Calorie Restriction as a New Treatment of Inflammatory Diseases

Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) consumption in energy-restricted intervention decreases pro-inflammatory markers and intestinal permeability of women with overweight/obesity: a controlled trial (Brazilian Nuts Study)

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with low-grade inflammation and increased intestinal permeability (IP). The Brazil nut (BN) (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K.) appears to be a promising dietary intervention to control inflammation by enhancing antioxidant defenses.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the effect of daily BN consumption on inflammatory biomarkers and IP in the context of an energy-restricted intervention. Furthermore, we evaluated the correlation between the changes in these inflammatory markers and the changes in serum selenium and IP.

METHODS

In this 8-week non-randomized controlled trial, 56 women with overweight or obesity were allocated into two groups, both following an energy-restricted diet (minus 500 kcal/day). The control group (CO) followed a nut-free diet, while the BN group consumed eight grams of BN/day, providing 347.2 μg of selenium. Inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in plasma and selenium in serum. IP was assessed using the lactulose/mannitol test (LM ratio).

RESULTS

Forty-six women completed the intervention. Both groups achieved similar energy restriction (CO Δ= - 253.7 ± 169.4 kcal/day; BN Δ= - 265.8 ± 141.8 kcal/day) and weight loss (CO Δ= - 2.5 ± 0.5 kg; BN Δ= - 3.5 ± 0.5 kg). The BN group showed lower values of CRP, TNF, IL1-β, IL-8, lactulose excretion (%) and the LM ratio, compared to the CO group. Additionally, changes in serum Se concentration were predictive of changes in IL-8 concentration (β = - 0.054; adjusted R2 = 0.100; CI 95% = - 0.100; - 0.007; P = 0.025), and changes in IL-8 were predictive of changes in the LM ratio (β = 0.006; adjusted R2 = 0.101; CI 95% = 0.001; 0.011; P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Regular intake of BN can be a promising complementary dietary strategy for controlling low-grade inflammation and improving IP for women with overweight/obesity undergoing energy-restricted treatment. However, the effects of BN seem to be Se status-dependent. BRAZILIAN REGISTRY OF CLINICAL TRIALS - REBEC: https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-3ntxrm/.

Heat stress and feeding effects on the mucosa-associated and digesta microbiome and their relationship to plasma and digesta fluid metabolites in the jejunum of dairy cows

The intestinal microbiota plays a pivotal role in digestive processes and maintains gut health and intestinal homeostasis. These functions may be compromised by increased environmental heat, which in turn reduces feed intake and gut integrity and activates the intestinal immune system. It remains unknown whether high ambient temperatures, which cause heat stress (HS) in dairy cows, disturb the eubiosis of the microbial community, and if so, to which extent the reduction in feed intake and the impairment of circulating and intestinal metabolites account for the alterations of the jejunal microbiota. To address these questions, jejunal digesta, mucosa, and plasma samples were collected from cows exposed to heat stress (HS; 28°C, temperature-humidity index [THI] = 76, n = 10), control conditions (CON; 16°C, THI = 60, n = 10), or pair-fed (PF; 16°C, THI = 60, n = 10) for 7 d. Digesta fluids were examined for pH, acetate, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), glucose, and lactate, and plasma samples were analyzed for glucose, lactate, BHB, triglycerides, NEFA, creatinine, and urea. The microbiota of the digesta and mucosa samples were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing. The α-diversity was higher in mucosa than digesta but was not affected by high ambient temperatures. However, the mucosa-associated microbiota appeared more responsive to ambient heat than the digesta microbiome. The adaptive responses under HS conditions comprised an increased mucosal abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae, Succinivibrionaceae UCG-001, Clostridia and Lactobacillus. In the digesta, HS has exerted effects on microbial abundance of Colidextribacter, and Lachnospiraceae UCG-008. Several correlations between plasma or intestinal metabolites and microbiota were elucidated, including Methanobacteriaceae correlating positively with plasma BHB and digesta glucose concentrations. Moreover, the reduction in feed intake during HS had non-negligible effects on microbial diversity and the abundance of certain taxa, underpinning the importance of nutrient supply on maintaining intestinal homeostasis.

