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Houston L, Probst YC, Chandra Singh M, Neale EP. Tree Nut and Peanut Consumption and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Adv Nutr 2023; 14:1029-1049. [PMID: 37149262 PMCID: PMC10509427 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally. Habitual consumption of tree nuts and peanuts is associated with cardioprotective benefits. Food-based dietary guidelines globally recommend nuts as a key component of a healthy diet. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to examine the relationship between tree nut and peanut consumption and risk factors for CVD in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (PROSPERO: CRD42022309156). MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central databases were searched up to 26 September, 2021. All RCT studies that assessed the effects of tree nut or peanut consumption of any dose on CVD risk factors were included. Review Manager software was used to conduct a random effect meta-analysis for CVD outcomes from RCTs. Forest plots were generated for each outcome, between-study heterogeneity was estimated using the I2 test statistic and funnel plots and Egger's test for outcomes with ≥10 strata. The quality assessment used the Health Canada Quality Appraisal Tool, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed using grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE). A total of 153 articles describing 139 studies (81 parallel design and 58 cross-over design) were included in the systematic review, with 129 studies in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed a significant decrease for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), TC:high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, LDL cholesterol:HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B (apoB) following nut consumption. However, the quality of evidence was "low" for only 18 intervention studies. The certainty of the body of evidence for TC:HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol:HDL cholesterol, and apoB were "moderate" because of inconsistency, for TG were "low," and for LDL cholesterol and TC were "very low" because of inconsistency and the likelihood of publication bias. The findings of this review provide evidence of a combined effect of tree nuts and peanuts on a range of biomarkers to create an overall CVD risk reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Houston
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Yasmine C Probst
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mamatha Chandra Singh
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth P Neale
- School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
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Arnesen EK, Thorisdottir B, Bärebring L, Söderlund F, Nwaru BI, Spielau U, Dierkes J, Ramel A, Lamberg-Allardt C, Åkesson A. Nuts and seeds consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and their risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Food Nutr Res 2023; 67:8961. [PMID: 36816545 PMCID: PMC9930735 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v67.8961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives We aimed to systematically review studies and evaluate the strength of the evidence on nuts/seeds consumption and cardiometabolic diseases and their risk factors among adults. Methods A protocol was pre-registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021270554). We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Scopus up to September 20, 2021 for prospective cohort studies and ≥12-week randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Main outcomes were cardiovascular disease (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and type 2 diabetes (T2D), secondary total-/low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, blood pressure and glycaemic markers. Data extraction and risk of bias (RoB) assessments (using RoB 2.0 and RoB-NObS) were performed in duplicate. Effect sizes were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses and expressed as relative risk (RR) or weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI); heterogeneity quantified as I 2. One-stage dose-response analyses assessed the linear and non-linear associations with CVD, CHD, stroke and T2D. The strength of evidence was classified per the World Cancer Research Fund criteria. Results After screening 23,244 references, we included 42 papers from cohort studies (28 unique cohorts, 1,890,573 participants) and 18 RCTs (2,266 participants). In the cohorts, mainly populations with low consumption, high versus low total nuts/seeds consumption was inversely associated with total CVD (RR 0.81; 95% CI 0.75, 0.86; I 2 = 67%), CVD mortality (0.77; 0.72, 0.82; I 2 = 59.3%), CHD (0.82; 0.76, 0.89; I 2 = 64%), CHD mortality (0.75; 0.65, 0.87; I 2 = 66.9%) and non-fatal CHD (0.85; 0.75, 0.96; I 2 = 62.2%). According to the non-linear dose-response analyses, consumption of 30 g/day of total nuts/seeds was associated with RRs of similar magnitude. For stroke and T2D the summary RR for high versus low intake was 0.91 (95% CI 0.85, 0.97; I 2 = 24.8%) and 0.95 (0.75, 1.21; I 2 = 82.2%). Intake of nuts (median ~50 g/day) lowered total (-0.15 mmol/L; -0.22, -0.08; I 2 = 31.2%) and LDL-cholesterol (-0.13 mmol/L; -0.21, -0.05; I 2 = 68.6%), but not blood pressure. Findings on fasting glucose, HbA1c and insulin resistance were conflicting. The results were robust to sensitivity and subgroup analyses. We rated the associations between nuts/seeds and both CVD and CHD as probable. There was limited but suggestive evidence for no association with stroke. No conclusion could be made for T2D. Conclusion There is a probable relationship between consumption of nuts/seeds and lower risk of CVD, mostly driven by CHD, possibly in part through effects on blood lipids. More research on stroke and T2D may affect the conclusions. The evidence of specific nuts should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Kristoffer Arnesen
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway,Erik Kristoffer Arnesen, Division of Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, Box 1046 Blindern, NO-0317 Oslo, Norway.
