Ileal brake: a sensible food target for appetite control. A review

Current Concepts in Gastroparesis and Gastric Neuromuscular Disorders-Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management

Upper gastrointestinal concerns including gastroparesis-like symptoms affect a large portion of the population, and determining the culprit condition can be difficult due to largely shared symptoms, clinical course, pathophysiology, and treatment pathways. The understanding of gastric neuromuscular disorders (GNDs) is emerging as a heterogeneous group encompassing conditions from gastroparesis to functional dyspepsia with chronic nausea, early satiety, bloating, or abdominal pain, irrespective of gastric emptying. This article aims to review the current concepts in gastroparesis and GNDs including pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. While some established standards in their diagnosis and management exist, a number of novel diagnostics are becoming available. Durable therapeutic options are notably limited for such common conditions with chronic and debilitating symptoms, and neuromodulators may play a key role in symptom control, which has been previously under-recognized and underutilized. Advances in both pharmacologic treatment targets as well as noninvasive and invasive interventions and devices show promise in improving the experience of patients with gastroparesis-like symptoms. At this time, treatment of GNDs requires comprehensive multidisciplinary care from providers to achieve successful treatment outcomes.

Postprandial glycemic attenuation of size-dependent α-glucan fractions via Gluconobacter oxydans biosynthesis

Slowly digestible carbohydrates have gained significant attention as functional ingredients for regulating blood glucose homeostasis, modulating appetite, and reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. In this study, we explored a bioconversion strategy using Gluconobacter oxydans ATCC 11894 to synthesize polysaccharides with a high proportion of α-1,6 glycosidic linkages from maltodextrins. The bioconversion process effectively generates distinct polysaccharide fractions, including high-molecular-weight dextran, isomaltomegalosaccharides (IMSs), and low-molecular-weight byproducts, each with unique structural properties. IMSs, characterized by a complex network of α-1,4 and α-1,6 linkages, demonstrated significantly reduced susceptibility to mammalian α-glucosidase and slower enzymatic hydrolysis rates compared to dextran. Both in vitro and in vivo evaluations revealed that the polysaccharides modified through bioconversion, particularly the IMS-enriched fractions, effectively attenuated postprandial glucose spikes, prolonged glucose release, and sustained glucose availability. The unfractionated polysaccharides modified through bioconversion also showed promising potential for modulating glycemic responses, providing sustained energy release, and reducing the metabolic risks associated with hyperglycemia. Notably, this bioconversion process utilizes crude maltodextrins without requiring enzyme extraction or purified substrates, ensuring industrial scalability. These findings highlight the potential of G. oxydans-mediated bioconversion as a viable strategy for developing functional carbohydrate-based materials aimed at glycemic control and metabolic health.

Effects of different protein levels and starch-to-fat ratios in diets on growth performance, slaughter performance, and nutrient digestibility of geese

The study was performed to explore the impacts of varying protein levels and starch-to-fat ratios (SFR) in diets on the growth performance, slaughter performance, and nutrient digestibility of geese. Three hundred sixty healthy 28-day-old geese with similar weight were selected and divided into 6 groups, with 6 replicates of 10 geese in each group. A 2 × 3 two-factor complete randomized design was applied, and the geese were fed diets with the same apparent metabolizable energy, two protein levels, and three starch-to-fat ratios. The protein levels were 16.5% (HP) and 14.5% (LP), and starch-to-fat ratios were 20:1, 11:1, and 5:1 respectively. The findings reveal the following: 1) The body weight (BW) of 63-day-old geese in the SFR5:1 group was significantly higher than in the other two groups (P < 0.05). The average daily gain (ADG) from 28 to 63 days in the SFR5:1 and SFR11:1 groups was significantly higher than that in the SFR20:1 group, and the average daily feed intake (ADFI) was notably lower than that in the SFR20:1 group (P < 0.05). The feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) from 28 to 63 days in the SFR5:1 group was significantly lower than in the other two groups (P < 0.05). 2) The skin and subcutaneous fat thickness (SSFT) was increased significantly in the SFR5:1 group compared to SFR20:1 and SFR11:1 groups (P < 0.05). 3) The digestibility of phosphorus was significantly higher in the 14.5% protein level group than that in the 16.5% protein level group, while crude ash digestibility showed the opposite trend. The digestibility of crude fat was significantly higher in the SFR11:1 and SFR5:1 groups compared to SFR20:1 group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the SFR5:1 group significantly reduced the digestibility of crude ash, calcium, energy, and dry matter (P < 0.05). In conclusion, a diet with a starch-to-fat ratio of 11:1 and a protein level of 14.5% is recommended for formulating feed for geese aged 28-63 days.

Enteral nutrition versus parenteral nutrition in the management of postoperative pancreatic fistula following pancreaticoduodenectomy: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) presents a significant challenge to oral intake after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). Strategies such as enteral feeding via nasojejunal tube, feeding jejunostomy (FJ), and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) are commonly used to optimize postoperative nutrition. However, the routine use of FJ in PD remains controversial. This study assesses the effectiveness of enteral feeding versus TPN in the management of POPF.

METHODS

A prospective observational study was conducted on 100 patients undergoing classical PD at a tertiary care centre in eastern India between July 2019 and July 2024. Patients were randomly allocated to FJ and non-FJ groups in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoints were procedure-related complications (POPF, delayed gastric emptying (DGE), post-pancreatectomy haemorrhage, bile leak, Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ 3), hospital stay, additional costs and 30-day mortality in patients with clinically relevant POPF.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients, 50 underwent routine FJ placement, and 50 did not. Most POPF cases were Grade B (34% versus 24%). Subgroup analysis of patients with clinically relevant POPF revealed that FJ placement significantly reduced fistula duration (3.8 versus 5.2 weeks, P < 0.001), intra-abdominal drain duration (26.4 versus 34.9 days, P < 0.001), hospital stay (7.9 versus 9.9 days, P < 0.001) and cost expenses (1301 ± 524 versus 1982 ± 441, P < 0.001). There were no differences in complication rates, reoperations, readmissions or 30-day mortality. FJ placement was not associated with adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Routine FJ is a safe and cost-effective strategy for PD patients requiring prolonged nutritional support.

