Kale juice improves coronary artery disease risk factors in hypercholesterolemic men

Is freeze-dried superfood kale supplementation healthier than common green peas? Outcomes of a cross-over trial

Kale (Brassica oleracea species) is considered a functional food whose macronutrient and phytochemical contents are considered beneficial and widely considered as a superfood. In the present 6-week cross-over trial with a 2-week washout period, we compared the beneficial effects of freeze-dried kale over peas among Arab women with obesity. A total of 124 Saudi women with obesity were allocated to receive either freeze-dried kale (n = 62) or freeze-dried peas (n = 62) given in the form of 3-gram sachets thrice daily for 2 weeks, followed by a 2-week washout period and a cross-over of 4 weeks. Anthropometric measurements, glucose, lipids and markers of gut barrier function were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. Participants who took kale supplementation first resulted in significant weight reduction (p = 0.02) which was not observed among those who took peas first. Participants receiving pea supplementation first experienced a significant decline in Hba1c (p = 0.005) and CD14 (p = 0.03), but C-peptide increased (p = 0.05). Crossover analysis revealed significant carryover effects in most variables with non-significant combined treatment effects. Among the variables with no carryover effect with significant combined treatment effect include HbA1c which was in favor of the pea group (p = 0.005) and C-peptide which was modestly in favor of the kale group (p = 0.05). While both freeze dried kale and pea supplementation appear beneficial, supplementation of freeze-dried pea appears to be more effective in terms of acute glycemic control than kale. The study suggests that common but less-hyped vegetables such as pea maybe equally, if not more beneficial than the more expensive promoted superfoods such as kale. Longer clinical trials using a parallel design instead of cross-over are recommended to strengthen present findings.

Organic vegetable juice supplement alleviates hyperlipidemia in diet-induced obese mice and modulates microbial community in continuous colon simulation system

In this study, we investigated the effects of organic vegetable juice (OVJ) supplementation on modulating the microbial community, and how its consumption ameliorated blood-lipid profiles in diet-induced obese mice. Here, we studied the alleviating effect of hyperlipidemia via animal experiments using diet-induced obese mice and analyzed the effect of OVJ on the microbial community in continuous colon simulation system. OVJ consumption did not have a significant effect on weight loss but helped reduce the weight of the epididymis fat tissue and adipocytes. Additionally, blood-lipid profiles, such as triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, and glucose, were improved in the OVJ-fed group. Expression levels of genes related to lipid synthesis, including SREBP-1, PPARγ, C/EBPα, and FAS, were significantly decreased. In addition, OVJ treatment significantly reduced inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. OVJ supplement influenced intestinal bacterial composition from phylum to genus level, including decreased Proteobacteria in the ascending colon in the phylum. At the family level, Akkermansia, which are associated with obesity, were significantly augmented in the transverse colon and descending colon compared to the control juice group. In addition, treatment with OVJ affected predicted lipid-metabolism-function genes related to lipid synthesis. These results suggest that OVJ supplementation may modulate gut microbial community and reduce the potential symptom of hyperlipidemia in diet-obese mice.

The Effect of Fresh Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) Addition and Processing Conditions on Selected Biological, Physical, and Chemical Properties of Extruded Snack Pellets

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the addition of fresh kale and processing conditions on extruded pellet antioxidant activity and selected physicochemical properties. The results of the applied DPPH, FRAP, and TPC methods indicated that, for both 60 and 100 rpm screw speeds, snack pellet antioxidant activity and phenolic content were strongly linked to the fresh kale content, and these properties increased with the addition of this plant. The amount of fresh kale and the applied processing variables (extruder screw speed and the moisture content of the raw material blends) were also found to significantly affect the water absorption index, water solubility index, fat absorption index, fatty acid profile, and basic chemical composition of the obtained extrudates. The sample with the highest phenolic content (72.8 μg GAE/g d.w.), the most advantageous chemical composition (protein, ash, fat, carbohydrates, and fiber content), and high antioxidant properties was produced at a fresh kale content of 30%, a 36% moisture content, and a 100 rpm screw speed. The following phenolic acids were identified in this sample: protocatechuic, 4-OH-benzoic, vanillic, syringic, salicylic, caffeic, coumaric, ferulic, and sinapic. Sinapic acid was the prevailing phenolic acid.