| | | | - Linnea Bärebring
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Söderlund
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bright I. Nwaru
- Krefting Research Centre, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulrike Spielau
- Centre for Nutrition, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway,Mohn Nutrition Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jutta Dierkes
- Centre for Nutrition, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway,Mohn Nutrition Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Alfons Ramel
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Agneta Åkesson
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Glenn AJ, Aune D, Freisling H, Mohammadifard N, Kendall CWC, Salas-Salvadó J, Jenkins DJA, Hu FB, Sievenpiper JL. Nuts and Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes: A Review of the Evidence and Future Directions. Nutrients 2023; 15:911. [PMID: 36839269 PMCID: PMC9964942 DOI: 10.3390/nu15040911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuts are nutrient-rich foods that contain many bioactive compounds that are beneficial for cardiovascular health. Higher consumption of nuts has been associated with a reduced risk of several cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in prospective cohort studies, including a 19% and 25% lower risk of CVD incidence and mortality, respectively, and a 24% and 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease incidence and mortality, respectively. An 18% lower risk of stroke mortality, a 15% lower risk of atrial fibrillation, and a 19% lower risk of total mortality have also been observed. The role of nuts in stroke incidence, stroke subtypes, peripheral arterial disease and heart failure has been less consistent. This narrative review summarizes recommendations for nuts by clinical practice guidelines and governmental organizations, epidemiological evidence for nuts and CVD outcomes, nut-containing dietary patterns, potential mechanisms of nuts and CVD risk reduction, and future research directions, such as the use of biomarkers to help better assess nut intake. Although there are still some uncertainties around nuts and CVD prevention which require further research, as summarized in this review, there is a substantial amount of evidence that supports that consuming nuts will have a positive impact on primary and secondary prevention of CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J. Glenn
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Toronto 3D Knowledge Synthesis and Clinical Trials Unit, Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5C 2T2, Canada
| | - Dagfinn Aune
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
- Department of Nutrition, Oslo New University College, 0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Endocrinology, Morbid Obesity and Preventive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, 0586 Oslo, Norway
| | - Heinz Freisling
- Nutrition and Metabolism Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC-WHO), 69366 Lyon, France
| | - Noushin Mohammadifard
- Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Cyril W. C. Kendall
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Toronto 3D Knowledge Synthesis and Clinical Trials Unit, Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5C 2T2, Canada
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Jordi Salas-Salvadó
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Institut d’Investigacions Sanitàries Pere i Virgili, Rovira i Virgili University, 43204 Reus, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - David J. A. Jenkins
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Toronto 3D Knowledge Synthesis and Clinical Trials Unit, Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5C 2T2, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5C 2T2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Frank B. Hu
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - John L. Sievenpiper
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Toronto 3D Knowledge Synthesis and Clinical Trials Unit, Clinical Nutrition and Risk Factor Modification Centre, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5C 2T2, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5B 1T8, Canada
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, ON M5C 2T2, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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Quality Aspects of Designing Prohealth Liver Sausages Enriched with Walnut Paste. Foods 2022; 11:foods11243946. [PMID: 36553688 PMCID: PMC9777550 DOI: 10.3390/foods11243946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine the influence of enriching liver sausages with different levels of walnut paste on the quality properties of this product. Sausages were produced with 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25% amount additions of walnut paste and without the addition of nuts (control product). It was found that walnut paste, especially when introduced at an amount >15%, was a component that limited thermal losses and significantly modified the characteristics of liver sausages. The addition of walnut paste also increased the fat content of liver sausages by two−three times, which was one of the factors that weakened their structure, including lowering their compression, shear, and penetration force but increasing their spreadability. Moreover, the addition of walnut paste at an amount of ≥20% resulted in the products having a slightly different color, with lower values for the a* color parameter. Such changes were assessed as a favorable modification to the product, increasing its overall desirability, especially with the addition of walnut paste at the level of 20%. Walnut paste can therefore be a valuable ingredient that allows for the development of a health-promoting product with improved quality features. However, with the addition of a walnut paste at an amount of 25%, it is necessary to take into account the more rapid and unfavorable fat changes that occur during the storage of the liver sausages, as indicated by about 50% higher TBARS values (compared to the control product).
