Effects of Fiber Purified Extract of Carob Fruit on Fat Digestion and Postprandial Lipemia in Healthy Rats

Increased postprandial lipemia is a cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor. Carob fruit extract (CFE) contains condensed tannins, and their intake has been inversely related to CVD. The objective was to evaluate the in vitro pancreatic lipase activity in the presence of CFE and the in vivo effect of CFE on postprandial lipemia of healthy Wistar rats in acute and subchronic digestibility studies and to relate it with changes in fat digestion and absorption. CFE significantly reduced pancreatic lipase activity. A peak delay and a dose-dependent decrease in plasma triglyceride and cholesterol areas under the curve were observed, effects that increased after the subchronic treatment. The levels of nondigested, nonabsorbed triglycerides of the remaining intestinal lumen fat were significantly higher in the maximum dose of CFE administrated versus the control ( P < 0.05). This study demonstrates for the first time the hypolipemic properties of CFE from the first administration, modifying postprandial lipemia by reducing the extents of fat digestion and absorption.

Can nonalcoholic beer, silicon and hops reduce the brain damage and behavioral changes induced by aluminum nitrate in young male Wistar rats?

Aluminum consumption has been associated with various neurodegenerative diseases. Previous studies suggest that regular beer intake reverses the pro-oxidant and inflammatory statuses induced by aluminum nitrate intoxication. This paper aims to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant capacity and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity of non-alcoholic beer (NABeer), silicon or hops, as well as their effect on animal behavior (e.g. curiosity, immobilization, rearing, grooming, swimming) and brain antioxidant enzyme (activity and gene expression) and anti-inflammatory status in aluminum nitrate intoxicated rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: 1) Control, 2) Aluminum nitrate (450 μg/kg/day), 3) Aluminum nitrate plus NABeer, 4) Aluminum nitrate plus hops, and 5) Aluminum nitrate plus silicon. Hops showed the highest in vitro antioxidant capacity and silicon the highest anticholinesterase activity. In the Aluminum group the brain aluminum/silicon ratio increased with impairment of brain antioxidant and inflammatory statuses. NABeer, silicon and hops block the negative effect on the in vivo antioxidant and inflammatory statuses induced by Aluminum nitrate and improve swimming and rearing behavioral tests. The various positive results suggest that NABeer is useful as a functional multi-target drink in the prevention of some neurodegenerative events caused by aluminum intoxication. More studies are required to conclude present results.

Frying performance of two virgin oils from <em>Cornicabra</em> olives with different ripeness indices

The frying performance of two virgin olive oils (VOO) from Cornicabra olives of different ripeness indices, 2.08 for VOO1 and 4.13 for VOO2, was evaluated. Thermal, oxidative and hydrolytic alterations were determined throughout 40 frying operations with potatoes. The initial oils showed similar fatty acid compositions and oxidative stability indices as determined by Rancimat, but VOO1 presented higher amounts of total polyphenols and tocopherols. The oils showed high and similar frying performance. No significant differences in the levels of polar compounds (PC) were found between the two oils during frying. Therefore, the frying stability of Cornicabra VOOs appears to be unconnected with olive fruit ripeness. The limit of degradation at 25% PC as established in different countries was calculated to occur at 55 frying operations in the two oils. As oil toxicity is related to the levels of compounds formed, the use of Cornicabra VOOs for frying is highly recommended.

Folate and vitamin B12 concentrations are associated with plasma DHA and EPA fatty acids in European adolescents: the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence (HELENA) study

This study aimed to examine the association between vitamin B6, folate and vitamin B12 biomarkers and plasma fatty acids in European adolescents. A subsample from the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence study with valid data on B-vitamins and fatty acid blood parameters, and all the other covariates used in the analyses such as BMI, Diet Quality Index, education of the mother and physical activity assessed by a questionnaire, was selected resulting in 674 cases (43 % males). B-vitamin biomarkers were measured by chromatography and immunoassay and fatty acids by enzymatic analyses. Linear mixed models elucidated the association between B-vitamins and fatty acid blood parameters (changes in fatty acid profiles according to change in 10 units of vitamin B biomarkers). DHA, EPA) and n-3 fatty acids showed positive associations with B-vitamin biomarkers, mainly with those corresponding to folate and vitamin B12. Contrarily, negative associations were found with n-6:n-3 ratio, trans-fatty acids and oleic:stearic ratio. With total homocysteine (tHcy), all the associations found with these parameters were opposite (for instance, an increase of 10 nmol/l in red blood cell folate or holotranscobalamin in females produces an increase of 15·85 µmol/l of EPA (P value <0·01), whereas an increase of 10 nmol/l of tHcy in males produces a decrease of 2·06 µmol/l of DHA (P value <0·05). Positive associations between B-vitamins and specific fatty acids might suggest underlying mechanisms between B-vitamins and CVD and it is worth the attention of public health policies.

Fiber purified extracts of carob fruit decrease carbohydrate absorption

In vitro and in vivo effects of Carob fruit extract (CFE) on carbohydrate digestion and absorption.

Fatty Acid Changes in High Oleic Acid Sunflower Oil during Successive Deep-Fat Fryings of Frozen Foods

High oleic acid sunflower oil (HOSO) is a monounsaturated oil that is being extensively used in frying. The level of total altered fatty acids and the fatty acid pattern of a fryer oil was used to evaluate the alteration of a HOSO used 20 times to fry various frozen foods with frequent replenishment (FR) or without replenishment (NR) with fresh oil during the frying. In addition, the levels of total altered fatty acids and the fatty acid composition of the fat extracted from the fried potatoes after numerous fryings were determined and compared to those of the corresponding fryer oils. Altered fatty acids increased linearly through 20 fryings within FR and NR in the frying oil and also in the fat extracted. Although differences were not quantitatively relevant, changes tended to be higher in the extracted fat, and in the NR modality as a consequence of oil renovation and fat exchange between the frying oil and the potatoes. The decrease in the oleic acid content in the oil was more pronounced ( p< 0.001) in NR than in FR method, and more (at least p< 0.01) in the oils than in the corresponding extracted fats. Nevertheless, other fatty acids remained quite stable and similar or increased during frying, by both methods. These results suggest that total fatty acid alteration measure is a useful tool for frying assessments, and that they must be related not only to the degradation of unsaturated fatty acids but also to migrations of some fatty acids from the frozen prefried foods to the fryer oil as revealed by composition of the fat extracted from the fried potatoes.