Human Aging and Age-Related Diseases: From Underlying Mechanisms to Pro-Longevity Interventions

As human life expectancy continues to rise, becoming a pressing global concern, it brings into focus the underlying mechanisms of aging. The increasing lifespan has led to a growing elderly population grappling with age-related diseases (ARDs), which strains healthcare systems and economies worldwide. While human senescence was once regarded as an immutable and inexorable phenomenon, impervious to interventions, the emerging field of geroscience now offers innovative approaches to aging, holding the promise of extending the period of healthspan in humans. Understanding the intricate links between aging and pathologies is essential in addressing the challenges presented by aging populations. A substantial body of evidence indicates shared mechanisms and pathways contributing to the development and progression of various ARDs. Consequently, novel interventions targeting the intrinsic mechanisms of aging have the potential to delay the onset of diverse pathological conditions, thereby extending healthspan. In this narrative review, we discuss the most promising methods and interventions aimed at modulating aging, which harbor the potential to mitigate ARDs in the future. We also outline the complexity of senescence and review recent empirical evidence to identify rational strategies for promoting healthy aging.

Exploring the effect of prolonged fasting on kynurenine pathway metabolites and stress markers in healthy male individuals

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Prolonged fasting triggers a stress response within the human body. Our objective was to investigate the impact of prolonged fasting, in conjunction with stress, on kynurenine pathway metabolites.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Healthy males were divided into fasting group (zero-calorie-restriction) for 6 days (FAST, n = 14), and control group (CON, n = 10). Blood and saliva samples were collected at baseline, Day 2, Day 4, Day 6 during fasting period, and 1 week after resuming regular diet. Plasma levels of kynurenine pathway metabolites were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Plasma and salivary samples were analyzed for stress markers.

RESULTS

A pronounced activation of the kynurenine pathway in individuals on FAST trial was revealed. Concentrations of picolinic acid (PIC), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK) were significantly increased, with peak levels observed on Day 6 (P < 0.0001). Conversely, concentrations of tryptophan (TRP) and quinolinic acid (QUIN) decreased (P < 0.0001), while kynurenine (KYN) and nicotinamide (NAM) levels remained stable. Cortisol and noradrenaline concentrations remained unchanged. However, adrenaline levels significantly increased on Day 4 within FAST compared to CON (P = 0.005). Notably, all deviations in kynurenine pathway metabolite levels returned to baseline values upon resuming regular diet following the 6-day fasting regimen, even when weight and BMI parameters were not restored.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended fasting over 6 days induces the kynurenine pathway and has minimal effects on stress markers. Restoration of metabolite concentrations upon regular feeding implies rapid adaptation of the kynurenine pathway synthetic enzymes to maintain homeostasis when faced with perturbations.

The Impact of a Nutritional Intervention on Glycemic Control and Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Type 2 Diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Nutritional management plays a crucial role in treating patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), working to prevent and control the progression of chronic non-communicable diseases.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of individualized nutritional interventions on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol (TC), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TGs), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate (HR)} over 12 months and subsequently at follow-up (15 months).

METHODS

This longitudinal experimental study (without randomization and blinding) enrolled 84 sedentary participants with T2D (both sexes, aged 18-80 years). They were divided into a control group of 40 participants who received only medical consultations, and an intervention group of 44 participants who received the same medical care along with a nutritional assessment. Consultations occurred quarterly from August 2020 to November 2022 (first-twelfth month), with six to nine patients per session. Subsequently, a follow-up was conducted from December 2022 to November 2023, during which the intervention group had only medical care (during the 12th-15th months). Personalized dietary planning was inspired by the Mediterranean/DASH diets adapted to Brazilian foods and socioeconomic cultures.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Normal variables were compared between groups for each time point and also within each group across different time points using a two-way ANOVA (repeated measures for intragroup) followed by the Šídák post hoc test. Non-normal variables were compared between groups for each time point using Kruskal-Wallis followed by the Dunn post hoc test, and within each group across different time points using Friedman followed by the Dunn post hoc test. Data with a Gaussian distribution were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD), and data with a non-Gaussian distribution were presented as median ± interquartile range (IQR). For all cases, α < 0.05 and p < 0.05 were adopted.

