Postprandial metabolic events and fruit-derived phenolics: a review of the science

Early Intervention in Cognitive Aging with Strawberry Supplementation

Late-life dementia is a growing public health concern lacking effective treatment. Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) develop over a preclinical period of many years beginning in midlife. The prevalence of insulin resistance, a prominent risk factor for late-life dementia, also accelerates in middle-age. Consumption of berry fruits, including strawberries, has been shown to influence metabolism as well as cognitive performance suggesting potential to mitigate risk for dementia. In this controlled trial, we enrolled overweight middle-aged men and women with insulin resistance and subjective cognitive decline and performed a 12-week intervention with daily administration of whole-fruit strawberry powder. Diet records showed that participants in both groups maintained the prescribed abstinence from berry product consumption outside the study. We observed diminished memory interference (p = 0.02; Cohen's f = 0.45) and a reduction of depressive symptoms (p = 0.04; Cohen's f = 0.39) for the strawberry-treated participants; benefits consistent with improved executive ability. However, there was no effect of the intervention on metabolic measures, possibly a consequence of the sample size, length of the intervention, or comparatively low anthocyanin dose. Anti-inflammatory actions of anthocyanins were considered as a primary mechanistic factor. The findings support the notion that strawberry supplementation has a role in dementia risk reduction when introduced in midlife. However, further investigation with longer intervention periods, larger samples, and differing dosing regimens will be required to assess the benefits of strawberry intake with respect to cognition and metabolic function in the context of aging.

Biochemistry of Antioxidants: Mechanisms and Pharmaceutical Applications

Natural antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs and fish protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. They are widely used to reduce food loss and waste, minimizing lipid oxidation, as well as for their effects on health through pharmaceutical preparations. In fact, the use of natural antioxidants is among the main efforts made to relieve the pressure on natural resources and to move towards more sustainable food and pharmaceutical systems. Alternative food waste management approaches include the valorization of by-products as a source of phenolic compounds for functional food formulations. In this review, we will deal with the chemistry of antioxidants, including their molecular structures and reaction mechanisms. The biochemical aspects will also be reviewed, including the effects of acidity and temperature on their partitioning in binary and multiphasic systems. The poor bioavailability of antioxidants remains a huge constraint for clinical applications, and we will briefly describe some delivery systems that provide for enhanced pharmacological action of antioxidants via drug targeting and increased bioavailability. The pharmacological activity of antioxidants can be improved by designing nanotechnology-based formulations, and recent nanoformulations include nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, liposomes/proliposomes, phytosomes and solid lipid nanoparticles, all showing promising outcomes in improving the efficiency and bioavailability of antioxidants. Finally, an overview of the pharmacological effects, therapeutic properties and future choice of antioxidants will be incorporated.

Postprandial Responses of Serum Cholesterol, Glucose and Plasma Antioxidant Activity, after Intake of an Innovative High Fat Mayonnaise-Based Appetizer, Enhanced with Olive Paste, in Healthy Volunteers

Several Mediterranean functional foods and their process by-products may exert a beneficial role on hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and oxidative stress modulation, providing bioactive compounds with functional properties, contributing to possible chronic disease prevention (cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes mellitus, etc.). The purpose of the present interventional study was to investigate the postprandial responses of metabolic biomarkers, after the intake of an innovative mayonnaise-based appetizer, enhanced with olive paste, in healthy volunteers. In this cross-over design, randomized and single-blind, interventional−clinical trial, 10 healthy volunteers, aged 20−30 years old, after splitting into the control group and the Mediterranean group, consumed a pasta meal rich in fat and carbohydrates (150 g), containing a mayonnaise-based appetizer or the same appetizer, enhanced with 9% olive paste. After a 1-week washout period, the subjects consumed the meals in reverse. Differences between groups on postprandial responses of total plasma antioxidant capacity according to the FRAP method, serum total cholesterol, glucose, and uric acid levels, were determined before, 30 min, 1.5 h, and 3 h after consumption. The results showed that, in comparison to the control group, consumption of the enhanced appetizer resulted in a significantly decreased total serum cholesterol and glucose levels, and also led to a significant increase in plasma total antioxidant activity, 3 h after consumption (p < 0.05). Further investigation with large prospective studies is needed to validate the current results.

The Acute Effect of a Novel Miso-Type Sauce, Enhanced with a Carotenoid-Rich Extract from Fruit By-Products, on Postprandial Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Several fruit by-products may exert a beneficial role on oxidative stress and inflammation modulation, providing essential bioactive components, such as polyphenols and carotenoids. Recently, the potential bioactivity of miso has been reported. The aim of this dietary intervention−clinical study was to evaluate the acute effect of a novel, functional miso-type sauce based on legumes, on postprandial biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. In this randomized, cross-over design, intervention−clinical trial, 14 healthy volunteers, aged 20−30 years old, consumed a rice meal rich in fat and carbohydrates (258 g), containing a legume-based sauce. After a 1-week washout period, the same subjects consumed the same meal, containing the novel fermented miso-type sauce, enhanced with 50% carotenoid-rich, fruit peel extract. Differences in postprandial total plasma antioxidant capacity according to the FRAP method, serum lipids, glucose, uric acid levels, and antithrombotic activity in platelet-rich plasma were evaluated before, 30 min, 1.5 h, and 3 h after consumption. The results showed that, in comparison to the control group, consumption of the novel sauce resulted in a significantly increased total plasma antioxidant capacity 3 h after consumption (p < 0.05). In addition, we observed a significant attenuation of triglycerides concentration increase in the last 1.5 h in the functional group (p < 0.05). A significant decrease in serum aggregation was found at 30 min and 3 h after functional sauce intake in comparison with the baseline (p < 0.05). Finally, LDL-cholesterol concentrations were significantly reduced 3 h after the functional meal consumption, in comparison with baseline values (p < 0.05). The remaining biomarkers did not show statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). Further investigation is needed in order to validate the current results.

Endothelial Function and Postprandial Glucose Control in Response to Test-Meals Containing Herbs and Spices in Adults With Overweight/Obesity

Objectives

Herbs and Spices (H/S) contain bioactive compounds with purported health benefits. This study investigated the effect of H/S intake on indicators of vascular and metabolic health over 24 h using a test-meal challenge paradigm in adults with overweight or obesity.

Methods

In a randomized, single-blinded, 4-arm, 24 h, multi-sampling, crossover clinical trial, adults (n = 25) aged 36.6 ± 3.1 years with BMI 28.5 ± 0.6 kg/m² (mean ± SEM) consumed a high-fat, high-carbohydrate challenge meal (~810 kcal) with salt/pepper only (control) or control with one of three different H/S combinations: Italian herb (rosemary, basil, thyme, oregano, and parsley), cinnamon, or pumpkin pie spice mix (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice) on four separate visits at least 3 days apart. Meals provided 35% of subjects' energy to maintain weight and ~1 g H/S per 135 kcal of the meal. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and blood samples were collected at 0, 1, 2, 4, 5.5, 7, and 24 h for endpoint analysis (additional blood draw at 0.5 h for insulin/glucose). Mixed-model analysis of repeated measures via PROC MIXED PC-SAS 9.4 was performed on the primary outcome (FMD) and secondary outcome variables. This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03926442).