Saturated fatty acids as guest compounds in the annealing of high-amylose starch: Insights into fatty acid chain length and structural conformation

This study explores the effect of fatty acid chain length in regulating the structural changes and physicochemical properties of high-amylose maize starch (HAMS) induced by annealing with fatty acid solution (AFAS). AFAS was found to effectively regulate the conformation of amylose molecular chains within starch granules. Annealing with fatty acids of shorter chain length, such as lauric acid, promoted the formation of both double and single helices within HAMS granules. The single-helix fraction increased (up to 4.5 %) after AFAS treatment. HAMS modified with lauric acid exhibited the highest crystallinity (24.1 %). The level of structural changes varied for HAMS with shorter amylose chain length. Fatty acids with shorter chain lengths, such as lauric acid and myristic acid, induced higher levels of resistant starch (up to 65 %) under in vitro simulated digestion conditions. Pearson analysis revealed a significant negative correlation (p < 0.05) between the resistant starch content of the modified starch and the fatty-acid chain length complexed during AFAS. These findings suggest that the chain length of fatty acids affects the enzyme resistance of the modified starches, with shorter fatty-acid chain lengths being more effective in inducing ordered structures.

Expandable konjac fiber modulates appetite and chyme digestion in vivo by stomach-intestine-brain axis

Appetite regulation is a lifestyle intervention strategy to maintain health. The regulatory effects of dietary fiber (especially insoluble dietary fiber), as a crucial element of the nutritional composition, on appetite remain poorly understood. This study investigated modulatory effects of konjac fiber (KF, with high and low expansion) and konjac powder (KP) on chyme digestion, gastrointestinal hormones, intestinal microbiota, appetite genes in hypothalamus, GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) protein in various tissues of rats by dietary intervention. The results showed that highly-expanded konjac fiber (HKF) significantly delayed gastric emptying and inhibited hydrolysis of chyme. Konjac fiber (KF), especially HKF, and KP increased short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) content and plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels. HKF upregulated the expression of GLP-1R protein in rat stomachs, nucleus tractus solitaries (NTS), and area postrema (AP) of rat brain, but down-regulated the expression of appetite gene AgRP/NPY in hypothalamus, thus, inhibiting appetite, reducing daily food intake and weight gain. Overall, this study reveals the mechanism through which expandable konjac fiber modulates appetite and chyme digestion in vivo by stomach-intestine-brain axis. Our findings provide an insight into the regulatory effects of insoluble dietary fiber on appetite and offered a valuable reference for the development of satiety-enhancing functional foods.

Controlled lipid digestion in the development of functional and personalized foods for a tailored delivery of dietary fats

In recent decades, obesity and its associated health issues have risen dramatically. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this trend, underscoring the pressing need for new strategies to manage weight. Functional foods designed to modulate lipid digestion and absorption rates and thereby reduce the assimilation of dietary fats have gained increasing attention in food science as a potentially safer alternative to weight-loss medications. This review provides insights into controlled lipid digestion and customized delivery of fats. The first section introduces basic concepts of lipid digestion and absorption in the human gastrointestinal tract. The second section discusses factors regulating lipid digestion and absorption rates, as well as strategies for modulating lipid assimilation from food. The third section focuses on applications of controlled lipid digestion in developing personalized foods designed for specific consumer groups, with particular emphasis on two target populations: overweight individuals and infants.

Gut Microbiome Regulation of Gut Hormone Secretion

The gut microbiome, comprising bacteria, viruses, fungi, and bacteriophages, is one of the largest microbial ecosystems in the human body and plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. This review explores the interaction between the gut microbiome and enteroendocrine cells (EECs), specialized hormone-secreting cells within the intestinal epithelium. EECs, which constitute less than 1% of intestinal epithelial cells, are key regulators of gut-brain communication, energy metabolism, gut motility, and satiety. Recent evidence shows that gut microbiota directly influence EEC function, maturation, and hormone secretion. For instance, commensal bacteria regulate the production of hormones like glucagon-like peptide 1 and peptide YY by modulating gene expression and vesicle cycling in EE cells. Additionally, metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids, derived from microbial fermentation, play a central role in regulating EEC signaling pathways that affect metabolism, gut motility, and immune responses. Furthermore, the interplay between gut microbiota, EECs, and metabolic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, is examined, emphasizing the microbiome's dual role in promoting health and contributing to disease states. This intricate relationship between the gut microbiome and EECs offers new insights into potential therapeutic strategies for metabolic and gut disorders.

A Whole Plant-Foods Diet in the Prevention and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity: From Empirical Evidence to Potential Mechanisms

Excess body adiposity, referred to as overweight and obesity, represents a major health concern given that it increases the risk of various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. Body weight reduction can be achieved via a wide variety of dietary strategies as long as an energy deficit is achieved. However, the effect of such diets on disease risk and mortality will depend on the foods included. Increasing evidence shows that consumption of whole plant foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes) in place of animal foods (e.g., meat, poultry, dairy, fish, eggs, and seafood and their derivatives) and non-whole plant foods (e.g., refined grains, French fries, sugar-sweetened beverages) is associated with improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors and lower risk of chronic diseases and mortality. This review focuses on the effect of a whole plant-foods diet on overweight and obesity from observational to clinical studies and discusses the potential mechanisms involved. According to existing evidence, a whole plant foods diet seems to be more advantageous than other dietary approaches for the prevention and treatment of excess adiposity given that it is composed of the foods that lead to the best health outcomes.

Dysregulation of Metabolic Peptides Precedes Hyperinsulinemia and Inflammation Following Exposure to Rotenone in Rats

Rotenone, a naturally occurring compound derived from the roots of tropical plants, is used as a broad-spectrum insecticide, piscicide, and pesticide. It is a classical, high-affinity mitochondrial complex I inhibitor that causes not only oxidative stress, α-synuclein phosphorylation, DJ-1 (Parkinson's disease protein 7) modifications, and inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome system but it is also widely considered an environmental contributor to Parkinson's disease (PD). While prodromal symptoms, such as loss of smell, constipation, sleep disorder, anxiety/depression, and the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of rotenone-treated animals, have been reported, alterations of metabolic hormones and hyperinsulinemia remain largely unknown and need to be investigated. Whether rotenone and its effect on metabolic peptides could be utilized as a biomarker for its toxic metabolic effects, which can cause long-term detrimental effects and ultimately lead to obesity, hyperinsulinemia, inflammation, and possibly gut-brain axis dysfunction, remains unclear. Here, we show that rotenone disrupts metabolic homeostasis, altering hormonal peptides and promoting infiltration of inflammatory T cells. Specifically, our results indicate a significant decrease in glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), C-peptide, and amylin. Interestingly, levels of several hormonal peptides related to hyperinsulinemia, such as insulin, leptin, pancreatic peptide (PP), peptide YY (PYY), and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), were significantly upregulated. Administration of rotenone to rats also increased body weight and activated macrophages and inflammatory T cells. These data strongly suggest that rotenone disrupts metabolic homeostasis, leading to obesity and hyperinsulinemia. The potential implications of these findings are vast, given that monitoring these markers in the blood could not only provide a crucial tool for assessing the extent of exposure and its relevance to obesity and inflammation but could also open new avenues for future research and potential therapeutic strategies.

