The Association between Excess Body Mass and Disturbances in Somatic Mineral Levels

Association between childhood obesity, trace elements, and heavy metals: Recent discoveries and future perspectives

Trace elements and heavy metals play pivotal roles in health status by regulating a myriad of vital biological functions. Abnormal metal homeostasis has been linked to a constellation of pathogenic complications, including oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, dyslipidemia, and impaired insulin-mediated metabolism of carbohydrates, thereby increasing the odds of developing childhood obesity and related comorbidities. Herein, we provide a comprehensive revision of recent literature on the association between childhood obesity, trace elements, and heavy metals. Further, we emphasize on the crucial importance of addressing the influence that interindividual variability factors (e.g., sex, age, genetic determinants, concomitance of comorbidities, and environmental factors) may have in modulating the susceptibility to disease development. Altogether, this review article represents a concise guide to better understand the involvement of metals in childhood obesity pathogenesis and discusses future needs with the aim of establishing robust biomarkers in the context of precision medicine.

Overweight, Obesity, Hypertriglyceridemia, and Insulin Resistance Are Positively Associated with High Serum Copper Levels in Mexican Adults

Recently, the role of trace elements in the pathophysiology of obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and metabolic diseases has been explored. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to assess the association of overweight, obesity, and cardiometabolic traits with serum copper (Cu) levels in 346 Mexican adults. Serum Cu level was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Anthropometrical data were collected, and biochemical parameters were measured. The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index was used as a surrogate marker to evaluate IR. Overweight and obesity status was positively associated with the serum Cu level (β = 19.434 ± 7.309, p = 0.008). Serum Cu level was observed to have a positive association with serum triglycerides level (β = 0.160 ± 0.045, p < 0.001) and TyG (β = 0.001 ± 0.001, p < 0.001). Additionally, high serum Cu level was positively associated with overweight and obesity status (odds ratio [OR] = 1.9, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.1-3.4, p = 0.014), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 3.0, 95% CI 1.7-5.3, p < 0.001), and IR (OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.4-4.6, p = 0.001). In conclusion, our results suggest that overweight, obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and IR are positively associated with serum Cu levels in Mexican adults.

Relationship between prepregnancy BMI and the concentrations of iron, calcium, and magnesium in serum and hair during the first trimester of pregnancy in women

BACKGROUND

In women of childbearing age, a low dietary supply of iron, calcium, and magnesium is often observed. Minerals deficiency in pregnant women is often associated with abnormal body weight and may impact fetal development disorders. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the dietary intake of iron, calcium and magnesium and their concentrations in serum and hair in pregnant women.

METHOD

The study involved 97 Caucasian/white low-risk pregnant women at 12 weeks of gestation. The analysis of minerals in serum and hair samples was performed using atomic absorption spectrometry. Pre-pregnancy BMI was calculated based on self-reported weight. The study used a validated questionnaire and a 24-h recall nutrition interview, which were analyzed using Aliant software.

RESULTS

It was found that overweight and obese women exhibited higher magnesium concentration in serum, while iron content in serum and hair was markedly lower compared to women with normal body weight. The average total supply of iron was below the recommendation in pregnant women. Moreover, an inverse significant relationship was observed between BMI and iron concentration in hair and serum in the whole population.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, being overweight or obese before pregnancy is associated with low dietary iron intake and low iron concentration in serum and hair during the first trimester of pregnancy in women.