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Dodevska M, Kukic Markovic J, Sofrenic I, Tesevic V, Jankovic M, Djordjevic B, Ivanovic ND. Similarities and differences in the nutritional composition of nuts and seeds in Serbia. Front Nutr 2022; 9:1003125. [PMID: 36185649 PMCID: PMC9523690 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1003125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuts and seeds are an indispensable part of the plant-based diet, which is becoming increasingly popular due to the evidence of their health benefits and contribution to sustainability and planetary health. Since the health effects of consuming nuts and seeds directly depend on their nutritional composition and consumed amount, it is essential to know the exact chemical composition of each nut and seed so that appropriate dietary interventions can be adequately planned. The present study aimed to examine the chemical composition of nuts and seeds obtained from the Serbian market and to highlight the similarities and differences in their nutritional composition. In twenty-four samples of nuts and seeds, the content of total lipids, including fatty acid profile, total proteins, including amino acid profile, total carbohydrates (sugars and fibers), phytosterols, and minerals were determined. Content of selected nutrients in grams (g) or milligrams (mg) of nuts and seeds was expressed in one portion (28 g) and as a percentage of contribution of Reference Intakes (% RI) and Dietary Reference Value (% DRV) for macronutrients and minerals, respectively. Some of the seed representatives appeared to be rich sources of essential omega-3 fatty acid, α-linolenic acid (ALA) (flax seed vs. walnut, 6.50 vs. 0.56 g per portion, respectively), dietary fibers (chia seed vs. raw almond, 10.6 vs. 3.4 g per portion, respectively), calcium (black sesame seed vs. almond roasted, 32.4% NRV vs. 8.1% NRV per portion, respectively), magnesium (hemp seed vs. Brazil nut, 38.3% NRV vs. 27.8% NRV per portion, respectively), and zinc (hemp seed vs. pine nut, 21.4% NRV vs. 17.6% NRV per portion, respectively). Our results highlighted the crucial role of seeds in the diet, especially as a better source of nutrients compared to nuts. Furthermore, it was seen that nuts and seeds are different and complementary in their composition. Thus, in order to meet the needs for certain nutrients for which nuts and seeds are used as dietary sources (essential fatty acids, minerals, dietary fibers), it would be beneficial to combine both nuts and seeds as a part of a healthy dietary pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Dodevska
- Institute of Public Health of Serbia Dr. Milan Jovanovic Batut, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Kukic Markovic
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivana Sofrenic
- Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vele Tesevic
- Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Brizita Djordjevic
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Bromatology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nevena Dj. Ivanovic
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Bromatology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Lockyer S, de la Hunty AE, Steenson S, Spiro A, Stanner SA. Walnut consumption and health outcomes with public health relevance-a systematic review of cohort studies and randomized controlled trials published from 2017 to present. Nutr Rev 2022; 81:26-54. [PMID: 35912883 PMCID: PMC9732668 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuac040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Considering the accumulation of recent studies investigating the health effects of walnut consumption, both including and beyond cardiovascular health effects, a systematic review of this literature to investigate the strength of the evidence is warranted. OBJECTIVE To investigate associations between walnut consumption and outcomes with public health relevance (specifically all-cause mortality, type 2 diabetes, CVD, metabolic syndrome, obesity, cancer, neurological and mental health, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and maternal disorders) and the effect on associated disease risk markers, reported in studies published from 2017 to present. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, FSTA, CENTRAL, and Scopus were searched from 1 January 2017 to 5 May 2021. DATA EXTRACTION Human studies (cohort studies and RCTs) ≥3 weeks in duration comparing consumption of walnuts (whole, pieces, or 100% butter) to a control and measuring associations with relevant public health outcomes and disease risk markers were assessed. Key study characteristics were extracted independently by 2 investigators using a standardized table. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool 2.0 and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. DATA ANALYSIS Only 1 RCT was considered to be at low risk of bias for any of its outcomes. The cohort studies were considered to be of moderate or high quality. The results were synthesized using vote counting, based on the direction of effect. Thirty-three articles, 23 describing RCTs (walnut dose ∼10-99 g/day, 1,948 subjects) and 10 describing cohort studies (∼675,928 subjects), were included. Vote counting could be performed for the blood lipids, cardiovascular function, inflammation- and hemostatic-related factors, markers of glucose metabolism, and body weight and composition outcome groupings. The results are presented in effect direction plots. With respect to blood lipids, results from 8/8 RCTs favoured walnuts, in accordance with associations with a reduced risk of CVD suggested by cohort studies; results from 6/6 RCTs favoured control with respect to body weight and composition, although most of these effects were small. This was contrary to cohort study results suggesting small benefits of walnut consumption on body weight. There was no overall consistent direction of effect for cardiovascular function, markers of glucose metabolism, or inflammation- and hemostatic-related factors. CONCLUSIONS Evidence published since 2017 is consistent with previous research suggesting that walnut consumption improves lipid profiles and is associated with reduced CVD risk. Evidence is accumulating in other areas, such as cognitive health, although more research is needed to draw firm conclusions. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD4202122.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Lockyer
- S. Lockyer, British Nutrition Foundation, New Derwent House, 69–73 Theobalds Road, London WC1X 8TA, UK. E-mail:
| | | | - Simon Steenson
- are employed by the British Nutrition Foundation, London, UK
| | - Ayela Spiro
- are employed by the British Nutrition Foundation, London, UK
| | - Sara A Stanner
- are employed by the British Nutrition Foundation, London, UK
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Naeem I, Ismail A, Rehman AU, Ismail Z, Saima S, Naz A, Faraz A, de Oliveira CAF, Benkerroum N, Aslam MZ, Aslam R. Prevalence of Aflatoxins in Selected Dry Fruits, Impact of Storage Conditions on Contamination Levels and Associated Health Risks on Pakistani Consumers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:3404. [PMID: 35329090 PMCID: PMC8954913 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dry fruits and nuts are nutritious foods with several health-promoting properties. However, they are prone to contamination with aflatoxins at all stages of production and storage. The present study aimed to determine the natural occurrence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), aflatoxin B2 (AFB2), aflatoxin G1 (AFG1), aflatoxin G2 (AFG2), and total aflatoxins (AFT) in dates, pistachios, and walnuts collected from four districts of South Punjab (Pakistan), and to assess the associated health risks as estimated by dietary exposure and the Margin of Exposure (MoE) determinations. The contents of AFB1 and AFT in these food products were monitored during storage under three different conditions (open-air, hermetically closed jars, and refrigeration at 4 °C) to determine the most efficient conditions in preventing aflatoxin accumulation. HPLC-fluorescence analysis of 60 samples of these products for aflatoxin contamination showed that 52 (86.7%) samples were contaminated at different levels, with a maximum of 24.2 ng/g. The overall (all samples) mean concentrations of AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2, and AFT were 3.39 ± 2.96, 1.39 ± 1.68, 1.63 ± 1.48. 1.12 ± 1.23, and 7.54 ± 6.68, respectively. The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and MoE of aflatoxins through the consumption of the products ranged from 0.06 ng/kg bw/day to 2.0 ng/kg bw/day and from 84.84 to 2857.13, respectively, indicating that consumers are at high health risk. Significant differences were recorded between aflatoxin levels in the samples stored under different storage conditions, with storage under refrigeration (4 °C) being the most effective in controlling aflatoxin accumulation, although storage in closed jars was also efficient and offers a more flexible alternative to retailers. The findings of the study urge official authorities of Pakistan to implement appropriate regulatory and control measures and surveillance program to alleviate the potential public health risks associated with the consumption of dry fruits and nuts in the scope of their increased consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Naeem
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan; (I.N.); (A.U.R.); (Z.I.)
| | - Amir Ismail
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan; (I.N.); (A.U.R.); (Z.I.)
| | - Awais Ur Rehman
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan; (I.N.); (A.U.R.); (Z.I.)
| | - Zubair Ismail
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan; (I.N.); (A.U.R.); (Z.I.)