GLP-1 and the Neurobiology of Eating Control: Recent Advances

Obesity is now considered a chronic relapsing progressive disease, associated with increased all-cause mortality that scales with body weight, affecting more than 1 billion people worldwide. Excess body fat is strongly associated with excess energy intake, and most successful anti-obesity medications (AOMs) counter this positive energy balance through the suppression of eating to drive weight loss. Historically, AOMs have been characterized by modest weight loss and side effects which are compliance-limiting, and in some cases life-threatening. However, the field of obesity pharmacotherapy has now entered a new era of AOMs based on analogues of the gut hormone and neuropeptide glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The latest versions of these drugs elicit unprecedented levels of weight loss in clinical trials, which are now starting to be substantiated in real-world usage. Notably, these drugs reduce weight primarily by reducing energy intake, via activation of the GLP-1 receptor on multiple sites of action primarily in the central nervous system, although the most relevant sites of action, and the neural circuits recruited remain contentious. Here we provide a targeted synthesis of recent developments in the field of GLP-1 neurobiology, highlighting studies which have advanced our understanding of how GLP-1 signaling modulates eating, and identify open questions and future challenges we believe still need to be addressed to aid the prevention and/or treatment of obesity.

Micellar casein and sodium caseinate supramolecular structure differently impacts subsequent food intake in pigs

Dietary protein reduces energy intake in following meals by signaling directly or indirectly to the brain. We recently observed differences in plasma amino acid kinetics and intra-gastric behavior between micellar casein (MC) and sodium caseinate (SC) in pigs, two factors that impact food intake. Our objective was to clarify whether the supramolecular structure of casein, given as a preload to pigs, impacts on subsequent food intake. Overnight fasted pigs were allowed to consume casein drinks differing in casein macromolecular structure (SC vs MC) within 5 min in a cross-over study. Ad libitum intake of their regular feed was assessed during 1 h, either 1 or 4 h after casein drink ingestion. To evaluate the potential mechanisms at play, gastric emptying of the casein drinks radiolabeled with 99Tc-colloïd was followed using gamma-scintigraphy while plasma kinetics of ghrelin, GLP-1, insulin and free amino acids were evaluated. The amount of feed consumed 1, but not 4 h, after SC ingestion was lower than the amount of feed consumed after MC ingestion (P = 0.03). Gastric emptying parameters, plasma ghrelin, GLP-1 and insulin kinetics after both types of casein ingestion were not significantly different (P > 0.05). However, plasma free amino acid concentrations, known to reduce food intake, increased after both SC and MC ingestion but was greater after SC than MC ingestion from 60 to 120 min (P = 0.009). In conclusion, casein supramolecular structure in a preload drink impacts differently subsequent energy intake, likely due to difference in amino acid bioavailability. Micellar casein exhibits less anorectic effect than sodium caseinate, a property that could benefit population with high protein need but low appetite such as elderly.

Integrated Insights into Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Improving Life Quality and Reducing Mortality in Obesity

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is an effective intervention for patients with severe obesity and metabolic comorbidities, particularly when non-surgical weight loss methods prove insufficient. MBS has shown significant potential for improving quality of life and metabolic health outcomes in individuals with obesity, yet it carries inherent risks. Although these procedures offer a multifaceted approach to obesity treatment and its clinical advantages are well-documented, the limited understanding of its long-term outcomes and the role of multidisciplinary care pose challenges. With an emphasis on quality-of-life enhancements and the handling of postoperative difficulties, the present narrative review seeks to compile the most recent findings on MBS while emphasizing the value of an integrated approach to maximize patient outcomes. Effective MBS and patients' management require a collaborative team approach, involving surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers to address not only physiological but also psychosocial patient needs. Comparative studies demonstrate the efficacy of various MBS methods, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy that may considerably decrease morbidity and mortality in individuals with obesity. Future studies should target long-term patient treatment, and decision making should be aided by knowledge of obesity, comorbidity recurrence rates, and permanence of benefits.

Emerging drugs for the treatment of short bowel syndrome

INTRODUCTION

SBS is a rare and disabling condition. The standard management is based on diet optimization with parenteral supplementation. In addition, glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2)analogs, have shown promising results as disease-modifying therapies for SBS.

AREAS COVERED

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is defined as a reduction in functional intestinal length to less than 200 cm, leading to intestinal failure (IF) leading to malnutrition and parenteral support dependency. This review discusses the current management of SBS-CIFpatients, the place of GLP-2 analog treatment in terms of efficacy, safety and availability, and the new perspectives opened by the use of enterohormones.

EXPERT OPINION

Clinical trials and real-world experience demonstrated that Teduglutide   reduces dependence on parenteral support and has a place in the management of patients with SBS-CIF.  The use of Teduglutide should be discussed in patients stabilized after resection and its introduction requires the advice of an expert center capable of assessing the benefit-risk ratio. The complex, individualized management of SBS-C IF requires theexpertise of a specialized IF center which a multidisciplinary approach. The arrival of new treatments will call for new therapeutic strategies, and the question of how to introduce and monitor them will represent a new therapeutic challenge.

The enteroendocrine axis and its effect on gastrointestinal function, nutrition, and inflammation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction limits enteral nutrition (EN) delivery in critical illness and contributes to systemic inflammation. The enteroendocrine (EE) axis plays an integral role in this interface between nutrition, inflammation, and GI function in critical illness. In this review, we present an overview of the EE system with a focus on its role in GI inflammation and function.

RECENT FINDINGS

Enteroendocrine cells have been primarily described in their role in macronutrient digestion and absorption. Recent research has expanded on the diverse functions of EE cells including their ability to sense microbial peptides and metabolites and regulate immune function and inflammation. Therefore, EE cells may be both affected by and contribute to many pathophysiologic states and interventions of critical illness such as dysbiosis , inflammation, and alternative EN strategies. In this review, we present an overview of EE cells including their growing role in nonnutrient functions and integrate this understanding into relevant aspects of critical illness with a focus on EN.

SUMMARY

The EE system is key in maintaining GI homeostasis in critical illness, and how it is impacted and contributes to outcomes in the setting of dysbiosis , inflammation and different feeding strategies in critical illness should be considered.

Effects of dietary fiber on maternal health in pregnant women with metabolic syndrome risk: a randomized controlled trial

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) during pregnancy can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and hypertensive disorders. In this study, we sought to examine the influence of dietary fiber, from both food sources and soluble fiber supplementation, on the metabolic health and overall pregnancy outcomes of women at high risk of MetS. We conducted a randomized controlled trial involving 376 women between 11 and 13 weeks of gestation. To evaluate dietary fiber intake, we performed an exhaustive dietary component analysis using a food frequency questionnaire. Additionally, the participants in the intervention group received daily soluble fiber supplements until delivery. All participants underwent nutritional consultations and metabolic health assessments at three distinct stages of pregnancy (GW 11-13, GW 24-26, and GW 32-34). Our findings revealed a significant correlation between insufficient dietary fiber intake and an increased risk of GDM, even after adjusting for variables such as maternal age and pre-pregnancy BMI. We also noted that a high total dietary fiber intake was associated with reduced changes in triglyceride levels. In addition, the intervention group showed lower need for constipation medication, and soluble fiber supplementation may offer potential benefits for GDM patients. Importantly, our study verified the safety of long-term soluble fiber supplementation during pregnancy. Our results underscore the importance of adequate fiber intake, particularly from dietary sources, for the metabolic health of pregnant women. Moreover, our findings suggest that early fiber supplementation may benefit pregnant women experiencing constipation or those diagnosed with GDM.

The Regulation of Metabolic Homeostasis by Incretins and the Metabolic Hormones Produced by Pancreatic Islets

In healthy humans, the complex biochemical interplay between organs maintains metabolic homeostasis and pathological alterations in this process result in impaired metabolic homeostasis, causing metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, which are major global healthcare burdens. The great advancements made during the last century in understanding both metabolic disease phenotypes and the regulation of metabolic homeostasis in healthy individuals have yielded new therapeutic options for diseases like type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, it is unlikely that highly desirable more efficacious treatments will be developed for metabolic disorders until the complex systemic regulation of metabolic homeostasis becomes more intricately understood. Hormones produced by pancreatic islet beta-cells (insulin) and alpha-cells (glucagon) are pivotal for maintaining metabolic homeostasis; the activity of insulin and glucagon are reciprocally correlated to achieve strict control of glucose levels (normoglycaemia). Metabolic hormones produced by other pancreatic islet cells and incretins produced by the gut are also crucial for maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Recent studies highlighted the incomplete understanding of metabolic hormonal synergism and, therefore, further elucidation of this will likely lead to more efficacious treatments for diseases such as T2D. The objective of this review is to summarise the systemic actions of the incretins and the metabolic hormones produced by the pancreatic islets and their interactions with their respective receptors.

Multifunctional microelectronic fibers enable wireless modulation of gut and brain neural circuits

Progress in understanding brain-viscera interoceptive signaling is hindered by a dearth of implantable devices suitable for probing both brain and peripheral organ neurophysiology during behavior. Here we describe multifunctional neural interfaces that combine the scalability and mechanical versatility of thermally drawn polymer-based fibers with the sophistication of microelectronic chips for organs as diverse as the brain and the gut. Our approach uses meters-long continuous fibers that can integrate light sources, electrodes, thermal sensors and microfluidic channels in a miniature footprint. Paired with custom-fabricated control modules, the fibers wirelessly deliver light for optogenetics and transfer data for physiological recording. We validate this technology by modulating the mesolimbic reward pathway in the mouse brain. We then apply the fibers in the anatomically challenging intestinal lumen and demonstrate wireless control of sensory epithelial cells that guide feeding behaviors. Finally, we show that optogenetic stimulation of vagal afferents from the intestinal lumen is sufficient to evoke a reward phenotype in untethered mice.

Bioactive carbohydrate polymers from marine sources as potent nutraceuticals in modulating obesity: a review

The majority of bioactive polysaccharides are present in some marine creatures. These polysaccharides are considered as promising anti-obesity agents, their anti-obesity properties involve a number of mechanisms, including suppression of lipid metabolism and absorption, impact on satiety, and prevention of adipocyte differentiation. Obesity is linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other metabolic syndromes. In this review various bioactive polysaccharides like chitin, chitosan, fucosylated chondroitin sulphate, chitooligosaccharides and glycosaminoglycans have been discussed for their anti-obesity effects through various pathways. Critical evaluation of observational studies and intervention trials on obesity, lipid hypertrophy, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes was done with a primary focus on specific marine fauna polysaccharide as a source of seafood that is consumed all over the world. It has been observed that consumption of individual seafood constituents was effective in reducing obesity. Thus, marine derived novel bioactive polysaccharides have potential applications in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Molecular cell types as functional units of the efferent vagus nerve

The vagus nerve vitally connects the brain and body to coordinate digestive, cardiorespiratory, and immune functions. Its efferent neurons, which project their axons from the brainstem to the viscera, are thought to comprise "functional units" - neuron populations dedicated to the control of specific vagal reflexes or organ functions. Previous research indicates that these functional units differ from one another anatomically, neurochemically, and physiologically but have yet to define their identity in an experimentally tractable way. However, recent work with genetic technology and single-cell genomics suggests that genetically distinct subtypes of neurons may be the functional units of the efferent vagus. Here we review how these approaches are revealing the organizational principles of the efferent vagus in unprecedented detail.

Effect of sire type and a by-product based diet on performance and meat quality in growing-finishing pigs

For many years, pig production has focused on maximizing performance by selecting for maximal muscle growth and feeding diets that allow the animals to express their genetic potential. However, it is unclear whether this selection for muscle deposition has affected the capacity of pigs to cope with by-product-based diets, which rely on fat as the primary energy source instead of starches and sugars. Therefore, an experiment was set up to investigate if different types of boars affect how their progeny cope with alternative ingredients in the diet, with a possible need for adapted breeding schemes. Two types of boars within the Piétrain sire line were used based on either a high or low estimated breeding value for daily feed intake (HFI: high feed intake, low feed intake). When their progeny reached 14 weeks of age, two dietary strategies were compared: a control (CON) vs a by-product-based diet high in fat and fiber (HFF). The CON diet was mainly based on cereals (corn, wheat, barley) and soybean meal. The HFF diet was formulated to contain the same net energy, CP and digestible amino acid levels without any cereals or soybean meal. In total 192 animals were included in the experiment (48 animals/type of boar/diet) and performance, digestibility, carcass and meat quality were compared. None of the parameters showed a significant interaction (P < 0.05) between the type of boar and diet, suggesting that shifting to diets that are less prone to feed-food competition is equally feasible in different types of pigs. Type of boar did affect performance, carcass quality and intramuscular fat content. HFI pigs showed higher daily feed intake (DFI) and daily gain (P < 0.001), with no significant difference in feed conversion ratio (P = 0.205), lower carcass quality (P < 0.001) and higher intramuscular fat content (P = 0.030). For both boar types, pigs fed the CON diet performed better, with a higher daily gain (P = 0.028), DFI (P = 0.011) and dressing yield (P = 0.009) and better digestibility (P < 0.001), but without differences in feed conversion ratio or meat quality. In conclusion, there was no indication that pigs differing in feed intake capacity cope differently with a high-fat, high-fiber diet based on by-products. Different types of pigs may cope well with diets that are less prone to feed-food competition.