RESULTS

In the intervention group, significant reductions were observed between the first and twelfth month for all parameters (p < 0.05), (except for TC), along with an increase in HDL-C (p = 0.0105). Conversely, in the control group, there was a significant increase in HbA1c, weight, BMI, FBG, and WHR (p < 0.05) between the first and twelfth months. Regarding the comparison between groups, there was a significant difference for all analyzed parameters (p < 0.05) from the first to the twelfth month. In the follow-up, differences were also observed (p < 0.05), except for BMI (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The individualized nutritional intervention improved eating habits, anthropometric, biochemical, and cardiovascular markers in T2D over 12 months, with sustained results during follow-up. The dietary plan inspired by the Mediterranean and DASH diets demonstrated good adaptation to the Brazilian food culture and the patients' socioeconomic contexts. Consistent monitoring and personalized nutritional management are essential for optimizing long-term outcomes. However, more clinical trials are necessary in order to optimize the level of evidence for longitudinal interventions.

Caloric restriction for the immunometabolic control of human health

Nutrition affects all physiological processes occurring in our body, including those related to the function of the immune system; indeed, metabolism has been closely associated with the differentiation and activity of both innate and adaptive immune cells. While excessive energy intake and adiposity have been demonstrated to cause systemic inflammation, several clinical and experimental evidence show that calorie restriction (CR), not leading to malnutrition, is able to delay aging and exert potent anti-inflammatory effects in different pathological conditions. This review provides an overview of the ability of different CR-related nutritional strategies to control autoimmune, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases, as tested by preclinical studies and human clinical trials, with a specific focus on the immunological aspects of these interventions. In particular, we recapitulate the state of the art on the cellular and molecular mechanisms pertaining to immune cell metabolic rewiring, regulatory T cell expansion, and gut microbiota composition, which possibly underline the beneficial effects of CR. Although studies are still needed to fully evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the nutritional intervention in clinical practice, the experimental observations discussed here suggest a relevant role of CR in lowering the inflammatory state in a plethora of different pathologies, thus representing a promising therapeutic strategy for the control of human health.

Dietary restriction rescues 5-fluorouracil-induced lethal intestinal toxicity in old mice by blocking translocation of opportunistic pathogens

Chemotherapy remains a major treatment for malignant tumors, yet the application of standard dose intensity chemotherapy is limited due to the side effects of cytotoxic drugs, especially in old populations. The underlying mechanisms of cytotoxicity and strategies to increase the safety and tolerance of chemotherapy remain to be explored. Using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a cornerstone chemotherapeutic drug, we demonstrate that the main cause of death in ad libitum (AL) fed mice after 5-FU chemotherapy was infection caused by translocation of intestinal opportunistic pathogens. We show that these opportunistic pathogens greatly increase in the intestine after chemotherapy, which was closely related to loss of intestinal lysozyme. Of note, two weeks of dietary restriction (DR) prior to chemotherapy significantly protected the loss of lysozyme and increased the content of the beneficial Lactobacillus genera, resulting in a substantial inhibition of intestinal opportunistic pathogens and their translocation. The rescue effect of DR could be mimicked by Lysozyme or Lactobacillus gavage. Our study provides the first evidence that DR achieved a comprehensive protection of the intestinal physical, biological and chemical barriers, which significantly improved the overall survival of 5-FU-treated mice. Importantly, the above findings were more prominent in old mice. Furthermore, we show that patients over 65 years old have enriched opportunistic pathogens in their gut microbiota, especially after 5-FU based chemotherapy. Our study reveals important mechanisms for the poor chemotherapy tolerance of the elderly population, which can be significantly improved by short-term DR. This study generates new insights into methods for improving the chemotherapeutic prognosis by increasing the chemotherapy tolerance and safety of patients with malignant tumors.