Thermal Oxidation of Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil and a Mix of Both Oils during Forty Discontinuous Domestic Fryings of Different Foods

Changes in sunflower oil (SO), olive oil (OO) of 0.4º acidity value and a mixture (1:1) of both oils (MO) were studied during forty domestic discontinuous deep-fat frying of various foodstuffs, mostly frozen foods. The replenishment of the oil in the fryer with fresh oil was performed after every ten uses to maintain the oil volume in the fryer. Alteration of oils was evaluated by measuring polar content (PC) and compounds related to thermoxidative and hydrolytic changes. PC increased with different rates in the three oils, thus after twenty fryings, PC was 25.3 g/100 g oil for SO, 22.4 g/100 g oil forMOand 19.7 g/100 g oil for OO. At the fortieth frying, the three oils surpassed the critical level for PC of 25 g/100 g oil, but SO andMOwere abused oils with a PC value = 30 g/100 g oil. Oxidized triacylglycerols (OTG), triacylglycerol dimers (TD) and triacylglycerol polymers (TP) increased after forty fryings 6.1, 34.5 and 260 times, respectively, in SO; 7.8, 50.9 and 115.8 times, respectively, in MO and 19.5, 70 and 149 times, respectively, in OO. The TP+TD/OTG ratio was used to assess the more predominant alteration through frying in the three oils. This ratio increased after forty fryings more in SO followed by MO, and then by OO, showing that oils rich in linoleic acid became more polymerized in frying than those rich in oleic acid. According to PC and the thermoxidative changes, MO behaved as a mix of OO and SO. Data indicated that during the first twenty fryings, olive oil of 0.4 º acidity value and the oil mix performed more satisfactorily than sunflower oil in repeated fryings of frozen foods, however, differences in frying oil behavior decreased during the last twenty fryings.

A comprehensive approach to formulation of seaweed-enriched meat products: From technological development to assessment of healthy properties

Meat consumption is influenced by various kinds of factors, among them health implications. Different strategies can be effective in developing meat-based functional foods. These basically entail reducing the presence of compounds with negative health implications and enhancing the presence of beneficial compounds. This article reviews a comprehensive model for the development of meat-based functional foods based on a presentation of the research achieved in terms of the design and development of qualitatively and quantitatively modified meat products (frankfurters, patties and restructured steaks). These were reformulated to incorporate nutrients associated with three different seaweeds (wakame-Undaria pinnatifida; nori-Porphyra umbilicalis; and sea spaghetti-Himanthalia elongata) as sources of bioactive substances, while simultaneously reducing sodium and fat and improving fatty acid profiles. Those seaweeds were chosen, because in terms of composition and health implications, abundance on Spanish coasts, relatively widespread consumption, and suitability in terms of flavour and colour they are better suited than others for use as ingredients in new products. It also discusses the consequences of the use of this type of meat-based functional foods (combination of pork meat and 5% of each seaweed with or without hypercholesterolaemic agent included in the diets) on growing animals (Wistar male rats), and their effects on different aspects of lipoprotein metabolism, oxidative stress and liver structure. This article, then, reports a comprehensive approach to the production of seaweed-enriched meat products, considering aspects of technological development aimed at achieving the functional effect.

[Maternal nutrition during pregnancy conditions the fetal pancreas development, hormonal status and diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome biomarkers at birth]

Pregnancy is a vital period where several hyperplasic, hypertrophic processes together with metabolic adaptation and preparation for extra-uterine life take place. Present review accounts for central aspects of nutrition throughout gestation on the embryonic and fetal periods. It is centered in the major changes occurring in fetal pancreas, with special mention to the susceptibility of this main glucose homeostasis organ to support nutritional changes during maturation and development. Studies performed in animal models as human are commented considering the role of maternal nutrition on β-cell mass size, insulin and other pancreatic hormones production, and insulin sensitivity. Details of both the thrifty genotype and phenotype hypothesis are given, indicating that hypo/subnutrition causes metabolic adaptations that permit the future body to grow and develop itself in limited environmental and energetic conditions. The Barker hypothesis is considered suggesting that this metabolic hypothesis is a double-edged sword in the actual abundance World. Lastly the review, taking into account our own research and other papers, analyses less known aspects that relate maternal diet with insulin resistance/sensitivity markers at delivery. Particularly the role of the saturated fatty acid/carbohydrate and omega-6/omega-3 ratios in the frame of maternal diet is reviewed considering the quality of those diets under the Healthy Eating Index and the Adherence to Mediterranean Diet scores and the relationship with insulin resistance profile at birth. Present review ends indicating that nutritional habits should be strongly stated before gestation in order to assure a proper nutrition since the first moment of pregnancy. This will support an adequate fetal and pancreatic growth and development, and in turn, adequate glucose homeostasis during pregnancy and later in life, slowing down or preventing from degenerative diseases related with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Dietary fibre and cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in developed countries. CVD is an inflammatory disease associated with risk factors that include hypercholesterolemia and hypertension. Furthermore, the evolution of this disease depends on the amount of modified lipoproteins (e.g. oxidized) present in the arterial subendothelium. Diet is considered the cornerstone for CVD treatment, as it can lower not only atherogenic lipoprotein levels and degree of oxidation, but also blood pressure, thrombogenesis and concentrations of some relevant factors (e.g. homocystein).Among different diets, the Mediterranean diet stands out due to their benefits on several health benefits, in particular with regard to CVD. Rich in vegetable foods, this diet contributes both quantitatively and qualitatively to essential fibre compounds (cellulose, hemicellulose, gums, mucilages, pectins, oligosaccharides, lignins, etc.). The present paper analyzes the effects of fibre consumption on a) cholesterol and lipoprotein levels; b) systolic and diastolic blood pressures; and c) antioxidant availability and profile. Some studies and meta-analysis are revised, as the possible mechanisms by which fibre may decrease plasma total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and blood pressure and to act as antioxidant, as well. In addition, author's own publications regarding the effect of fibre matrix (e.g. seaweeds) on arylesterase and the gene expression of some key antioxidant enzymes are reviewed. The paper also includes data concerning the possible interaction between fibre and some hypolipemic drugs, which may make it possible to attain similar hypolipemic effects with lower dosages, with the consequent decrease in possible side effects. The review concludes with a summary of nutritional objectives related to the consumption of carbohydrates and fibre supplements.