The Effect of an Elevated Dietary Copper Level on the Vascular Contractility and Oxidative Stress in Middle-Aged Rats

Copper (Cu), being an essential mineral, plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological homeostasis across multiple bodily systems, notably the cardiovascular system. However, an increased Cu level in the body may cause blood vessel dysfunction and oxidative stress, which is unfavorable for the cardiovascular system. Middle-aged (7-8 months old) male Wistar rats (n/group = 12) received a diet supplemented with 6.45 mg Cu/kg (100% of the recommended daily dietary quantity of copper) for 8 weeks (Group A). The experimental group received 12.9 mg Cu/kg of diet (200%-Group B). An ex vivo study revealed that supplementation with 200% Cu decreased the contraction of isolated aortic rings to noradrenaline (0.7-fold) through FP receptor modulation. Vasodilation to sodium nitroprusside (1.10-fold) and acetylcholine (1.13-fold) was potentiated due to the increased net effect of prostacyclin derived from cyclooxygenase-1. Nitric oxide (NO, 2.08-fold), superoxide anion (O2•-, 1.5-fold), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, 2.33-fold) measured in the aortic rings increased. Blood serum antioxidant status (TAS, 1.6-fold), Cu (1.2-fold), Zn (1.1-fold), and the Cu/Zn ratio (1.4-fold) increased. An increase in Cu (1.12-fold) and the Cu/Zn ratio (1.09-fold) was also seen in the rats' livers. Meanwhile, cyclooxygenase-1 (0.7-fold), cyclooxygenase-2 (0.4-fold) and glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (0.5-fold) decreased. Moreover, a negative correlation between Cu and Zn was found (r = -0.80) in rat serum. Supplementation with 200% Cu did not modify the isolated heart functioning. No significant difference was found in the body weight, fat/lean body ratio, and organ weight for either the heart or liver, spleen, kidney, and brain. Neither Fe nor Se, the Cu/Se ratio, the Se/Zn ratio (in serum and liver), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), or intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (iCAM-1) (in serum) were modified. Supplementation with 200% of Cu potentiated pro-oxidant status and modified vascular contractility in middle-aged rats.

Blood Concentration of Macro- and Microelements in Women Who Are Overweight/Obesity and Their Associations with Serum Biochemistry

Risk elements in blood matrices can affect human health status through associations with biomarkers at multiple levels. The aim of this study was to analyze 15 macro- and microelements in the blood serum of women with overweight (BMI of ≥25 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI of ≥30 kg/m2) and to examine possible associations with biochemical, liver enzymatic parameters, and markers of oxidative stress. Based on the power calculation, the study involved women (in the postmenopausal stage) with overweight (n = 26) and obesity (n = 22), aged between 50-65 years. Multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to measure body composition parameters. Concentrations of elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, and Hg was measured using cold-vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy. Individuals with obesity, as indicated by a higher BMI, percentage of body fat, and visceral fat area, had elevated serum levels of Ca, Mg, Fe, Al, Sr, Pb, and Hg. Concentrations of Al, Cu, K, Sb, Zn, and Pb significantly affected biochemical and liver function markers in women with overweight or obesity. Elements such as Cu and Al were associated with increased total cholesterol. The correlation analysis between total antioxidant status and Cu, Al, and Ni confirmed associations in both groups. Our findings underscore the importance of addressing excess body weight and obesity in relation to risk elements. The results of the research could be beneficial in identifying potential targets for the treatment or prevention of comorbidities in people with obesity.

Essential Trace Elements in Patients with Dyslipidemia: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Lipid metabolism is a complex process that includes lipid uptake, transport, synthesis, and degradation. Trace elements are vital in maintaining normal lipid metabolism in the human body. This study explores the relationship between serum trace elements and lipid metabolism.

METHODS

In this study, we reviewed articles on the relationship between alterations in somatic levels of zinc, iron, calcium, copper, chrome, manganese, selenium, and lipid metabolism. In this systematic review and mate-analysis, databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang was searched for articles on the relationship published between January 1, 1900, and July 12, 2022. The meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager5.3 (Cochrane Collaboration).

RESULTS

No significant association was found between serum zinc and dyslipidemia, while other serum trace elements (iron, selenium, copper, chromium, and manganese) were associated with hyperlipidemia.

CONCLUSION

The present study suggested that the human body's zinc, copper, and calcium content may be related to lipid metabolism. However, findings on lipid metabolism and Iron, Manganese have not been conclusive. In addition, the relationship between lipid metabolism disorders and selenium levels still needs to be further studied. Further research is needed on treating lipid metabolism diseases by changing trace elements.

The Long-Term Effect of Maternal Obesity on the Cardiovascular Health of the Offspring-Systematic Review

Maternal obesity may affect offspring's cardiovascular health. Our literature search using PubMed, Web of Sciences included original English research and Google Scholar articles published over the past ten years, culminating in 96 articles in this topic. A mother's obesity during pregnancy has a negative impact on the cardiovascular risk for their offspring. Dependence was observed in relation to hypertension, coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure. The adverse impact of an abnormal diet in pregnant mice on heart hypertrophy was observed, and was also confirmed in human research. Pregnant women with obesity were at greater risk of having a child with innate heart disease than pregnant women with normal mass. To conclude: mother's obesity has a negative impact on the long-term cardiovascular consequences for their offspring, increasing their risk of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke and heart failure. It also increases the probability of heart hypertrophy and innate heart defects.

The Iron and Calcium Availability and the Satiating Effect of Different Biscuits

Biscuits are bakery products made with wheat flour. Wheat is a good source of minerals and dietary fibre, although the presence of phytate or other components could modify mineral availability. In addition, cereal-based products are usually characterised by high fibre content that can influence satiety. The objectives of this study were to evaluate both the iron and calcium availability and the satiety effect of different types of biscuits (traditional recipe vs. "Digestive") sold in the Spanish market, identifying whether the biscuit type could have effects on these parameters. Nutritional composition and the use of the generic descriptor "Digestive" of biscuits were collected from labels. Phytate and mineral contents were also measured. All samples were previously digested by a simulated process of the gastrointestinal conditions. The satiating effect of biscuits was evaluated according to VAS questionnaires. Results indicated that the mineral content and availability were different between types of biscuits (the traditional recipe showed the highest calcium concentration, while iron was higher in the "Digestive" type). However, mineral availability showed the highest percentages for both minerals, calcium and iron, in the Maria-type samples. Regardless of the different fibre content of both types of biscuits, and despite being higher in the Digestive type than in the Maria type, the satiety measures indicated that the Maria type had more effect on the food intake control. Thus, the descriptor "Digestive¨ in biscuits does not seem to be a marker of better nutritional quality, including parameters of effects on health such as mineral availability or satiety.

Foundational Nutrition: Implications for Human Health

Human nutrition, and what can be considered "ideal" nutrition, is a complex, multi-faceted topic which many researchers and practitioners deliberate. While some attest that basic human nutrition is relatively understood, it is undeniable that a global nutritional problem persists. Many countries struggle with malnutrition or caloric deficits, while others encounter difficulties with caloric overconsumption and micronutrient deficiencies. A multitude of factors contribute to this global problem. Limitations to the current scope of the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) and dietary reference intakes (DRIs), changes in soil quality, and reductions in nutrient density are just a few of these factors. In this article, we propose a new, working approach towards human nutrition designated "Foundational Nutrition". This nutritional lens combines a whole food approach in conjunction with micronutrients and other nutrients critical for optimal human health with special consideration given to the human gut microbiome and overall gut health. Together, this a synergistic approach which addresses vital components in nutrition that enhances the bioavailability of nutrients and to potentiate a bioactive effect.

Associations between urinary iodine concentration and the prevalence of metabolic disorders: a cross-sectional study

Background

Few studies have examined the role of iodine in extrathyroidal function. Recent research has shown an association between iodine and metabolic syndromes (MetS) in Chinese and Korean populations, but the link in the American participants remains unknown.

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the relationship between iodine status and metabolic disorders, including components associated with metabolic syndrome, hypertension, hyperglycemia, central obesity, triglyceride abnormalities, and low HDL.

Methods

The study included 11,545 adults aged ≥ 18 years from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007-2018). Participants were divided into four groups based on their iodine nutritional status(ug/L), as recommended by the World Health Organization: low UIC, < 100; normal UIC, 100-299; high UIC, 300-399; and very high, ≥ 400. The Odds ratio (OR) for MetS basing the UIC group was estimated using logistic regression models for our overall population and subgroups.

