The Nutritional Potential of the Native Australian Green Plum (Buchanania obovata) Compared to Other Anacardiaceae Fruit and Nuts

Free amino acids identification and process optimization in greengage wine fermentation and flavor formation

Greengage wine with low alcohol content is increasing in popularity owing to its fruity taste and rich nutrition. The key to wine aroma and taste is flavor substances like free amino acids (FAAs), volatile fatty acids, higher alcohols, and esters. Amino acid (AA) metabolisms in yeast are an important source of these secondary compounds, which vary with the fermentation conditions. This study explored and optimized the impact of different parameters (carbon source, inoculum, pH, temperature) on FAA contents and dynamics in greengage wine. The results demonstrated that total and essential amino acid (EAA) content rose with a higher proportion of glucose, less yeast inoculation, higher temperature, and higher initial pH. With the results obtained it was concluded that the condition of 22.4°C, pH 4.5, and 3% inoculation was optimum for a 14.9-fold increase of EAAs in fermented greengage wine. In the long run, the research will aid in the development of the greengage brewing industry.

Effects of Dietary Fiber on the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Advanced Maternal Age Women: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

SCOPE

To investigate whether dietary fiber supplementation may reduce the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in advanced maternal age Chinese women (≥35 years). Secondary outcomes include glucose metabolism, diet change, weight gain, and maternal and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In a randomized controlled trial, a dietary fiber group (19.56 g day^-1 ) or control group (standard prenatal care) was conducted from 20 to 24⁺⁶ gestational weeks in advanced maternal age women. Dietary intakes were assessed using a validated 39-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). GDM was diagnosed by a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at 25-28 weeks. After intervention, the incidence of GDM was not significantly different between groups (21.6% vs 12.9%, p = 0.165). The mean increased in carbohydrate intake in the dietary fiber group is significantly lower than in the control group (-0.94 ± 92.12 g vs 32.27 ± 91.81 g, p = 0.032). In addition, the glucose tolerance, weight gain between 20 and 25 weeks, and preterm birth in the intervention group have improved compared to the control group.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with dietary fiber during pregnancy among advanced maternal age Chinese women do not lower the incidence of GDM, but improve glucose metabolism, gestational weight gain, and preterm birth.

Australian native fruits and vegetables: Chemical composition, nutritional profile, bioactivity and potential valorization by industries

Australian native plants have adapted themselves to harsh climatic conditions enabling them to produce unique and high levels of secondary metabolites. Native fruits and vegetables have been an integral part of the Indigenous Australian diet and Bush medicine for centuries. They have recently gained popularity owing to their rich dietary fiber, minerals, polyphenolic and antioxidant contents. This review presents a comprehensive summary and critical assessment of the studies performed in the last few decades to understand the phytochemical and nutritional profiles and therapeutic properties of Australian native fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, the potential of these fruits and vegetables as functional food ingredients and in the prevention and treatment of different diseases is discussed. Research on the nutritional and phytochemical profiles and therapeutic activity of Australian vegetables is limited with most studies focused on native fruits. These fruits have demonstrated promising antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities mostly in in vitro models. More research to a) identify novel bioactive compounds, b) define optimal post-harvest and extraction methods, and c) understand molecular mechanisms of pharmacological activity through preclinical and clinical studies is prudent for the prospective and wider use of Australian native fruits and vegetables by the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries.