Diet and Mental Health: Review of the Recent Updates on Molecular Mechanisms

Combined Effect of Red Wine and Mocha Pot Coffee in Mild Vascular Cognitive Impairment

OBJECTIVES

Moderate daily mocha pot coffee intake has been associated with better mood and cognition in patients with mild vascular cognitive impairment (VCI). Similarly, moderate red wine consumption has shown protective effects on cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. The aim of this study was to explore the synergistic relation between red wine and coffee intake on mood and cognitive status in mild VCI patients at risk for dementia.

METHODS

A total of 300 non-demented older patients with mild VCI were asked for coffee and red wine consumption and administered with the 17-items Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the Stroop Color-Word Interference Test (Stroop T), as well as the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and the Instrumental ADL to measure their mood status, cognitive performance, and functional independence. Linear regression models were used to test the association between variables.

RESULTS

Moderate wine drinkers tended to show the best Stroop T score at any level of coffee consumption; conversely, heavy wine consumers performed worse at the Stroop T, especially in patients reporting high coffee intake. Moderate drinkers of both coffee and wine showed the lowest HDRS scores. Finally, a progressive increase in MMSE score was evident with increasing coffee consumption, which peaks when combined with a moderate wine consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily mocha pot coffee and red wine intake seem to be synergistically associated with global cognition, executive functioning, and mood status in patients with mild VCI; the association was not linear, resulting in a protective direction for moderate intake and detrimental for heavy consumption. Future studies are needed to further corroborate the present findings and the potential long-term protective effects of these dietary compounds over time.

The Association Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Chronic Insomnia in the NutriNet-Santé Study

BACKGROUND

The consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) is on the rise worldwide, and it has been linked to numerous health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Few studies have focused on the effect of UPF consumption on sleep health and even fewer on chronic insomnia.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the association between UPF intake and chronic insomnia in a large population-based sample.

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional analysis using the NutriNet-Santé study data, an ongoing Web cohort in France.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

Thirty-eight thousand five hundred seventy adult males and females who had completed a sleep questionnaire (2014) and at least two 24-hour dietary records were included in the analysis.

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES

Chronic insomnia was defined according to established criteria. Categorization of food and beverages as UPF was based on the NOVA-Group 4 classification.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

The cross-sectional association between UPF intake and chronic insomnia was assessed using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among the 38,570 participants (mean age, 50.0 ±14.8 years, 77.0% female) included in the analysis, 19.4% had symptoms of chronic insomnia. On average, UPF represented 16% of the total amount (g/day) of the overall dietary intake. In the fully adjusted model, UPF consumption was associated with higher odds of chronic insomnia (odds ratio [OR] for an absolute 10% greater UPF intake in the diet = 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02-1.09). Sex-specific OR for chronic insomnia for an absolute 10% greater UPF intake in the diet were 1.09 (1.01-1.18) among males and 1.05 (1.01-1.09) among females.

CONCLUSIONS

This large epidemiological study revealed a statistically significant association between UPF intake and chronic insomnia, independent of sociodemographic, lifestyle, diet quality, and mental health status covariates. The findings provide insights for future longitudinal research as well as nutrition- and sleep-focused intervention and prevention programs.

Energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index and cognitive function in Chinese older adults: a population-based cross-sectional study

Diet can regulate systemic inflammation, which may play an important role in the development and progression of cognitive impairment and dementia. To explore the relationship between the dietary inflammatory potential and cognitive ability. A total of 2307 adults aged 60 years or older were recruited from the Fujian Provincial Hospital (Fujian, China). Dietary inflammatory properties were analyzed using the energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index (E-DII). The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were used to assess cognitive function. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were fit to assess the associations between variables. The MCI subjects with the highest E-DII scores had a higher risk of AD compared to subjects with the lowest E-DII scores (OR = 1.98, 95%CI = 1.49-2.64, P for trend < 0.001). Subjects with the highest E-DII levels were at increased risk of cognitive impairment compared to those with the lowest E-DII levels (OR = 1.56, 95%CI = 1.25-1.93, P for trend < 0.001). The link between E-DII and cognitive impairment was significant in a nonlinear dose response analysis (P for nonlinear = 0.001). Higher E-DII scores were associated with an increased risk of developing AD or cognitive impairment. These findings may contribute to the effective prevention of cognitive impairment by constructing a multidisciplinary synergistic prevention strategy and controlling dietary inflammation levels.

Understanding consumer food choices & promotion of healthy and sustainable Mediterranean diet and lifestyle in children and adolescents through behavioural change actions: the DELICIOUS project

Over the last decades, the abandonment of traditional dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, represents an important threat for human health and environmental safeguard. The DELICIOUS project aims to promote healthy lifestyles among children and adolescents by implementing activities and tools to increase the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet with an attention to the environmental impacts of the diet. This study protocol describes the DELICIOUS project as a single-arm, uncontrolled behavioural intervention providing formal and non-formal education activities, development of new snacks and recipe reformulation, web/mobile app development, and physical activities to school children and adolescents in five European countries. The project aims to increase awareness of the nutritional benefits and the sustainability aspects of the Mediterranean Diet and to promote consumers' empowerment through an online platform for sustainable and healthy meal planning in the school canteen.

"Food faddists and pseudoscientists!": Reflections on the history of resistance to ultra-processed foods

The term 'ultra-processed food' emerged in the 1980s, mostly used in reference to highly-processed convenience foods and snacks, often energy-dense, poor in nutrients, and inclusive of various synthetic additives such as emulsifiers, colors, artificial sweeteners, and/or flavor enhancers. Concern over such foods was part of the growing holistic and environmental health movements of the 1970-80s; yet, those who raised alarm about the encroachment of ultra-processed foods were often labeled, especially by industry and their powerful allies, as 'food faddists' and 'pseudoscientists'. Today, the topic of ultra-processed foods is generating massive personal, public, and planetary health interest. However, other than discussing the history of the NOVA food classification system, a useful tool that has allowed researchers to more accurately separate foods based on processing, most lay media and academic articles are ahistorical. That is, there is a tendency to present the term ultra-processed food(s) as a relatively new entrance into the lexicon, and by default, the idea that health-related pushback on ultra-processed foods is a relatively new phenomenon. This omission overlooks decades of determined advocacy and clinical work, much of it by pioneers within the holistic medicine (now integrative, functional, and lifestyle medicine) movement. Here in this reflection paper, the authors will use historical research and reporting to fill in the historical gap and articulate the saliency of why it matters.

Association of Sleep Quality and General, Mental, and Oral Health with Lifestyle Traits (Dietary Intake, Smoking Status) in Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS)

Arthritis is associated with health challenges. Lifestyle traits are believed to influence arthritis development and progression; however, data to support personalized treatment regimens based on holistic lifestyle factors are missing. This study aims to provide a comprehensive list of associations between lifestyle traits and the health status of individuals with arthritis in the Canadian population, using binary logistic regression analysis on data from the Canadian Community Health Survey, which includes 104,359 respondents. Firstly, we explored the association between arthritis and various aspects of health status including self-reported lifestyle factors. Secondly, we examined the associations between self-reported dietary intake and smoking status with general, mental, and oral health, and sleep disturbance among individuals both with and without arthritis. Our analysis revealed that individuals with arthritis reported considerably poorer general, mental, and oral health, and poorer sleep quality compared to those without arthritis. Associations were also found between self-reported dietary intake and various measures of health status in individuals with arthritis. Smoking and exposure to passive smoking were associated not only with arthritis but also with compromised sleep quality and poorer general, mental, and oral health in people with and without arthritis. This study highlights the need for personalized and holistic approaches that may include a combination of dietary interventions, oral health improvements, sleep therapies, and smoking cessation for improved arthritis prevention and care.