Results

Italian herb and pumpkin spice meals significantly increased %FMD at 24 h compared to the control meal (P = 0.048 and P = 0.027, respectively). The cinnamon meal reduced postprandial glycemia (Δ) compared to control (P = 0.01), and pumpkin pie spice mix and cinnamon meals reduced postprandial insulin at 0.5 h compared to the control meal (P = 0.01 and P = 0.04, respectively). IL-6 and triglycerides increased in response to all meals (Time, P < 0.0001) but were not significantly different between meals.

Conclusions

The test-meal challenge study design coupled with multiple sampling over 24 h provides insights into time-course bioactivity of H/S on vascular function and metabolic indices in overweight/obese adults.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03926442.

Organic Beet Leaves and Stalk Juice Attenuates the Glutathione Peroxidase Increase Induced by High-Fat Meal in Dyslipidemic Patients: A Pilot Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial

The beet, including the leaves and stalk (BLS), is a vegetable with great antioxidant potential. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in the nutritional composition and the concentration of total phenolics between the organic and conventional BLS and to verify whether the ingestion of an organic BLS juice containing different concentrations of polyphenols modulated some biomarkers of oxidative stress after the ingestion of a high-fat meal in individuals with dyslipidemia. A controlled, randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial with a washout period of 1 week was carried out. A 12-h fasting blood sample was collected. Afterward, the participants consumed a high-fat meal, followed by the ingestion of a placebo or one of the organic BLS juices containing either 32.0 or 77.5 mg/100 mL of polyphenols. Blood samples were obtained 30, 60, 120 and 180 min after the first blood collection. The composition analysis showed that organic BLS had a better nutritional composition than conventional ones. The high-fat meal induced postprandial hypertriglyceridemia after 120 min (p < 0.001) and increased the concentration of malondialdehyde after 30 min (p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant increase in GPx in 30 min (p = 0.026). This increase was attenuated in the group that received the highest dose of polyphenols when compared with the placebo after 30 min (p = 0.045). Therefore, the organic BLS juice containing 77.5 mg of polyphenols was efficient at modulating one of the postprandial mechanisms of enzymatic antioxidant protection in individuals with dyslipidemia.

Riceberry rice beverage decreases postprandial glycemic response, inflammatory markers and antioxidant status induced by a high-carbohydrate and moderate-fat meal in overweight and obese men

Recent clinical studies support the beneficial role of riceberry rice and its food products in controlling the glycemic response in healthy subjects. The aim of the current work was to determine the effects of riceberry rice beverage (RRB) on postprandial glycemic, insulin and triglyceride responses, inflammatory biomarkers, and antioxidant status as well as appetite sensation following a high-carbohydrate and moderate-fat (HCMF) meal in overweight/obese subjects. Thirteen participants, overweight and obese men (age = 24.46 ± 0.90 years and BMI = 25.92 ± 0.69 kg m^-2), completed a randomized, crossover intervention study. They consumed an HCMF meal with or without RRB (2 g of riceberry rice extract powder/400 ml). Blood samples and appetite sensation were measured at the fasting state and up to 6 h after meal consumption. The ingestion of the HCMF meal accompanied by RRB had a lower incremental area under the curve (iAUC) for postprandial plasma glucose, insulin, malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum triglyceride concentrations when compared to the control. A significant increase in the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and thiol level, all measures of antioxidant capacity, was also observed in the participants who consumed the HCMF meal accompanied by RRB. The postprandial level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) significantly increased at 3 h and 6 h after the HCMF meal intake when compared to the fasting state. Interestingly, these values were significantly decreased upon consumption of RRB. However, there were no statistically significant differences in the rating scores of hunger, fullness, desire to eat, and satiety among the tested meals. In conclusion, RRB intake prevented HCMF meal-induced postprandial glycemic, lipemic, and pro-inflammatory responses and improved plasma antioxidant capacity in overweight and obese participants.

Watermelon and L-Citrulline in Cardio-Metabolic Health: Review of the Evidence 2000-2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) distinctively contains L-citrulline and L-arginine, precursors of nitric oxide (NO), along with polyphenols and carotenoids suggesting a role in cardio-metabolic health. The goal of this paper is to review the preclinical and clinical trial evidence published from 2000 to 2020 to assess watermelon intake and L-citrulline, as a signature compound of watermelon, on cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes, and to identify future directions important for establishing dietary guidance and therapeutic recommendations actionable by health care professionals, patients, and the general public.

RECENT FINDINGS

Watermelon and L-citrulline supplementation reduced blood pressure in human trials. Evidence for benefits in lipids/lipoprotein metabolism is emerging based on human literature and consistently reported in animal models. A role for watermelon intake in body weight control, possibly through satiety mechanisms, warrants further research. Likewise, improved glucose homeostasis in chemically and diet-induced animal models of diabetes is apparent, though limited data are available in humans. Emerging areas include brain and gut health indicated by NO bioavailability in all tissues, and evidence suggesting improvements in gut barrier function and altered microbial composition after watermelon intake that may influence metabolite pools and physiological function. Watermelon fruit contains unique vaso- and metabolically-active compounds. Accumulating evidence supports regular intake for cardio-metabolic health. Future research to determine the amount and frequency of watermelon/citrulline intake for desired outcomes in different populations requires attention to advance preventative and therapeutic strategies for optimal health and disease risk reduction.

Evaluating the role of orange juice, HESPERidin in vascular HEALTH benefits (HESPER-HEALTH study): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Although epidemiological studies associate the consumption of sugary beverages with adverse health effects, human experimental studies have demonstrated substantially different metabolic responses when 100% fruit juices are compared with artificial beverages. Fruit juices do not just provide sugars and associated calories, but they are also rich in bioactive compounds. Flavanones are bioactives specifically and abundantly found in citrus foods, with hesperidin as the major representative in sweet oranges. Flavanone intake has been associated with a lower incidence of mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, clinical evidence are too scarce to confirm the vasculoprotective effects of 100% orange juice (OJ) presumably mediated by flavanones and thereby do not allow firm conclusions to be drawn about their efficacy.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The HESPER-HEALTH study aims to assess the efficacy of OJ in improving vascular function and the contribution of hesperidin to these effects. This double-blind, randomised, controlled, crossover study will be carried out in 42 volunteers predisposed to CVD, based on age and on overweight. It includes three 6-week periods of consumption of 330 mL/d of OJ versus control drinks with and without hesperidin at a dose in agreement with a daily OJ serving (approx. 200-215 mg). The primary outcome is endothelial function, assessed by flow mediated dilation, with measurements performed at fasting and postprandially in response to a challenge meal. The secondary outcomes include bioavailability and metabolism of flavanones, changes in other markers of vascular function, systemic biomarkers of cardiovascular risk, endothelial dysfunction and inflammation, vitamin C and carotenoids status, anthropometry and body composition, gut microbiota composition, nutrigenomic response and in oxylipin profiling.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This ongoing study was approved by the Ethics committee Sud-Est III, Bron, France on 17 November 2020. The trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. The results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04731987; Pre-results.