Blood pressure of omnivorous and semi-vegetarian postmenopausal women and their relationship with dietary and hair concentrations of essential and toxic metals

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to ascertain the relationships between mineral consumption, hair mineral content, and blood pressure.

METHODS

The study involved 26 postmenopausal women from enclosed religious communities, 14 were semi-vegetarians and 12 were omnivores. Mineral dietary assessment was performed using a 14-d precise weight method and Food tables. Hair mineral levels were measured by means Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Multivariable stepwise linear regression analyses were performed to find out the variables that affected most blood pressure.

RESULTS

In general terms, the omnivorous diet contained a significantly higher mineral content than the semi-vegetarian one. The mineral intake from both diets implied no health risk to the women studied, as their estimated daily intake (EDI) of toxic elements such as Cd and Pb was lower than their respective provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) of these minerals. Hair of the semi-vegetarians contained higher amounts of Al (p < 0.01), Ba (p < 0.01), K (p < 0.001), Na (p < 0.001), Pb (p < 0.001) and Mn (p < 0.01) but lower levels of Ca (p < 0.05) and Zn (p < 0.05) than that of their omnivorous counterparts. The omnivores presented significantly higher systolic (p < 0.01) and diastolic (p < 0.05) pressures than the semi-vegetarians. Levels of hair Co (R² = 0.328; p = 0.032) and hair K (R² = 0.409; p = 0.014)) were explicative for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Several dietary mineral and hair contents were higher in semi-vegetarian women suggesting that the hair is an important mineral excretion via contributing to maintain blood pressure at low levels.

[Beneficial effects of chocolate on cardiovascular health]

Since ancient times, numerous health beneficial effects have been attributed to chocolate, closing up its consumption to a therapeutic use. The present study reviews some relevant studies about chocolate (and its bioactive compounds) on some cardiovascular risk factors and stresses the need of future studies. The consumption of cocoa/ chocolate (i) increases plasma antioxidant capacity, (ii) diminishes platelet function and inflammation, and (iii) decreases diastolic and systolic arterial pressures. Data currently available indicate that daily consumption of cocoa-rich chocolate (rich in polyphenols) may at least partially lower cardiovascular disease risk. Further studies are required in order to establish the bioavailability and mechanisms of action of bioactive compounds in chocolate. The study of the interaction of chocolate and its components with candidate genes will also supply necessary information regarding the individuals best suited to benefit from a potential cardiovascular disease treatment with chocolate.

Effect of walnut-enriched meat on the relationship between VCAM, ICAM, and LTB4 levels and PON-1 activity in ApoA4 360 and PON-1 allele carriers at increased cardiovascular risk

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Cardiovascular risk depends largely on paraoxonase (PON-1) and apolipoprotein A4 (APOA4) gene polymorphisms. To compare the effects of consumption of walnut-enriched meat versus low-fat meat (LM) on selected soluble adhesion molecules and leukotrienes (LTB4).

SUBJECTS/METHODS

In all 22 subjects at increased cardiovascular risk were taken. It is a non-blinded, cross-over, placebo-controlled study. Two 5-week experimental periods separated by 4-6 week wash-out interval. Participants consumed walnut-enriched meat during one period and LM during the other. Diet characteristics, HDLc, Apo A1, paraoxonase, sVCAM-1, sICAM-1 and LTB4 were analysed. PON-1 55, PON-1 192 and APOA4 360 polymorphism effects were also assessed.

RESULTS

Individuals consuming walnut-enriched meat displayed higher paraoxonase activity (P<0.001), lower levels of sICAM and aVCAM (P=0.046, P=0.012, respectively) and leukotriene B4 (P=0.044), and lower paraoxonase-1/HDLc and paraoxonase-1/Apo A1 ratios (both, P<0.001) than those consuming LM. Paraoxonase levels correlated negatively with those of sICAM (r=-0.471, P<0.01). Significant decreases (at least P<0.05) were observed in sICAM concentrations in PON-1 55LM+MM, PON-1 QQ192 and APOA4-2 carriers while decreases in sVCAM in QR+RR and APOA4-1 carriers were observed. Paraoxonase-1/HDLc and paraoxonase-1/Apo A1 ratios were significantly influenced by paraoxonase polymorphisms.

CONCLUSIONS

Walnut-enriched meat appears as a functional meat as consumed in the framework of a mix diet lowered the concentration of some selected inflammatory chemoattractant biomarkers. This effect was largely influenced by PON-1 and Apo A4-360 polymorphisms.

[Similarities, differences and agonisms of pleiotropic effects of statins and omega-3 fatty acids]

This paper compares the pleiotropic effects of statins and omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) in treating and preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and deals with the possible interactions of those compounds. Statins represent one of the most important discoveries to have been made in the field of cardiovascular medicine in recent decades. Their beneficial cardiovascular effects, which have reduced the number of fatal events in patients with atherosclerosis, encompass more than their ability to lower cholesterol levels. The pleiotropic effects of statins involve their anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet properties and their ability to normalize endothelial function. In addition, these drugs may display antiarrhythmic activity, improve insulin sensitivity and counteract hypertension and obesity. The low rate of coronary disease documented in Eskimos corroborates the cardioprotective effects of the n-3 PUFA eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acids beyond their hypolipemic effects. The reduction of CVD-related deaths attributable to the action of α-linolenic fatty acid appears to be related to its strong antiarrhythmic properties. In addition, as a precursor of EPA and this last fatty acid of thromboxane A3, prostacyclin I3, serie-3 prostaglandines and serie 5-leukotrines and inhibitor/modulator of thromboxane A2, prostacyclin I2, serie-2 prostaglandines and serie 4-leukotrienes formation, the α-linolenic acid may reduce inflammation and thrombogenesis. As results of some studies suggest that the combined use of statins and n-3 PUFA improves cardiovascular protection and reduces the CVD-related mortality rate; the paper also reviews the possible synergism between both groups of compounds on CVD treatment and concludes that clear benefits may be obtained.