Common mental disorders in Brazilian adolescents: association with school characteristics, consumption of ultra-processed foods and waist-to-height ratio

Half of all mental health problems diagnosed in adulthood have their onset before or during adolescence, especially common mental disorders (CMD). Thus, it is relevant to study the factors associated with these disorders. This study aimed to investigate the association of school characteristics, consumption of ultra-processed foods, and waist-to-height ratio with the presence of CMD in Brazilian adolescents. This is a school-based, cross-sectional study that analyzed data from 71,553 Brazilian adolescents aged 12-17 years. The prevalence of CMD in these adolescents was 17.1% (cut-off point 5 for the General Health Questionnaire-12). Associations were estimated using multilevel logistic models, with the presence of CMD as the dependent variable. The final model, adjusted for non-modifiable individual variables, modifiable individual variables and family characteristics, identified a positive association between private-funded schools (OR = 1.10; 95%CI: 1.07-1.14), advertisements for ultra-processed foods (OR = 1.13; 95%CI: 1.09-1.17), the second to fourth quartiles of ultra-processed food intake and waist-to-height ratio (OR = 2.26; 95%CI: 2.03-2.52). This study demonstrated that the private-funded schools , the presence of ultra-processed food advertisements, the consumption of ultra-processed food, and an increased waist-to-height ratio are risk factors for CMD in Brazilian adolescents.

Microbiota Metabolite Profiles and Dietary Intake in Older Individuals with Insomnia of Short vs. Normal Sleep Duration

Recent evidence suggests that the gut microbiota plays a role in insomnia pathogenesis. This study compared the dietary habits and microbiota metabolites of older adults with insomnia of short vs. normal sleep duration (ISSD and INSD, respectively). Data collection included sleep assessment through actigraphy, dietary analysis using the Food Frequency Questionnaire, and metabolomic profiling of stool samples. The results show that ISSD individuals had higher body mass index and a greater prevalence of hypertension. Significant dietary differences were observed, with the normal sleep group consuming more kilocalories per day and specific aromatic amino acids (AAAs) phenylalanine and tyrosine and branch-chain amino acid (BCAA) valine per protein content than the short sleep group. Moreover, metabolomic analysis identified elevated levels of the eight microbiota metabolites, benzophenone, pyrogallol, 5-aminopental, butyl acrylate, kojic acid, deoxycholic acid (DCA), trans-anethole, and 5-carboxyvanillic acid, in the short compared to the normal sleep group. The study contributes to the understanding of the potential role of dietary and microbial factors in insomnia, particularly in the context of sleep duration, and opens avenues for targeted dietary interventions and gut microbiota modulation as potential therapeutic approaches for treating insomnia.

Dietary intake with supplementation of vitamin D, vitamin B6, and magnesium on depressive symptoms: a public health perspective

Objective

This study aims to understand the impact of dietary intake through supplementation of vitamins D, B6, and magnesium on elevated depressive symptoms, a mental health illness that is a leading contributor to global disability and a public health concern.

Methods

Multiple datasets from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-March 2020 investigated the associations between vitamin D, B6, and magnesium on depression screening scores. A cross-sectional sample of adults over 20 was extracted (n = 9,232). Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the associations.

Results

Individuals with low amounts of vitamin D (p = 0.0481) were more likely to report elevated depressive symptoms relative to those with low amounts of vitamin B6 (p = 0.0225). These results remained significant among those with high magnesium (p = 0.0133) proportionate to high vitamin B6 (p = 0.0225). In the age-adjusted model, a lower intake of vitamin D, vitamin B6, and magnesium showed a relationship with elevated depressive symptoms (Vitamin D: OR = 0.611, 95% CI 0.382-0.980 Vitamin B6: OR = 0.503, 95% CI 0.291-0.867 Magnesium: OR = 0.458, 95% CI 0.277-0.759). The fully adjusted regression model (gender, race/ethnicity, and household food security) showed that a lower intake of vitamin B6 and magnesium correlated with elevated depressive symptoms (Vitamin B6: OR = 0.439, 95% CI 0.260-0.738 Magnesium: OR = 0.465, 95% CI 0.303-0.714).

Conclusion

Preventive measures could be addressed by identifying the risks of vitamin deficiencies. Further epidemiological research is needed for the individual effects of vitamin supplementation and depression screening scores. Future prospective cohort studies exploring these associations, focusing on daily dietary intake, are needed to validate the direction of causation further and understand the underlying mechanisms.

Underrated aspects of a true Mediterranean diet: understanding traditional features for worldwide application of a "Planeterranean" diet

Over the last decades, the Mediterranean diet gained enormous scientific, social, and commercial attention due to proven positive effects on health and undeniable taste that facilitated a widespread popularity. Researchers have investigated the role of Mediterranean-type dietary patterns on human health all around the world, reporting consistent findings concerning its benefits. However, what does truly define the Mediterranean diet? The myriad of dietary scores synthesizes the nutritional content of a Mediterranean-type diet, but a variety of aspects are generally unexplored when studying the adherence to this dietary pattern. Among dietary factors, the main characteristics of the Mediterranean diet, such as consumption of fruit and vegetables, olive oil, and cereals should be accompanied by other underrated features, such as the following: (i) specific reference to whole-grain consumption; (ii) considering the consumption of legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices often untested when exploring the adherence to the Mediterranean diet; (iii) consumption of eggs and dairy products as common foods consumed in the Mediterranean region (irrespectively of the modern demonization of dietary fat intake). Another main feature of the Mediterranean diet includes (red) wine consumption, but more general patterns of alcohol intake are generally unmeasured, lacking specificity concerning the drinking occasion and intensity (i.e., alcohol drinking during meals). Among other underrated aspects, cooking methods are rather simple and yet extremely varied. Several underrated aspects are related to the quality of food consumed when the Mediterranean diet was first investigated: foods are locally produced, minimally processed, and preserved with more natural methods (i.e., fermentation), strongly connected with the territory with limited and controlled impact on the environment. Dietary habits are also associated with lifestyle behaviors, such as sleeping patterns, and social and cultural values, favoring commensality and frugality. In conclusion, it is rather reductive to consider the Mediterranean diet as just a pattern of food groups to be consumed decontextualized from the social and geographical background of Mediterranean culture. While the methodologies to study the Mediterranean diet have demonstrated to be useful up to date, a more holistic approach should be considered in future studies by considering the aforementioned underrated features and values to be potentially applied globally through the concept of a "Planeterranean" diet.

Apple polyphenol extract ameliorates sugary-diet-induced depression-like behaviors in male C57BL/6 mice by inhibiting the inflammation of the gut-brain axis

To explore whether apple polyphenol extract (APE) ameliorates sugary-diet-induced depression-like behaviors, thirty male C57BL/6 mice (3-4 weeks old) were assigned to three groups randomly to receive different treatments for 8 consecutive weeks: (1) control group (CON), (2) S-HSD group (60% high sucrose diet feeding with 0.1 mg mL-1 sucralose solution as drinking water), and (3) S-APE group (S-HSD feeding with 500 mg per (kg bw day) APE solution gavage). The S-HSD group showed significant depression-like behaviors compared with the CON group, which was manifested by an increased number of buried marbles in the marble burying test, prolonged immobility time in both the tail suspension test and forced swimming test, and cognitive impairment based on the Morris water maze test. However, APE intervention significantly improved the depression-like behaviors by reducing serum levels of corticosterone and adrenocorticotropic hormone, and increasing the serum level of IL-10. Moreover, APE intervention inhibited the activation of the NF-κB inflammatory pathway, elevated colonic MUC-2 protein expression, and elevated the colonic and hippocampal tight junction proteins of occludin and ZO-1. Furthermore, APE intervention increased the richness and diversity of gut microbiota by regulating the composition of microbiota, with increased relative abundance of Firmicutes and Bacteroidota, decreased relative abundance of Verrucomicrobiota at the phylum level, significantly lowered relative abundance of Akkermansia at the genus level, and rebalanced abnormal relative abundance of Muribaculaceae_unclassified, Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002, and Lachnoclostridium induced by S-HSD feeding. Thus, our study supports the potential application of APE as a dietary intervention for ameliorating depression-like behavioral disorders.