Fantastic Foods and Where to Find Them-Advantages and Disadvantages of Nutri-Score in the Search for Healthier Food

The composition and quality of food rations and the intake of nutrients with the diet are undoubtedly reflected in our health. In order to help the consumer choose the right food product, food manufacturers use front-of-pack labels, which are designed to convey concise information about the nutritional value of the product. Such labels include the Nutri-Score system. In this paper, we have critically analyzed this system. As the available data indicate, this system does not take into account a number of factors that affect the quality of a food product, including the size of the package, the contents of vitamins, minerals, and other selected health-promoting ingredients, the degree of processing, or the fatty acid profile of the product, and it discriminates against regional products, organic products, and juices and nectars. This system, although intuitive and created with good intentions, still has quite a few flaws that must be addressed before it can be considered to correctly indicate the nutritional value of food products.

Uncoupling Protein 2 as a Pathogenic Determinant and Therapeutic Target in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases

Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) is a mitochondrial protein that acts as an anion carrier. It is involved in the regulation of several processes, including mitochondrial membrane potential, generation of reactive oxygen species within the inner mitochondrial membrane and calcium homeostasis. UCP2 expression can be regulated at different levels: genetic (gene variants), transcriptional [by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and microRNAs], and post-translational. Experimental evidence indicates that activation of UCP2 expression through the AMPK/PPAR-α axis exerts a protective effect toward renal damage and stroke occurrence in an animal model of ischemic stroke (IS) associated with hypertension. UCP2 plays a key role in heart diseases (myocardial infarction and cardiac hypertrophy) and metabolic disorders (obesity and diabetes). In humans, UCP2 genetic variants (-866G/A and Ala55Val) associate with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and IS development. Over the last few years, many agents that modulate UCP2 expression have been identified. Some of them are natural compounds of plant origin, such as Brassica oleracea, curcumin, berberine and resveratrol. Other molecules, currently used in clinical practice, include anti-diabetic (gliptin) and chemotherapeutic (doxorubicin and taxol) drugs. This evidence highlights the relevant role of UCP2 for the treatment of a wide range of diseases, which affect the national health systems of Western countries. We will review current knowledge on the physiological and pathological implications of UCP2 with particular regard to cardiovascular and metabolic disorders and will focus on the available therapeutic approaches affecting UCP2 level for the treatment of human diseases.

Improving the Health-Benefits of Kales (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala DC) through the Application of Controlled Abiotic Stresses: A Review

Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala DC) is a popular cruciferous vegetable originating from Central Asia, and is well known for its abundant bioactive compounds. This review discusses the main kale phytochemicals and emphasizes molecules of nutraceutical interest, including phenolics, carotenoids, and glucosinolates. The preventive and therapeutic properties of kale against chronic and degenerative diseases are highlighted according to the most recent in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies reported. Likewise, it is well known that the application of controlled abiotic stresses can be used as an effective tool to increase the content of phytochemicals with health-promoting properties. In this context, the effect of different abiotic stresses (saline, exogenous phytohormones, drought, temperature, and radiation) on the accumulation of secondary metabolites in kale is also presented. The information reviewed in this article can be used as a starting point to further validate through bioassays the effects of abiotically stressed kale on the prevention and treatment of chronic and degenerative diseases.

Kale supplementation during high fat feeding improves metabolic health in a mouse model of obesity and insulin resistance