The effect of consuming meat enriched in walnut paste on platelet aggregation and thrombogenesis varies in volunteers with different apolipoprotein A4 genotype

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Low-fat meat (LM) has been considered adequate under a cardiovascular disease point of view. Meat enriched in walnut paste (WM) consumption produces beneficial antithrombogenic effects but with striking inter-individual variability that may be related to gene polymorphism. Variants in the APOA4 gene (APOA4) polymorphism are known to affect the cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to compare the effects of consumption of WM and LM on platelet aggregation, production of thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and prostacyclin I2 (PGI2), and the TXA2/PGI2 ratio in 22 volunteers with different APOA4 polymorphism.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Six volunteers carried the Gln allele (APOA4-2) while 16 were homozygous for the His allele (APOA4-1). Platelet aggregation, TXA2 (measured as TXB2), PGI2 (measured as 6-keto-PGF1α), and the thrombogenic ratio (TXB2/6-keto-PGF1α) were determined at baseline and at weeks 3 and 5 for the WM and LM dietary periods.

RESULTS

Platelet aggregation decreased significantly (P<0.05) more in APOA4-1 than in APOA4-2 volunteers at 3-wk WM period, while TXB2 levels dropped more in APOA4-2 than in APOA4-1 volunteers at 5-wk WM period. TXB2 levels and the TXB2/6-keto-PGF1α ratio decreased significantly more (P<0.05) after 5 wk treatment in APOA4-2 than in APOA4-1 carriers on the WM diet than on the LM counterpart. However, 6-keto-PGF1α levels increased more (P<0.05) in APOA4-1 than in APOA4-2 volunteers after the 5-wk WM period than after the 5-wk LM diet.

CONCLUSIONS

Present results suggest that consumption of WM with respect to LM decrease the thrombogenic risk more in Gln carriers than in His/His.

[Iron deficiency and overload. Implications in oxidative stress and cardiovascular health]

Although iron is an essential mineral for maintaining good health, excessive amounts are toxic. Nowadays, much interest is focused on the mechanisms and regulation of iron metabolism by down-regulation of the hormone hepcidin. The HAMP gene encodes for hepcidin appears to be exceptionally preserved. Disorders of iron metabolism could lead to iron overload, mainly causing the rare disease hereditary hemochromatosis, or on the other hand, iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia. Currently, these alterations constitute an important problem of public health. The genetic variation implicated in iron overload and iron deficiency anaemia, involves mutations in several genes such as HFE, TFR2,HAMP, HJV, Tf and TMPRSS6. Iron has the capacity to accept and donate electrons easily and can catalyze reactions of free radicals production. Therefore, iron overload causes lipid peroxidation and increases cardiovascular risk. Recently, a relationship between iron metabolism and insulin resistance and obesity has been described. In contrast, regarding a possible relationship between iron deficiency anaemia and cardiovascular disease, many aspects remain controversial. This review presents an overview of the most recent information concerning iron metabolism, iron bioavailability and iron overload/deficiency related diseases. The relation between iron and cardiovascular risk, in iron overload and in iron deficiency situations, is also examined. Finally, strategies to modify dietary iron bioavailability in order to prevent iron deficiency or alleviate iron overload are suggested.

Olive oil-diet improves the simvastatin effects with respect to sunflower oil-diet in men with increased cardiovascular risk: a preliminary study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Concomitant intake of statins together with certain foods may affect their therapeutic effects. The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine the modulating effect of two culinary oils on the hypolipemic effect of statins.

SUBJECT AND METHODS

Twenty-five men with severe hypercholesterolemia and high estimate cardiovascular risk (> 20% according to the Adult Treatment Panel III of USA National Institutes of Health, ATP-III) were enrolled in an observational follow-up study to test lipoprotein profile changes after ix month 20-mg/d Simvastatin treatment. Thirteen volunteers using sunflower oil as the habitual culinary fat, and 12 using olive oil, were selected by non-probabilistic incidental sampling. Volunteers consent in follow their habitual diets and to maintain diet characteristics throughout the study. Diet was evaluated through the study by three 24-h recalls and a food frequency questionnaire.

RESULTS

The energy contribution of fat (P = 0.019) and MUFA (P < 0.001) was higher in the olive oil-group while that of PUFA (P = 0.001) and alcohol (P = 0.005) was higher in the sunflower oil-group. TC/HDL-cholesterol and the ATP-III 10-year risk percent decreased more (P < 0.05) in the olive oil group. TC and the TC/HDL-cholesterol and the LDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratios and the ATP-III 10-year risk percent decreased significantly more (P < 0.05) in the olive oil-group after BMI, energy and alcohol intakes were adjusted.

CONCLUSION

Data suggest that although Simvastatin is a very effective hypolipemic drug, olive oil-diets in preference to sunflower oil-diets must be consumed in patients with high cardiovascular risk.

[Cardiovascular risk and metabolic syndrome at the Toledo Area Study]

OBJECTIVES

To know the anthropometric and clinical characteristics of a children population sample, to study the prevalence and concurrence of cardiovascular risk factors in that sample, and to define the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in that population considering the blood pressure, HDL cholesterol, and fasting glycemia values, as well as the anthropometrical measurements.

SETTING

The health care area of Toledo.

SUBJECTS

Children aged 4 years included in the Toledo Area Study.

INTERVENTIONS

A prospective study is performed on the metabolic syndrome-related cardiovascular risk factors in a sample of 58 children from the Toledo Area Study. Data on anthropometrical and lipoprotein profile at birth were obtained. The anthropometrical, lipoprotein, and biochemical data were compared with those from other populations; we also looked for possible differences between boys and girls. At the same time, we analyzed the association between several cardiovascular risk factors in that population (logistic regression model) and we set up the cut-off levels to define in the children population possible candidates to metabolic syndrome. These levels are in agreement with those from similar adolescent populations.

RESULTS

Among the risk factors, higher systolic and diastolic pressure values stand up in girls (93.93 -boys- vs 98.41 -girls- p = 0.058; 52.32 -boys- vs 57.27 -girls- p = 0.026, respectively), as well as the concurrence of high blood pressure and hypercholesterolemia in boys (almost 7%). The whole prevalence of candidates to MS was 10.9% (5 girls -9.1%- and 1 boy -1.8%-). A high percentage of boys (< 50%) presented a wrong diet from the perspective of dietary cardiovascular risk markers. The only statistically significant variable at 10% (p < 0.10) in the regression model was Apo AI.