Regulation of IGF1R by MicroRNA-15b Contributes to the Anticancer Effects of Calorie Restriction in a Murine C3-TAg Model of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Calorie restriction (CR) inhibits triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) progression in several preclinical models in association with decreased insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) signaling. To investigate the impact of CR on microRNAs (miRs) that target the IGF1/IGF1R pathway, we used the spontaneous murine model of TNBC, C3(1)/SV40 T-antigen (C3-TAg). In C3-TAg mice, CR reduced body weight, IGF1 levels, and TNBC progression. We evaluated the tumoral expression of 10 miRs. CR increased the expression of miR-199a-3p, miR-199a-5p, miR-486, and miR-15b. However, only miR-15b expression correlated with tumorigenicity in the M28, M6, and M6C C3-TAg cell lines of TNBC progression. Overexpressing miR-15b reduced the proliferation of mouse (M6) and human (MDA-MB-231) cell lines. Serum restriction alone or in combination with low levels of recombinant IGF1 significantly upregulated miR-15b expression and reduced Igf1r in M6 cells. These effects were reversed by the pharmacological inhibition of IGFR with BMS754807. In silico analysis using miR web tools predicted that miR-15b targets genes associated with IGF1/mTOR pathways and the cell cycle. Our findings suggest that CR in association with reduced IGF1 levels could upregulate miR-15b to downregulate Igf1r and contribute to the anticancer effects of CR. Thus, miR-15b may be a therapeutic target for mimicking the beneficial effects of CR against TNBC.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of nutrition on the ocular surface

Nutrients, required by human bodies to perform life-sustaining functions, are obtained from the diet. They are broadly classified into macronutrients (carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and water. All nutrients serve as a source of energy, provide structural support to the body and/or regulate the chemical processes of the body. Food and drinks also consist of non-nutrients that may be beneficial (e.g., antioxidants) or harmful (e.g., dyes or preservatives added to processed foods) to the body and the ocular surface. There is also a complex interplay between systemic disorders and an individual's nutritional status. Changes in the gut microbiome may lead to alterations at the ocular surface. Poor nutrition may exacerbate select systemic conditions. Similarly, certain systemic conditions may affect the uptake, processing and distribution of nutrients by the body. These disorders may lead to deficiencies in micro- and macro-nutrients that are important in maintaining ocular surface health. Medications used to treat these conditions may also cause ocular surface changes. The prevalence of nutrition-related chronic diseases is climbing worldwide. This report sought to review the evidence supporting the impact of nutrition on the ocular surface, either directly or as a consequence of the chronic diseases that result. To address a key question, a systematic review investigated the effects of intentional food restriction on ocular surface health; of the 25 included studies, most investigated Ramadan fasting (56%), followed by bariatric surgery (16%), anorexia nervosa (16%), but none were judged to be of high quality, with no randomized-controlled trials.

Neurotrophic effects of intermittent fasting, calorie restriction and exercise: a review and annotated bibliography

In the last decades, important progress has been achieved in the understanding of the neurotrophic effects of intermittent fasting (IF), calorie restriction (CR) and exercise. Improved neuroprotection, synaptic plasticity and adult neurogenesis (NSPAN) are essential examples of these neurotrophic effects. The importance in this respect of the metabolic switch from glucose to ketone bodies as cellular fuel has been highlighted. More recently, calorie restriction mimetics (CRMs; resveratrol and other polyphenols in particular) have been investigated thoroughly in relation to NSPAN. In the narrative review sections of this manuscript, recent findings on these essential functions are synthesized and the most important molecules involved are presented. The most researched signaling pathways (PI3K, Akt, mTOR, AMPK, GSK3β, ULK, MAPK, PGC-1α, NF-κB, sirtuins, Notch, Sonic hedgehog and Wnt) and processes (e.g., anti-inflammation, autophagy, apoptosis) that support or thwart neuroprotection, synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis are then briefly presented. This provides an accessible entry point to the literature. In the annotated bibliography section of this contribution, brief summaries are provided of about 30 literature reviews relating to the neurotrophic effects of interest in relation to IF, CR, CRMs and exercise. Most of the selected reviews address these essential functions from the perspective of healthier aging (sometimes discussing epigenetic factors) and the reduction of the risk for neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease) and depression or the improvement of cognitive function.