Cruciferous vegetables have been widely studied for cancer prevention and cardiovascular health. Broccoli is the cruciferous vegetable whose phytochemistry and physiological effects have been most extensively studied. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) appears on lists of 'healthiest, nutrient dense foods' but, there is paucity of data on kale as a functional food. In a 12-week study, we tested the effect of curly green kale on high fat diet (HFD) induced obesity and insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, endotoxemia and inflammation in C57BL/6J mice fed isocaloric diets. Kale supplementation did not attenuate HFD diet induced fat accumulation and insulin resistance (P = ns; n = 9) but, it lowered serum triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LPL) cholesterol and prevented HFD induced increases in systemic endotoxemia and inflammation (serum LPS and Ccl2) (P<0.01; n = 9). In adipose tissue, kale enhanced the expression of genes involved in adipogenesis (P<0.01; n = 9), reduced the appearance of histologic markers of inflammation, downregulated both the gene expression and protein expression of the adipose tissue specific inflammation markers CD11c and F4/80 (P<0.001; n = 9) and reduced the gene expression of a battery of chemokine C-C motif ligands (Ccl2, Ccl6, Ccl7, Ccl8, Ccl9) and chemokine C-C motif receptors (Ccr2, Ccr3, Ccr5). We conclude that kale vegetable protects against HFD diet induced dysfunction through mechanisms involving lipid metabolism, endotoxemia and inflammation.

The Effect of Different Extraction Protocols on Brassica oleracea var. acephala Antioxidant Activity, Bioactive Compounds, and Sugar Profile

The extraction of glucosinolates in boiling aqueous methanol from freeze dried leaf tissues is the most common method for myrosinase inactivation but can be hazardous because of methanol toxicity. Although freeze drying is the best dehydration method in terms of nutritional quality preservation, the main drawbacks are a limited sample quantity that can be processed simultaneously, a long processing time, and high energy consumption. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of applying high temperature for myrosinase inactivation via hot air drying prior to the extraction step, as well as the effects of cold aqueous methanol extraction on total antioxidant activity, total glucosinolates, total phenolic content, and sugar profile in 36 landraces of kale. The results from our study indicate that cold aqueous methanol can be used instead of boiling aqueous methanol with no adverse effects on total glucosinolate content. Our results also show that hot air drying, compared to freeze drying, followed by cold extraction has an adverse effect on antioxidant activity measured by DPPH radical scavenging, total glucosinolate content, as well as on the content of all investigated sugars.

Changes in low molecular weight carbohydrates in kale during development and acclimation to cold temperatures determined by chromatographic techniques coupled to mass spectrometry

Kale (Brassica oleracea) is a cool-season vegetable widely employed in the elaboration of diverse products such as tea and smoothies in USA or in the Northern German cuisine in wintertime. Besides, kale is gaining attention due to the diverse health benefits reported in the literature for its consumption, e.g. antigenotoxic and anticarcinogenic effect, protection of cardiovascular system and gastrointestinal tract. Low molecular weight carbohydrates (LMWC) are compounds directly related with kale flavour and nutritional quality. Despite different studies focusing on the chemical composition of kale, few information on LMWC is available. Thus, in this work a multianalytical approach was conducted in order to perform a comprehensive study of kale LMWC; their evolution during plant development and acclimation to cool temperatures was also evaluated. Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry allowed the identification of 13 LMWC, being myo-inositol, galactinol, maltose and melibiose described for the first time in kale. Eight major LMWC were quantified in three different commercial kale cultivars using hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to monitor possible differences in their content during plant development and as consequence of plant acclimation to cold temperatures. Overall, for all types of kales under study, the content of maltose and sucrose decreased during the plant development while the concentration of fructose, melibiose, maltose, raffinose and galactinol was increased in all kale types exposed to low temperatures. These results underline the importance of controlling the temperature during kale cultivation in order to obtain products with a high nutritional value.

Comparative analysis of glucosinolate production in hairy roots of green and red kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala)

Glucosinolates (GSLs) are sulfur- and nitrogen-containing secondary metabolites that function in plant defense and provide benefits to human health. In this study, using Agrobacterium rhizogenes R1000, green and red kale hairy roots were established. The expression levels of GSLs biosynthesis genes and their accumulation in both kale hairy roots were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and HPLC. The results showed that the expression of most indolic GSLs biosynthesis genes was higher in the hairy roots of green kale than in that of red kale. In contrast, the expression of BoCYP83A1 and BoSUR1 encoding key enzymes aromatic GSL biosynthesis was significantly higher in red kale hairy root. The HPLC analysis identified six GSLs. The levels of 4-methoxyglucobrassicin, glucobrassicin, and 4-hydroxyglucobrassicin were 6.21, 5.98, and 2 times higher, respectively, in green kale than in red kale, whereas the levels of neoglucobrassicin and gluconasturtiin were 16.2 and 3.48 times higher, respectively, in red kale than in green kale. Our study provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of GSLs biosynthesis in kale hairy roots and can be potentially used as "biological factories" for producing bioactive substances such as GSLs.