CONCLUSIONS

It is relevant that the presence of MS is higher in girls and in those infants with a dyslipemic nonhypercholesterolemic profile at birth, which emphasizes the usefulness of cardiovascular risk factors prospection from early ages.

[Usefulness and controversial issues of middle-chain fatty acids consumption on lipid-protein metabolism and obesity]

Middle-chain fatty acids (MCFA) contain 6-12 carbon atoms and are digested, absorbed and metabolized differently than long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). This work reviews some of the potential and real utilities of MCFA and their role on health. For this reason, they are used in enteral and parenteral nutrition because of their good absorption, and in premature-feeding milk-based formulas in order to improve calcium absorption. MCFA have become particularly important because of their possible role in treating and preventing obesity. Since they are more water soluble, they are taken-up by chylomicrons, and it is believed that they do not directly participate in lipogenesis. They are able to increase the thermogenic effect of foods, and its metabolism increases the production of ketonic agents with the subsequent anorexigenic effect. However, high doses of MCFA are required to obtain significant effects on weight reduction. The effects on lipid-protein metabolism are controversial. So, although they seem to reduce the post-prandial triglyceridemic response, the results their effects are not uniform regarding triglyceridemia and cholesterolemia. In spite of this, more and more products are being designed incorporating MCFA to treat obesity and overweight, having been considered as "GRAS" (Generally Recommended as Safe") components by the ADA. Further long-term studies are needed to warrant the usefulness of consumption of these compounds, particularly in the treatment and prevention of obesity.

Beer consumption reduces cerebral oxidation caused by aluminum toxicity by normalizing gene expression of tumor necrotic factor alpha and several antioxidant enzymes

Aluminum (Al)-induced neurotoxicity is well known and different salts of aluminum have been reported to accelerate oxidative damage to biomolecules. The present study has examined whether silicon consumed in the form of silicic acid or beer could potentially inhibit aluminum toxicity in the brain. Male mice were administered with Al(NO(3))(3) orally at a dose of 450 mg/kg/day in drinking water for 3 month. Experimental mice were given Al(NO(3))(3) along with 50 mg/L of silicic acid or with 0.5 ml/day of beer. Al brain levels in the Al group were four times higher than those of control mice while silicic acid and beer group values were 40% lower than those of the Al group. We have observed that beer prevented accumulation of lipid damage significantly, which resulted from aluminum intake. Decline in the expression of mRNA of endogenous antioxidant enzymes associated with aluminum administration was also inhibited by beer and silicic acid. The tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) RNA expression was normalized in silicic acid and beer groups. Very high and significant correlations were found for the different parameters tested suggesting that moderate consumption of beer, due to its silicon content, effectively protects against the neurotoxic effects of aluminum.

Does bicarbonated mineral water rich in sodium change insulin sensitivity of postmenopausal women?

AIM

To study the effects of drinking 0.5 L of two sodium-rich bicarbonated mineral waters (BMW-1 and 2), with a standard meal, on postprandial insulin and glucose changes. And to determine, if the effects vary depending on insulin resistance, measured by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA).

METHODS

In a 3-way randomized crossover study, 18 healthy postmenopausal women consumed two sodium-rich BMWs and a low-mineral water (LMW) with a standard fat-rich meal. Fasting and postprandial blood samples were taken at 30, 60 and 120 min. Serum glucose, insulin, cholesterol and triacylglycerols were determined. Insulin resistance was estimated by HOMA and insulin sensitivity was calculated by quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKY).

RESULTS

Glucose levels did not change. HOMA and QUICKY values were highly inversely correlated (r = -1,000; p < 0.0001). Insulin concentrations showed a significant time effect (p < 0.0001) and a significant water x time interaction (p < 0.021). At 120 min insulin levels with BMW-1 were significantly lower than with LMW (p = 0.022). Postprandial insulin concentrations showed significantly different patterns of mineral water intake depending on HOMA n-tiles (p = 0.016).

CONCLUSION

Results suggests an increase in insulin sensitivity after BMWs consumption. This effect is more marked in the women, who have higher HOMA values. These waters should be considered part of a healthy diet in order to prevent insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease.

Composition and physicochemical characteristics of restructured beef steaks containing walnuts as affected by cooking method

The study was conducted to determine the influence of various cooking methods - conventional oven, microwave oven, electric grill and pan-frying on the composition and physicochemical characteristics of restructured beef steaks formulated as low fat (L, 2.0% fat), medium fat (M, 13.0% fat) and 20% added walnut (W, 12.6% fat). Composition, retention coefficients for different compounds, cooking loss (CL) and texture were affected by both formulation and cooking. There was considerable retention of moisture, fat and minerals (as ash) in W samples after cooking. CL was highest (P<0.05) in M sample and lowest (P<0.05) in W samples. Microwaved restructured steaks had higher (P<0.05) kramer shear force (KSF) and bind strength (BS), while pan-fried and conventionally oven-cooked steaks had lower (P<0.05) KSF. The thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) content was low in all restructured steaks but was affected by both cooking and formulation. Although cooking can change the proximal composition of steaks, lipid retention (>90%) was greatest in the case of the W sample, thus assuring that the ultimate objective of these restructured meats, namely to provide a source of walnut and walnut fat, would be successful.

Cyclic fatty acid monomer formation in domestic frying of frozen foods in sunflower oil and high oleic acid sunflower oil without oil replenishment

During the frying process, oxidation, hydrolysis, polymerization, isomerization, and cyclization occur. Polymers and Cyclic fatty acid monomers (CFAM) are potentially toxic, and the latter are detected at relatively low levels (0.01-0.7%) in used frying oils. Twenty fryings of different frozen foods were carried out over 10 consecutive days in sunflower oil (SO) and in high oleic acid sunflower oil (HOSO). Fatty acid methyl ester derivates were hydrogenated with platinum oxide catalyst under hydrogen. Ethyl palmitate was added as an internal standard before hydrogenation. The CFAM obtained were isolated, concentrated and quantified by HPLC using a reverse-phase column followed by gas chromatography. Linear adjustments between total and individual CFAM content and the number of frying operations performed with both oils were established by analysis of variance. The comparison between linear equation adjustments of both oils was performed by a two-way analysis of covariance. After 20 fryings 15.4 +/- 0.06 g polar content/100 g oil, 7.15 +/- 0.08 g polymers/ oil, 11.52 +/- 0.08 g polymers/100g oil and 855 +/- 8.9 mg CFAM/kg oil were detected in SO. A 10 mg/100 mg oil of altered fatty acid content correspond to 700 mg/kg CFAM, while 25% polar material and 10% polymer content would correspond to about 850-1,000 mg CFAM/kg oil. Data suggest that frying with SO produces in each new frying 9 mg CFAM/kg more than frying with HOSO (p < 0.001). After frying cyclopentyl structures were more than twice as abundant as cyclohexyl fatty acids in both oils. Bicyclic compound formation was significantly higher in SO (p < 0.001). Because digestion and absorption of polar material, polymers and CFAM occur, data clearly show the advantageousness and advisability of frying with HOSO rather than SO.