| | - Shehzadi Saima
- Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Pure and Applied Biology, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan;
| | - Ambreen Naz
- Department of Food Science and Technology, MNS University of Agriculture, Multan 60000, Pakistan;
| | - Asim Faraz
- Department of Livestock & Poultry Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60000, Pakistan;
| | | | - Noreddine Benkerroum
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 93 Mount Edward Rd Charlottetown, Charlottetown, PE C1A 5T1, Canada
| | | | - Rashida Aslam
- Cytogenetics Section, Central Cotton Research Institute, Multan 60000, Pakistan;
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López de Las Hazas MC, Gil-Zamorano J, Cofán M, Mantilla-Escalante DC, Garcia-Ruiz A, Del Pozo-Acebo L, Pastor O, Yañez-Mo M, Mazzeo C, Serra-Mir M, Doménech M, Valls-Pedret C, Rajaram S, Sabaté J, Ros E, Sala-Vila A, Dávalos A. One-year dietary supplementation with walnuts modifies exosomal miRNA in elderly subjects. Eur J Nutr 2021; 60:1999-2011. [PMID: 32979076 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-020-02390-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Epidemiological studies and clinical trials support the association of nut consumption with a lower risk of prevalent non-communicable diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying nut benefits remain to be fully described. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and play a pivotal role in health and disease. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles released from cells and mediate intercellular communication. Whether nut consumption modulates circulating miRNAs (c-miRNAs) transported in exosomes is poorly described. METHODS Cognitively healthy elderly subjects were randomized to either control (n = 110, abstaining from walnuts) or daily supplementation with walnuts (15% of their total energy, ≈30-60 g/day, n = 101) for 1-year. C-miRNAs were screened in exosomes isolated from 10 samples, before and after supplementation, and identified c-miRNA candidates were validated in the whole cohort. In addition, nanoparticle tracking analysis and lipidomics were assessed in pooled exosomes from the whole cohort. RESULTS Exosomal hsa-miR-32-5p and hsa-miR-29b-3p were consistently induced by walnut consumption. No major changes in exosomal lipids, nanoparticle concentration or size were found. CONCLUSION Our results provide novel evidence that certain c-miRNAs transported in exosomes are modulated by walnut consumption. The extent to which this finding contributes to the benefits of walnuts deserves further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- María-Carmen López de Las Hazas
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados (IMDEA)-Alimentación, IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, Ctra. De Cantoblanco 8, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Judit Gil-Zamorano
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados (IMDEA)-Alimentación, IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, Ctra. De Cantoblanco 8, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Montserrat Cofán
- Lipid Clinic, Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana C Mantilla-Escalante
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados (IMDEA)-Alimentación, IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, Ctra. De Cantoblanco 8, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Garcia-Ruiz
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados (IMDEA)-Alimentación, IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, Ctra. De Cantoblanco 8, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Del Pozo-Acebo
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados (IMDEA)-Alimentación, IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, Ctra. De Cantoblanco 8, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Oscar Pastor
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Bioquímica Clínica (UCA-CCM), Hospital Ramón y Cajal-IRYCIS, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Yañez-Mo
- Department of Molecular Biology, UAM, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBM-SO), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carla Mazzeo
- Department of Molecular Biology, UAM, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBM-SO), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-IP), 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercè Serra-Mir
- Lipid Clinic, Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Monica Doménech
- Lipid Clinic, Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cinta Valls-Pedret
- Lipid Clinic, Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sujatha Rajaram
- Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Joan Sabaté
- Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA
| | - Emilio Ros
- Lipid Clinic, Endocrinology and Nutrition Service, Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aleix Sala-Vila
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, 08003, Spain.
- Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, IMIM, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Alberto Dávalos
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados (IMDEA)-Alimentación, IMDEA Food Institute, CEI UAM+CSIC, Ctra. De Cantoblanco 8, 28049, Madrid, Spain.
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9
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Hoevenaars F, van der Kamp JW, van den Brink W, Wopereis S. Next Generation Health Claims Based on Resilience: The Example of Whole-Grain Wheat. Nutrients 2020; 12:E2945. [PMID: 32992860 PMCID: PMC7599623 DOI: 10.3390/nu12102945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Health claims on foods are a way of informing consumers about the health benefits of a food product. Traditionally, these claims are based on scientific evaluation of markers originating from a pharmacological view on health. About a decade ago, the definition of health has been rephrased to 'the ability to adapt' that opened up the possibility for a next generation of health claims based on a new way of quantifying health by evaluating resilience. Here, we would like to introduce an opportunity for future scientific substantiation of health claims on food products by using whole-grain wheat as an example. Characterization of the individual whole wheat grain food product or whole wheat flour would probably be considered as sufficiently characterized by the European Food Safety Authority, while the food category whole grain is not specific enough. Meta-analysis provides the scientific evidence that long-term whole-grain wheat consumption is beneficial for health, although results from single 'gold standard' efficacy studies are not always straight forward based on classic measurement methods. Future studies may want to underpin the scientific argumentation that long-term whole grain wheat consumption improves resilience, by evaluating the disruption and rate of a selected panel of blood markers in response to a standardized oral protein glucose lipid tolerance test and aggregated into biomarkers with substantiated physiological benefits, to make a next-generation health claim for whole-grain wheat achievable in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Suzan Wopereis
- Research Group Microbiology & Systems Biology, Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), 3704HE Zeist, The Netherlands; (F.H.); (J.-W.v.d.K.); (W.v.d.B.)