Pecan-enriched diets decrease postprandial lipid peroxidation and increase total antioxidant capacity in adults at-risk for cardiovascular disease

Pecans are a rich source of antioxidants, but the effect of regular consumption on post-meal responses is unknown. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of daily pecan consumption for 8 weeks on fasting and postprandial lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and tocopherols in adults at higher risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) (hypercholesterolemia or elevated adiposity). We hypothesized that daily pecan consumption would result in increased fasting γ-tocopherol, increased fasting and postprandial TAC, and decreased fasting and postprandial lipid peroxidation. This was a randomized, parallel, controlled trial with 3 treatments: two pecan groups and a nut free control (n = 16). The ADD group (n = 15) consumed pecans as part of a free-living diet, and the SUB group (n = 16) substituted the pecans for isocaloric foods from their habitual diet. At the pre- and post-intervention, a high saturated fat breakfast shake was consumed with postprandial blood draws over 2h. In the ADD and SUB groups, postprandial lipid peroxidation was suppressed (iAUC: 0.9 ± 1.3 to -2.9 ± 2.0 and 4.5 ± 1.7 to 0.7 ± 1.1 µM/2h, respectively; P <0.05) and TAC was elevated (iAUC: -240.8 ± 110.2 to 130.9 ± 131.7 and -227.6 ± 131.2 to 208.7 ± 145.7 µM Trolox Equivalents/2h, respectively; P <0.01) from pre- to post-intervention. Furthermore, there was an increase in γ-tocopherol from pre- to post-intervention within the ADD (1.4 ± 0.1 to 1.8 ± 0.1 µg/mL; P <0.001) and SUB groups (1.8 ± 0.2 to 2.1 ± 0.2 µg/mL; P <0.05). There were no changes in any variable within the control group. These findings suggest that daily pecan consumption protects against oxidative stress that occurs following a high-fat meal in adults at risk for CVD.

Impact of Meal Fatty Acid Composition on Postprandial Lipemia in Metabolically Healthy Adults and Individuals with Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Systematic Review

Consuming fat results in postprandial lipemia, which is defined as an increase in blood triglyceride (TG) concentration. According to current knowledge, an excessively elevated postprandial TG concentration increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is well known that meal-dependent (e.g., nutrient composition) as well as meal-independent factors (e.g., age) determine the magnitude of the lipemic response. However, there is conflicting evidence concerning the influence of fatty acid (FA) composition on postprandial TG concentration. The FA composition of a meal depends on the fat source used; for example, butter and coconut oil are rich in SFAs, while olive oil and canola oil have a high content of unsaturated FAs. To investigate the influence of meals prepared with fat sources rich in either SFAs or unsaturated FAs on postprandial lipemia, we carried out a systematic literature search in PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Randomized crossover studies were analyzed and the AUC of postprandial TG concentration served as the primary outcome measure. To examine the influence of health status, we differentiated between metabolically healthy individuals and those with CVD risk factors. In total, 23 studies were included. The results show that, in metabolically healthy adults, the FA composition of a meal is not a relevant determinant of postprandial lipemia. However, in individuals with CVD risk factors, SFA-rich meals (>32 g SFA/meal) often elicited a stronger lipemic response than meals rich in unsaturated FAs. The results suggest that adults with hypertriglyceridemia, an elevated BMI (≥30 kg/m2), and/or who are older (>40 y) may benefit from replacing SFA sources with unsaturated FAs. These hypotheses need to be verified by further studies in people with CVD risk factors using standardized postprandial protocols. This review was registered in PROSPERO as CRD42021214508 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/).

Possible Biochemical Processes Underlying the Positive Health Effects of Plant-Based Diets-A Narrative Review

Plant-based diets are becoming more popular for many reasons, and epidemiological as well as clinical data also suggest that a well-balanced vegan diet can be adopted for the prevention, and in some cases, in the treatment of many diseases. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of the relationships between these diets and various conditions and their potential biochemical background. As whole plant foods are very rich in food-derived antioxidants and other phytochemicals, they have many positive physiological effects on different aspects of health. In the background of the beneficial health effects, several biochemical processes could stand, including the reduced formation of trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) or decreased serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels and altered signaling pathways such as mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). In addition, the composition of plant-based diets may play a role in preventing lipotoxicity, avoiding N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), and reducing foodborne endotoxin intake. In this article, we attempt to draw attention to the growing knowledge about these diets and provide starting points for further research.

The acute effect of incorporating lettuce or watercress into a moderately high-fat meal on postprandial lipid, glycemic response, and plasma inflammatory cytokines in healthy young men: a randomized crossover trial

BACKGROUND

Postprandial responses to food mostly depend on the composition of the meal and the consumption of vegetables may modulate this postprandial state. In this study, the effects of lettuce or watercress consumption with a moderately high-fat meal (40% kcal from fat) on postprandial lipemia, glycemia, and inflammatory cytokines were determined in healthy men.

METHODS

This randomized, 3-arm, crossover study was conducted in sixteen healthy young men with a mean ± SEM age and body mass index (in kg/m2) of 22.8 ± 0.5 years old and 23.7 ± 1.16, respectively. Lettuce and watercress were added to the test meal in portions of 100 g and cellulose was added to the control meal. Thereafter, blood samples were collected by passing 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 h for analysis. The postprandial response was measured in plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, high-density-lipoproteins cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density-lipoproteins cholesterol (LDL-C), as the area under the postprandial curve (AUC). Moreover, plasma tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined once before and once 4 h after the meal's consumption.

RESULTS

The 0-4-h AUCs for glucose (385.7, 361.9, and 382.3 mg/dL for the control, lettuce, and watercress meals, respectively) were calculated to be lower when meal was consumed with lettuce compared to the control (P < 0.05) and watercress (P < 0.01) meals. The maximum values of insulin were obtained as 43.8 ± 18.8, 33.5 ± 19.5, and 42.8 ± 17.7 μIU/mL for the control, lettuce, and watercress meals, respectively. As well, the lettuce-containing meal more reduced the AUC for insulin compared with the control (P < 0.05), but not watercress. Notably, plasma TG, total cholesterol, HDL-C, and LDL-C had no significant differences among the meals. Moreover, the levels of plasma IL-6 and TNF-α did not differ among the meals.

CONCLUSION

In this study on healthy men, the addition of lettuce to a moderately high-fat meal delayed the postprandial glycemic response. However, the effect of the consumption of these vegetables on postprandial responses in subjects with cardiometabolic risk factors remains to be elucidated yet. This clinical trial was registered at the Iran Clinical Trials Registration Office (IRCT) on March 3, 2018, with an ID of IRCT20160702028742N4 ( https://www.irct.ir/user/trial/23233/view ).

Strawberry Consumption, Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, and Vascular Function: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Adults with Moderate Hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Certain fruits, such as strawberries, may impart cardiometabolic benefits due to their phytochemical content.

OBJECTIVES

Study aims were to assess the effects of strawberry intake on cardiometabolic risk factors and vascular endothelial function in adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia.

METHODS

This study was a randomized, controlled, double-blinded, 2-arm, 2-period (4-wk/period) crossover trial. Adults (n = 34; male/female 1:1; mean ± SEM age, 53 ± 1 y; BMI, 31 ± 1 kg/m2;  LDL cholesterol, 133 ± 3 mg/dL) were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 study sequences in a 1:1 ratio. Participants drank study beverages twice daily containing freeze-dried strawberry powder (2 × 25 g) or energy-, volume-matched control powder for 4 wk separated by a 4-wk washout. The primary outcome variable was the difference in fasting LDL cholesterol after 4-wk interventions. Secondary outcomes were metabolic markers, inflammation, quantitative (poly)phenolic metabolomics, flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and blood pressure (BP), with the latter (FMD, BP) also assessed acutely at 1 h and 2 h after a 50-g bolus strawberry or control beverage. Mixed-model analysis of repeated measures via PROC MIXED, PC-SAS was performed on primary and secondary outcome variables.