Association of sleep duration and risk of mental disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effects of sleep duration on the development of mental illness remain controversial. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the effects of long or short sleep duration on psychological disorders, which could reveal new ways for preventing and treating mental health conditions cheaply.

METHODS

Identifying published papers was accomplished by using the following five English databases on March 16, 2022: PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science databases, and Scopus. Cross-sectional and cohort studies were considered if they evaluated the association of sleep duration with all kinds of mental illness in adults. We excluded case reports, editorials, narrative reviews, and studies without detailed information on sleep duration. Summary effect-size estimates were expressed as risk ratios (RRs) or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals and were evaluated using random-effect models. Mantel-Haenszel's random-effects model was used to estimate the inconsistency index (I2) and Tau2 index (measurement of heterogeneity).

RESULTS

A total of 52 studies were included in this analysis, consisting of 14 cohort studies and 38 cross-sectional studies. These studies involved a combined sample size of 1,407,891 participants who met the inclusion criteria. Cohort (adjusted RR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.26-1.60, P < .001, I2 = 37.6%, Tau2 = 0.014) and cross-sectional studies (adjusted OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.57-1.77, P < .001, I2 = 79.7%, Tau2 = 0.060) concluded that short sleep duration increased mental disorder risks. The same conclusions were acquired in the subgroup analysis, especially for depression (adjusted RR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.24-1.65, P < .001, I2 = 80.4%, Tau2 = 0.082), anxiety (adjusted RR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.04-1.63, P = .002, I2 = 0.0%, Tau2 = 0.000), and PTSD (adjusted RR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.04-1.76, P = .022, I2 = 24.1%, Tau2 = 0.013) in cohort studies. The results of subgroup analysis indicated that long sleep duration was not a risk factor for depression (adjusted RR = 1.15, 95% CI: 0.98-1.34, P = .088, I2 = 63.4%, Tau2 = 0.045) and anxiety (adjusted RR = 1.37, 95% CI: 0.93-2.03, P = .114, I2 = 0.0%, Tau2 = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Short sleep duration, not long sleep duration, is an independent predictor of developing mental disorders, particularly anxiety and depression.

Advances in Understanding the Interplay between Dietary Practices, Body Composition, and Sports Performance in Athletes

The dietary practices of athletes play a crucial role in shaping their body composition, influencing sports performance, training adaptations, and overall health. However, despite the widely acknowledged significance of dietary intake in athletic success, there exists a gap in our understanding of the intricate relationships between nutrition, body composition, and performance. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that many athletes fail to adopt optimal nutritional practices, which can impede their potential achievements. In response, this Special Issue seeks to gather research papers that delve into athletes' dietary practices and their potential impacts on body composition and sports performance. Additionally, studies focusing on interventions aimed at optimizing dietary habits are encouraged. This paper outlines the key aspects and points that will be developed in the ensuing articles of this Special Issue.

Nutrition as the foundation for successful aging: a focus on dietary protein and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Skeletal muscle plays a critical role throughout the aging process. People living with sarcopenia, a progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, often experience diminished quality of life, which can be attributed to a long period of decline and disability. Therefore, it is important to identify modifiable factors that preserve skeletal muscle and promote successful aging (SA). In this review, SA was defined as (1) low cardiometabolic risk, (2) preservation of physical function, and (3) positive state of wellbeing, with nutrition as an integral component. Several studies identify nutrition, specifically high-quality protein (eg, containing all essential amino acids), and long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), as positive regulators of SA. Recently, an additive anabolic effect of protein and n-3 PUFAs has been identified in skeletal muscle of older adults. Evidence further suggests that the additive effect of protein and n-3 PUFAs may project beyond skeletal muscle anabolism and promote SA. The key mechanism(s) behind the enhanced effects of intake of protein and n-3 PUFAs needs to be defined. The first objective of this review is to evaluate skeletal muscle as a driver of cardiometabolic health, physical function, and wellbeing to promote SA. The second objective is to examine observational and interventional evidence of protein and n-3 PUFAs on skeletal muscle to promote SA. The final objective is to propose mechanisms by which combined optimal intake of high-quality protein and n-3 PUFAs likely play a key role in SA. Current evidence suggests that increased intake of protein above the Recommended Dietary Allowance and n-3 PUFAs above the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations for late middle-aged and older adults is required to maintain skeletal muscle mass and to promote SA, potentially through the mechanistical target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1).

Is there a link between the inflammatory potential of a diet and mental health among patients with migraine? Findings from a cross-sectional survey

AIMS

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and mental health outcomes among patients with migraine headaches.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 262 subjects were included. The dietary intakes were collected using a validated 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Items were scored according to their inflammatory potential, so a higher DII indicated a more pro-inflammatory diet. The association between DII and the mental health of participants was investigated using multinomial logistic regression and odds ratio (OR) with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported.

RESULTS

Overall, 224 women and 38 men, with a mean (standard error) DII of -2.96 (0.06), age of 36.1 (0.53) years, and BMI of 25.55 (0.21) kg/m2, comprised our study population. DII was positively associated with a higher risk of depression in patients with the highest adherence to a pro-inflammatory diet compared to those with the lowest adherence (OR = 1.76; 95%CI: 1.04, 3.00; Ptrend = 0.035). Adjustments for age, sex, marital status, smoking status, migraine headache index score, number of family members, mean arterial pressure, medication, physical activity, and BMI intensified the association in a way that the risk of depression was 2.03 times higher in patients with the highest adherence to a pro-inflammatory diet compared to those with the lowest adherence to a pro-inflammatory diet (OR = 2.03; 95%CI: 1.18, 3.49; Ptrend = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that depression was positively associated with adherence to a pro-inflammatory diet. However, no significant association was observed between anxiety and stress with DII.

Negative Association of Lignan and Phytosterol Intake with Stress Perception during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Polish Study on Young Adults

BACKGROUND

There has been an increasing global prevalence of depression and other psychiatric diseases in recent years. Perceived stress has been proven to be associated with psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Some animal and human studies have suggested that consuming foods abundant in lignans and phytosterols may be associated with lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Still, the evidence is not yet strong enough to draw firm conclusions. Thus, we investigated the association between dietary intake of these phytochemicals and the level of stress experienced by adult individuals.

METHODS

Diet was assessed using self-reported 7-day dietary records. The intakes of lignans and phytosterols were estimated using databases with their content in various food products. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was implemented to measure the level of perceived stress. A logistic regression analysis was used to test for associations.

RESULTS

The odds of elevated PSS were negatively associated with dietary intake of total phytosterols, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol, with evidence of a decreasing trend across tertiles of phytochemicals. The analysis for doubling the intake reinforced the aforementioned relationships and found protective effects against PSS for total lignans, pinoresinol, and campesterol.

CONCLUSIONS

Habitual inclusion of lignans and phytosterols in the diet may play a role in psychological health. To address the global outbreak of depression and other mental health issues triggered by stress, it is important to take a holistic approach. There is a need to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment, among which certain dietary interventions such as consumption of products abundant in lignans and phytosterols may play a substantial role.

The effects of whole grain cereals on tryptophan metabolism and intestinal barrier function: underlying factors of health impact

This review aims to investigate the relationship between the health impact of whole grains mediated via the interaction with intestinal microbiota and intestinal barrier function with special interest on tryptophan metabolism, focusing on the role of the intestinal microbiota and their impact on barrier function. Consuming various types of whole grains can lead to the growth of different microbiota species, which in turn leads to the production of diverse metabolites, including those derived from tryptophan metabolism, although the impact of whole grains on intestinal microbiota composition results remains inconclusive and vary among different studies. Whole grains can exert an influence on tryptophan metabolism through interactions with the intestinal microbiota, and the presence of fibre in whole grains plays a notable role in establishing this connection. The impact of whole grains on intestinal barrier function is closely related to their effects on the composition and activity of intestinal microbiota, and SCFA and tryptophan metabolites serve as potential links connecting whole grains, intestinal microbiota and the intestinal barrier function. Tryptophan metabolites affect various aspects of the intestinal barrier, such as immune balance, mucus and microbial barrier, tight junction complexes and the differentiation and proliferation of epithelial cells. Despite the encouraging discoveries in this area of research, the evidence regarding the effects of whole grain consumption on intestine-related activity remains limited. Hence, we can conclude that we are just starting to understand the actual complexity of the intestinal factors mediating in part the health impacts of whole grain cereals.