Mechanism of Brassica oleracea performance in bovine infectious mastitis by bioinformatic analysis

Bovine mastitis affects dairy cattle worldwide and, despite the existing therapeutic measures, is not totally under control, leading to the need to develop alternative strategies. Brassica oleracea is a phytochemical commonly used in the control and prevention of human and animal diseases. The use of this plant in the treatment of infectious bovine mastitis has been little referenced in the literature and its molecular mechanism of action in this disease has not been clarified yet. This study aimed to reveal, through bioinformatic analysis, the molecular mechanism of action of Brassica oleracea in bovine mastitis. We investigated genes expressed in the signaling pathways of bovine mastitis and Brassica oleracea performance and elaborated the Venn diagram. A gene network was developed using the STRING 10 database. Leader genes were identified by calculating the weighted number of links (WNL). The NetworkAnalyzer plugin for Cytoscape software was used to characterize network topology. For the visualization of highly interconnected regions in the network, the MCODE was used. The BINGO and GFD-Net plugins were used to perform the ontological analysis. The TP53 and MTOR leader genes were identified in the sub-networks of the bovine mastitis signaling pathway and Brassica oleracea performance, respectively. Topological analysis confirmed the leader condition of the genes. Although the overlap of genes in the Venn diagram was not observed, the leader genes were found to be interconnected (confidence = 0.9). In the network that interconnected the leader genes two molecular complexes were detected and the ontological analysis revealed biological processes, cellular components and important molecular functions. It was concluded that Brassica oleracea may be a promising candidate to be included in a mammalian herbal cocktail against infectious bovine mastitis by interfering in the mechanisms of action of genes such as MTOR and TP53.

Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) as a superfood: Review of the scientific evidence behind the statement

Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) is a cruciferous vegetable, characterized by leaves along the stem, which, in recent years, have gained a great popularity as a ´superfood´. Consequently, in a popular culture it is listed in many ´lists of the healthiest vegetables´. Without the doubt, a scientific evidences support the fact that cruciferous vegetables included in human diet can positively affect health and well-being, but remains unclear why kale is declared superior in comparison with other cruciferous. It is questionable if this statement about kale is triggered by scientific evidence or by some other factors. Our review aims to bring an overview of kale's botanical characteristics, agronomic requirements, contemporary and traditional use, macronutrient and phytochemical content and biological activity, in order to point out the reasons for tremendous kale popularity.

Effects of glutathione s-transferase (GST) M1 and T1 polymorphisms on antioxidant vitamins and oxidative stress-related parameters in Korean subclinical hypertensive subjects after kale juice (Brassica oleracea acephala) supplementation

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Glutathione s-transferase (GST) is involved in the formation of a multigene family comprising phase II detoxification enzymes, involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species. This study evaluated whether daily supplementation with kale juice could modulate levels of plasma antioxidant vitamins and oxidative stress-related parameters. We further examined whether this modulation was affected by combined GSTM1 and T1 polymorphisms.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Totally, 84 subclinical hypertensive patients having systolic blood pressure (BP) over 130 mmHg or diastolic BP over 85 mmHg, received 300 mL of kale juice daily for 6 weeks. Blood samples were drawn before start of study and after completion of 6 weeks.

RESULTS

After supplementation, we observed significant decrease in DNA damage and increase in erythrocyte catalase activity in all genotypes. Plasma level of vitamin C was significantly increased in the wild/null and double null genotypes. The plasma levels of β-carotene, erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activity, and nitric oxide were increased only in the wild/null genotype after kale juice supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of kale juice was significantly greater in the GSTM1 null genotype and wild/null genotype groups, suggesting possibility of personalized nutritional prescriptions based on personal genetics.

Production of Fermented Kale Juices with Lactobacillus Strains and Nutritional Composition

Fermented kale juices using four types of lactobacilli were produced in the present study. After 48 h of fermentation time, viable cell counts of all ferments reached an above 10⁹ CFU/mL. The viability of the ferments after cold storage in the refrigerator for 4 weeks showed 10⁸ CFU/mL in all ferments. Among four types of fermented kale juices, the ferment of Lactobacillus acidophilus IFO 3025 indicated a good nutritional composition, including neutral sugar (1,909.76 μg/mL), reducing sugar (564.00 μg/mL, P<0.05), and protein contents (160.06 μg/mL, P<0.05). The results of mineral composition analysis had the highest potassium value in all ferments (854.16~895.07 μg/mL), particularly in the ferment of Lactobacillus brevis FSB-1 (P<0.001), which is necessary to sustain osmotic pressure, prevention of high blood pressure, and protein synthesis. Moreover, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium contents related to bone health were generally sufficient in all ferments. Consequently, in this study, fermented kale juices may be suggested as a healthy fermented beverage with essential nutrients. However, the acceptability of the fermented kale juice to the Korean taste should be further investigated with a trained taste panel to determine whether inoculated fermentation could be an option for the consumers.

Characterization of phenolics, glucosinolates and antioxidant activity of beverages based on apple juice with addition of frozen and freeze-dried curly kale leaves (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala L.)

The aim of this study was to determine the polyphenols, glucosinolates and ascorbic acid content as well as antioxidant activity of beverages on the base of apple juice with addition of frozen and freeze-dried curly kale leaves. Upon enrichment with frozen (13%) and freeze-dried curly kale (3%), the naturally cloudy apple juice was characterized by an increase in phenolic compounds by 2.7 and 3.3-times, accordingly. The antioxidant activity of beverages with the addition of curly kale ranged from 6.6 to 9.4μmol Trolox/mL. The obtained beverages were characterized glucosinolates content at 117.6-167.6mg/L and ascorbic acid content at 4,1-31,9mg/L. The results of sensory evaluation of colour, taste and consistency of apple juice and beverages with the addition of kale did not differ significantly prior to pasteurization (P≤0.05), whereas after the pasteurization the evaluated factors decreased significantly.

Modeling the Growth of Epiphytic Bacteria on Kale Treated by Thermosonication Combined with Slightly Acidic Electrolyzed Water and Stored under Dynamic Temperature Conditions

The growth of epiphytic bacteria (aerobic mesophilic bacteria or Pseudomonas spp.) on kale was modeled isothermally and validated under dynamic storage temperatures. Each bacterial count on kale stored at isothermal conditions (4 to 25 °C) was recorded. The results show that maximum growth rate (μmax ) of both epiphytic bacteria increased and lag time (λ) decreased with increasing temperature (P < 0.05). The maximum population density (Nmax ) of Pseudomonas spp. was significantly greater than that of aerobic mesophilic bacteria, particularly in treated samples and/or at 4 and 10 °C (P < 0.05). The relationship between μmax of both epiphytic bacteria and temperature was linear (R(2) > 0.97), whereas lower R(2) > 0.86 and R(2) > 0.87 was observed for the λ and Nmax , respectively. The overall predictions of both epiphytic bacterial growths under nonisothermal conditions with temperature abuse of 15 °C agreed with the observed data, whereas those with temperature abuse of 25 °C were greatly overestimated. The appropriate parameter q0 (physiological state of cells), therefore, was adjusted by a trial and error to fit the model. This study demonstrates that the developed model was able to predict accurately epiphytic bacterial growth on kale stored under nonisothermal conditions particularly those with low temperature abuse of 15 °C.

The molecular mechanism of the cholesterol-lowering effect of dill and kale: The influence of the food matrix components

Foods are complex matrices containing many different compounds, all of which contribute to the overall effect of the food itself, although they have different mechanisms of action. While evaluating the effect of bioactive compounds, it is important to consider that the use of a single compound can hide the effects of the other molecules that can act synergistically or antagonistically in the same food. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of food matrix components by comparing two edible plants (dill and kale) with cholesterol-lowering potential and similar contents of their most representative bioactive, quercetin. The molecular effects of the extracts were evaluated in HepG2 cells by measuring the expression of sterol-regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs), 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) and low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) at the mRNA and protein level. The results reported here show that both extracts reduced the cellular cholesterol level with a similar trend and magnitude. It is conceivable that the slightly different results are due to the diverse composition of minor bioactive compounds, indicating that only by considering food as a whole is it possible to understand the complex relationship between food, nutrition, and health in a foodomics vision.