RESULTS

LDL cholesterol did not differ after the 4-wk interventions (P > 0.05), nor did fasting total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, insulin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, FMD, or BP (all P > 0.05). Significant intervention-by-hour interaction for FMD (P = 0.03) and BP (P = 0.05) revealed increased FMD at 1 h after strawberry compared with control by 1.5 ± 0.38% (P = 0.0008) and attenuated systolic BP at 2 h by 3.1 ± 0.99 mmHg (P = 0.02). Select phenolic metabolites increased significantly (P < 0.05) in blood following strawberry consumption while others decreased, including 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)propanoic acid-3-O-glucuronide, which was significantly correlated with increased FMD (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Strawberries may improve vascular health, independent of other metabolic changes. The effect may be related to changes in microbial-derived phenolic metabolites after strawberry consumption influencing endothelial function. Data support inclusion of strawberries in a heart-healthy diet in adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02612090.

A new category-specific nutrient rich food (NRF9f.3) score adds flavonoids to assess nutrient density of fruit

Nutrient profiling (NP) models, intended to capture the full nutritional value of plant-based foods, ought to incorporate bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, in addition to standard nutrients. The well-established Nutrient Rich Food (NRF9.3) score is based on 9 nutrients to encourage (protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, D and calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium) and 3 nutrients to limit (saturated fat, added sugar, sodium). The new category-specific NRF9f.3 score kept the same algorithm based on sums of percent daily values (%DVs) but swapped vitamin D for total flavonoids from the USDA database. NRF9f.3 was applied to the USDA fruit group categories, comparing nutrient density of citrus fruit, citrus juice, dried fruit, raw and cooked fruit, berries, fruit mixtures, fruit salads, non-citrus fruit juice, and fruit nectars. Adding total flavonoids to NRF9f.3 allowed for a recalibration of fruit total nutritional value. Citrus fruits and juices had significantly higher flavanones, berries had significantly higher anthocyanidins, and dried fruit and berries had significantly higher flavan-3-ols, than other fruits (all p < 0.05). Citrus fruit, citrus juice and berries had significantly higher NRFf9.3 scores than all other fruit subcategories (p < 0,05), but were not different from each other. The more innovative NP models are both category specific and make effective use of new nutrient composition databases. NRF9.3 when applied to the fruit group discriminates primarily on fiber, vitamin C, and added sugar content. Incorporating flavonoid and polyphenol data modernizes NP models to better capture nutrient density of plant foods that can aid in dietary guidance and policy development to improve diversity and nutritional value of the diet.

Anthocyanins attenuate vascular and inflammatory responses to a high fat high energy meal challenge in overweight older adults: A cross-over, randomized, double-blind clinical trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Postprandial metabolic imbalances are important indicators of later developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study investigated the effects of food anthocyanins on vascular and microvascular function, and CVD associated biomarkers following a high fat high energy (HFHE) meal challenge in overweight older adults.

METHODS

Sixteen subjects (13 female, 3 male, mean age 65.9 SD 6.0 and body mass index 30.6 kg/m² SD 3.9) participated in a crossover, randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial (registered under Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, identifier no. ACTRN12620000437965). Participants consumed a HFHE meal with a 250 mL dose of either intervention (anthocyanins-rich Queen Garnet Plum) or control (apricot) juice. Blood samples and blood pressure measures were collected at baseline, 2 h and 4 h following the HFHE meal. Vascular and microvascular function were evaluated at baseline and 2 h after the HFHE meal.

RESULTS

Participants had a higher 2 h postprandial flow-mediated dilatation (+1.14%) and a higher microvascular post-occlusive reactive hyperaemia (+0.10 perfusion units per mmHg) when allocated to the anthocyanin compared to the control arm (P = 0.019 and P = 0.049, respectively). C-reactive protein was lower 4 h postprandially in the anthocyanins (1.80 mg/L, IQR 0.90) vs control arm (2.30 mg/L, IQR 1.95) (P = 0.026), accompanied by a trend for lower concentrations of interleukin-6 (P = 0.075). No significant postprandial differences were observed between treatments for blood pressure, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, serum derivatives of reactive oxidative metabolites, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin-1 beta, or maximum microvascular perfusion following iontophoresis of acetylcholine.

CONCLUSION

Fruit-based anthocyanins attenuated the potential postprandial detrimental effects of a HFHE challenge on parameters of vascular and microvascular function, and inflammatory biomarkers in overweight older adults. Anthocyanins may reduce cardiovascular risk associated with endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory responses to a typical high fat 'Western' meal. Further studies are required to better elucidate the clinical implications of postprandial biomarkers of CVD.

Concept, mechanism, and applications of phenolic antioxidants in foods

In this review, the concept of phenolic antioxidants, mechanisms of action, and applications have been reviewed. Phenolic compounds (PCs) acts as an antioxidant by reacting with a variety of free radicals. The mechanism of antioxidant actions involved either by hydrogen atom transfer, transfer of a single electron, sequential proton loss electron transfer, and chelation of transition metals. In foods, the PCs act as antioxidants which are measured with several in vitro spectroscopic methods. The PCs have been found in milk and a wide range of dairy products with sole purposes of color, taste, storage stability, and quality enhancement. The role of PCs in three types of food additives, that is, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and flavoring agents have been critically reviewed. The literature revealed that PCs present in a variety of foods possess several health benefits such as antibacterial, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer, antioxidants, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic properties. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Phenolic compounds are strong antioxidants and are safer than synthetic antioxidants. The wide occurrence in plant foods warranted continuous review applications. This review, therefore, presented an updated comprehensive overview of the concept, mechanism, and applications of phenolic antioxidants in foods.

ACE Inhibitory Properties and Phenolics Profile of Fermented Flours and of Baked and Digested Biscuits from Buckwheat

The angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity and phenolics profile of fermented flours and of baked and digested buckwheat biscuits was studied. The fermentation of buckwheat flour by select lactic acid bacteria (LAB) caused a decrease in ACE inhibitory activity as compared to the non-fermented flour. The baking process significantly reduced the ACE inhibitory activity of biscuits obtained from fermented flours, whereas digestion significantly increased these properties. In non-fermented and fermented flours and buckwheat biscuits before and after in vitro digestion samples, ten phenolic acids and eight flavonoids were found. Highly significant correlations were found between sample concentration of 50% inhibition of ACE (IC50) and total phenolic compounds of fermented flour and biscuits before and after digestion for each applied LAB, thus indicating a link between phenolic compound content and ACE inhibitory activity. In the digested biscuits, the input to ACE inhibitory activity was provided by p-coumaric, sinapic, syringic, vanillic, and protocatechuic acids as well as by kaempherol, quercetin, apigenin, and orientin. Therefore, it can be concluded that cumulative action of those phenolic acids and flavonoids released after digestion is responsible, in part, for the bioaccessible ACE inhibitory activity of buckwheat biscuits.