Effect of a Reduced-Calorie Diet on Plasma Levels of Inflammatory and Metabolic Factors in Overweight/Obese Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Background

Calorie restriction without malnutrition is likely to improve cardiovascular risk factors.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate calorie restriction on markers of cardiometabolic risk in overweight/obese adults with cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

In a parallel controlled trial, patients with overweight or obesity and one or more cardiovascular risk factor were randomized to a modest reduced-calorie diet (75% of the total calculated energy requirements) or control (no calorie restriction) groups and followed up for two months. Body weight, dietary intake, fasting plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neuropeptide Y (NPY), lipids, and glycemic factors were measured at baseline, and after two months. The differences were analyzed with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Results

Sixty-six participants (33 in each group) completed the study. Body weight changed in the reduced-calorie diet group (- 3.05 ± 2.65 kg), and blood pressure was improved (systolic -6.96 ± 12.04 and diastolic - 3.90 ± 8.97 mmHg). The reduced-calorie diet improved plasma ICAM-1 (change from baseline - 0.45 ± 1.99 ng/mL, P = 0.033, ANCOVA), MCP-1 (change from baseline - 0.50 pg/mL, P = 0.011, ANCOVA), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (change from baseline - 9.35 ± 19.61 mg/dL, P < 0.001, ANCOVA), and triglyceride (change from baseline -33.66 ± 49.08, P = 0.001, ANCOVA), but BDNF, NPY, and other cardiometabolic factors were not different.

Conclusions

In overweight/obese subjects with cardiovascular risk factors which have been under medical treatment with risk-reducing medications, a modest weight loss induced by a reduced-calorie diet improved lipid profile, blood pressure, and reduced ICAM-1 and MCP-1 levels but had no effect on plasma BDNF or glycemic factors.

Nutrition Strategies Promoting Healthy Aging: From Improvement of Cardiovascular and Brain Health to Prevention of Age-Associated Diseases

BACKGROUND

An increasing number of studies suggest that diet plays an important role in regulating aging processes and modulates the development of the most important age-related diseases.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the relationship between nutrition and critical age-associated diseases.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted to survey recent pre-clinical and clinical findings related to the role of nutritional factors in modulation of fundamental cellular and molecular mechanisms of aging and their role in prevention of the genesis of the diseases of aging.

RESULTS

Studies show that the development of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cognitive impairment and dementia can be slowed down or prevented by certain diets with anti-aging action. The protective effects of diets, at least in part, may be mediated by their beneficial macro- (protein, fat, carbohydrate) and micronutrient (vitamins, minerals) composition.

CONCLUSIONS

Certain diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, may play a significant role in healthy aging by preventing the onset of certain diseases and by improving the aging process itself. This latter can be strengthened by incorporating fasting elements into the diet. As dietary recommendations change with age, this should be taken into consideration as well, when developing a diet tailored to the needs of elderly individuals. Future and ongoing clinical studies on complex anti-aging dietary interventions translating the results of preclinical investigations are expected to lead to novel nutritional guidelines for older adults in the near future.

Aging of mesenchymal stem cell: machinery, markers, and strategies of fighting

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are primary multipotent cells capable of differentiating into osteocytes, chondrocytes, and adipocytes when stimulated under appropriate conditions. The role of MSCs in tissue homeostasis, aging-related diseases, and cellular therapy is clinically suggested. As aging is a universal problem that has large socioeconomic effects, an improved understanding of the concepts of aging can direct public policies that reduce its adverse impacts on the healthcare system and humanity. Several studies of aging have been carried out over several years to understand the phenomenon and different factors affecting human aging. A reduced ability of adult stem cell populations to reproduce and regenerate is one of the main  contributors to the human aging process. In this context, MSCs senescence is a major challenge in front of cellular therapy advancement. Many factors, ranging from genetic and metabolic pathways to extrinsic factors through various cellular signaling pathways, are involved in regulating the mechanism of MSC senescence. To better understand and reverse cellular senescence, this review highlights the underlying mechanisms and signs of MSC cellular senescence, and discusses the strategies to combat aging and cellular senescence.