Protective effects of Brassica oleracea sprouts extract toward renal damage in high-salt-fed SHRSP: role of AMPK/PPARα/UCP2 axis

OBJECTIVES

Renal damage precedes occurrence of stroke in high-sodium/low-potassium-fed stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHRSP). We previously reported a marked suppression of uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2) upon high-salt Japanese-style diet in SHRSP kidneys. Vegetable compounds are known to exert protective effects in cardiovascular diseases. We aimed at evaluating the impact of Brassica oleracea sprouts juice toward renal damage in Japanese diet-fed SHRSP and exploring the role of 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/NAD-dependent deacetylase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC1α)/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPARα)/UCP2 axis.

METHODS

SHRSP received Japanese diet for 4 weeks. A group of SHRSP received Japanese diet and B. oleracea. A third group received Japanese diet, B. oleracea, and PPARα inhibitor (GW6471). A group of SHRSP fed with regular diet served as control.

RESULTS

Japanese diet induced marked increases of oxidative stress, inflammation, and proteinuria, along with glomerular and tubular damage, as compared with regular diet. A significant suppression of AMPK/UCP2 pathway was observed. Despite Japanese diet feeding, concomitant administration of B. oleracea prevented oxidative stress accumulation, inflammation, renal damage, and proteinuria. All components of the UCP2 regulatory pathway were significantly increased by B. oleracea. Superoxide dismutase 2 and phosphoendothelial nitric oxide synthase were also stimulated. Addition of PPARα inhibitor to B. oleracea and Japanese diet significantly reduced the B. oleracea beneficial effects. SBP levels were comparable among the different groups of rats.In vitro, UCP2 inhibition by genipin offset the antioxidant effect of B. oleracea in renal mesangial and proximal tubular cells.

CONCLUSION

B. oleracea administration prevented renal damage in salt-loaded SHRSP, independently from SBP, with parallel stimulation of AMPK/SIRT1/PGC1α/PPARα/UCP2 axis. Stimulation of the latter mechanism may provide relevant renal protective effect and play a therapeutic role in target organ damage progression in hypertension.

Phytochemical Compounds and Protection from Cardiovascular Diseases: A State of the Art

Cardiovascular diseases represent a worldwide relevant socioeconomical problem. Cardiovascular disease prevention relies also on lifestyle changes, including dietary habits. The cardioprotective effects of several foods and dietary supplements in both animal models and in humans have been explored. It was found that beneficial effects are mainly dependent on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, also involving modulation of mitochondrial function. Resveratrol is one of the most studied phytochemical compounds and it is provided with several benefits in cardiovascular diseases as well as in other pathological conditions (such as cancer). Other relevant compounds are Brassica oleracea, curcumin, and berberine, and they all exert beneficial effects in several diseases. In the attempt to provide a comprehensive reference tool for both researchers and clinicians, we summarized in the present paper the existing literature on both preclinical and clinical cardioprotective effects of each mentioned phytochemical. We structured the discussion of each compound by analyzing, first, its cellular molecular targets of action, subsequently focusing on results from applications in both ex vivo and in vivo models, finally discussing the relevance of the compound in the context of human diseases.

Diet rich in high glucoraphanin broccoli reduces plasma LDL cholesterol: Evidence from randomised controlled trials

SCOPE

Cruciferous-rich diets have been associated with reduction in plasma LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), which may be due to the action of isothiocyanates derived from glucosinolates that accumulate in these vegetables. This study tests the hypothesis that a diet rich in high glucoraphanin (HG) broccoli will reduce plasma LDL-C.