Diets containing a high percentage of Nori or Konbu algae are well-accepted and efficiently utilised by growing rats but induce different degrees of histological changes in the liver and bowel

The consumption of algae has increased considerably in recent years. However, the nutritional consequences of the algae consumption have scarcely been studied and there are some indications of serious adverse effects of algae consumption in children and adolescents. This study aims to assess the effects of balanced diets containing 7% algae (Nori or Konbu) for 3 weeks on (i) dietary intake, growth, and dietary efficiency ratio (DER), (ii) absolute absorption of several minerals, and (iii) size and histology of the liver, spleen, kidney, heart and bowel of growing rats. All rats were fed a diet containing 93% casein-soybean oil-base. The remaining 7% of the diet consisted of a cellulose/wheat starch mix (35/65) in control rats, freeze-dried Nori (33.8% fibre) in that of the Nori group and freeze-dried Konbu (36.1% fibre) in rats fed Konbu. Food intake was similar in all groups. Body weight gain and DER, however, were somewhat lower in the Konbu group than the other groups but this effect was not statistically significant. The algae diets had a higher content of most of the minerals studied and with some exceptions alga fed rats also presented a higher absolute absorption of these minerals than control. There was no effect of algae consumption on organ weight except that the spleen weight, whose size appeared to be related to the dietary Na/K ratio, was significantly lower in the Konbu fed rats than in the other groups. Histological analyses did not demonstrate any remarkable changes in the kidneys, spleen or heart. However, the incidence of non-dense glycogen-like vacuole presence observed in livers of the Nori rats was significantly higher (P<0.05) than in Konbu and control rat livers. The Nori fed rats had a higher incidence of submucosal oedema than the Konbu fed rats, which may be related to the higher Na/K ratio in the Nori diet. Konbu rats had a lower score for most of the various histological parameters than Nori and control animals suggesting that Konbu is preferable to that of Nori. Further studies are needed to investigate the positive and negative effects of large-scale consumption of Nori and Konbu algae.

Nutritional assessment, health markers and lipoprotein profile in postmenopausal women belonging to a closed community

OBJECTIVE

To assess the dietary characteristics of a closed community and their relationship with several health markers and lipid and lipoprotein values in postmenopausal women.

DESIGN

Energy and nutrient intake, serum lipids, lipoproteins, antioxidants, peroxides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) peroxides in addition to several health markers were measured in a closed, postmenopausal female community consuming a diet without meat, meat products and alcoholic beverages.

SETTING

Departamento de Nutrición and Sección Departamental de Química Analítica and Escuela de Especialización de Análisis Clínicos, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain and Lerma, Burgos, Spain.

RESULTS

Cereals, vegetables, legumes and fruit, together with milk and eggs, constituted the most important ingredients of the diet consumed. Dietary carbohydrates contributed 42%en and lipids 46.4%en. The SFA/MUFA/PUFA ratio was 1/2/1 and the n-3/n-6 ratio 0.05 (SFA=saturated fatty acids, MUFA=monounsaturated fatty acids, PUFA=polyunsaturated fatty acids). The study community diet was monotonous and made for possible deficiencies of iron, magnesium, zinc, vitamin B(6) and vitamin D, in variable proportions. Routine biochemical and haematological normality markers indicate that only one woman presented hyperglycaemia and hyperuricaemia. Two women had haemoglobin levels <12 g/dl, but their mean corpuscular volume or mean corpuscular haemoglobin was normal. The prevalence of high cholesterol values (>6.21 mmol/l) was 42.8%, while that of high LDL-cholesterol levels (>3.88 mmol/l) was 35.7%, but none of the women displayed levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol <1.16 mmol/l, triglycerides >1.2 mmol/l or an LDL-cholesterol/HDL-cholesterol ratio>3. Only one woman had apolipoprotein (Apo) B levels >1.5 g/l, while most of the women presented Apo B values <1.2 g/l and an ApoA-1/ApoB ratio &<1.1. Plasma and LDL-peroxide levels, together with the tocopherol and carotene intakes, suggest a good antioxidant status in this population.

CONCLUSIONS

The diet of the study group seems compatible with a healthy life-profile and permits a more-than-acceptable degree of cardiovascular disease protection. However, the consumption of certain nutrients should be improved.

[Nutrition and dietary recommendations for the elderly "Public Health" Working Group of the Spanish Nutrition Society]

With the increase of life expectancy, the desire to maintain good health, functionality and maximum quality of life at advanced ages, for which nutrition plays a critical role, is a priority for the elderly. Though genetic factors are a determinant of life expectancy, there are several extrinsic factors which have a great influence on the quality of life of the elderly. Diet and nutritional status have a great influence, especially in the prevention and treatment of several diseases, which affect this heterogeneous and vulnerable age group. The nutritional status and needs of elderly people are associated with age-related biological, psychological and often socio-economic changes. All of these changes can increase the risk of developing a number of age-related diseases. In developed countries the elderly are the most affected by malnutrition, either because of a deficiency (energy and several nutrients) or an excess, leading to obesity and related diseases. This review highlights the most important factors affecting nutritional status in elderly people and focus on the need to maintain adequate physical activity level and an optimal physic, psychic and social functional capacity. It discusses dietary reference intakes and guidelines to improve and/or maintain adequate nutritional status in older people in order to reduce susceptibility to some illness and disease.