Dietary impact on fasting and stimulated GLP-1 secretion in different metabolic conditions - a narrative review

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a gastrointestinal peptide and central mediator of glucose metabolism, is secreted by L cells in the intestine in response to food intake. Postprandial secretion of GLP-1 is triggered by nutrient-sensing via transporters and G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). GLP-1 secretion may be lower in adults with obesity/overweight (OW) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than in those with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), but these findings are inconsistent. Because of the actions of GLP-1 on stimulating insulin secretion and promoting weight loss, GLP-1 and its analogs are used in pharmacologic preparations for the treatment of T2DM. However, physiologically stimulated GLP-1 secretion through the diet might be a preventive or synergistic method for improving glucose metabolism in individuals who are OW, or have impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or T2DM. This narrative review focuses on fasting and postprandial GLP-1 secretion in individuals with different metabolic conditions and degrees of glucose intolerance. Further, the influence of relevant diet-related factors (e.g., specific diets, meal composition, and size, phytochemical content, and gut microbiome) that could affect fasting and postprandial GLP-1 secretion are discussed. Some studies showed diminished glucose- or meal-stimulated GLP-1 response in participants with T2DM, IGT, or OW compared with those with NGT, whereas other studies have reported an elevated or unchanged GLP-1 response in T2DM or IGT. Meal composition, especially the relationship between macronutrients and interventions targeting the microbiome can impact postprandial GLP-1 secretion, although it is not clear which macronutrients are strong stimulants of GLP-1. Moreover, glucose tolerance, antidiabetic treatment, grade of overweight/obesity, and sex were important factors influencing GLP-1 secretion. The results presented in this review highlight the potential of nutritional and physiologic stimulation of GLP-1 secretion. Further research on fasting and postprandial GLP-1 concentrations and the resulting metabolic consequences under different metabolic conditions is needed.

Small intestinal CaSR-dependent and CaSR-independent protein sensing regulates feeding and glucose tolerance in rats

Proteins activate small intestinal calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) and/or peptide transporter 1 (PepT1) to increase hormone secretion1-8, but the effect of small intestinal protein sensing and the mechanistic potential of CaSR and/or PepT1 in feeding and glucose regulation remain inconclusive. Here we show that, in male rats, CaSR in the upper small intestine is required for casein infusion to increase glucose tolerance and GLP1 and GIP secretion, which was also dependent on PepT1 (ref. 9). PepT1, but not CaSR, is required for casein infusion to lower feeding. Upper small intestine casein sensing fails to regulate feeding, but not glucose tolerance, in high-fat-fed rats with decreased PepT1 but increased CaSR expression. In the ileum, a CaSR-dependent but PepT1-independent pathway is required for casein infusion to lower feeding and increase glucose tolerance in chow-fed rats, in parallel with increased PYY and GLP1 release, respectively. High fat decreases ileal CaSR expression and disrupts casein sensing on feeding but not on glucose control, suggesting an ileal CaSR-independent, glucose-regulatory pathway. In summary, we discover small intestinal CaSR- and PepT1-dependent and -independent protein sensing mechanisms that regulate gut hormone release, feeding and glucose tolerance. Our findings highlight the potential of targeting small intestinal CaSR and/or PepT1 to regulate feeding and glucose tolerance.

Research progress on chitin/chitosan-based emulsion delivery systems and their application in lipid digestion regulation

Excessive lipid intake is linked to an elevated risk of health problems. However, reducing lipid contents may influence food structure and flavor. Some alternatives are needed to control the lipid absorption. Emulsions are common carriers for lipids, which can control the hydrolysis and absorption of lipids. Chitin (Ch) and chitosan (CS) are natural polysaccharides with good biodegradability, biocompatibility, and unique cationic properties. They have been reported to be able to delay lipolysis, which can be regarded as one of the most promising agents that regulates lipid digestion (LiD). The application of Ch/CS and their derivatives in emulsions are summarized in this review with a focus on their performances and mechanisms for LiD regulation, aiming to provide theoretical guidance for the development of novel Ch/CS emulsions, and the regulation of LiD. A reasonable design of emulsion interface can provide its resistance to the external environment and then control LiD. The properties of emulsion interface are the key factors affecting LiD. Therefore, systematic study on the relationship between Ch/CS-based emulsion structure and LiD can not only instruct the reasonable design of emulsion interface to accurately regulate LiD, but also provide scientific guidelines for applying Ch/CS in functional food, medicine and other fields.

Cerebellar Prediction and Feeding Behaviour

Given the importance of the cerebellum in controlling movements, it might be expected that its main role in eating would be the control of motor elements such as chewing and swallowing. Whilst such functions are clearly important, there is more to eating than these actions, and more to the cerebellum than motor control. This review will present evidence that the cerebellum contributes to homeostatic, motor, rewarding and affective aspects of food consumption.Prediction and feedback underlie many elements of eating, as food consumption is influenced by expectation. For example, circadian clocks cause hunger in anticipation of a meal, and food consumption causes feedback signals which induce satiety. Similarly, the sight and smell of food generate an expectation of what that food will taste like, and its actual taste will generate an internal reward value which will be compared to that expectation. Cerebellar learning is widely thought to involve feed-forward predictions to compare expected outcomes to sensory feedback. We therefore propose that the overarching role of the cerebellum in eating is to respond to prediction errors arising across the homeostatic, motor, cognitive, and affective domains.

Routes of nutrition for pancreatic fistula after pancreatoduodenectomy: a prospective snapshot study identifies the need for therapy standardization

The aim of this study is to describe the current utilization of artificial nutrition [enteral (EN) or total parenteral (TPN)] for pancreatic fistula (POPF) after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Prospective data of 311 patients who consecutively underwent PD at a tertiary referral center for pancreatic surgery were collected. Data included the use of EN or TPN specifically for POPF treatment, including timing, outcomes, and adverse events related to their administration. POPF occurred in 66 (21%) patients and 52 (79%) of them were treated with artificial nutrition, for a median of 36 days. Forty (76%) patients were treated with a combination of TPN and EN. The median day of artificial nutrition start was postoperative day 7, with a median drain output of 180 cc/24 h. In 33 (63%) patients, artificial nutrition was started while only a biochemical leak was ongoing. Fungal infections and catheter-related bloodstream infection occurred in 13 (28%) and 15 (33%) TPN patients, respectively; among EN patients, 19 (41%) experienced diarrhea not responsive to pancreatic enzymes and 9 (20%) needed multiple endoscopic naso-jejunal tube positioning. The majority of the patients developing POPF after PD were treated with a combination of TPN and EN, with a clinically relevant rate of adverse events related to their administration. Standardization of nutrition routes in patients developing POPF is urgently needed.