Results

Iodine status was positively associated with the prevalence of MetS in US adults. The risk of MetS was significantly higher in those with high UIC than in those with normal UIC [OR: 1.25; 95% confidence intervals (CI),1.016-1.539; p = 0.035). The risk of MetS was lower in the low UIC group (OR,0.82; 95% CI: 0.708-0.946; p = 0.007). There was a significant nonlinear trend between UIC and the risk of MetS, diabetes, and obesity in overall participants. Participants with high UIC had significantly increased TG elevation (OR, 1.24; 95% CI: 1.002-1.533; P = 0.048) and participants with very high UIC had significantly decreased risk of diabetes (OR, 0.83; 95% CI: 0.731-0.945, p = 0.005). Moreover, subgroup analysis revealed an interaction between UIC and MetS in participants aged < 60 years and ≥ 60 years, and no association between UIC and MetS in older participants aged ≥ 60 years.

Conclusion

Our study validated the relationship between UIC and MetS and their components in US adults. This association may provide further dietary control strategies for the management of patients with metabolic disorders.

Associations among SNPs in two addictive genes, food addiction, and antioxidant markers in recreationally active young women

INTRODUCTION

food addiction is associated with genetic polymorphisms and decreased antioxidant intake.

OBJECTIVES

this study determined the associations among food addiction, dopamine receptor 2 (DRD2) and toll-interleukin 1 receptor (TIR) domain-containing adaptor protein (TIRAP rs625413) gene polymorphisms, antioxidant capacities, and zinc levels among recreationally active Turkish women.

METHODS

the Yale Food Addiction Scale was used to evaluate the food addiction status. Serum antioxidant capacities and zinc levels were evaluated by blood analyses. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extraction was performed using peripheral blood leukocytes, and the polymorphism status of the DRD2 Taq 1A and TIRAP genes was investigated using a commercial kit.

RESULTS

the frequencies of the heterozygous genotypes of DRD2 Taq 1A and TIRAP were 23.1 % and 31.4 %, respectively, and the frequency of risk allele homozygous genotypes was 3.2 %. Most participants (94.4 %) had a nonpolymorphic/wild (CC) genotype in both genes; however, 11.5 % of the participants had a food addiction. The differences between serum antioxidant capacities, zinc levels, and body mass indices of those with and without food addiction were statistically significant. However, there were no differences in the serum zinc and antioxidant levels among the different genotypes.

CONCLUSION

food addiction in young Turkish women was not associated with DRD2 Taq 1A or TIRAP polymorphisms but was associated with serum antioxidant capacities and zinc levels. Further studies on different loci of the same genes or genotypes of different genes with larger sample sizes are warranted.

Novel nutraceutical supplements with yeast β-glucan, prebiotics, minerals, and Silybum marianum (silymarin) ameliorate obesity-related metabolic and clinical parameters: A double-blind randomized trial

Purpose

It is known that obesity has a multifactorial etiology that involves genetic and environmental factors. The WHO estimates the worldwide prevalence of 1.9 billion overweight adults and more than 650 million people with obesity. These alarming data highlight the high and growing prevalence of obesity and represent a risk factor for the development and aggravation of other chronic diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that is frequently considered the hepatic outcome of type 2 diabetes. The use of non-pharmacological therapies such as food supplements, nutraceuticals, and natural integrative therapies has grown as an alternative tool for obesity-related diseases compared to conventional medications. However, it is a still little explored research field and lacks scientific evidence of therapeutic effectiveness. Considering this, the aim is to evaluate whether a new nutraceutical supplement composition can improve and supply essential mineral nutrients, providing an improvement of obesity-related metabolic and endocrine parameters.

