemia, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, coronary heart disease and cancer are wide-spread diseases, in which carbohydrates could have a pathophysiologic relevance. Correspondingly, modification of carbohydrate intake could have a preventive potential. In the present evidence-based guideline of the German Nutrition Society, the potential role of carbohydrates in the primary prevention of the named diseases was judged systematically. The major findings were: a high carbohydrate intake at the expense of total fat and saturated fatty acids reduces the concentrations of total, LDL and HDL cholesterol. A high carbohydrate consumption at the expense of polyunsaturated fatty acids increases total and LDL cholesterol, but reduces HDL cholesterol. Regardless of the type of fat being replaced, a high carbohydrate intake promotes an increase in the triglyceride concentration. Furthermore, a high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages increases the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, whereas a high dietary fibre intake, mainly from whole-grain products, reduces the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipoproteinaemia, cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer at varying evidence levels. The practical consequences for current dietary recommendations are presented.

Dietary Recommendations for the Prevention of Type 2 diabetes: What Are They Based on?

Introduction. Type 2 diabetes is increasing in all populations and all age groups across the world. Areas undergoing rapid westernisation and rapid nutrition transition are seeing the greatest increases in prevalence suggesting that environmental factors are important. Studies from around the world have shown that dietary modification for the prevention of T2DM can be successful; however which dietary factors are important remains to be fully elucidated. The WHO, ADA, and Diabetes UK have developed guidelines for the prevention of T2DM even though the WHO states that data from lifestyle modification programmes does not allow for the disentanglement of dietary factors. Aim of Review. The aim of this focused review is to evaluate the current dietary recommendations for the prevention of T2DM. In addition we aim to explore the available evidence from both observation studies and clinical trials to determine whether these recommendations are appropriate.

Dietary differences between elderly Iranians living in Sweden and Iran a cross-sectional comparative study

BACKGROUND

During the last decades, global migration has increased and many immigrant groups have a higher prevalence than the native born population of several cardiovascular disease risk factors, including poor dietary habits. However, it is uncertain if dietary habits in immigrant populations reflect dietary habits in their country of origin or if the current diet is a consequence of the migration and possible change of dietary habits. The aim of this study was to examine possible dietary differences between elderly Iranians living in Stockholm, Sweden with elderly Iranians living in Tehran, Iran, taking into account sex, age, marital status, and education.

METHODS

Dietary intakes were assessed by semi--quantitative food frequency questionnaire in a cross-sectional study of 121 Iranians living in Stockholm and 52 Iranians living in Tehran, aged 60-80. Differences in dietary habits between the two groups was analysed by bootstrapped regression analyses with 1000 replications.

RESULTS

Iranians living in Sweden had significantly higher intake of protein, total fat, fiber than Iranians living in Iran, but lower consumption of carbohydrates. The observed differences in intake of macronutrients were reflected in consumed amount of all food items, which were higher among Iranians living in Iran with the exception of bread and grain consumption which was lower.

CONCLUSIONS

There are general differences in dietary habits between Iranians living in Iran and Iranians living in Sweden. Parts of observed differences in dietary habits may reflect a favourable adoption process to the Swedish dietary habits after migration. Meanwhile other differences are point of concern in light of the high prevalence of overweight, among Iranians living in Sweden and can have unfavourable impact in particular in the context of cardiovascular health.