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10
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Alasalvar C, Salvadó JS, Ros E. Bioactives and health benefits of nuts and dried fruits. Food Chem 2020; 314:126192. [PMID: 31958750 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.126192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Nuts and dried fruits have been part of the human diet since prehistoric times. They are nutrient-rich foods and constitute an excellent means to deliver health-promoting bioactive compounds. As such, they serve as important healthful snack items, besides being part of many traditional and new recipes of gastronomy worldwide. Frequent consumption of nuts and/or dried fruits is highly recommended to obtain the full benefit of the nutrients, bioactives, and antioxidants that they contain, together with their desirable flavour. The macronutrients, micronutrients, and other health-promoting bioactive compounds contained in nuts and dried fruits may synergistically contribute to modulate the risk of cardiometabolic and other non-communicable diseases through various mechanisms. Experimental research, prospective studies, and human clinical trials have reported beneficial effects of nut consumption on various health outcomes. The benefits of dried fruits, however, have been less explored. This review summarizes recent findings on bioactive constituents, health claims, and health benefits of nuts and dried fruits and also discusses their great potential as healthy foods to benefit a number of diseases afflicting human beings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordi-Salas Salvadó
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Institut d'Investigacions Sanitàries Pere i Virgili, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus, Spain; CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilio Ros
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Endocrinology & Nutrition Service, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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11
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van Ommen B, van den Broek T, de Hoogh I, van Erk M, van Someren E, Rouhani-Rankouhi T, Anthony JC, Hogenelst K, Pasman W, Boorsma A, Wopereis S. Systems biology of personalized nutrition. Nutr Rev 2017; 75:579-599. [PMID: 28969366 PMCID: PMC5914356 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nux029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Personalized nutrition is fast becoming a reality due to a number of technological, scientific, and societal developments that complement and extend current public health nutrition recommendations. Personalized nutrition tailors dietary recommendations to specific biological requirements on the basis of a person's health status and goals. The biology underpinning these recommendations is complex, and thus any recommendations must account for multiple biological processes and subprocesses occurring in various tissues and must be formed with an appreciation for how these processes interact with dietary nutrients and environmental factors. Therefore, a systems biology-based approach that considers the most relevant interacting biological mechanisms is necessary to formulate the best recommendations to help people meet their wellness goals. Here, the concept of "systems flexibility" is introduced to personalized nutrition biology. Systems flexibility allows the real-time evaluation of metabolism and other processes that maintain homeostasis following an environmental challenge, thereby enabling the formulation of personalized recommendations. Examples in the area of macro- and micronutrients are reviewed. Genetic variations and performance goals are integrated into this systems approach to provide a strategy for a balanced evaluation and an introduction to personalized nutrition. Finally, modeling approaches that combine personalized diagnosis and nutritional intervention into practice are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben van Ommen
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Tim van den Broek
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Iris de Hoogh
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Marjan van Erk
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Eugene van Someren
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Tanja Rouhani-Rankouhi
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | | | - Koen Hogenelst
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Wilrike Pasman
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - André Boorsma
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
| | - Suzan Wopereis
- TNO (The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research), Zeist, the Netherlands
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12
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Adamo M, Labate AM, Ferrulli A, Macrì C, Terruzzi I, Luzi L. Effects of hazelnuts and cocoa on vascular reactivity in healthy subjects: a randomised study. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2017; 69:223-234. [DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2017.1348492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Adamo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, San Donato Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Anna Ferrulli
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, San Donato Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Concetta Macrì
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, San Donato Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Ileana Terruzzi
- Division of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Science, Metabolism, Nutrigenomics and Cellular Differentiation Unit, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Livio Luzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, San Donato Hospital, Milan, Italy
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13
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Review of nut phytochemicals, fat-soluble bioactives, antioxidant components and health effects. Br J Nutr 2015; 113 Suppl 2:S68-78. [PMID: 26148924 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114514003729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The levels of phytochemicals (total phenols, proanthocyanidins, gallic acid + gallotannins, ellagic acid + ellagitannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and phytates), fat-soluble bioactives (lipid, tocols, phytosterols, sphingolipids, carotenoids, chlorophylls and alkyl phenols) as well as natural antioxidants (nutrient and non-nutrient) present in commonly consumed twelve nuts (almond, Brazil nut, cashew, chestnut, hazelnut, heartnut, macadamia, peanut, pecan, pine nut, pistachio and walnut) are compared and reported. Recent studies adding new evidence for the health benefits of nuts are also discussed. Research findings from over 112 references, many of which have been published within last 10 years, have been compiled and reported.