Alternate day fasting and time-restricted feeding may confer similar neuroprotective effects during aging in male rats

Age associated neurodegenerative changes are acknowledged to play a causative role in a majority of neurological diseases that accompany aging in organisms. To alleviate the deteriorative effects of aging in the brain, we investigated the effects oftwo types of intermittent fasting (IF) methods: alternate day fasting (ADF) and time- restricted feeding (TRF) in young (3 months) and old (24 months) in male Wistar rats comparing the results with age matched controls. The evaluation of biomarkers of oxidative stress showed significant decline in the old (ADF and TRF) groups in addition to up regulation in antioxidant levels. It was observed that ADF and TRF methods helped reduce ROS accumulation in the mitochondria and increased the activity of the electron transport chain complexes especially C-I and III. Gene expression analysis of autophagy genes like beclin and LC3B showed upregulated expression in ADF and TRF group. Sirtuin1 expression too significantly increased during fasting in both young and old groups showing fasting induced protection from aging. Histological analysis of sections of cerebral cortex and CA1 area provide evidence that fasting protected neurons against degeneration with age. Our results prompt us to conclude that the efficacy of these fasting methods ADF and TRF are reliable anti- aging strategies with respect to dietary restriction interventions. Moreover, both these methods compete closely in conferring protection from oxidative stress and inducing neuroprotective changes in brain of aged rats when compared to their young counterparts.

Bile acids-gut microbiota crosstalk contributes to the improvement of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) occurs that cannot effectively use the insulin. Insulin Resistance (IR) is a significant characteristic of T2DM which is also an essential treatment target in blood glucose regulation to prevent T2DM and its complications. Bile acids (BAs) are one group of bioactive metabolites synthesized from cholesterol in liver. BAs play an important role in mutualistic symbiosis between host and gut microbiota. It is shown that T2DM is associated with altered bile acid metabolism which can be regulated by gut microbiota. Simultaneously, BAs also reshape gut microbiota and improve IR and T2DM in the bidirectional communications of the gut-liver axis. This article reviewed the findings on the interaction between BAs and gut microbiota in improving T2DM, which focused on gut microbiota and its debinding function and BAs regulated gut microbiota through FXR/TGR5. Meanwhile, BAs and their derivatives that are effective for improving T2DM and other treatments based on bile acid metabolism were also summarized. This review highlighted that BAs play a critical role in the glucose metabolism and may serve as therapeutic targets in T2DM, providing a reference for discovering and screening novel therapeutic drugs.

Effects of inulin supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers and clinical symptoms of women with obesity and depression on a calorie-restricted diet: a randomised controlled clinical trial

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is regarded as an inflammatory disorder. Gut microbiota dysbiosis, observed in both MDD and obesity, leads to endotoxemia and inflammatory status, eventually exacerbating depressive symptoms. Manipulation of gut microbiota by prebiotics might help alleviate depression. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of inulin supplementation on psychological outcomes and biomarkers of gut permeability, endotoxemia, inflammation, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in women with obesity and depression on a calorie-restricted diet. In a double-blind randomised clinical trial, forty-five women with obesity and MDD were allocated to receive 10 g/d of either inulin or maltodextrin for 8 weeks; all the patients followed a healthy calorie restricted diet as well. Anthropometric measures, dietary intakes, depression, and serum levels of zonulin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), inflammatory biomarkers (TNF-α, IL-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, toll-like receptor-4 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), and BDNF were assessed at baseline and end of the study. Weight and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores decreased in both groups; between-group differences were non-significant by the end of study (P = 0·333 for body weight and P = 0·500 for HDRS). No between-group differences were observed for the other psychological outcomes and serum biomarkers (P > 0·05). In this short-term study, prebiotic supplementation had no significant beneficial effects on depressive symptoms, gut permeability, or inflammatory biomarkers in women with obesity and depression.

Comprehensive evaluation of caloric restriction-induced changes in the metabolome profile of mice

Objects

Caloric restriction (CR) is known to extend lifespan and exert a protective effect on organs, and is thus a low-cost and easily implemented approach to the health maintenance. However, there have been no studies that have systematically evaluated the metabolic changes that occur in the main tissues affected by CR. This study aimed to explore the target tissues metabolomic profile in CR mice.

Methods

Male C57BL/6J mice were randomly allocated to the CR group (n = 7) and control group (n = 7). A non-targeted gas chromatography–mass spectrometry approach and multivariate analysis were used to identify metabolites in the main tissues (serum, heart, liver, kidney, cortex, hippocampus, lung, muscle, and white adipose) in model of CR.