Mitigating Age-Related Cognitive Decline and Oxidative Status in Rats Treated with Catechin and Polyphenon-60

Aging is a normal physiological process influenced by the combination of multiple mechanisms, primarily oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, which impact general physiology and brain function. Phenolic compounds have demonstrated the ability to slow down the aging process of the brain due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study assessed the protective properties of catechin and polyphenon-60 in non-pathologically aged rats regarding visuo-spatial learning and the oxidative status of the frontal cortex. Old animals were treated with catechin or green tea extract (polyphenon-60) for 36 days, daily. Healthy old and young rats were used as controls. During the first training phase, treated rats executed the test better, locating the target in less time compared with the controls. Biomarkers of oxidative stress (catalase activities, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione S-transferase) were reduced in the brain of old animals, although their activities were partially improved after both antioxidant treatments. Furthermore, the rise in the production of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde levels-a marker of lipid peroxidation-in the frontal cortex of aged animals was significantly ameliorated after the interventions. In conclusion, old rats exhibited enhanced cognitive function and reduced stress levels following the administration of catechin and polyphenon-60.

Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate and Genistein for Decreasing Gut Dysbiosis, Inhibiting Inflammasomes, and Aiding Autophagy in Alzheimer's Disease

There are approximately 24 million cases of Alzheimer's disease (AD) worldwide, and the number of cases is expected to increase four-fold by 2050. AD is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to severe dementia in most patients. There are several neuropathological signs of AD, such as deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques, formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), neuronal loss, activation of inflammasomes, and declining autophagy. Several of these hallmarks are linked to the gut microbiome. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract contains microbial diversity, which is important in regulating several functions in the brain via the gut-brain axis (GBA). The disruption of the balance in the gut microbiota is known as gut dysbiosis. Recent studies strongly support that targeting gut dysbiosis with selective bioflavonoids is a highly plausible solution to attenuate activation of inflammasomes (contributing to neuroinflammation) and resume autophagy (a cellular mechanism for lysosomal degradation of the damaged components and recycling of building blocks) to stop AD pathogenesis. This review is focused on two bioflavonoids, specifically epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and genistein (GS), as a possible new paradigm of treatment for maintaining healthy gut microbiota in AD due to their implications in modulating crucial AD signaling pathways. The combination of EGCG and GS has a higher potential than either agent alone to attenuate the signaling pathways implicated in AD pathogenesis. The effects of EGCG and GS on altering gut microbiota and GBA were also explored, along with conclusions from various delivery methods to increase the bioavailability of these bioflavonoids in the body.

Mediterranean Diet and Sleep Features: A Systematic Review of Current Evidence

The prevalence of sleep disorders, characterized by issues with quality, timing, and sleep duration is increasing globally. Among modifiable risk factors, diet quality has been suggested to influence sleep features. The Mediterranean diet is considered a landmark dietary pattern in terms of quality and effects on human health. However, dietary habits characterized by this cultural heritage should also be considered in the context of overall lifestyle behaviors, including sleep habits. This study aimed to systematically revise the literature relating to adherence to the Mediterranean diet and sleep features in observational studies. The systematic review comprised 23 reports describing the relation between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and different sleep features, including sleep quality, sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, and insomnia symptoms. The majority of the included studies were conducted in the Mediterranean basin and reported a significant association between a higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet and a lower likelihood of having poor sleep quality, inadequate sleep duration, excessive daytime sleepiness or symptoms of insomnia. Interestingly, additional studies conducted outside the Mediterranean basin showed a relationship between the adoption of a Mediterranean-type diet and sleep quality, suggesting that biological mechanisms sustaining such an association may exist. In conclusion, current evidence suggests a relationship between adhering to the Mediterranean diet and overall sleep quality and different sleep parameters. The plausible bidirectional association should be further investigated to understand whether the promotion of a healthy diet could be used as a tool to improve sleep quality.

Fasting diets: what are the impacts on eating behaviors, sleep, mood, and well-being?

Fasting diets (FDs) have drawn great attention concerning their contribution to health and disease over the last decade. Despite considerable interest in FDs, the effect of fasting diets on eating behaviors, sleep, and mood-essential components of diet satisfaction and mental health- has not been addressed comprehensively. Understanding the critical role that fasting plays in these elements will open up potential treatment avenues that have not yet been explored. The aim of the present paper was to conduct a comprehensive critical review exploring the effects of fasting on eating behaviors, sleep, and mood. There is currently a lack of clarity regarding which fasting option yields the most advantageous effects, and there is also a scarcity of consistent trials that assess the effects of FDs in a comparable manner. Similarly, the effects and/or treatment options for utilizing FDs to modify eating and sleep behaviors and enhance mood are still poorly understood. Further researches aiming at understanding the impacts of various fasting regimes, providing new insights into the gut-brain axis and offering new treatment avenues for those with resistant anxiety and depression, are warranted. Alteration of eating behaviors can have lasting effects on various physiological parameters. The use of fasting cures can underpin ancient knowledge with scientific evidence to form a new approach to the prevention and treatment of problems associated with co-morbidities or challenges pertaining to eating behaviors. Therefore, a thorough examination of the various fasting regimens and how they impact disease patterns is also warranted.

Influence of Supplementation of Ecklonia cava Polyphenols on Learning, Memory, and Brain Fatty Acid Composition in Mice

AIMS

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of intake of polyphenols from Ecklonia cava on spatial task performance and nervous fatty acid composition in mice fed with a high-fat diet.

METHODS

Thirty mice were randomly divided into three groups; each group consisted of ten mice. The control group was fed 5% soybean oil as a fat source, whereas the high fat (HF) group was fed a 15% lard diet and the polyphenol (ECP) group was maintained on the HF diet plus 1% E. cava polyphenols.

RESULTS

The ECP group exhibited a short escape latency and better memory retention in the Morris water maze test compared with the control and HF groups (P<0.05). In addition, the ECP group showed a greater increase in avoidance latency than that of the HF group (P<0.05). Moreover, the consumption of polyphenols from E. cava presented higher levels of DHA in the brain and retina (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study suggested the positive effects of polyphenols from E. cava on memory retention, which might be partially attributed to the increased levels of DHA in the brain.

Methods for Assessing Health Outcomes Associated with Food Insecurity in the United States College Student Population: A Narrative Review

In the United States, college students experience disproportionate food insecurity (FI) rates compared to the national prevalence. The experience of acute and chronic FI has been associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes in this population. This narrative review aims to summarize the current methodologies for assessing health outcomes associated with the experience of FI in college students in the United States. To date, assessing the health outcomes of FI has predominately consisted of subjective assessments, such as self-reported measures of dietary intake, perceived health status, stress, depression, anxiety, and sleep behaviors. This review, along with the emergence of FI as an international public health concern, establishes the need for novel, innovative, and objective biomarkers to evaluate the short- and long-term impacts of FI on physical and mental health outcomes in college students. The inclusion of objective biomarkers will further elucidate the relationship between FI and a multitude of health outcomes to better inform strategies for reducing the pervasiveness of FI in the United States college student population.

Association between Western Dietary Patterns, Typical Food Groups, and Behavioral Health Disorders: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Western dietary patterns (WDP) and typical food groups may play a major role in the risk of behavioral health disorders. Nevertheless, the relationships between WDP, common food categories, and mental health disorders lack consistency and remain incompletely understood in relation to potential mechanisms. Therefore, the objective of the present study was conducted to synthesize available evidence linking WDP and typical food groups to these outcomes. Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE were searched up to August 2023. Random effect meta-analyses were performed to obtain pooled odds ratio and the relative risk for the prevalence of outcomes and the incidence of outcomes, respectively. A total of 54 articles were included. WDP was associated with increased risk of both depression (1.19; 95% CI: 1.06-1.32) and depressive symptoms (1.20; 95% CI: 1.08-1.34). Except for high-fat dairy products, food groups are associated with an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and depressive symptoms. This review presents evidence to further understand the relationship between WDP, typical food groups, and the incidence of behavioral health disorders, and more randomized controlled trials and cohort studies are urgently required to confirm these findings and elucidate potential mechanisms.