Methods

Sedentary volunteers (women and men) with body mass index (BMI) ≤34.9 kg/m2 were divided into two groups: Novel Nutraceutical Supplement_(S) (n = 30) and Novel Nutraceutical Supplement (n = 29), differing in the absence (S) or presence of silymarin, respectively. Volunteers were instructed to take two capsules in the morning and two capsules in the evening. No nutritional intervention was performed during the study period. The data (anthropometrics and anamneses) and harvest blood (biochemistry and hormonal exams) were collected at three different time points: baseline time [day 0 (T0)], day 90 (T90), and day 180 (T180) post-supplementation.

Results

In the anthropometric analysis, the waist circumference in middle abdomen (WC-mid) and waist circumference in iliac crest (WC-IC) were reduced. Also, the waist-to-height ratio (WHt R) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) seem to slightly decrease alongside the supplementation period with both nutraceutical supplements tested as well as transaminase enzyme ratio [aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio (AAR)], a known as a biomarker of NAFLD, and endocrine hormones cortisol and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) at 90 and 180 days post-supplementation.

Conclusions

In a condition associated with sedentary and no nutritional intervention, the new nutraceutical supplement composition demonstrated the ability to be a strong and newfangled tool to improve important biomarkers associated with obesity and its comorbidities.

The relationship between anemia and obesity

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is linked to a variety of unfavourable outcomes, including anaemia, which is a serious global public health problem. The prevalence of obesity along with anaemia suggests a relationship between obesity and anaemia. Recent studies have demonstrated strong associations between anaemia and obesity, chronic diseases, ageing, hepato-renal impairment, chronic infection, autoimmune diseases, and widespread malignancy. Thus, the intersection point of obesity and anaemia is an important area of attention.

AREA COVERED

This paper reviews the pathophysiology of obesity and anaemia. Then, It deliberates the relationship between obesity and different types of anaemia and other clinical forms associated with anaemia.

EXPERT OPINION

Obesity, especially obesity-related to excessive visceral fat distribution, is accompanied by several disturbances at the endothelial, hormonal, and inflammatory levels. These disturbances induce activation of several mechanisms that contribute to the anaemic state. Over-weight patients with chronic anaemias are required to maintain the related vitamins and minerals at optimum levels and appropriate BMI. In addition, a regular clinical follow-up is essential to be scheduled to reduce the risk of complications associated with anaemia in obese patients.

Does Ionized Magnesium Offer a Different Perspective Exploring the Association between Magnesemia and Targeted Cardiovascular Risk Factors?

Evidence of the association of magnesium (Mg) with arterial stiffness has so far been conflicting. The interplay between hypertension and elevated body mass index (BMI), with hypomagnesemia, instead, has been described in the literature in a more consistent way. Our study aims at revisiting the correlations between blood Mg levels and hemodynamic and body composition parameters in the general population, exploring the sensitivity profile of ionized Mg (Ion-Mg) compared to total Mg (Tot-Mg). We collected data from 755 subjects randomly chosen from a Swiss population previously described and stratified our sample into four equivalent classes according to ionized (whole blood) and total (serum) magnesium. After correcting for age, statistically significant differences emerged between: (i) Tot-Mg ≤ 0.70 and 0.81 ≤ Tot-Mg ≤ 0.90 for cf-PWV (p = 0.039); (ii) Tot-Mg ≤ 0.70 and Tot-Mg ≥ 0.91 for o-PWV (p = 0.046). We also found a statistically significant difference among groups of Ion-Mg values for the 24 h extremes of systolic blood pressure (p = 0.048) and among groups of Tot-Mg for BMI (p = 0.050). Females showed significantly lower levels of total magnesium (p = 0.035) and ionized magnesium (p < 0.001) than males. The overall agreement between magnesium analysis methods was 64% (95%CI: 60.8−67.7%). Our results confirm that Ion-Mg compared with Tot-Mg offers a different profile in detecting both correlations with hemodynamic and body composition parameters and dysmagnesemias. Lower levels of magnesium were associated with worse arterial aging parameters, larger 24 h blood pressure excursions, and higher BMI. Ion-Mg was superior in detecting the correlation with blood pressure only. Considering Ion-Mg as a more specific marker of the magnesium status, and the partially contradictory results of our explorative cross-sectional study, to avoid confounding factors and misinterpretations, ionized magnesium should be used as reference in future studies.