Effects of Acute Cocoa Supplementation on Postprandial Apolipoproteins, Lipoprotein Subclasses, and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes after a High-Fat Meal

Dyslipidemia and inflammation exacerbate postprandial metabolic stress in people with diabetes. Acute dietary supplementation with polyphenols shows promise in improving postprandial metabolic stress in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Cocoa is a rich source of dietary polyphenols with demonstrated cardioprotective effects in adults without diabetes. To date, the acute effects of cocoa on postprandial lipids and inflammation have received little attention in the presence of T2D. This report expands on our earlier observation that polyphenol-rich cocoa, given as a beverage with a fast-food-style, high-fat breakfast, increased postprandial high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) in adults with T2D. We now test whether polyphenol-rich cocoa modulated postprandial apolipoproteins (Apo-A1, B), non-esterified fatty acids, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-derived lipoprotein subclass profiles, and select biomarkers of inflammation following the same dietary challenge. We found that cocoa decreased NMR-derived concentrations of total very low-density lipoprotein and chylomicron particles and increased the concentration of total HDL particles over the 6-hour postprandial phase. Serum interleukin-18 was decreased by cocoa vs. placebo. Thus, polyphenol-rich cocoa may alleviate postprandial dyslipidemia and inflammation following a high-fat dietary challenge in adults with T2D. The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01886989.

Acute Effects of Three Different Meal Patterns on Postprandial Metabolism in Older Individuals with a Risk Phenotype for Cardiometabolic Diseases: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

SCOPE

The aim of this study is to investigate acute postprandial responses to intake of meals typical for Mediterranean and Western diets.

METHODS

In a randomized crossover design, overweight and obese participants with a risk phenotype for cardiometabolic diseases consumed three different isoenergetic meals: Western diet-like high-fat (WDHF), Western diet-like high-carbohydrate (WDHC), and Mediterranean diet (MED) meal. Blood samples are collected at fasting and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 h postprandially and analyzed for parameters of lipid and glucose metabolism, inflammation, oxidation, and antioxidant status.

RESULTS

Compared to MED and WDHF meals, intake of a WDHC meal results in prolonged and elevated increases in glucose and insulin. Elevations for triglycerides are enhanced after the WDHF meal compared to the MED and the WDHC meal. Glucagon-like peptide-1 and interleukin-6 increase postprandially without meal differences. Apart from vitamin C showing an increase after the MED meal and a decrease after WDHF and WDHC meals, antioxidant markers decrease postprandially without meal differences. Plasma interleukin-1β is not affected by meal intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Energy-rich meals induce hyperglycemia, hyperlipemia, an inflammatory response, and a decrease in antioxidant markers. A meal typical for the Mediterranean diet results in favorable effects on glycemic, insulinemic, and lipemic responses.

Dietary berries, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes: an overview of human feeding trials

Dietary berries are a rich source of several nutrients and phytochemicals and in recent years, accumulating evidence suggests they can reduce risks of several chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D). The objective of this review is to summarize and discuss the role of dietary berries (taken as fresh, frozen, or other processed forms) on insulin resistance and biomarkers of T2D in human feeding studies. Reported feeding trials involve different berries taken in different forms, and consequently differences in nutritional or polyphenol composition must be considered in their interpretation. Commonly consumed berries, especially cranberries, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries, ameliorate postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia in overweight or obese adults with insulin resistance, and in adults with the metabolic syndrome (MetS). In non-acute long-term studies, these berries either alone, or in combination with other functional foods or dietary interventions, can improve glycemic and lipid profiles, blood pressure and surrogate markers of atherosclerosis. Studies specifically in people with T2D are few, and more knowledge is needed. Nevertheless, existing evidence, although sparse, suggests that berries have an emerging role in dietary strategies for the prevention of diabetes and its complications in adults. Despite the beneficial effects of berries on diabetes prevention and management, they must be consumed as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

Glycation With Fructose: The Bitter Side of Nature's Own Sweetener

Fructose is a ketohexose and sweetest among all the natural sugars. Like other reducing sugars, it reacts readily with the amino- and nucleophilic groups of proteins, nucleic acids and other biomolecules resulting in glycation reactions. The non-enzymatic glycation reactions comprise Schiff base formation, their Amadori rearrangement followed by complex and partly incompletely understood reactions culminating in the formation of Advance Glycation End products (AGEs). The AGEs are implicated in complications associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, Parkinson's disease, etc. Fructose is highly reactive and forms glycation products that differ both in structure and reactivity as compared to those formed from glucose. Nearly all tissues of higher organisms utilize fructose but only a few like the ocular lens, peripheral nerves erythrocytes and testis have polyol pathway active for the synthesis of fructose. Fructose levels rarely exceed those of glucose but, in tissues that operate the polyol pathway, its concentration may rise remarkably during diabetes and related disorders. Diet contributes significantly to the body fructose levels however, availability of technologies for the large scale and inexpensive production of fructose, popularity of high fructose syrups as well as the promotion of vegetarianism have resulted in a remarkable increase in the consumption of fructose. In vivo glycation reactions by fructose, therefore, assume remarkable significance. The review, therefore, aims to highlight the uniqueness of glycation reactions with fructose and its role in some pathophysiological situations.

Effects of the apple matrix on the postprandial bioavailability of flavan-3-ols and nutrigenomic response of apple polyphenols in minipigs challenged with a high fat meal

Food matrix interactions with polyphenols can affect their bioavailability and as a consequence may modulate their biological effects.

Moderate Postmeal Walking Has No Beneficial Effects Over Resting on Postprandial Lipemia, Glycemia, Insulinemia, and Selected Oxidative and Inflammatory Parameters in Older Adults with a Cardiovascular Disease Risk Phenotype: A Randomized Crossover Trial

BACKGROUND

Research suggests that postprandial events, as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), are influenced by meal composition and exercise.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the effect of walking versus rest on postprandial metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative events following the consumption of test meals reflecting 2 different dietary patterns in older adults with an increased CVD risk.