Effects of NUTRIOSE® dietary fiber supplementation on body weight, body composition, energy intake, and hunger in overweight men

The objective of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of a soluble dietary fiber, NUTRIOSE(®), on body weight, body composition, energy intake and hunger in overweight Chinese men. The volunteers were randomized in double-blind fashion to 250 ml fruit juice supplemented with NUTRIOSE(®) (Test, n = 60) or a maltodextrin (Control, n = 60) at a dosage of 17 g twice daily for 12 weeks. Body weight, body composition were performed at 0, 4, 8 and 12 weeks while daily energy intake and hunger were assessed every 3 days. Test subjects had reductions in body weight (1.5 kg, P < 0.001), body mass index (0.5 kg/m(2), P < 0.001) and body fat percentage (0.3%, P < 0.001) versus Controls. NUTRIOSE(®) supplementation resulted in a lower daily energy intake (3,079 kJ/day, P < 0.001) with group differences noted as early as 3 days. Test subjects reported less hunger across the study period versus Controls (P < 0.01). NUTRIOSE(®) supplementation for 12 weeks results in body composition improvements and reduces body weight, energy intake and hunger in overweight men.

Dietary lignans: physiology and potential for cardiovascular disease risk reduction

The present review of the literature on lignan physiology and lignan intervention and epidemiological studies was conducted to determine if lignans decrease the risks of cardiovascular disease in Western populations. Five intervention studies using flaxseed lignan supplements indicated beneficial associations with C-reactive protein, and a meta-analysis that included these studies also suggested lignans have a lowering effect on plasma total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Three intervention studies using sesamin supplements indicated possible lipid- and blood pressure-lowering associations. Eleven human observational epidemiological studies examined dietary intakes of lignans in relation to cardiovascular disease risk. Five showed decreased risk with either increasing dietary intakes of lignans or increased levels of serum enterolactone (an enterolignan used as a biomarker of lignan intake), five studies were of borderline significance, and one was null. The associations between lignans and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease are promising, but they are yet not well established, perhaps due to low lignan intakes in habitual Western diets. At the higher doses used in intervention studies, associations were more evident.

The effect of a fibre supplement compared to a healthy diet on body composition, lipids, glucose, insulin and other metabolic syndrome risk factors in overweight and obese individuals

Optimum levels and types of dietary fibre that provide the greatest beneficial effects on metabolic syndrome risk factors in overweight and obese individuals have yet to be determined in clinical trials. The present parallel design study compared the effects of fibre intake from a healthy dietv. a fibre supplement (psyllium) or a healthy diet plus fibre supplement on fasting lipids, glucose, insulin and body composition. Overweight/obese adults were randomised to either control (with placebo), fibre supplement (FIB), healthy eating plus placebo (HLT) or healthy eating plus fibre supplement (HLT–FIB). There was a significant increase in fibre intake in HLT–FIB, HLT and FIB groups up to 59, 31 and 55 g, respectively, at 12 weeks when compared to control (20 g). Weight, BMI and % total body fat were significantly reduced in FIB and HLT–FIB groups, with weight and BMI significantly reduced in the HLT group compared with control at 12 weeks. HLT–FIB and HLT groups had significant reductions in TAG and insulin compared with control at 6 and 12 weeks, and in insulin compared with the FIB group at 12 weeks. The HLT–FIB, HLT and FIB groups all had significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol compared with control after 6 and 12 weeks. The present study demonstrated that simply adding psyllium fibre supplementation to a normal diet was sufficient to obtain beneficial effects in risk factors. However, a high-fibre diet consisting of a psyllium supplement plus fibre from a healthy diet provided the greatest improvements in metabolic syndrome risk factors.

Dietary fiber does not displace energy but is associated with decreased serum cholesterol concentrations in healthy children

BACKGROUND

Dietary fiber has health benefits, but fiber recommendations for children are controversial because fiber may displace energy.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to longitudinally evaluate dietary fiber intake in children and to study associations between growth variables, serum cholesterol concentrations, and intakes of fiber, energy, and nutrients.

DESIGN

Altogether, 543 children from a prospective randomized atherosclerosis prevention trial (the Special Turku Coronary Risk factor Intervention Project; STRIP) participated in this study between the ages of 8 mo and 9 y. The intervention children (n = 264) were counseled to replace part of saturated fat with unsaturated fat. Nutrient intakes, weight, height, and serum total, HDL-, and LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations were analyzed. Children were divided into 3 groups according to mean dietary fiber intake in foods: low (lowest 10%), high (highest 10%), and average (middle 80%) fiber intakes.