Differences in Overweight and Obesity Prevalence in Middle-Aged Men from Twelve Middle Eastern and Asian Countries Living in Saudi Arabia

Purpose

This study was conducted to determine differences in overweight and obesity prevalence and the associated sociodemographic variables among middle-aged men from twelve Middle Eastern and Asian countries living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. The study sample was chosen randomly using a stratified clustered sampling technique. The weight and height of 1800 middle-aged men (36 to 59 years) from twelve Middle Eastern and Asian countries living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, were measured using standardized methods. Face-to-face interviews were used to gather sociodemographic information from participants.

Results

Overweight and obesity were reported among 51.9% and 14.7% of participants, respectively. Nationality was a predictor of overweight and obesity. Subjects from Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia had the lowest (41.0%) and highest (85.1%) rates of overweight and obesity, respectively. Increasing age, staying in Saudi Arabia for a longer period, being single, and earning a high monthly income were associated with a significantly higher risk of overweight and obesity among the participants.

Conclusion

The findings revealed significant differences in the prevalence of overweight and obesity among participants from different countries living in Saudi Arabia. Sociodemographic variables associated with overweight and obesity among participants were identified.

Obesity and Leptin Resistance in the Regulation of the Type I Interferon Early Response and the Increased Risk for Severe COVID-19

Obesity, and obesity-associated conditions such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, are important risk factors for severe Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). The common denominator is metaflammation, a portmanteau of metabolism and inflammation, which is characterized by chronically elevated levels of leptin and pro-inflammatory cytokines. These induce the “Suppressor Of Cytokine Signaling 1 and 3” (SOCS1/3), which deactivates the leptin receptor and also other SOCS1/3 sensitive cytokine receptors in immune cells, impairing the type I and III interferon early responses. By also upregulating SOCS1/3, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 adds a significant boost to this. The ensuing consequence is a delayed but over-reactive immune response, characterized by high-grade inflammation (e.g., cytokine storm), endothelial damage, and hypercoagulation, thus leading to severe COVID-19. Superimposing an acute disturbance, such as a SARS-CoV-2 infection, on metaflammation severely tests resilience. In the long run, metaflammation causes the “typical western” conditions associated with metabolic syndrome. Severe COVID-19 and other serious infectious diseases can be added to the list of its short-term consequences. Therefore, preventive measures should include not only vaccination and the well-established actions intended to avoid infection, but also dietary and lifestyle interventions aimed at improving body composition and preventing or reversing metaflammation.

Transcriptional Control of Trpm6 by the Nuclear Receptor FXR

Farnesoid x receptor (FXR) is a nuclear bile acid receptor that belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily. It plays an essential role in bile acid biosynthesis, lipid and glucose metabolism, liver regeneration, and vertical sleeve gastrectomy. A loss of the FXR gene or dysregulations of FXR-mediated gene expression are associated with the development of progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis, tumorigenesis, inflammation, and diabetes mellitus. Magnesium ion (Mg²⁺) is essential for mammalian physiology. Over 600 enzymes are dependent on Mg²⁺ for their activity. Here, we show that the Trpm6 gene encoding a Mg²⁺ channel is a direct FXR target gene in the intestinal epithelial cells of mice. FXR expressed in the intestinal epithelial cells is absolutely required for sustaining a basal expression of intestinal Trpm6 that can be robustly induced by the treatment of GW4064, a synthetic FXR agonist. Analysis of FXR ChIP-seq data revealed that intron regions of Trpm6 contain two prominent FXR binding peaks. Among them, the proximal peak from the transcription start site contains a functional inverted repeat 1 (IR1) response element that directly binds to the FXR-RXRα heterodimer. Based on these results, we proposed that an intestinal FXR-TRPM6 axis may link a bile acid signaling to Mg²⁺ homeostasis.