METHODS

A randomized crossover trial was conducted in 26 men and women (aged 70 ± 5 y; BMI 30.3 ± 2.3 kg/m2). Each adult participated in 4 treatments combining 1 of 2 iso-energetic (4300 kJ) meals [Western diet high-fat meal (WD): total fat, 59.4 g; saturated fatty acids, 32.0 g, dietary fiber, 4.2 g; or Mediterranean-type diet meal (MD): total fat, 40.1 g; saturated fatty acids, 5.1 g; dietary fiber, 14.5 g] with 30 min walking (4.6 ± 0.1 km/h) or rest. Primary (serum triglycerides) and secondary [serum nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs); parameters of glucose metabolism, inflammation, endothelial activation, oxidation; blood pressure/heart rate] outcomes were measured at fasting and 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 h postprandially. Data were analyzed by linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Triglycerides were higher after the WD than after the MD [AUC in mmol/L × min: Western diet high-fat meal plus postprandial walking (WD-W), 218 ± 15.2; Western diet high-fat meal plus postprandial resting (WD-R), 207 ± 12.6; Mediterranean-type diet meal plus postprandial walking (MD-W), 139 ± 9.83; Mediterranean-type diet meal plus postprandial resting (MD-R), 149 ± 8.15; P  < 0.001]. No meal or activity effect was observed for NEFAs based on AUC data (WD-W, -43.5 ± 7.08; WD-R, -49.2 ± 6.94; MD-W, -48.0 ± 11.6; MD-R, -67.6 ± 7.58). Plasma glucose was higher after the MD than after the WD (WD-W, 222 ± 34.9; WD-R, 177 ± 32.8; MD-W, 314 ± 44.4; MD-R, 275 ± 57.8; P  < 0.001), as was serum insulin (AUC in nmol/L × min: WD-W, 82.0 ± 10.3; WD-R, 88.6 ± 12.8; MD-W, 129 ± 14.7; MD-R, 138 ± 20.5; P < 0.001). Plasma IL-6 was higher after walking than after resting (AUC in pg/mL × min: WD-W, 72.0 ± 34.0; WD-R, 14.3 ± 38.8; MD-W, 70.8 ± 39.4; MD-R, 5.60 ± 26.0; P < 0.05). Plasma vitamin C was higher after the MD than after the WD (P < 0.001) and after walking than after resting (P < 0.05; AUC in mg/L × min: WD-W, -305 ± 59.6; WD-R, -396 ± 84.0; MD-W, 113 ± 56.4; MD-R, -44.5 ± 48.1). We observed no meal or activity effects on parameters of oxidation and endothelial adhesion molecules. Our data revealed no significant meal × activity effects on all outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In older adults with an increased CVD risk, the MD was associated with superior effects on several postprandial parameters (e.g., triglycerides), in comparison to the WD. Data revealed no relevant differences regarding the effects of postmeal walking and resting. None of the 4 treatments can be rated as superior regarding their acute effects on the shown postprandial metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory parameters. The trial was registered at German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS; http://www.germanctr.de and http://www.drks.de) under identifier DRKS00012409.

The Postprandial Appearance of Features of Cardiometabolic Risk: Acute Induction and Prevention by Nutrients and Other Dietary Substances

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of diets, food, and food components that affect postprandial inflammation, endothelial function, and oxidative stress, which are related to cardiometabolic risk. A high-energy meal, rich in saturated fat and sugars, induces the transient appearance of a series of metabolic, signaling and physiological dysregulations or dysfunctions, including oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which are directly related to the amplitude of postprandial plasma triglycerides and glucose. Low-grade inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are also known to cluster together with insulin resistance, a third risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and type-II diabetes, thus making a considerable contribution to cardiometabolic risk. Because of the marked relevance of the postprandial model to nutritional pathophysiology, many studies have investigated whether adding various nutrients and other substances to such a challenge meal might mitigate the onset of these adverse effects. Some foods (e.g., nuts, berries, and citrus), nutrients (e.g., l-arginine), and other substances (various polyphenols) have been widely studied. Reports of favorable effects in the postprandial state have concerned plasma markers for systemic or vascular pro-inflammatory conditions, the activation of inflammatory pathways in plasma monocytes, vascular endothelial function (mostly assessed using physiological criteria), and postprandial oxidative stress. Although the literature is fragmented, this topic warrants further study using multiple endpoints and markers to investigate whether the interesting candidates identified might prevent or limit the postprandial appearance of critical features of cardiometabolic risk.

Effects of a diet naturally rich in polyphenols on lipid composition of postprandial lipoproteins in high cardiometabolic risk individuals: an ancillary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Plasma lipoprotein composition, especially in the postprandial state, could be relevant for cardiovascular risk and could be influenced by eating habits. This study evaluated the effects of a polyphenol-rich diet on postprandial lipoprotein composition in individuals at high cardiometabolic risk.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Seventy-eight individuals with high waist circumference and at least another component of the metabolic syndrome were randomized to either a high-polyphenol (HighP) or low-polyphenol (LowP) diet. Before and after the 8-week intervention, chylomicrons, VLDL1, VLDL2, IDL, LDL, HDL particles, and their lipid concentrations were determined over a 6-h high-fat test meal with high or low-polyphenol content, according to the diet assigned.

RESULTS

VLDL1 postprandial areas under the curve (AUCs) were lower for cholesterol (Chol) (1.48 ± 0.98 vs. 1.91 ± 1.13 mmol/L × 6 h, M ± SD, p = 0.014) and triglycerides (Tg) (4.70 ± 2.70 vs. 6.02 ± 3.07 mmol/L × 6 h, p = 0.005) after the HighP than after the LowP diet, with no changes in Chol/Tg ratio. IDL Chol AUCs were higher after the HighP than after the LowP diet (1.29 ± 0.77 vs. 1.01 ± 0.51 mmol/L × 6 h, p = 0.037). LDL Tg AUCs were higher after the HighP than after the LowP diet (1.15 ± 0.33 vs. 1.02 ± 0.35 mmol/L × 6 h, p < 0.001), with a lower Chol/Tg ratio (14.6 ± 4.0 vs. 16.0 ± 3.8, p = 0.007). HDL Tg AUCs were lower after the HighP than after the LowP diet (1.20 ± 0.41 vs. 1.34 ± 0.37 mmol/L × 6 h, p = 0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

A high-polyphenol diet reduces the postprandial lipid content of large VLDL and increases IDL cholesterol; it modifies the composition of LDL particles-which become richer in triglycerides, and of HDL-which become instead triglyceride poor. The overall changes in atherogenicity by these effects warrant further investigation on clinical cardiovascular outcomes.

Postprandial Circulating miRNAs in Response to a Dietary Fat Challenge

Postprandial lipemia has many physiopathological effects, some of which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can be found in almost all biological fluids, but their postprandial kinetics are poorly described. We aimed to profile circulating miRNAs in response to a fat challenge. In total, 641 circulating miRNAs were assessed by real-time PCR in plasmas from mice two hours after lipid gavage. Mice with intestine-specific loss of Dicer were screened to identify potential miRNAs released by the intestine. A total of 68 miRNAs were selected for further validation. Ten circulating miRNAs were finally validated as responsive to postprandial lipemia, including miR-206-3p, miR-543-3p, miR-466c-5p, miR-27b-5p, miR-409-3p, miR-340-3p, miR-1941-3p, miR-10a-3p, miR-125a-3p, and miR-468-3p. Analysis of their possible tissues of origin/target showed an enrichment of selected miRNAs in liver, intestine, brain, or skeletal muscle. miR-206, miR-27b-5p, and miR-409-3p were validated in healthy humans. Analysis of their predicted target genes revealed their potential involvement in insulin/insulin like growth factor (insulin/IGF), angiogenesis, cholecystokinin B receptor signaling pathway (CCKR), inflammation or Wnt pathways for mice, and in platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) and CCKR signaling pathways for humans. Therefore, the current study shows that certain miRNAs are released in the circulation in response to fatty meals, proposing them as potential novel therapeutic targets of lipid metabolism.