RESULTS

Fiber intake associated positively with energy intake and inversely with fat intake. Children with a high fiber intake received more vitamins and minerals than did children in other groups. In longitudinal growth analyses, weights and heights were similar in all 3 fiber intake groups, and fiber intake (g/d) associated positively with weight gain between 8 mo and 2 y. Serum cholesterol concentrations decreased with increasing fiber intakes. Children in the intervention group had a higher fiber intake than did the control children during the entire follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Fiber intake did not displace energy or disturb growth between 13 mo and 9 y of age. Serum cholesterol values correlated inversely with fiber intake, which indicated that part of the cholesterol-lowering intervention effect in the STRIP project may have been explained by dietary fiber.

A diet rich in leafy vegetable fiber improves cholesterol metabolism in high-cholesterol fed rats

In the present study, the hypocholesterolemic effect of leaf vegetable (Jew's mallow) was studied in high-cholesterol fed rats. The animals were fed diets supplemented with cholesterol (0.25%) for 4 weeks. Leaf vegetable diet produced an important hypocholesterolemic action: it led to a significant lowering (p<0.05) of cholesterol in the plasma and liver, as well as of the atherogenic index and a significant increase (p<0.05) in cecal short chain fatty acids, with respect to the control group. Concurrently, total fecal neutral sterols in the excretion increased (p<0.05) and apparent absorption of dietary cholesterol was significantly depressed (-58%). The consumption of leaf vegetable (Jew's mallow) with a hypercholesterolemic diet improved the lipidemic profile and increased excretion of the total cholesterol end-products.

Carbohydrate intake, serum lipids and apolipoprotein E phenotype show association in children

AIM

To study the association between carbohydrate intake and serum lipids in children, and influence of apolipoprotein E phenotype (apoE) on the association.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

A total of 644 children from a prospective, randomized atherosclerosis prevention trial (STRIP) participated in this longitudinal study at age 5 (n = 644), 7 (n = 585) and 9 (n = 550) years. ApoE phenotype, fasting triglyceride, total, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations and 4-day food records were analysed.

RESULTS

An increase in the total carbohydrate intake by 1 E% (percentage of total daily energy intake) associated with a decrease in HDL cholesterol by 0.006 mmol/L (p < 0.001) when adjusted for saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid, age, gender, body mass index and STRIP study group. The inverse association between total carbohydrate intake and HDL cholesterol was evident in children with apoE3 (p < 0.001) or apoE4 (p < 0.001), but not in those with apoE2 (p = 0.78). An increase in total carbohydrate intake by 1 E% increased triglycerides by 0.02 mmol/L (p < 0.001) independently of apoE phenotype, while 1 E% increase in sucrose intake increased triglycerides by 0.01 mmol/L (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Carbohydrate intake has a relatively small effect on serum lipids in children. Children with the apoE3 or E4 but not with E2 phenotype show reduction in HDL cholesterol with increasing carbohydrate intake indicating that genetic and environmental factors interact with children's lipoprotein metabolism.

Antihypertensive properties of plant-based prebiotics

Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Although various drugs for its treatment have been synthesized, the occurring side effects have generated the need for natural interventions for the treatment and prevention of hypertension. Dietary intervention such as the administration of prebiotics has been seen as a highly acceptable approach. Prebiotics are indigestible food ingredients that bypass digestion and reach the lower gut as substrates for indigenous microflora. Most of the prebiotics used as food adjuncts, such as inulin, fructooligosaccharides, dietary fiber and gums, are derived from plants. Experimental evidence from recent studies has suggested that prebiotics are capable of reducing and preventing hypertension. This paper will discuss some of the mechanisms involved, the evidence generated from both in-vitro experiments and in-vivo trials and some controversial findings that are raised.