Results

We identified 10 metabolites in the heart that showed differential abundance between the 2 groups, along with 9 in kidney, 6 in liver, 6 in lung, 6 in white adipose, 4 in hippocampus, 4 in serum, 3 in cortex, and 2 in muscle. The most significantly altered metabolites were amino acids (AAs) (glycine, aspartic acid, l-isoleucine, l-proline, l-aspartic acid, l-serine, l-hydroxyproline, l-alanine, l-valine, l-threonine, l-glutamic acid, and l-phenylalanine) and fatty acids (FAs) (palmitic acid, 1-monopalmitin, glycerol monostearate, docosahexaenoic acid, 16-octadecenoic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid, and hexanoic acid). These metabolites were associated with 7 different functional pathways related to the metabolism of AAs, lipids, and energy.

Conclusion

Our results provide insight into the specific metabolic changes that are induced by CR and can serve as a reference for physiologic studies on how CR improves health and extends lifespan.

Traditional and Medical Applications of Fasting

Fasting has been practiced for millennia, for religious, ethical, or health reasons. It is also commonplace among different species, from humans, to animals, to lower eukaryotes. Research on fasting is gaining traction based on recent studies that show its role in many adaptive cellular responses such as the reduction of oxidative damage and inflammation, increase of energy metabolism, and in boosting cellular protection. In this expert review, we recount the historical evolution of fasting and we critically analyze its current medical applications, including benefits and caveats. Based on the available data, we conclude that the manipulation of dietary intake, in the form of calorie restriction, intermittent fasting, dietary restriction with the exclusion of some nutrients, prolonged fasting, and so forth, is anthropologically engraved in human culture possibly because of its positive health effects. Indeed, many studies show that fasting ameliorates many biochemical parameters related to cardiovascular and cancer risk, and neurodegeneration. Mechanistic studies are plentiful, but largely limited to cell cultures or laboratory animals. Understandably, there are no controlled trials of any form of fasting that gauge the effects on [any cause] mortality. Physicians should be aware that misinformation is pervasive and that their patients often adopt dietary regimens that are far from being clinically validated. Moreover, doctors are often unaware of their patients’ religious or traditional fasting and of its potential health effects. Based on current evidence, no long-term fasting should be undertaken without medical supervision until future research will hopefully help shed further light on fasting and its effects on human health.

Dietary Risk Factors and Odds of Colorectal Adenoma in Malaysia: A Case Control Study

Current evidence suggests that dietary and lifestyle factors may play an important role in colorectal cancer risk but there are only a few studies that investigated their relationship with colorectal adenomas (CRA), the precursors for colorectal cancer. A case-control study was conducted to determine the relationship between dietary and lifestyle factors associated with CRA risk among 125 subjects with CRA and 150 subjects without CRA at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz UKM (HCTM), Malaysia. We used dietary history questionnaire (DHQ) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ) to estimate the diet and physical activity. The findings of this study showed that male gender [OR = 2.71 (95% CI= 1.01-7.27)], smoking [OR = 6.39 (95% CI= 1.04-39.30)], family history of cancer [OR = 6.39 (95% CI= 1.04-39.30)], high body fat percentage [OR = 1.25 (95% CI= 1.04-1.51)], high calorie and fat intake [OR = 1.03 (95% CI= 1.01-1.06)], [OR = 1.01 (95% CI= 0.95-1.09)] and red meat intake more than 100 g per day [OR = 1.02 (95% CI= 1.01-1.04)] increased CRA risk. High fiber [OR = 0.78 (95% CI= 0.64-0.95)] and calcium intake [OR = 0.78 (95% CI= 0.98-1.00)] was found to decrease CRA risk. Some of these modifiable risk factors could be advocated as lifestyle interventions to reduce risk of CRA.