Short-Term Bixin Supplementation of Healthy Subjects Decreases the Susceptibility of LDL to Cu2+-Induced Oxidation Ex Vivo

Lycopene-based medications and supplements have been developed to prevent atherosclerosis, primarily because of their ability to decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. Bixin and norbixin are carotenoids found in the seeds of annatto (Bixa orellana) and are colorants widely used by the food industry. Some studies have already demonstrated that these compounds have antioxidant and antiatherogenic potential in vitro and in animal models, but there is no evidence supporting the effects of their long-term or short-term consumption by humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of short-term intake of annatto carotenoids on biochemical and oxidative stress biomarkers as well as on the susceptibility of LDL oxidation in healthy individuals, using lycopene as a positive control. The effect of daily supplementation (0.05 mg/kg of body weight (b.w.)) with bixin, norbixin, lycopene, or placebo for 7 days was evaluated in a randomized, controlled crossover study in 16 healthy volunteers (8 men and 8 women). The susceptibility of LDL to Cu²⁺-induced oxidation ex vivo, biochemical parameters, and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated. No treatment affected biochemical parameters or most oxidative stress biomarkers. However, bixin reduced the oxidation rate of the LDL lipid moiety (−275%, p < 0.1) and nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) (−460%, p < 0.1), compared to the placebo group. Moreover, we observed that the changes in these parameters were positively associated, supporting the hypothesis that bixin decreases the susceptibility of LDL to Cu²⁺-induced oxidation by decreasing NOx levels, probably by downregulating the inducible nitric oxide synthase.

Attenuation of Postmeal Metabolic Indices with Red Raspberries in Individuals at Risk for Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the effect of red raspberry intake on meal-induced postprandial metabolic responses in individuals who have overweight or obesity with prediabetes and insulin resistance (PreDM-IR), and in metabolically healthy individuals (Reference).

METHODS

Thirty-two adults (PreDM-IR, n = 21; Reference, n = 11) were randomized to a controlled, three-arm, single-blinded, crossover trial. Participants were provided 0 g of frozen red raspberries (Control), 125 g of frozen red raspberries (RR-125) (~1 cup), or 250 g of frozen red raspberries (RR-250) (~2 cups), with a challenge breakfast meal (high carbohydrate/moderate fat) on three separate days. Multiple blood samples were collected up to 8 hours post breakfast with a final blood sample at 24 hours. A snack was provided at 6 hours.

RESULTS

Breakfast containing RR-125 and RR-250 significantly reduced 2-hour insulin area under the curve, and RR-250 reduced peak insulin, peak glucose, and 2-hour glucose AUC compared with Control in the PreDM-IR group (P < 0.05). Postprandial triglycerides were significantly lower after RR-125 versus RR-250 (P = 0.01) but not different from Control (P > 0.05). No significant meal-related differences were observed for oxidative stress or inflammatory biomarkers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that red raspberries aid in postmeal glycemic control in individuals with PreDM-IR, reducing glycemic burden with less insulin, which may be related to improved tissue insulin sensitivity.

Tart cherry consumption with or without prior exercise increases antioxidant capacity and decreases triglyceride levels following a high-fat meal

Exercise and high-phytonutrient foods may lower oxidative stress and increase antioxidant levels, which could combat the negative effects associated with a high-fat (HF) meal. The objective of this study is to test the effects of Montmorency tart cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) consumption, with or without aerobic exercise, on antioxidant responses to an HF meal. Twelve normal-weight men (aged 22 ± 3 years), participated in a randomized crossover design comprising 4 trials: (i) HF meal with Montmorency tart cherry consumption (MC), (ii) HF meal with placebo (P), (iii) exercise prior to HF meal with MC (E+MC), and (iv) exercise prior to HF meal with P (E+P). The HF meal contained 60 g of fat and was consumed with MC or P. For exercise trials, a 30-min bout of submaximal treadmill exercise was performed the afternoon prior to HF meal consumption. Antioxidant capacity and triglycerides (TG) levels were measured at baseline and at 1, 2, and 3 h postprandially. Postprandial antioxidant capacity as assessed by oxygen radical absorbance capacity was significantly higher after MC and E+MC compared with E+P (incremental area under the curve (iAUC): 2.95 ± 2.19 and 4.87 ± 1.45 vs. -1.02 ± 1.72 mmol Trolox equivalents/L for MC and E+MC vs. E+P, respectively; p < 0.01). Postprandial TG levels were significantly lower after E+MC compared with P (iAUC: 58.99 ± 19.46 vs. 107.46 ± 22.66 mmol Trolox equivalents/L for E+MC vs. P, respectively; p < 0.05). These results indicate that MC consumption alone, and in combination with prior exercise, leads to greater antioxidant capacity following an HF meal compared with prior exercise with placebo. Further, MC consumption with prior exercise led to more favorable postprandial TG levels compared with placebo.

Multivitamin and Mineral Supplementation Containing Phytonutrients Scavenges Reactive Oxygen Species in Healthy Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Phytonutrients and vitamin and mineral supplementation have been reported to provide increased antioxidant capacity in humans; however, there is still controversy. In the current clinical trial, we examined the antioxidant and DNA protection capacity of a plant-based, multi-vitamin/mineral, and phytonutrient (PMP) supplementation in healthy adults who were habitually low in the consumption of fruits and vegetables. This study was an eight-week, double-blind, randomized, parallel-arm, and placebo-controlled trial. PMP supplementation for eight weeks reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevented DNA damage without altering endogenous antioxidant system. Plasma vitamins and phytonutrients were significantly correlated with ROS scavenging and DNA damage. In addition, gene expression analysis in PBMC showed subtle changes in superoxide metabolic processes. In this study, we showed that supplementation with a PMP significantly improved ROS scavenging activity and prevented DNA damage. However, additional research is still needed to further identify mechanisms of actions and the role of circulating phytonutrient metabolites.

Neolignan Constituents with Potential Beneficial Effects in Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes from Viburnum fordiae Hance Fruits

Nine new neolignan glycosides (1-9), viburfordosides A-I, two new neolignans, fordianes A and B (10, 11), and seven known analogues (12-18) have been isolated and identified from the fruits of Viburnum fordiae Hance. The structures and absolute configurations of undescribed neolignan constituents were identified by chemical methods and spectroscopic analyses. The α-glucosidase inhibitory, ABTS^•+ and DPPH^• scavenging, and anti-inflammatory activities of these secondary metabolites were evaluated. Some of them exhibited significant potency in inhibiting α-glucosidase and scavenging free radicals. Among the 14 metabolites that were found to have the capacity to inhibit NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells, compounds 2, 4, 6, 10, 11, 14, 17, and 18 were potent with IC₅₀ values of 10.88-41.10 μM. These results support that V. fordiae fruits possessing the neolignan compounds may serve as both a functional food and a medicinal resource to prevent and treat type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Avocado Fruit on Postprandial Markers of Cardio-Metabolic Risk: A Randomized Controlled Dose Response Trial in Overweight and Obese Men and Women

Avocados are distinctive fruits having both fats and fibers along with various micronutrients and bioactive phytochemicals. This study aimed to assess the effects of replacing carbohydrate energy in meals with half or whole avocado on postprandial indices of metabolic and vascular health. A single-center, randomized, controlled, 3-arm, 6 h, crossover study was conducted in overweight/obese middle-aged adults (n = 31). Participants consumed energy-matched breakfast meals containing 0 g (Control), 68 g (Half-A) or 136 g (Whole-A) fresh Hass avocado on 3 separate occasions. Post-meal glycemic (p < 0.0001), insulinemic (p < 0.0001) and flow mediated vasodilation (FMD) responses were reduced compared to Control meal (p < 0.01), independent of dose. Nuclear magnetic resonance analyses indicated lower concentrations of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and higher concentrations of larger high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles after the Whole-A vs. the Control meal (p = 0.02, p < 0.05, respectively). Race/ethnicity influenced sub-class lipoprotein concentrations (p < 0.05). Oxidized low-density-lipoproteins, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and interleukin-6 were not different among meals. Tumor necrosis factor-α tended to be lower after Whole-A vs. Control meal (p = 0.07). Replacing carbohydrate components with avocados in a meal improved FMD, a measure of endothelial function, and improved glycemic and lipoprotein profiles in overweight/obese adults. The study provides insight on the acute cardio-metabolic benefits of incorporating avocados into a meal.