Different trends of Cr, Fe and Zn contents in hair between obese, overweight and normal-weight men

OBJECTIVES

Overweight and obesity are risk factors for many diseases, nutrition leading to these phenomena is not only a question of disbalance between energy intake and expenditure, but also the presence of micronutrients. In our study, we focused on measuring residues of chromium, zinc and iron in the hair of men with different BMI.

METHODS

Hair samples and anthropometric questionnaires were collected from 45 males. Numbers of subjects and age structure were comparable between the three BMI groups. The determination of metal levels was performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry after mineralization of the hair.

RESULTS

The hair of obese men contained significantly higher chromium (0.096 μg/g vs. 0.045 μg/g, p = 0.0039) and iron (9.42 μg/g vs. 5.84 μg/g, p = 0.0009) concentrations than that of overweight men, but no significant difference between the normal-weight group and the obese group were found. The concentration of zinc was lower in obese subjects compared to overweight subjects (183.5 μg/g vs. 206.2 μg/g, p = 0.038). Also, statistically significant correlations between chromium and iron concentrations in hair and BMI were found (r = 0.307, p = 0.040, r = 0.360, p = 0.015, respectively). According to our results, age did not significantly affect chromium, iron and zinc concentrations in hair.

CONCLUSION

Consistent with some published studies, we have found that obese men have higher chromium and iron concentrations and lower zinc concentrations in hair.

Effect of nonylphenol on the colonic mucosa in rats and intervention with zinc-selenium green tea (Camellia sinensis)

To investigate the effect of nonylphenol (NP) exposure on the colonic mucosa in rats, and the protective effects of Guizhou zinc-selenium tea (Zn-Se tea) on the damage induced by NP, sixty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 10 in each group): control group (corn oil), and rats gavaged with NP at the doses of 0.4 mg/kg/d (Low NP group), 4 mg/kg/d (Medium NP group), 40 mg/kg/d (High NP group), and 40 mg/kg NP combined with green tea group at the doses of 0.2 g/ml (NP + GT group) and 0.2 g/ml Zn-Se tea group (NP + ZST group). NP at 40 mg/kg/d was administered to the tea groups for 3 months, followed by NP + green tea and NP + Zn-Se tea for 4 months, and the rest of the groups were gavaged for 7 months. With the increase of NP concentration, NP accumulation in colon gradually increased (P < 0.05), colonic villi shortened, tight junctions between cells widened, intestinal integrity was impaired, and goblet cells, intraepithelial lymphocytes and mast cells were significantly lower in NP high-dose group than in control group (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, the protein expression of Caspase-1, IL-1β and Pro-IL-1β in NP high-dose group was significantly higher than that in control group (P < 0.05). Zn-Se tea increased the number of goblet cells in colon and decreased the accumulation of NP in colon (P < 0.05); Zn-Se tea and common green tea decreased the expression of Caspase-1 and Pro-IL-1β protein (P < 0.05). NP exposure can destroy intestinal morphology, reduce the number of intestinal immune cells, reduce intestinal immunity and increase the release of inflammatory factors; Guizhou Zn-Se tea has a certain protective effect on colon damage caused by NP.

Consumption of Sinlek Rice Drink Improved Red Cell Indices in Anemic Elderly Subjects

Iron fortifications are used for the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia; however, iron dosing may cause oxidative damage to the gut lumen. Thai Sinlek rice is abundant in iron and contains phytochemicals. We aimed at evaluating the effect of an iron-rice (IR) hydrolysate drink (100 mL/serving) on neurological function, red cell indices and iron status in elders. Healthy elderly subjects were divided into three non-anemic groups and one anemic group. The non-anemic groups consumed one WR (2 mg iron/serving) and two IR drinks (15 and 27 mg iron/serving) (groups A, B and D, respectively), while the anemic group consumed one IR drink (15 mg iron serving) (group C) every day for 30 days. There were no significant differences in the MMSE Thai 2002 and PHQ9 test scores for members of all groups, while the nutrition scores and body weight values of group D subjects were significantly increased. Hemoglobin (Hb) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations increased significantly only in group C. Serum iron and transferrin saturation levels tended to increase in group A, while these levels were decreased in members of group C. Serum antioxidant activity levels were increased in all groups, and were highest in group C. Thus, consumption of an IR drink for 15 days functioned to increase Hb and antioxidant capacity levels in anemic elders.