Eicosanoid production, thrombogenic ratio, and serum and LDL peroxides in normo- and hypercholesterolaemic post-menopausal women consuming two oleic acid-rich diets with different content of minor components

The present paper compares the effects of two monounsaturated oils, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and high-oleic acid sunflower oil (HOSO), on serum and LDL peroxides, eicosanoid production and the thrombogenic ratio (thromboxane (TX) B2:6-keto-prostaglandin F1alpha) in fourteen non-obese post-menopausal women. The subjects, mean age 63 (SD 11) years, were assigned to two consecutive oleic acid-rich 28 d dietary periods. EVOO and HOSO represented 62 % of the total lipid intake and were used as the only culinary fat during the first and second dietary periods respectively. Serum peroxides, plasma alpha-tocopherol and TXB2 levels in stimulated platelet-rich plasma (PRP-TXB2) were significantly higher (P < 0.01, P < 0.001, and P < 0.05, respectively) after the HOSO diet than after the EVOO diet. The relationship between the serum cholesterol level (< 6.21 mmol/l or > or = 6.21 mmol/l) and the type of dietary oil on eicosanoids, peroxides and alpha-tocopherol were evaluated by two-way ANOVA. Dietary oil significantly affected (P < 0.05) the PRP-TXB2 level, whereas serum and LDL peroxides were significantly affected (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively) by the serum cholesterol level. The plasma alpha-tocopherol level was significantly affected by the serum cholesterol level and the type of dietary oil (both P < 0.001). No significant relationships were found between serum cholesterol levels, serum peroxide or LDL peroxide levels, plasma alpha-tocopherol concentrations or alpha-tocopherol intakes with eicosanoid production or the thrombogenic ratio due to dietary changes. However, in spite of their higher alpha-tocopherol levels, hypercholesterolaemic subjects showed increased peroxidation in serum and LDL in comparison with normocholesterolaemic subjects on the HOSO diet in comparison with the EVOO diet. These findings suggest that differences in the type of minor compounds, as well as in the concentration of linoleic acid, in both these monounsaturated oils may play an important role in modulating eicosanoid production and lipoprotein peroxidation when they constitute a large proportion of the diet of post-menopausal women.

Selected trace elements and minerals in cord blood: association with lipids and lipoproteins at birth

Recent studies have found that some minerals are associated with lipoprotein metabolism, peroxidation and coronary heart disease. The present study was designed to obtain information on the relationship between the concentrations of minerals and trace elements and those of lipids, lipoproteins and apolipoproteins (Apo) in cord blood. Seventy-nine healthy singleton normoweight full-term newborns without foetal distress according to Apgar scores were studied. The quartile distribution of neonates, according to serum concentrations of the different minerals studied, displayed significant differences in lipid values between infants in the lowest and highest quartiles of: magnesium, for HDL-cholesterol, Apo A-I, Apo B and the HDL-cholesterol/Apo A-I ratio; iron, for HDL-cholesterol and the HDL-cholesterol/Apo A-I ratio; copper, for triglycerides and the LDL-cholesterol/Apo B ratio. With the exception of calcium, several significant correlations were found between the minerals and trace elements and the lipids, Apo and lipoproteins tested.

[Review: cardiovascular effect of garlic (Allium sativum)]

Garlic has been used for centuries, and even nowadays is part of popular medicine in many cultures. New data have increased the interest in garlic and its role in normalization and treatment of cardiovascular disease risk factors. Recent studies have shown the complex composition of garlic, containing many compounds, that present potential positive effect in the field of health. The aim of the present paper was to review results of some studies that have found a relationship between garlic and cardiovascular diseases. From some of them it can be summarized that garlic can normalize plasma lipid, check lipid peroxidation, stimulate fibrinolytic activity, inhibit platelet aggregation, smooth the thickening and structural changes of artery wall related to aging and atherosclerosis, and decrease blood pressure. However, some other studies do not support these benefits. The positive effects found have promoted many study projects, nevertheless, the extract lability and the lack of result consensus call for a moderate consumption of garlic and garlic extracts. The composition variation due to gathering and aging together with the changes occurring in canning and industrial treatment makes necessary the application of some norms in the production and consumption of this functional food in order to guarantee its use in adequate form and doses.

Column and high-performance size exclusion chromatography applications to the in vivo digestibility study of a thermoxidized and polymerized olive oil

This study aimed (i) to design an in vivo model to study fat digestibility, and (ii) to apply this design to test the in vivo digestibility of a highly thermoxidized olive oil. True digestibility of unheated olive oil was tested 2, 4, 6, and 7 h after administering 1 g of olive oil/100 g body weight to young adult Wistar rats by means of esophageal probes. Remaining gastrointestinal lumen fat showed an inversely linear relationship (r= -0.9932; P < 0.001) with the length of the experiment. A 4-h test was considered adequate because after this period, half of the oil administer still remains in the lumen, making it possible to accurately measure the different nondigested, nonabsorbed thermoxidized compounds. In a second experiment, fresh olive oil (3.6 mg polar content/100 mg oil) was heated at 180 degrees C for 50 h in the presence of air; the polar content in this oil rose to 46.0 mg/100 mg oil. After 4 h, the true digestibility coefficient of 50-h heated olive oil did not significantly change, although it tended to decrease (24%) with respect to the unheated oil. Silica gel column chromatography and high-performance size exclusion chromatography were used to quantify nonthermoxidized and thermoxidized products present in the oils and in the gastrointestinal lumen after these test periods. True digestibility of the different thermoxidized compounds from the heated oil was 30-40%, whereas that of thermoxidized compounds from the fresh oil was much higher (approximately 80%). Nonoxidized triacylglycerol hydrolysis was negatively affected by the presence of large amounts of thermoxidized compounds. The present proposed model seems to be a useful tool for the study of thermoxidized oils. Data also show that thermoxidized compounds from abused olive oil are poorly but actively hydrolyzed and absorbed in vivo.

Does frequent replenishment with fresh monoenoic oils permit the frying of potatoes indefinitely?