Calorie Restriction With Exercise Intervention Improves Inflammatory Response in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Purpose: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we assessed the effects of exercise (EX) combined with calorie restriction (CR) intervention on inflammatory biomarkers, and correlations between biomarkers and participants' characteristics were calculated in overweight and obese adults. Methods: An article search was conducted through PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, the Cochrane database, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify articles published up to April 2021. Studies that examined the effect of EX + CR intervention on inflammatory biomarkers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and compared them with a CR trial in overweight and obese adults were included. We calculated the pooled effect by meta-analysis, identified the correlations (between inflammatory biomarkers and participants' characteristics) through meta-regression, and explored the beneficial variable through subgroup analysis. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies were used to assess the risk of bias for the included trials. Results: A total of 23 trials, including 1196 overweight and obese adults, were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled effect showed that EX + CR intervention significantly decreased CRP levels (P = 0.02), but had no effect on IL-6 (P = 0.62) and TNF-α (P = 0.11). Meta-regression analysis showed that the effect of EX + CR on CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α changes was correlated with lifestyle behavior of adults (Coef. = -0.380, P = 0.018; Coef. = -0.359, P = 0.031; Coef. = -0.424, P = 0.041, respectively), but not with age and BMI. The subgroup analysis results revealed that participants with sedentary lifestyle behavior did not respond to EX + CR intervention, as we found no changes in CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations (P = 0.84, P = 0.16, P = 0.92, respectively). However, EX + CR intervention significantly decreased CRP (P = 0.0003; SMD = -0.39; 95%CI: -0.60 to -0.18), IL-6 (P = 0.04; SMD = -0.21; 95%CI: -0.40 to -0.01) and TNF-α (P = 0.006; SMD = -0.40, 95%CI: -0.68 to -0.12) in adults without a sedentary lifestyle or with a normal lifestyle. Furthermore, the values between sedentary and normal lifestyle subgroups were statistically significant for CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α. Conclusion: Our findings showed that combination EX + CR intervention effectively decreased CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α in overweight and obese adults with active lifestyles, but not with sedentary lifestyle behavior. We suggest that 'lifestyle behavior' is a considerable factor when designing new intervention programs for overweight or obese adults to improve their inflammatory response.

Musculoskeletal Changes Across the Lifespan: Nutrition and the Life-Course Approach to Prevention

Aging is characterized by the progressive decline of muscle mass and function, the so-called sarcopenia. Also bone loss is widespread among older people. Sarcopenia and osteopenia/osteoporosis are associated with several adverse outcomes including falls, risk of fractures, functional decline, frailty, and mortality. Recently, the life-course approach to prevent or delay functional decline has become very popular. Regarding musculoskeletal health, there is suggestive evidence that acting during critical or sensitive periods of life in which each person build-up its biological reserves may influence the rate of functional decline in the later stages of life. A life-course approach to musculoskeletal health should take place during early life when plasticity allows more easily the attainment of the peak of the musculoskeletal system driven by environmental stimuli. The rate of the subsequent decline will depend on the peak previously reached. Nutrition and physical exercise are important environmental factors that can influence musculoskeletal development by favoring and maintaining peak bone and muscle mass and strength. Here we provide an overview of body composition changes occurring across the lifespan and strategies based on nutrition and physical exercise to support musculoskeletal health as well as minimizing losses during older life.

New Mammalian Glycerol-3-Phosphate Phosphatase: Role in β-Cell, Liver and Adipocyte Metabolism

Cardiometabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, have enormous impact on modern societies worldwide. Excess nutritional burden and nutri-stress together with sedentary lifestyles lead to these diseases. Deranged glucose, fat, and energy metabolism is at the center of nutri-stress, and glycolysis-derived glycerol-3-phosphate (Gro3P) is at the crossroads of these metabolic pathways. Cellular levels of Gro3P can be controlled by its synthesis, utilization or hydrolysis. The belief that mammalian cells do not possess an enzyme that hydrolyzes Gro3P, as in lower organisms and plants, is challenged by our recent work showing the presence of a Gro3P phosphatase (G3PP) in mammalian cells. A previously described phosphoglycolate phosphatase (PGP) in mammalian cells, with no established physiological function, has been shown to actually function as G3PP, under physiological conditions, particularly at elevated glucose levels. In the present review, we summarize evidence that supports the view that G3PP plays an important role in the regulation of gluconeogenesis and fat storage in hepatocytes, glucose stimulated insulin secretion and nutri-stress in β-cells, and lipogenesis in adipocytes. We provide a balanced perspective on the pathophysiological significance of G3PP in mammals with specific reference to cardiometabolic diseases.