In vitro fermentation of glycosaminoglycans from mackerel fish waste and its role in modulating the antioxidant status and gut microbiota of high fat diet-fed C57BL/6 mice

Bioactive polysaccharides such as glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) exhibit potential health benefits for several health complications including obesity. The gut microbiota plays a key role in regulating host metabolism, nutrition and immunity. The present work assessed the potential of extracted GAGs (e-GAGs) in maintaining the gut microbiota and ameliorating the effects of high fat diet in in vitro and in vivo models. The in vitro fermentability of e-GAGs extracted from mackerel fish waste was analyzed with Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and Bifidobacterium bifidum (BB); e-GAGs at 0.5 and 1% proved their prebiotic nature up to 48 h. The pH value decreased from 6.23 to 3.32, the cell density increased from 1.70 to 2.32, the viable cell count increased from 8 to 12 log CFU mL^-1, and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) production was ≈33, 31 and 36% for LP and ≈37, 29 and 34% for BB in terms of acetic acid, propionic acid and butyric acid, respectively. In vivo studies on high fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL/6 mice with e-GAGs (380 and 760 mg kg^-1 diet) showed ameliorated gut microbiome and tissue/plasma antioxidant enzyme activities, and also the e-GAG-fed group showed significantly (P < 0.05) decreased lipid peroxidation. Cecal microbial analysis showed the health-promoting effects of e-GAGs in reducing (P < 0.05) the obesity ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (F/B) within the range (5.32 and 5.26) compared with HFD (6.23). Hence, e-GAGs can be a potential molecule for the treatment of obesity by restoring the redox status under oxidative stress and ameliorating the gut microbes that produce SCFAs which are known to have health beneficial effects.

Production of highly branched α-limit dextrins with enhanced slow digestibility by various glycogen-branching enzymes

α-Limit dextrins (α-LDx) are slowly digestible carbohydrates that attenuate postprandial glycemic response and trigger the secretion of satiety-related hormones. In this study, more highly branched α-LDx were enzymatically synthesized to enhance the slowly digestible property by various origins of glycogen branching enzyme (GBE), which catalyzes the transglycosylation to form α-1,6 branching points after cleaving α-1,4 linkages. Results showed that the proportion of branched α-LDx in starch molecules increased around 2.2-8.1 % compared to α-LDx from starch without GBE treatment as the ratio of α-1,6 linkages increased after different types of GBE treatments. Furthermore, the enzymatic increment of branching points enhanced the slowly digestible properties of α-LDx at the mammalian α-glucosidase level by 17.3-28.5 %, although the rates of glucose generation were different depending on the source of GBE treatment. Thus, the highly branched α-LDx with a higher amount of α-1,6 linkages and a higher molecular weight can be applied as a functional ingredient to deliver glucose throughout the entire small intestine without a glycemic spike which has the potential to control metabolic diseases such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Multifaceted Roles of GLP-1 and Its Analogs: A Review on Molecular Mechanisms with a Cardiotherapeutic Perspective

Diabetes is one of the chronic metabolic disorders which poses a multitude of life-debilitating challenges, including cardiac muscle impairment, which eventually results in heart failure. The incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has gained distinct recognition in reinstating glucose homeostasis in diabetes, while it is now largely accepted that it has an array of biological effects in the body. Several lines of evidence have revealed that GLP-1 and its analogs possess cardioprotective effects by various mechanisms related to cardiac contractility, myocardial glucose uptake, cardiac oxidative stress and ischemia/reperfusion injury, and mitochondrial homeostasis. Upon binding to GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), GLP-1 and its analogs exert their effects via adenylyl cyclase-mediated cAMP elevation and subsequent activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase(s) which stimulates the insulin release in conjunction with enhanced Ca²⁺ and ATP levels. Recent findings have suggested additional downstream molecular pathways stirred by long-term exposure of GLP-1 analogs, which pave the way for the development of potential therapeutic molecules with longer lasting beneficial effects against diabetic cardiomyopathies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advances in the understanding of the GLP-1R-dependent and -independent actions of GLP-1 and its analogs in the protection against cardiomyopathies.

Future of bariatric surgery beyond simple weight loss: Metabolic surgery

Anatomical modifications implemented during bariatric surgery not only result in weight loss, but also lead to metabolic corrections that translate into better glycemia stability and improvement in cardiovascular and liver disorders. The logical extension of surgical indications beyond mere reduction of the body mass index (BMI) (i.e. patients with<35kg/m2) is a hot topic today in France and worldwide. Metabolic surgeries make use of multiple modalities (endoscopic, mini-invasive, invasive) that should be carried out by trained physicians and within the same type of multidisciplinary formation as that for bariatric surgery. The aim of this update is to describe the physiological mechanisms that result in the benefits of bariatric surgery, the various procedures currently available and the perspectives for this new field in visceral and digestive surgery.

The enteric nervous system

Of all the organ systems in the body, the gastrointestinal tract is the most complicated in terms of the numbers of structures involved, each with different functions, and the numbers and types of signaling molecules utilized. The digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, electrolytes, and water occurs in a hostile luminal environment that contains a large and diverse microbiota. At the core of regulatory control of the digestive and defensive functions of the gastrointestinal tract is the enteric nervous system (ENS), a complex system of neurons and glia in the gut wall. In this review, we discuss 1) the intrinsic neural control of gut functions involved in digestion and 2) how the ENS interacts with the immune system, gut microbiota, and epithelium to maintain mucosal defense and barrier function. We highlight developments that have revolutionized our understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of enteric neural control. These include a new understanding of the molecular architecture of the ENS, the organization and function of enteric motor circuits, and the roles of enteric glia. We explore the transduction of luminal stimuli by enteroendocrine cells, the regulation of intestinal barrier function by enteric neurons and glia, local immune control by the ENS, and the role of the gut microbiota in regulating the structure and function of the ENS. Multifunctional enteric neurons work together with enteric glial cells, macrophages, interstitial cells, and enteroendocrine cells integrating an array of signals to initiate outputs that are precisely regulated in space and time to control digestion and intestinal homeostasis.

Slow digestion properties of long-sized isomaltooligosaccharides synthesized by a transglucosidase from Thermoanaerobacter thermocopriae

Isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOs) are widely used as prebiotic ingredients that promote colon health; however, recent studies revealed that these are slowly hydrolyzed to glucose within the small intestine. Here, novel α-glucans with a higher number of α-1,6 linkages were synthesized from maltodextrins using the Thermoanaerobacter thermocopriae-derived transglucosidase (TtTG) to decrease susceptibility to hydrolysis and improve slow digestion properties. The synthesized long-sized IMOs (l-IMOs; 70.1% of α-1,6 linkages), comprising 10-12 glucosyl units, exhibited slow hydrolysis to glucose when compared to commercial IMOs under treatment with mammalian α-glucosidase level. In male mice, the ingestion of l-IMOs significantly decreased the post-prandial glycemic response compared to other samples (p < 0.05). Therefore, enzymatically synthesized l-IMOs can be applied as functional ingredients for the modulation of blood glucose homeostasis in obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases.