Structure-stability relationship of anthocyanins under cell culture condition

This work aims to evaluate the structure-stability relationship of anthocyanins in cell culture. An early degradation time (^CT₁₀) and half-degradation time (^CT₅₀) were used to characterise the stability of 10 of the most common anthocyanins, incubated with DMEM at 37 °C, pH = 7.4, 5% CO₂ for different time periods. According to the glycosylation, the glycosylated forms were more stable than the not glycosylated forms. The methylation at 3'' or 5' position at ring B enhanced their stability; contrarily, the hydroxylation at 3' or 5' position at ring B weakened their stability. Glycosylated forms were much more stable in water than in the culture medium. Although not glycosylated forms were also instable in water, their stability was improved compared with culture medium. Together with the cell culture experiments and, in order to avoid artefacts, stability tests of polyphenols should be performed in parallel experiments with DMEM.

Identification and Quantification of Avenanthramides and Free and Bound Phenolic Acids in Eight Cultivars of Husked Oat ( Avena sativa L) from Finland

Finland is the second largest oat producer in Europe. Despite the existing knowledge of phenolics in oat, there is little information on the phenolic composition of oats from Finland. The aim of the study was to investigate the concentrations of free and bound phenolic acids, as well as avenanthramides in eight Finnish cultivars of husked oat ( Avena sativa L.). Seven phenolic acids and one phenolic aldehyde were identified, including, in decreasing order of abundance: p-coumaric, ferulic, cinnamic, syringic, vanillic, 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic, and o-coumaric acids and syringaldehyde. Phenolic acids were mostly found as bound compounds. Significant varietal differences ( p < 0.05) were observed in the cumulative content of phenolic acids, with the lowest level found in cv. 'Viviana' (1202 ± 52.9 mg kg^-1) and the highest in cv. 'Akseli' (1687 ± 80.2 mg kg^-1). Avenanthramides (AVNs) 2a, 2p, and 2f were the most abundant. Total AVNs levels ranged from 26.7 ± 1.44 to 185 ± 12.5 mg kg^-1 in cv. 'Avetron' and 'Viviana', respectively.

Nutrimetabolomics: integrating metabolomics in nutrition to disentangle intake of animal-based foods

Food intake and metabolization of foods is a complex and multi-facetted process that encompasses the introduction of new metabolite compounds in our body, initiation or alterations in endogenous metabolic processes and biochemical pathways, and likely also involving the activity of the gut microbial community that we host. The explorative nature of metabolomics makes it a superior tool for examining the whole response to food intake in a more thorough way and has led to the introduction of the term nutrimetabolomics. Protein derived from animal sources constitutes an important part of our diet, and there is therefore an interest in understanding how these animal-derived dietary sources influence us metabolically. This review aims to illuminate how the introduction of nutrimetabolomics has contributed to gain novel insight into metabolic and nutritional aspects related to intake of animal-based foods.

Maximizing the health effects of strawberry anthocyanins: understanding the influence of the consumption timing variable

Strawberries, rich in anthocyanins, attenuate meal-induced postprandial increases in inflammation and oxidative stress as well as improved post-meal insulin responses. While previous studies have focused on the health effects of strawberry consumption ingested with a meal, this study aimed to determine if consuming strawberries at alternative times near a meal would influence meal-induced oxidative-immuno-metabolic outcomes. Fourteen overweight healthy adults participated in a 3-arm, single-blinded, crossover clinical trial delivering a strawberry drink at 1 of 3 different time points: 2 hours before a standard meal, with the meal, or 2 hours after the meal. Control drinks were provided at the alternative time points so that 3 drinks were consumed at each study visit. Blood samples were collected over 10 h. Comparisons of plasma analytes were between strawberry "timing" groups and secondarily with a demographically matched reference group that ingested only control drinks (no strawberry). The study results showed significant reduction in postprandial glucose when strawberry was consumed before the meal compared to having the strawberry drink with the meal, p < 0.05. Compared to the reference group, consuming strawberries before and after the meal attenuated postprandial glucose without additional insulin, suggesting improved insulin sensitivity. Interleukin-6 was significantly lower after consuming the strawberry drink before the meal (p = 0.048) compared to the reference group. This study provides data suggesting that strawberries have a role in glycemic control and attenuating the pro-inflammatory effect of a modern diet. There may be particular advantages when strawberries are consumed before a meal.

A study of glycaemic effects following acute anthocyanin-rich blueberry supplementation in healthy young adults

The postprandial response to ingested carbohydrate is recognised as a marker of metabolic health. Postprandial hyperglycaemia is observed in type 2 diabetes mellitus and is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Cognitive deficits are also associated with type 2 diabetes. Therefore interventions which moderate postprandial glucose profiles are desirable. Here we investigated the impact of anthocyanin-rich wild blueberries on postprandial glucose response. Seventeen healthy young adults consumed a range of doses of freeze-dried wild blueberry powder, in smoothie form, in both sugar-matched and no-added-sugar conditions. Plasma glucose was determined by a capillary sampling method at baseline and at regular intervals up to 2.5 hours postprandially. Blueberries were observed to significantly extend the postprandial glucose response beyond the period observed for a sugar-matched control, characteristic of a beneficial glycaemic response. Furthermore, blueberries were observed to reduce peak postprandial glucose levels, although statistical significance was not achieved. The findings suggest a tempering of the postprandial glucose response in the presence of anthocyanin-rich blueberry, and are discussed with reference to likely glucoregulatory mechanisms of action and their implications for cognitive and type 2 diabetes research.

Mangos and their bioactive components: adding variety to the fruit plate for health

The diet is an essential factor affecting the risk for development and progression of modern day chronic diseases, particularly those with pathophysiological roots in inflammation and oxidative stress-induced damage. The potential impact of certain foods and their bioactive compounds to reverse or prevent destructive dysregulated processes leading to disease has attracted intense research attention. The mango (Mangifera indica Linn.) is a tropical fruit with distinctive nutritional and phytochemical composition. Notably, the mango contains several essential water- and lipid-soluble micronutrients along with the distinguishing phytochemicals gallotannins and mangiferin. In vitro and in vivo studies reveal various mechanisms through which mangos or their associated compounds reduce risk or reverse metabolic- and inflammation-associated diseases. Health benefits of isolated individual mango compounds and extracts from mango by-products are well described in the literature with less attention devoted to the whole fruit. Here, we review and summarize the available literature assessing the health promoting potential of mango flesh, the edible portion contributing to dietary fruit intake, focusing specifically on modern day health issues of obesity and the risk factors and diseases it precipitates, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, this review explores new insights on the benefits of mango for brain, skin and intestinal health. Overall, the foundation of research supporting the potential role of mangos in reducing risk for inflammation- and metabolically-based chronic diseases is growing.