METHODS AND RESULTS

One hundred and thirty volunteers were recruited to two independent double-blind, randomly allocated parallel dietary intervention studies, and were assigned to consume either 400 g standard broccoli or 400 g HG broccoli per week for 12 weeks. Plasma lipids were quantified before and after the intervention. In study 1 (37 volunteers), the HG broccoli diet reduced plasma LDL-C by 7.1% (95% CI: -1.8%, -12.3%, p = 0.011), whereas standard broccoli reduced LDL-C by 1.8% (95% CI +3.9%, -7.5%, ns). In study 2 (93 volunteers), the HG broccoli diet resulted in a reduction of 5.1% (95% CI: -2.1%, -8.1%, p = 0.001), whereas standard broccoli reduced LDL-C by 2.5% (95% CI: +0.8%, -5.7%, ns). When data from the two studies were combined the reduction in LDL-C by the HG broccoli was significantly greater than standard broccoli (p = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Evidence from two independent human studies indicates that consumption of high glucoraphanin broccoli significantly reduces plasma LDL-C.

The effect of glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 polymorphisms on blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid profiles following the supplementation of kale (Brassica oleracea acephala) juice in South Korean subclinical hypertensive patients

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) forms a multigene family of phase II detoxification enzymes which are involved in the detoxification of reactive oxygen species. This study examines whether daily supplementation of kale juice can modulate blood pressure (BP), levels of lipid profiles, and blood glucose, and whether this modulation could be affected by the GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

84 subclinical hypertensive patients showing systolic BP over 130 mmHg or diastolic BP over 85 mmHg received 300 ml/day of kale juice for 6 weeks, and blood samples were collected on 0-week and 6-week in order to evaluate plasma lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol) and blood glucose.

RESULTS

Systolic and diastolic blood pressure was significantly decreased in all patients regardless of their GSTM1 or GSTT1 polymorphisms after kale juice supplementation. Blood glucose level was decreased only in the GSTM1-present genotype, and plasma lipid profiles showed no difference in both the GSTM1-null and GSTM1-present genotypes. In the case of GSTT1, on the other hand, plasma HDL-C was increased and LDL-C was decreased only in the GSTT1-present type, while blood glucose was decreased only in the GSTT1-null genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the supplementation of kale juice affected blood pressure, lipid profiles, and blood glucose in subclinical hypertensive patients depending on their GST genetic polymorphisms, and the improvement of lipid profiles was mainly greater in the GSTT1-present genotype and the decrease of blood glucose was greater in the GSTM1-present or GSTT1-null genotypes.

Brassica foods as a dietary source of vitamin C: a review

Brassica genus includes known horticultural vegetables with major economical importance worldwide, and involves vegetables of economical importance being part of the diet and source of oils for industry in many countries. Brassicales own a broad array of health-promoting compounds, emphasized as healthy rich sources of vitamin C. The adequate management of pre- and postharvest factors including crop varieties, growth conditions, harvesting, handling, storage, and final consumer operations would lead to increase or preserve of the vitamin C content or reduced losses by interfering in the catalysis mechanisms that remains largely unknown, and should be reviewed. Likewise, the importance of the food matrix on the absorption and metabolism of vitamin C is closely related to the range of the health benefits attributed to its intake. However, less beneficial effects were derived when purified compounds were administered in comparison to the ingestion of horticultural products such as Brassicas, which entail a closely relation between this food matrix and the bioavailability of its content in vitamin C. This fact should be here also discussed. These vegetables of immature flowers or leaves are used as food stuffs all over the world and represent a considerable part of both western and non-Western diets, being inexpensive crops widely spread and reachable to all social levels, constituting an important source of dietary vitamin C, which may work synergistically with the wealth of bioactive compounds present in these foods.

Epigenetic regulation of cholesterol homeostasis

Although best known as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, cholesterol is a vital component of all mammalian cells. In addition to key structural roles, cholesterol is a vital biochemical precursor for numerous biologically important compounds including oxysterols and bile acids, as well as acting as an activator of critical morphogenic systems (e.g., the Hedgehog system). A variety of sophisticated regulatory mechanisms interact to coordinate the overall level of cholesterol in cells, tissues and the entire organism. Accumulating evidence indicates that in additional to the more “traditional” regulatory schemes, cholesterol homeostasis is also under the control of epigenetic mechanisms such as histone acetylation and DNA methylation. The available evidence supporting a role for these mechanisms in the control of cholesterol synthesis, elimination, transport and storage are the focus of this review.