Role for Selenium in Metabolic Homeostasis and Human Reproduction

Selenium (Se) is a micronutrient essential for life. Dietary intake of Se within the physiological range is critical for human health and reproductive functions. Selenium levels outside the recommended range have been implicated in infertility and variety of other human diseases. However, presently it is not clear how different dietary Se sources are processed in our bodies, and in which form or how much dietary Se is optimum to maintain metabolic homeostasis and boost reproductive health. This uncertainty leads to imprecision in published dietary guidelines and advice for human daily intake of Se and in some cases generating controversies and even adverse outcomes including mortality. The chief aim for this review is to describe the sources of organic and inorganic Se, the metabolic pathways of selenoproteins synthesis, and the critical role of selenprotenis in the thyroid gland homeostasis and reproductive/fertility functions. Controversies on the use of Se in clinical practice and future directions to address these challenges are also described and discussed herein.

Pathogenesis and Management of COVID-19

COVID-19, occurring due to SARS-COV-2 infection, is the most recent pandemic disease that has led to three million deaths at the time of writing. A great deal of effort has been directed towards altering the virus trajectory and/or managing the interactions of the virus with its subsequent targets in the human body; these interactions can lead to a chain reaction-like state manifested by a cytokine storm and progress to multiple organ failure. During cytokine storms the ratio of pro-inflammatory to anti-inflammatory mediators is generally increased, which contributes to the instigation of hyper-inflammation and confers advantages to the virus. Because cytokine expression patterns fluctuate from one person to another and even within the same person from one time to another, we suggest a road map of COVID-19 management using an individual approach instead of focusing on the blockbuster process (one treatment for most people, if not all). Here, we highlight the biology of the virus, study the interaction between the virus and humans, and present potential pharmacological and non-pharmacological modulators that might contribute to the global war against SARS-COV-2. We suggest an algorithmic roadmap to manage COVID-19.

H. Shehada A, Abdelnasser AbouHassanein E, Moawad J, Bawadi H, Shi Z. Association between central obesity indices and iron status indicators among Qatari adults

Co-existence of iron deficiency and obesity in adults has been reported in many countries. However, little is known on the association between obesity and iron deficiency in Qatar. This study aimed to investigate the link between abdominal obesity indices and iron status among adults in Qatar. A random sample of 1000 healthy Qatari adults, aged 20-50 years, was obtained from Qatar Biobank study. Body weight, waist circumference, dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) parameters and iron status indicators were measured using standard techniques. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the associations. The prevalence of iron deficiency and anaemia were 35.4 and 25%, respectively. Of the participants with a large waist circumference, 31.7% had anaemia. Ferritin significantly increased with the increase in the android fat to gynoid fat ratio and visceral fat in both genders. Serum iron and transferring saturation decreased significantly with the increase in waist circumference in women. In both genders, C-reactive protein increased with the increase in all obesity indices. Standardized values of waist circumference, android fat, gynoid fat ratio and visceral fat were significantly associated with log transformed ferritin in men and women. Waist circumference was inversely related to serum iron (β:-0.95, 95% CI:-1.50,-0.39) and transferrin saturation (β:-1.45, 95%CI:-2.46, -0.43) in women. In men, waist circumference was positively associated with haemoglobin level (β: 0.16, 95% CI:0.04, 0.29). Central obesity coexists with anaemia among the study population. Elevated central obesity indices were associated with an increase in ferritin concentration. The increased ferritin concentration may be attributed to the increase in inflammatory status as a result of an increase in c-reactive protein concentration associated with central obesity.