Dietary Inflammatory Potential, Inflammation-Related Lifestyle Factors, and Incident Anxiety Disorders: A Prospective Cohort Study

It is unclear whether diet-associated inflammation is related to the development of anxiety disorders. We aimed to investigate the association between energy-adjusted dietary inflammatory index (E-DII) scores and the incidence of anxiety disorders, and explore the joint effects of E-DII scores with other inflammatory lifestyles in enhancing anxiety risk. In the UK Biobank Study of 96,679 participants, baseline E-DII scores were calculated from the average intake of at least two 24 h dietary recalls. Multivariable-adjusted Cox models were used to evaluate the associations between E-DII scores and the incidence of total anxiety disorders, and primary types and subtypes; additive and multiplicative interactions of a pro-inflammatory diet and seven inflammatory lifestyles were examined. After a median follow-up of 9.4 years, 2785 incident cases of anxiety disorders occurred. Consuming a pro-inflammatory diet was significantly associated with a higher risk of total anxiety disorders (HRQ4vsQ1 = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.00-1.25), and positive associations were consistently identified for primary types and subtypes of anxiety disorders, with HRs ranging from 1.08 to 1.52, and were present in women only. Both additive and multiplicative interactions of current smoking and a proinflammatory diet on total anxiety risk were identified. A proinflammatory diet was associated with a higher incidence of anxiety disorders, and current smoking may synergize with a proinflammatory diet to promote anxiety risk, particularly among women.

Food desert residence has limited impact on veteran fecal microbiome composition: a U.S. Veteran Microbiome Project study

IMPORTANCE

Social and economic inequities can have a profound impact on human health. The inequities could result in alterations to the gut microbiome, an important factor that may have profound abilities to alter health outcomes. Moreover, the strong correlations between social and economic inequities have been long understood. However, to date, limited research regarding the microbiome and mental health within the context of socioeconomic inequities exists. One particular inequity that may influence both mental health and the gut microbiome is living in a food desert. Persons living in food deserts may lack access to sufficient and/or nutritious food and often experience other inequities, such as increased exposure to air pollution and poor access to healthcare. Together, these factors may confer a unique risk for microbial perturbation. Indeed, external factors beyond a food desert might compound over time to have a lasting effect on an individual's gut microbiome. Therefore, adoption of a life-course approach is expected to increase the ecological validity of research related to social inequities, the gut microbiome, and physical and mental health.

Association between diet, mental health and sleep quality in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate recently published scientific evidence and synthesize the results of observational studies that examine the association between diet, mental health, and sleep quality in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONTENT

An electronic search of scientific literature published in 2021 and up to 2 years ago was performed using keyword search, with focus on observational studies published in PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science. It included: active university students of both sexes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SUMMARY AND OUTLOOK

The 5 studies included in this review showed that there have been significant changes in both mental health and eating habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conclusion, there is an association between mental health and sleep quality in university students, resulting in an alteration of sleep hours and poor sleep. Furthermore, an association between mental health and diet quality is also observed, producing an increase in caloric intake or in the number of meals during the day.

The dynamic interaction between symptoms and pharmacological treatment in patients with major depressive disorder: the role of network intervention analysis

INTRODUCTION

The Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. MDD is a major public health concern and is the leading cause of disability, morbidity, institutionalization, and excess mortality, conferring high suicide risk. Pharmacological treatment with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) is often the first choice for their efficacy and tolerability profile. However, a significant percentage of depressive individuals do not achieve remission even after an adequate trial of pharmacotherapy, a condition known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD).

METHODS

To better understand the complexity of clinical phenotypes in MDD we propose Network Intervention Analysis (NIA) that can help health psychology in the detection of risky behaviors, in the primary and/or secondary prevention, as well as to monitor the treatment and verify its effectiveness. The paper aims to identify the interaction and changes in network nodes and connections of 14 continuous variables with nodes identified as "Treatment" in a cohort of MDD patients recruited for their recent history of partial response to antidepressant drugs. The study analyzed the network of MDD patients at baseline and after 12 weeks of drug treatment.

RESULTS

At baseline, the network showed separate dimensions for cognitive and psychosocial-affective symptoms, with cognitive symptoms strongly affecting psychosocial functioning. The MoCA tool was identified as a potential psychometric tool for evaluating cognitive deficits and monitoring treatment response. After drug treatment, the network showed less interconnection between nodes, indicating greater stability, with antidepressants taking a central role in driving the network. Affective symptoms improved at follow-up, with the highest predictability for HDRS and BDI-II nodes being connected to the Antidepressants node.

CONCLUSION

NIA allows us to understand not only what symptoms enhance after pharmacological treatment, but especially the role it plays within the network and with which nodes it has stronger connections.

A Mediterranean Dietary Pattern Is Associated with Greater Participation in Physical Activity and Better Health-Related Quality of Life among Students and Professors at the Melilla Campus (University of Granada)

The objective of this study was to assess Mediterranean diet (MD) scores (i.e., alignment with a MD pattern) among students and professors, in addition to assessing how adherence to the MD was associated with other lifestyle behaviors. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with a sample of 127 university professors and 272 students of the Melilla Campus at the University of Granada (Spain). Students were more physically active than professors (mean difference = 1058 METs, p < 0.001) and reported lower negative affect (NA; mean difference = -1.70, p < 0.001) whereas professors reported nominally better perceived mental health. For the total sample, the physical health component (β = 0.03, p = 0.03) and physical activity (β = 0.0001, p = 0.01) were significantly associated with higher MD scores. Health behaviors, including MD scores and physical activity, were suboptimal among both students and professors. The results suggest that a dietary pattern reflective of the MD is positively associated with both physical and mental health outcomes among students and professors, though the direction of the associations remains to be clarified.

Prioritizing the Psychosocial Support Needs of Mothers with Gestational Diabetes: A Delphi Study

Background

Gestational diabetes is the most common medical complication in pregnancy, and the psychosocial health of women suffering from this condition affects their adherence to treatment and self-efficacy. However, since it is not possible to design interventions dealing with all of these needs, the aim of this study was to prioritize the psychosocial supportive needs of women with gestational diabetes.

Materials and Methods

This was a modified Delphi design study involving 22 experts who were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. The study was conducted between April 2021 and June 2021. First, the psychosocial needs of diabetic pregnant women were extracted through a qualitative study involving interviews with multidisciplinary specialists and diabetic pregnant mothers (22 participants) and a systematic review of reputable scientific databases. Throughout the two Delphi stages, the questionnaire was classified, quantified, and analyzed.

Results

Based on the results of this study, the following are the top priorities when addressing the psychosocial needs of mothers with gestational diabetes: paying attention to and identifying the mother's worries and anxiety, husband and family support for diabetic pregnant women, the inclusion of specialized nutrition counseling services in mothers' treatment plan, timely education of mothers about diabetes and its complications, and proper nutrition for diabetic mothers.

Conclusions

The priorities of the supportive needs obtained in this study can be used to design interventions aimed at promoting psychosocial health, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving medication adherence in women with gestational diabetes.

Nordic diet and its benefits in neurological function: a systematic review of observational and intervention studies

Introduction

Neurological disorders have been considered the major contributors to global long-term disability and lower quality of life. Lifestyle factors, such as dietary patterns, are increasingly recognized as important determinants of neurological function. Some dietary behaviors, such as Nordic diet (ND) were likely to have protective effects on brain function. However, an understanding of the effectiveness of the ND pattern to improve neurological function and brain health is not fully understood. We review the current evidence that supports the ND pattern in various aspects of neurological function and addresses both proven and less established mechanisms of action based on its food ingredients and biochemical compounds.