Enhanced secretion of satiety-promoting gut hormones in healthy humans after consumption of white bread enriched with cellular chickpea flour: A randomized crossover study

BACKGROUND

Dietary intake of pulses is associated with beneficial effects on body weight management and cardiometabolic health, but some of these effects are now known to depend on integrity of plant cells, which are usually disrupted by flour milling. Novel cellular flours preserve the intrinsic dietary fiber structure of whole pulses and provide a way to enrich preprocessed foods with encapsulated macronutrients.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the effects of replacing wheat flour with cellular chickpea flour on postprandial gut hormones, glucose, insulin, and satiety responses to white bread.

METHODS

We conducted a double-blind randomized crossover study in which postprandial blood samples and scores were collected from healthy human participants (n = 20) after they consumed bread enriched with 0%, 30%, or 60% (wt/wt) cellular chickpea powder (CCP, 50 g total starch per serving).

RESULTS

Bread type significantly affected postprandial glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and peptide YY (PYY) responses (time × treatment, P = 0.001 for both). The 60% CCP breads elicited significantly elevated and sustained release of these anorexigenic hormones [between 0% and 60% CPP-GLP-1: mean difference incremental area under the curve (iAUC), 3101 pM/min; 95% CI: 1891, 4310; P-adjusted < 0.001; PYY: mean difference iAUC, 3576 pM/min; 95% CI: 1024, 6128; P-adjusted = 0.006] and tended to increase fullness (time × treatment, P = 0.053). Moreover, bread type significantly influenced glycemia and insulinemia (time × treatment, P < 0.001, P = 0.006, and P = 0.001 for glucose, insulin, and C-peptide, respectively), with 30% CCP breads eliciting a >40% lower glucose iAUC (P-adjusted < 0.001) than the 0% CCP bread. Our in vitro studies revealed slow digestion of intact chickpea cells and provide a mechanistic explanation for the physiologic effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The novel use of intact chickpea cells to replace refined flours in a white bread stimulates an anorexigenic gut hormone response and has potential to improve dietary strategies for prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic diseases. This study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03994276.

The Role of a Colon-in-Continuity in Short Bowel Syndrome

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a rare gastrointestinal condition that is defined as having less than 200 cm of remaining small intestine. SBS results from extensive surgical resection and is associated with a high risk for intestinal failure (IF) with a need for parenteral support (PS). Depending on the region of intestinal resection, three different main anatomy types can be distinguished from each other. In this review, we synthesize the current knowledge on the role of the colon in the setting of SBS-IF with a colon-in-continuity (SBS-IF-CiC), e.g., by enhancing the degree of intestinal adaptation, energy salvage, and the role of the microbiota. In addition, the effect of the disease-modifying treatment with glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2) analogs in SBS-IF-CiC and how it differs from patients without a colon will be discussed. Overall, the findings explained in this review highlight the importance of preservation of the colon in SBS-IF.

Comparison of the Pig Breeds in the Small Intestinal Morphology and Digestive Functions at Different Ages

The small intestine is the main site for digestion and absorption of nutrients, and the development of the small intestine can be affected by several factors, such as diet composition, age, and genotype. Thus, this study aimed to compare the small intestinal morphology and digestive function differences at different ages of three pig breeds. Thirty litters of newborn Taoyuan black (TB), Xiangcun black (XB), and Duroc (DR) piglets (ten litters per breed) were selected for this study. Ten piglets from each breed were selected and sampled at 1, 10, 21, and 24 days old. The results showed that the TB and XB piglets had lower growth but had higher lactase and maltase activities in the jejunum compared with the DR piglets, while most of the digestive enzyme activities in the ileum were higher in the DR piglets at different ages. The expression levels of nutrient transporters, mainly including amino acids, glucose, and fatty acids transporters, differed in the jejunum at different ages among three pig breeds and were higher in the DR piglets at 1 day old and XB piglets at 24 days old. Collectively, these findings suggest that the phenotypic differences in the growth, intestinal morphology, and digestive function among the three pig breeds mainly resulted from the differences in digestive enzymes and nutrient transporters in the intestine.

Gut Microbiome Analysis for Personalized Nutrition: The State of Science

Whereas most concepts of personalized nutrition (PN) in the past, included genotyping, recent years have brought new approaches that include microbiome analysis to optimize recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes. The new approach, offered by companies, that microbiome analysis provides a real benefit to either more concise recommendations or for increased compliance to PN, is largely lacking scientific validation. Although the microbiome field shows enormous proliferation, it has some major flaws that make its use in the public health domain currently critical. Starting with the quality and representative character of the stool samples, its processing and analysis as well as assembly of metagenome data and the interpretation. Moreover, there is still no consensus of what constitutes a "normal/healthy" microbiome, nor what features characterize a dysbiotic microbiome. And, based on hundreds of individual parameters and environmental factors, the intestinal microbiome shows a huge variability and consequently changing one factor-such as food intake-is likely to have a limited impact in achieving optimized health. The present review intends to summarize the state of consolidated knowledge on human gut microbiome in the context of diet and disease, its key features, and its influencing factors as well as its "add-on" quality for PN offers.

The Effects of Soluble Dietary Fibers on Glycemic Response: An Overview and Futures Perspectives

The properties of each food, composition, and structure affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Dietary fiber (DF), especially viscous DF, can contribute to a reduction in the glycemic response resulting from the consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods. Target and control of postprandial glycemic values are critical for diabetes prevention and management. Some mechanisms have been described for soluble DF action, from the increase in chyme viscosity to the production of short-chain fatty acids resulting from fermentation, which stimulates gastrointestinal motility and the release of GLP-1 and PYY hormones. The postprandial glycemic response due to inulin and resistant starch ingestion is well established. However, other soluble dietary fibers (SDF) can also contribute to glycemic control, such as gums, β-glucan, psyllium, arabinoxylan, soluble corn fiber, resistant maltodextrin, glucomannan, and edible fungi, which can be added alone or together in different products, such as bread, beverages, soups, biscuits, and others. However, there are technological challenges to be overcome, despite the benefits provided by the SDF, as it is necessary to consider the palatability and maintenance of their proprieties during production processes. Studies that evaluate the effect of full meals with enriched SDF on postprandial glycemic responses should be encouraged, as this would contribute to the recommendation of viable dietary options and sustainable health goals.