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14
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Contribuer à normaliser la tension artérielle en conseillant une complémentation. ACTUALITES PHARMACEUTIQUES 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actpha.2014.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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15
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Salas-Salvadó J, Guasch-Ferré M, Bulló M, Sabaté J. Nuts in the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. Am J Clin Nutr 2014; 100 Suppl 1:399S-407S. [PMID: 24898227 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.113.071530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuts are rich in many bioactive compounds that can exert beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. We reviewed the evidence relating nut consumption and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components. Nuts reduce the postprandial glycemic response; however, long-term trials of nuts on insulin resistance and glycemic control in diabetic individuals are inconsistent. Epidemiologic studies have shown that nuts may lower the risk of diabetes incidence in women. Few studies have assessed the association between nuts and abdominal obesity, although an inverse association with body mass index and general obesity has been observed. Limited evidence suggests that nuts have a protective effect on blood pressure and endothelial function. Nuts have a cholesterol-lowering effect, but the relation between nuts and hypertriglyceridemia and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol is not well established. A recent pooled analysis of clinical trials showed that nuts are inversely related to triglyceride concentrations only in subjects with hypertriglyceridemia. An inverse association was found between the frequency of nut consumption and the prevalence and the incidence of MetS. Several trials evaluated the effect of nuts on subjects with MetS and found that they may have benefits in some components. Compared with a low-fat diet, a Mediterranean diet enriched with nuts could be beneficial for MetS management. The protective effects on metabolism could be explained by the modulation of inflammation and oxidation. Further trials are needed to clarify the role of nuts in MetS prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Salas-Salvadó
- From the Human Nutrition Unit, Saint Joan Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacio Sanitaria Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); and the Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA (JS)
| | - Marta Guasch-Ferré
- From the Human Nutrition Unit, Saint Joan Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacio Sanitaria Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); and the Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA (JS)
| | - Mònica Bulló
- From the Human Nutrition Unit, Saint Joan Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacio Sanitaria Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); and the Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA (JS)
| | - Joan Sabaté
- From the Human Nutrition Unit, Saint Joan Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Institut d'Investigacio Sanitaria Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); CIBERobn Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (JS-S, MG-F, and MB); and the Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA (JS)
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16
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Abstract
Reducing elevated LDL-cholesterol is a key public health challenge. There is substantial evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCT) that a number of foods and food components can significantly reduce LDL-cholesterol. Data from RCT have been reviewed to determine whether effects are additive when two or more of these components are consumed together. Typically components, such as plant stanols and sterols, soya protein, β-glucans and tree nuts, when consumed individually at their target rate, reduce LDL-cholesterol by 3-9 %. Improved dietary fat quality, achieved by replacing SFA with unsaturated fat, reduces LDL-cholesterol and can increase HDL-cholesterol, further improving blood lipid profile. It appears that the effect of combining these interventions is largely additive; however, compliance with multiple changes may reduce over time. Food combinations used in ten 'portfolio diet' studies have been reviewed. In clinical efficacy studies of about 1 month where all foods were provided, LDL-cholesterol is reduced by 22-30 %, whereas in community-based studies of >6 months' duration, where dietary advice is the basis of the intervention, reduction in LDL-cholesterol is about 15 %. Inclusion of MUFA into 'portfolio diets' increases HDL-cholesterol, in addition to LDL-cholesterol effects. Compliance with some of these dietary changes can be achieved more easily compared with others. By careful food component selection, appropriate to the individual, the effect of including only two components in the diet with good compliance could be a sustainable 10 % reduction in LDL-cholesterol; this is sufficient to make a substantial impact on cholesterol management and reduce the need for pharmaceutical intervention.
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