Effects of bioactive-rich extracts of pomegranate, persimmon, nettle, dill, kale and Sideritis and isolated bioactives on arachidonic acid induced markers of platelet activation and aggregation

BACKGROUND

The beneficial effect of fruit- and vegetable-rich diets on cardiovascular health is partly attributed to the effect of their bioactive compounds on platelet function. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of bioactive-rich plant extracts and isolated bioactive metabolites on platelet function. Blood samples from healthy subjects (n = 4) and subjects with metabolic syndrome (n = 4) were treated with six extracts of bioactive-rich plants consumed as traditional foods in the Black Sea region, or with human metabolites of the bioactives quercetin and sulforaphane. Markers of arachidonic acid induced platelet activation and platelet-leucocyte aggregation were assessed using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

In subjects with metabolic syndrome, kale extract significantly inhibited agonist induced P-selectin expression (P = 0.004). Sulforaphane-cysteine-glycine, a human plasma metabolite of the related glucosinolate, glucoraphanin, significantly inhibited P-selectin and GPIIb-IIIa expression (P = 0.020 and 0.024, respectively) and platelet-neutrophil aggregation (P = 0.027). Additionally, pomegranate extract significantly inhibited GPIIb-IIIa expression (P = 0.046) in subjects with metabolic syndrome. In healthy subjects only dill extract significantly inhibited agonist induced P-selectin expression (P = 0.025).

CONCLUSION

These data show that bioactive-rich extracts of kale and pomegranate that are consumed as traditional plant foods of Black Sea area countries were effective in modulating platelet function.

The safety of cruciferous plants in humans: a systematic review

Some cruciferous plants may serve as preventive treatments for several medical conditions; our objective was to systematically investigate their safety in humans. Four electronic databases were searched, and, of 10,831 references identified, 50 were included. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers, whereafter the association between interventions and adverse events was assessed. Adverse events in 53 subjects were identified through clinical trials; of these, altered drug metabolism was rated as certainly/likely caused by cruciferous plants. Adverse events in 1247 subjects were identified through observational studies, of which none received high causality ratings. Adverse events in 35 subjects were identified through case reports, of which allergies and warfarin resistance were rated as certainly/likely caused by cruciferous plants. We conclude that cruciferous plants are safe in humans, with the exception of allergies. Individuals treated with warfarin should consult their physician. Further investigation of uses of cruciferous plants in preventative medicine is warranted.

Drinking carrot juice increases total antioxidant status and decreases lipid peroxidation in adults

BACKGROUND

High prevalence of obesity and cardiovascular disease is attributable to sedentary lifestyle and eating diets high in fat and refined carbohydrate while eating diets low in fruit and vegetables. Epidemiological studies have confirmed a strong association between eating diets rich in fruits and vegetables and cardiovascular health. The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether drinking fresh carrot juice influences antioxidant status and cardiovascular risk markers in subjects not modifying their eating habits.

METHODS

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of consuming 16 fl oz of daily freshly squeezed carrot juice for three months on cardiovascular risk markers, C-reactive protein, insulin, leptin, interleukin-1α, body fat percentage, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, antioxidant status, and malondialdehyde production. Fasting blood samples were collected pre-test and 90 days afterward to conclude the study.

RESULTS

Drinking carrot juice did not affect (P > 0.1) the plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, Apo A, Apo B, LDL, HDL, body fat percentage, insulin, leptin, interleukin-1α, or C-reactive protein. Drinking carrot juice decreased (P = 0.06) systolic pressure, but did not influence diastolic pressure. Drinking carrot juice significantly (P < 0.05) increased the plasma total antioxidant capacity and decreased (P < 0.05) the plasma malondialdehyde production.

CONCLUSION

Drinking carrot juice may protect the cardiovascular system by increasing total antioxidant status and by decreasing lipid peroxidation independent of any of the cardiovascular risk markers measured in the study.