Lipid emulsion interfacial design modulates human in vivo digestion and satiation hormone response

Lipid emulsions (LEs) with tailored digestibility have the potential to modulate satiation or act as delivery systems for lipophilic nutrients and drugs. The digestion of LEs is governed by their interfacial emulsifier layer which determines their gastric structuring and accessibility for lipases. A plethora of LEs that potentially modulate digestion have been proposed in recent years, however, in vivo validations of altered LE digestion remain scarce. Here, we report on the in vivo digestion and satiation of three novel LEs stabilized by whey protein isolate (WPI), thermo-gelling methylcellulose (MC), or cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) in comparison to an extensively studied surfactant-stabilized LE. LE digestion and satiation were determined in terms of gastric emptying, postprandial plasma hormone and metabolite levels characteristic for lipid digestion, perceived hunger/fullness sensations, and postprandial food intake. No major variations in gastric fat emptying were observed despite distinct gastric structuring of the LEs. The plasma satiation hormone and metabolite response was fastest and highest for WPI-stabilized LEs, indicating a limited capability of proteins to prevent lipolysis due to fast hydrolysis under gastric conditions and displacement by lipases. MC-stabilized LEs show a similar gastric structuring as surfactant-stabilized LEs but slightly reduced hormone and metabolite responses, suggesting that thermo-gelling MC prevents lipase adsorption more effectively. Ultimately, CNC-stabilized LEs showed a drastic reduction (>70%) in plasma hormone and metabolite responses. This confirms the efficiency of particle (Pickering) stabilized LEs to prevent lipolysis proposed in literature based on in vitro experiments. Subjects reported more hunger and less fullness after consumption of LEs stabilized with MC and CNCs which were able to limit satiation responses. We do not find evidence for the widely postulated ileal brake, i.e. that delivery of undigested nutrients to the ileum triggers increased satiation. On the contrary, we find decreased satiation for LEs that are able to delay lipolysis. No differences in food intake were observed 5 h after LE consumption. In conclusion, LE interfacial design modulates in vivo digestion and satiation response in humans. In particular, Pickering LEs show extraordinary capability to prevent lipolysis and qualify as oral delivery systems for lipophilic nutrients and drugs.

Effect of theaflavin-3,3′-digallate on leptin-deficient induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease might be related to lipid metabolism regulated by the Fads1/PPARδ/Fabp4 axis and gut microbiota

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), one of the risk factors for hepatitis, cirrhosis, and even hepatic carcinoma, has been a global public health problem. The polyphenol compound theaflavin-3,3′-digallate (TF3), mainly extracted from black tea, has been reported to produce an effect on hypoglycemic and antilipid deposition in vitro. In our study, we further investigated the function and novel mechanisms of TF3 in protecting NAFLD in vivo. By using leptin-deficient obese (ob/ob) mice with NAFLD symptoms, TF3 treatment prevented body weight and waistline gain, reduced lipid accumulation, and alleviated liver function injury, as well as decreased serum lipid levels and TG levels in livers in ob/ob mice, observing no side effects. Furthermore, the transcriptome sequencing of liver tissue showed that TF3 treatment corrected the expression profiles of livers in ob/ob mice compared with that of the model group. It is interesting to note that TF3 might regulate lipid metabolism via the Fads1/PPARδ/Fabp4 axis. In addition, 16S rRNA sequencing demonstrated that TF3 increased the abundance of Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, norank_f_Ruminococcaceae, and GCA-900066575 and significantly decreased that of Parvibacter. Taken together, the effect of TF3 on NAFLD might be related to lipid metabolism regulated by the Fads1/PPARδ/Fabp4 axis and gut microbiota. TF3 might be a promising candidate for NAFLD therapy.

Effect of Fiber Fermentation and Protein Digestion Kinetics on Mineral Digestion in Pigs

Nutrient kinetic data and the timing of nutrient release along the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), are not yet widely used in current feed formulations for pigs and poultry. The present review focuses on interactions between fermentable substrates (e.g., starch, fiber, and protein) and selected minerals on nutrient digestion and absorption to determine nutritional solutions to maximize animal performance, principally in the grower-finisher phase, with the aim of minimizing environmental pollution. For phosphorus (P), myo-inositol 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis (dihydrogen phosphate) (InsP6), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn), no standardized methodologies to assess in vitro mineral digestion exist. The stepwise degradation of InsP6 to lower inositol phosphate (InsP) forms in the GIT is rare, and inositol phosphate4 (InsP4) might be the limiting isomer of InsP degradation in diets with exogenous phytase. Furthermore, dietary coefficients of standardized total tract digestibility (CSTTD) of P might be underestimated in diets with fermentable ingredients because of increased diet-specific endogenous P losses (EPL), and further clarification is required to better calculate the coefficients of true total tract digestibility (CTTTD) of P. The quantification of fiber type, composition of fiber fractions, their influence on digestion kinetics, effects on digesta pH, and nutrient solubility related to fermentation should be considered for formulating diets. In conclusion, applications of nutrient kinetic data should be considered to help enhance nutrient digestion and absorption in the GIT, thereby reducing nutrient excretion.

Breaking down a gut-to-brain circuit that prevents malabsorption

The ileal brake is an important reflex that ensures proper absorption of nutrients. This involves intestinal GLP-1 release, which recruits an enteric-sympathetic-spinal pathway to inhibit gastric motility and appetite. This visceral alarm system could be targeted to treat obesity and gastrointestinal dysfunction.

In vitro digestion of designed emulsions based on milk protein and guar gum systems

There is a growing interest in designing novel food microstructures that can control nutrient digestion and provide satiety for tackling obesity. In this study, phase separated microstructures of skimmed milk powder (SMP) and guar gum (GG) were the main focus, and these can be considered as water-in-water (W/W) emulsions. Through the incorporation of oil into these systems, it was possible to form model systems of SMP-GG-OIL, showing the lipid phase within the protein phase within the polysaccharide phase. The in vitro digestibility of such phase separated model systems of SMP-GG-OIL with different microstructures was investigated using a pH stat method. Confocal laser scanning microscopy also revealed structural changes that occurred to the emulsified lipid droplets as they passed through a gastrointestinal (GI) model. The microstructures were created based on the tie-lines on a previously established phase diagram of SMP-GG, and shown to be able to control lipid digestion. For a selected tie-line, the lipolysis follows the order: protein continuous > bi-continuous > polysaccharide continuous system, at a certain level of oil addition. The mechanism involved in the lipolysis of the designed formulations/microstructures was dependent upon the protein, rather than GG, and was driven by the protein concentration. These findings provide insights for potential applications in functional food designing in the food industry.