Methods

In this systematic review, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched from inception to February 2023. Observational and intervention studies were included.

Results

Of the 627 screened studies, 5 observational studies (including three cohorts and two cross-sectional studies) and 3 intervention studies investigating the association between ND and neurological function. Observational studies investigated the association of ND with the following neurological functions: cognition, stroke, and neuropsychological function. Intervention studies investigated the effects of ND on cognition and depression.

Discussion

Despite the limited literature on ND and its association with neurological function, several aspects of ND may lead to some health benefits suggesting neuroprotective effects. The current state of knowledge attributes the possible effects of characteristic components of the ND to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, gut-brain-axis modulating, and ligand activities in cell signaling pathways. Based on existing evidence, the ND may be considered a recommended dietary approach for the improvement of neurological function and brain health.

Systematic review registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/], identifier [CRD2023451117].

The Role of Gut Microbiota in Anxiety, Depression, and Other Mental Disorders as Well as the Protective Effects of Dietary Components

The number of individuals experiencing mental disorders (e.g., anxiety and depression) has significantly risen in recent years. Therefore, it is essential to seek prevention and treatment strategies for mental disorders. Several gut microbiota, especially Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, are demonstrated to affect mental health through microbiota-gut-brain axis, and the gut microbiota dysbiosis can be related to mental disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders. On the other hand, dietary components, including probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium), prebiotics (e.g., dietary fiber and alpha-lactalbumin), synbiotics, postbiotics (e.g., short-chain fatty acids), dairy products, spices (e.g., Zanthoxylum bungeanum, curcumin, and capsaicin), fruits, vegetables, medicinal herbs, and so on, could exert protective effects against mental disorders by enhancing beneficial gut microbiota while suppressing harmful ones. In this paper, the mental disorder-associated gut microbiota are summarized. In addition, the protective effects of dietary components on mental health through targeting the gut microbiota are discussed. This paper can be helpful to develop some dietary natural products into pharmaceuticals and functional foods to prevent and treat mental disorders.

The effect of an anti-inflammatory diet on chronic pain: a pilot study

Objective

Rheumatic diseases result in chronic pain (CP) and require treatment with drugs whose prolonged administration is associated with side effects. However, publications in the academic literature have suggested that diet modification and food supplementation can play a crucial role in alleviating the symptoms of inflammatory disease. Thus, it is hoped that the use of an anti-inflammatory diet for pain management might result in improved quality of life. Hence, here we aimed to investigate the effect of anti-inflammatory foods in patients with CP caused by rheumatic diseases.

Methods

After an exhaustive bibliography search, we designed a 13-item anti-inflammatory dietary guide based on a Mediterranean diet without red meat, gluten, or cow's milk (the AnMeD-S). We then conducted a pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of this anti-inflammatory diet in patients with CP. A food consumption score (with a maximum of 156 points) was then applied to evaluate patient adhesion to the proposed diet. Forty-five patients with CP were followed-up for 4 months. Variables related with quality of life (including pain perception, depression status, and sleep satisfaction) were measured using 9 validated questionnaires and anthropometric measurements were recorded before and after the participants followed the anti-inflammatory diet.

Results

We found a correlation between increased anti-inflammatory food intake and improved physical characteristics, stress, and pain in the patients we assessed. Moreover, decreased consumption of pro-inflammatory foods was positively correlated with sleep satisfaction. Following the AnMeD-S was associated with improved physical characteristics and quality-of-life in patients with CP.

Conclusion

The AnMeD-S, includes anti-inflammatory foods and restricts the consumption of certain pro-inflammatory foods (such as those containing gluten). This dietary pattern could provide relief from CP and improve the symptoms of stress and depression, as well as reducing sleep disturbances.

Bridge connection between depression and anxiety symptoms and lifestyles in Chinese residents from a network perspective

Background

Lifestyle habits are vital components of the culture of mental health treatment settings. We examined the bridge connection between depressive and anxiety symptoms and lifestyles from a network perspective using a population-based study.

Methods

Face-to-face interviews were conducted with a provincially representative sample of 13,768 inhabitants from the Guangdong Sleep and Psychosomatic Health Survey based on standardized evaluation techniques. We identified the central symptoms by expected influence. The interconnection between depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as the bridge connectivity linking depression-anxiety symptoms and lifestyle factors, were assessed using the bridge centrality index. Network stability and sensibility analyses were performed using a case-dropping bootstrap procedure.

Results

The core symptom that exhibited the highest expected influence was fatigue or little energy, followed by uncontrollable worry, trouble relaxing, and sad mood in the depression-anxiety symptoms network, while guilt was the most interconnected symptom and had the highest bridge strength. Surrounding nodes of each node explained an average variance of 57.63%. Additionally, suicidal thoughts were recognized as collective bridging symptoms connecting lifestyle variables in the network integrating depression-anxiety symptoms with lifestyle factors. Current tobacco and alcohol consumption were positively associated with suicidal thoughts and irritability. Habitual diet rhythm and physical exercise frequency were linked to suicidal thoughts, guilt, and poor appetite or overeating. Suicidal thoughts, irritability, and guilt indicated the greatest connectivity with lifestyle factors. All networks had high stability and accuracy.

Conclusion

These highlighted core and bridge symptoms could serve as latent targets for the prevention and intervention of comorbid depression and anxiety. It might be crucial for clinical practitioners to design effective and targeted treatment and prevention strategies aiming at specific lifestyles and behaviors.

Longitudinal trajectories of dietary quality and cognitive performance in older adults: Results from a 6-year cohort study

BACKGROUND

Diet affects cognitive performance, but most previous studies only assessed diet once. Trajectory analysis of diet measured at multiple timepoints can identify subpopulations requiring more interventional efforts. We thus assessed associations between dietary trajectories and cognitive performance in older adults.

METHODS

This was a 6-year prospective cohort study involving 356 ethnically Chinese, non-demented, community-dwelling older adults recruited between 2011 and 2013. At baseline and at 4th- and 6th-year follow-ups, dietary intakes of the participants were assessed using food frequency questionnaires. Dietary quality was graded using the modified Alternative Healthy Eating Index (mAHEI) with seven components; longitudinal trajectories of dietary quality were derived using latent growth mixture modelling. Outcomes were global- and domain-specific cognitive performance (attention, memory, executive functions, and verbal fluency). Multivariable regressions adjusting for important covariates (sex, age, energy intake, APOE risk alleles, depressive symptoms, and body mass index (BMI)) assessed associations between the dietary trajectories and cognitive outcomes.

RESULTS

Included participants had a mean age of 71.6 years and a mean BMI of 23.8 kg/m2. Three mutually exclusive dietary quality trajectories, namely "deteriorating", "improving", and "stable-high", were derived. Compared with the stable-high trajectory, the improving trajectory was associated with a lower z-score for the memory domain (β: -0.403; 95% CI: -0.656, -0.151; P = 0.002), which was consistently observed for the four individual tests of the domain (β range: -0.324 to -0.448; all P < 0.05). In unadjusted analysis, the deteriorating trajectory was associated with a 0.369 lower z-score for the verbal fluency domain (95% CI: -0.700, -0.039 P = 0.028), though attenuated to borderline significance with adjustment for covariates. Sex and BMI modified some of these associations. No other associations were observed for global cognition or other cognitive domains.

CONCLUSIONS

In Taiwanese older adults, consistently high dietary quality is associated with better cognitive performance. Interventions to promote and sustain better dietary quality over time can have substantial impacts on cognitive function.

Physical Activity, Sun Exposure, Vitamin D Intake and Perceived Stress in Italian Adults

The last decades of global development have, due to rapid urbanization, pressuring entire populations to changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, led to an increase in the prevalence of mental disorders, including stress. This study explored how lifestyle and dietary factors, such as physical activity, sun exposure, and vitamin D intake are related to perceived stress in a Mediterranean-based population. Physical activity level was evaluated using the international physical activity questionnaires (IPAQ), sun exposure was evaluated using the sunlight exposure measurement questionnaire (SEM-Q), and validated food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) were used to assess dietary intakes. The perceived stress of the study participants was evaluated using the perceived stress scale (PSS). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to test for potential associations. In the most adjusted model, an inverse association between physical activity level, sunlight exposure, vitamin D intake, and high perceived stress was found (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.51, 1.00, OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.99, OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.53, 0.89, respectively). However, when stratifying the population by level of physical activity, the retrieved associations with sunlight exposure and dietary vitamin D intake were significant only among those individuals reporting being moderately to highly physically active (OR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.33 and OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.76, respectively), while results on low physically active participants were null. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that higher dietary intake of vitamin D and sunlight exposure are associated with a lower likelihood of having high perceived stress among physically active individuals.

Heatwave and mental health

Physical health has been associated with ambient temperature and heatwave. With the frequent occurrence of heatwave, the adaptive effects and mechanisms on mental health remain uncertain. On the basis of the China Health and Nutrition Survey, we estimated the relationship between heatwaves and self-assessed mental health scores in the Chinese population aged 50 and above. This study has identified that with each additional heatwave event, mental health scores decreased by an average of 0.027 points, which is equivalent to 0.3% of the average level. Heat is more likely to affect groups with low education, no medical insurance, and living in rural areas. In mechanistic exploration, we found that stress emotion is a fully mediating effect. Heat led to reduced health activities and more frequent drinking, which may lead to lower psychological well-being. Moreover, good dietary preference is a regulator that can help mitigate the adverse effects of heat on mental health. This study corroborates the impact of heat on spiritual welfare, and demonstrates the mechanisms and channels of impact, which can help reduce global economic losses due to mental health problems.

Dietary Fats and Cognitive Status in Italian Middle-Old Adults

The increase in life expectancy led to a significant rise in the prevalence of age-related neurological diseases, such as cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Although genetics certainly play a role, nutrition emerged as a key factor in maintaining optimal cognitive function among older adults. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate whether specific categories and subcategories of dietary fats, based on carbon-chain length, are associated with cognitive status in a cohort of 883 Italian participants over the age of 50. Methods: The intake of total, single class of dietary fat, such as saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and also single fatty acids grouped according to carbon-chain length, were evaluated by food frequency questionnaires (FFQs). Cognitive health was assessed using the short portable mental status questionnaire (SPMSQ). Results: After adjustment for potential confounding factors subjects with a moderate consumption of both short-chain SFA (for Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.08, 0.66) and middle-chain SFA specifically lauric acid (C12:0) intake (for Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.77) were less likely to suffer from cognitive impairment. Among single MUFAs, erucic acid (C22:1) intake resulted in an inverse association, in a linear way, with cognitive impairment (for Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.39). Conversely, moderate intake of linoleic acid (C18:2) was associated with cognitive impairment (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 4.59, 95% CI: 1.51, 13.94). Regarding other PUFAs, individuals consuming moderate intake alpha linolenic acid (C18:3) were less likely to have cognitive impairment (for Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.64). Conclusions: Total SFA intake appeared to be inversely associated with cognitive impairment. Regarding specific subtypes of fatty acids, the results mostly referred to short- and middle-chain SFA. Further studies are needed to validate the results of the present study.

The Role of Diet as a Modulator of the Inflammatory Process in the Neurological Diseases

Neurological diseases are recognized as major causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Due to the dynamic progress of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Schizophrenia, Depression, and Multiple Sclerosis (MD), scientists are mobilized to look for new and more effective methods of interventions. A growing body of evidence suggests that inflammatory processes and an imbalance in the composition and function of the gut microbiome, which play a critical role in the pathogenesis of various neurological diseases and dietary interventions, such as the Mediterranean diet the DASH diet, or the ketogenic diet can have beneficial effects on their course. The aim of this review was to take a closer look at the role of diet and its ingredients in modulating inflammation associated with the development and/or progression of central nervous system diseases. Presented data shows that consuming a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, spices, and legumes that are sources of anti-inflammatory elements such as omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins, essential minerals, and probiotics while avoiding foods that promote inflammation, create a positive brain environment and is associated with a reduced risk of neurological diseases. Personalized nutritional interventions may constitute a non-invasive and effective strategy in combating neurological disorders.

Dietary Fats and Depressive Symptoms in Italian Adults

BACKGROUND

Depression represents one of the major causes of disability worldwide, with an important socioeconomic cost. Although many risk factors have been considered in its pathogenesis, nutrition seems to play a determinant role in its prevention. With regard to individual macronutrients, dietary fats and especially n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) are the most studied. However, previous data about other dietary fatty acids, such as n-6 PUFA, are conflicting, and little is known about saturated fatty acids (SFA), especially when considering carbon chain length. Thus, we investigated whether single types and subtypes of dietary fats are related to depressive symptoms in Italian individuals living in the Mediterranean area.

METHODS

Dietary and socio-demographic data of 1572 individuals were analyzed. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) were used to determine the consumption of total dietary fat and each specific class of dietary fat, such as SFA, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), and PUFA. The intake of fatty acids was also assessed according to the carbon-chain length of each single class. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was used as a screening tool for depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

After adjustment for potential confounding factors, a significant inverse association between low/moderate levels of PUFA intake and depressive symptoms (Q2 vs. Q1, odds ratio (OR) = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.44, 0.84) was found. On the other hand, moderate saturated fat consumption was associated with depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.04). However, when considering carbon chain length, individuals with a lower to moderate intake of short-chain saturated fatty acids (SCSFA) and medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCSFA) were less likely to have depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.31, 0.75), while moderate intake of arachidic acid (C20:0) was directly associated with depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.77). Among single MUFAs, higher myristoleic acid (C14:1) intake was directly associated with depressive symptoms (Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.61), while moderate intake of erucic acid (C22:1) was associated with lower odds of having depressive symptoms (Q3 vs. Q1, OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.33, 0.86). When considering individual PUFAs, individuals with moderate and higher intakes of arachidonic acid (C20:4) were less likely to have depressive symptoms (OR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.45, 0.91; OR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.38, 0.91, respectively). Similarly, higher eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5) intake was inversely associated with depressive symptoms (Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.98), while a significant association for docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6) was retrieved only for low intakes (Q2 vs. Q1, OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.88).

CONCLUSIONS

Dietary fat intake may be associated with depressive symptoms, underlying the importance of distinguishing between different fat types. This study confirms the pivotal role of PUFAs and reopens the debate on the role of saturated fatty acids, suggesting plausible effects of moderate intakes of short-chain fatty acids.

Polyphenol-Rich Beverages and Mental Health Outcomes

Emerging evidence suggests that diets rich in plant-based foods and beverages may exert plausible effects on human health tackling the risk of chronic diseases. Although the data are promising for numerous outcomes, including cardiovascular diseases, the data on mental health are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between individual polyphenol-rich beverages intake and mental health outcomes, such as perceived stress, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality, among adult individuals living in the Mediterranean area. The demographic and dietary characteristics of a sample of 1572 adults living in southern Italy were analysed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses, controlling for confounding factors, were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the association between individual polyphenol-rich and alcoholic beverages containing polyphenols and mental health outcomes. The multivariate model adjusted for background covariates and the Mediterranean diet showed that individuals with a moderate intake (up to 1 cup/glass per day) of coffee and tea were less likely to have high perceived stress (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.45-0.84) and depressive symptoms (OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.39-0.80), respectively. Furthermore, regular coffee and moderate/regular red wine drinkers were less likely to have depressive symptoms (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.54-0.95 and OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.54-0.99, respectively). No significant associations were retrieved for the intake of polyphenol-rich and alcoholic beverages and sleep quality. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that polyphenol-rich beverages may be associated with mental health, in terms of depressive symptoms and perceived stress. Nonetheless, further research exploring how the polyphenol-rich beverages impact brain health and what the optimal patterns of consumption are for different populations are warranted.

Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Depressive Symptoms in a Mediterranean Cohort

Excess consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is currently under investigation for its potentially detrimental impact on human health. Current evidence demonstrates a substantial association with an increased risk of metabolic disorders, but data on mental health outcomes are just emerging. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the consumption of UPFs and depressive symptoms in a sample of younger Italian adults. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 596 individuals (age 18-35 y) recruited in southern Italy. Food frequency questionnaires and the NOVA classification were used to assess dietary factors; the Center for the Epidemiological Studies of Depression Short Form (CES-D-10) was used to assess presence of depressive symptoms. Individuals in the highest quartile of UPF consumption had higher odds of having depressive symptoms in the energy-adjusted model (odds ratio (OR) = 1.89, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06, 3.28); the association remained significant after adjusting for potential confounding factors (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.04, 4.01) and became even stronger after further adjustment for adherence to the Mediterranean diet as a proxy of diet quality (OR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.32, 5.51). In conclusion, a positive association between UPF consumption and likelihood of having depressive symptoms was found in younger Italian individuals. Given the consistency of the findings after adjustment for diet quality, further studies are needed to understand whether non-nutritional factors may play a role in human neurobiology.

Association between dietary inflammatory index and cognitive impairment: A meta-analysis

Aims

Cognitive impairment is an increasingly urgent global public health challenge. Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) is a literature-derived score that links diet to inflammation. The relationship between DII and cognitive impairment remains controversial. Therefore, our study aimed to analysis the role of DII on the risk of cognitive impairment by meta-analysis.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Web of Science and EMBASE databases were searched up to July 2022. Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist were performed to estimate the quality of studies.

Results

Nine observational studies with 19,379 subjects were included. Our study found that higher DII could elevate the risk of cognitive impairment (OR = 1.46, 95%CI = 1.26, 1.69). Meanwhile, the OR of cognitive impairment was 1.49 (95%CI = 1.21, 1.83) for cross-sectional studies and 1.42 (95%CI = 1.12, 1.79) for cohort studies, respectively.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis indicated that higher DII (indicating a more pro-inflammatory diet) is related to increased risk of cognitive impairment.

Associations between dietary and blood inflammatory indices and their effects on cognitive function in elderly Americans

Objective

To determine the correlations between dietary and blood inflammation indices in elderly Americans and their effects on cognitive function.

Methods

This research extracted data from the 2011-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 2,479 patients who were ≥60 years old. Cognitive function was assessed as a composite cognitive function score (Z-score) calculated from the results of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Word Learning and Delayed Recall tests, the Animal Fluency test, and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test. We used a dietary inflammatory index (DII) calculated from 28 food components to represent the dietary inflammation profile. Blood inflammation indicators included the white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil count (NE), lymphocyte count (Lym), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), neutrophil-albumin ratio (NAR), systemic immune-inflammation index [SII, calculated as (peripheral platelet count) × NE/Lym], and systemic inflammatory response index [SIRI, calculated as (monocyte count) × NE/Lym]. WBC, NE, Lym, NLR, PLR, NAR, SII, SIRI, and DII were initially treated as continuous variables. For logistic regression, WBC, NE, Lym, NLR, PLR, NAR, SII, and SIRI were divided into quartile groups, and DII was divided into tertile groups.

Results

After adjusting for covariates, WBC, NE, NLR, NAR, SII, SIRI, and DII scores were markedly higher in the cognitively impaired group than in the normal group (p < 0.05). DII was negatively correlated with the Z-score when combined with WBC, NE, and NAR (p < 0.05). After adjusting for all covariates, DII was positively correlated with SII in people with cognitive impairment (p < 0.05). Higher DII with NLR, NAR, SII, and SIRI all increased the risk of cognitive impairment (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

DII was positively correlated with blood inflammation indicators, and higher DII and blood inflammation indicators increased the risk of developing cognitive impairment.

Associations of overall and specific carbohydrate intake with anxiety status evolution in the prospective NutriNet-Santé population-based cohort

We investigated the association between carbohydrate intake and anxiety evolution within the general-population NutriNet-Santé cohort (N = 15,602; 73.8% female; mean age = 53.8y; mean follow-up = 5.4y). Carbohydrate intake was estimated at baseline from ≥ 2 24-h dietary records. Trait anxiety (STAI-T) was measured once at baseline (2013-2016) and once at follow-up (2020), resulting in 4 groups: "None" = absence of high anxiety (STAI-T > 40 points) at any time point; "Transient" = high anxiety only at baseline; "Onset at follow-up" = high anxiety only at follow-up; "Persistent" = high anxiety at baseline and follow-up. Polytomous logistic regression models revealed that sweetened beverage intake was associated with higher odds of "Transient" anxiety (OR_Q4vsQ1 = 1.11; 95% CI 1.02-1.21). Intake of complex carbohydrates (OR_Q4vsQ1 = 1.12; 1.01-1.25) was associated with higher odds of anxiety "Onset at follow-up." The % energy from carbohydrates (OR_Q4vsQ1 = 1.11; 1.03-1.19), intakes of total carbohydrates (OR_Q4vsQ1 = 1.10; 1.03-1.18) and complex carbohydrates (OR_Q4vsQ1 = 1.09; 1.02-1.17) were associated with higher odds of "Persistent" anxiety, whereas 100% fruit juice intake showed lower odds of "Persistent" anxiety (OR_Q4vsQ1 = 0.87; 0.81-0.94). This prospective study found significant associations between dietary carbohydrate intake and anxiety status evolution among French adults. The findings could help inform dietary interventions aimed at anxiety prevention and management.

Social Capital Promotes a Healthier Diet among Young Adults by Reducing Psychological Distress

Studies have revealed the links between social capital and diet. However, the mediating role of psychological distress in this relationship has been understudied. This study aims to identify direct and indirect relationships between social capital and adherence to the Mediterranean diet among Lithuanian young adults and identify the mediating role of psychological distress in this relationship. Data were collected from 1336 young adults, aged 18-36 years; 40.5% were males. MEDAS was used to measure adherence to a healthy diet. Social capital was measured by eight separate items in terms of family support, social support, social cohesion, social trust, communication, collaboration, participation, and distant communication. Kessler's six-item scale was used to assess psychological distress. Higher family support (β = 0.105), higher social participation (β = 0.294), and lower psychological distress (β = 0.073) directly predicted higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Social capital was indirectly related to adherence to the Mediterranean diet, with standardized effect sizes of 0.02-0.04, indicating small effect sizes. Thus, psychological distress mediates the relationship between social capital and a healthy diet. Given that social capital is related to psychological health and both directly and indirectly predicts healthy behavior in young adults, further longitudinal and experimental research is required to measure the effects of the intervention on incorporating, facilitating, encouraging, and implementing measures to strengthen the social connection between people and groups of people within the community, neighborhood, and organizations.

Lysophospholipids: A Potential Drug Candidates for Neurodegenerative Disorders

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) commonly present misfolded and aggregated proteins. Considerable research has been performed to unearth the molecular processes underpinning this pathological aggregation and develop therapeutic strategies targeting NDs. Fibrillary deposits of α-synuclein (α-Syn), a highly conserved and thermostable protein, are a critical feature in the development of NDs such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Lewy body disease (LBD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). Inhibition of α-Syn aggregation can thus serve as a potential approach for therapeutic intervention. Recently, the degradation of target proteins by small molecules has emerged as a new therapeutic modality, gaining the hotspot in pharmaceutical research. Additionally, interest is growing in the use of food-derived bioactive compounds as intervention agents against NDs via functional foods and dietary supplements. According to reports, dietary bioactive phospholipids may have cognition-enhancing and neuroprotective effects, owing to their abilities to influence cognition and mental health in vivo and in vitro. However, the mechanisms by which lipids may prevent the pathological aggregation of α-Syn warrant further clarification. Here, we review evidence for the potential mechanisms underlying this effect, with a particular focus on how porcine liver decomposition product (PLDP)-derived lysophospholipids (LPLs) may inhibit α-Syn aggregation.