The frying life of two monoenoic oils, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) and high oleic acid sunflower oil (HOSO), used to fry potatoes following a domestic frying model, by replenishing the oil in the fryer with fresh oil after each use to maintain the oil volume/fresh potato ratio, was studied by measuring polar content (PC) and triglyceride oligomer (TO) content. A combination of column and high-performance size-exclusion chromatography was used. Changes in the PC and TO content of both oils according to the number of frying uses were adjusted to linear, logarithmic, and power equations. While all three equations reflected the alterations quite accurately (p < 0.001), the logarithmic and power equations defined them best. Frequent replenishment of both frying oils with fresh oil produced a stabilization of PC and TO levels after 20-40 uses. According to the linear adjustment equation, 321 +/- 33 frying operations with EVOO and 290 +/- 40 with HOSO would be needed to raise PC to 25%. To reach the 10% TO level set for discarding oil used in frying, EVOO and HOSO would have to be used 319 +/- 35 and 241 +/- 37 times, respectively. Using the power adjustment, however, the theoretical frying life of both oils would be much higher (at least 4460 frying uses before reaching a 25% PC and 538-1552 uses for the EVOO and 249-1319 uses for the HOSO to reach a 10% TO level). The frying life of EVOO and HOSO would be extended almost indefinitely (at least 170 000 uses) when the logarithmic adjustment was applied. These data suggest that frequent replenishment of used monoenoic oil with fresh oil permits one to fry sets of fresh potatoes a very high number of occasions.

Lipoprotein profiles and serum peroxide levels of aged women consuming palmolein or oleic acid-rich sunflower oil diets

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the hypercholesterolemic effects of a dietary exchange between 16:0 and 18:1 while 18:2 was at relatively lower level (approximately 4%) in aged women with initially high total serum cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) values and with high intakes of dietary cholesterol.

DESIGN

Subjects were assigned to two consecutive 28 d periods. In the first period all subjects followed an oleic acid-rich diet in the form of oleic acid-rich sunflower oil. This was followed by a second period rich in palmitic acid in the form of palmolein. Nutrient intakes, serum lipids, lipoproteins, antioxidant vitamins, peroxides and LDL-peroxides were measured at two dietary periods.

SETTING

Instituto de Nutrición y Bromatología (CSIC), Departamento de Nutrición y Bromatología I (Nutrición) and Sección Departamental de Quimica Analítica, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain.

RESULTS

The palmolein period led to an increase in TC (P < 0.001; 17.7%) and serum apolipoprotein (Apo) B levels (P < 0.001; 18.0%). LDL-C and LDL-Apo B concentrations were higher (P < 0.001, 4.33+/-0.94 mmol/L and P < 0.01, 1.08+/-0.20 g/L, respectively) following this period than following the oleic acid-rich sunflower oil diet (3.56+/-0.85 mmol/L, 0.93+/-0.16g/L, respectively). No significant differences were observed in the TC/high density lipoprotein cholesterol (TC/HDL-C) ratio between the two dietary periods. Serum and LDL-peroxides were lower (P < 0.01, 49.5%, and P < 0.001, 69.0%, respectively) after the palmolein diet than after the oleic acid-rich sunflower oil diet. The palmolein diet significantly increased TC, LDL-C, Apo B, VLDL-ApoB, LDL-ApoB in women with TC > or = 6.21 mmol/L or with TC < 6.21 mmol/L, but the increase in Apo B, LDL-C and LDL-Apo B was greater among the women with high TC. The palmolein diet increased HDL-C in women with high or with low TC but this rise was on the borderline of statistical significance (P = 0.06) only in normocholesterolemics. Serum and LDL-peroxides tended to be higher in women with TC > 6.21 mmol/L than in women with TC < 6.21 mmol/L, but palmolein decreased serum and LDL-peroxide in hypercholesterolemics more than in the normocholesterolemics, resulting in serum and LDL-peroxide levels which theoretically are more adequate.

CONCLUSIONS

Though palmolein increased LDL-C concentrations, it better protected LDL particles, mainly in women with high TC, against peroxidation than did oleic acid-rich sunflower oil.

Maternal body weight gain and fetus development of rats fed a moderately altered olive oil

The present study examines whether the consumption of a moderately altered olive oil influenced body weight gain and food efficiency ratio of pregnant rats as well as placental and fetal development. Olive oil used for frying 15 times undergoes a relatively slight alteration involving a statistically significant increase in polar content (9.0+/-0.1 mg/100 mg oil vs 2.0+/-0.1 mg/100 mg oil; p < 0.001). The methyl ester content also increased (5.1+/-0.8 mg/100 mg oil vs 1.8+/-0.5 mg/100 mg oil; p < 0.02), while the linoleic acid and oleic acid contents decreased significantly (6.2+/-0.6% oil vs 7.2+/-0.2% oil and 75.8+/-0.6% vs 78.9+/-0.2%, respectively, both p < 0.05). Wistar rats were divided into four groups, two of which included pregnant rats (P1 and P2) and the other two, non-pregnant rats (NP1 and NP2). Groups NP1 and P1 received a diet containing 15% of fat as unused olive oil, while groups NP2 and P2 were fed a diet with a fat content of 15% as the olive oil used in 15 fryings. Pregnancy increased food intake, body weight, weight gain and food efficiency ratio (P1 vs NP1, and P2 vs NP1), while consumption of the used olive oil diet with respect to the unused oil diet did not alter food intake, body weight, weight gain and food efficiency ratio, placental weight, fetal weight and the number of fetuses in P2 rats with respect to P1 ones. These results suggest that in pregnant rats consumption of olive oil with a moderate level of alteration, as the only dietary fat source, exerts no detrimental effects on the mother weight gain or conceptus development.

Do neonates with high serum cholesterol levels have a different high density lipoprotein composition?

In order to ascertain whether the high density lipoprotein (HDL) composition of neonates with high serum cholesterol levels (> or =2.59 mmol/l or > or =100 mg/dl) differs from that of neonates with normal serum cholesterol levels (< 2.59 mmol/l), 548 cord blood samples were examined from full-term newborns of the Toledo Study (Spain) of whom no perinatal factors were known which could alter cord blood lipid levels. Newborns were selected according to the following criteria: single and eutocic delivery with cephalic presentation, gestational age between the beginning of the 37th week and the end of the 41st week, body weight between 2.5 kg and 3.999 kg and an Apgar score of > or =7 and > or =9 at 1 min and 5 min, respectively. The prevalence of high serum total cholesterol (TC) level was greater (P < 0.02) in females than in males. Newborns with high TC levels had higher triglyceride (P < 0.01), HDL-cholesterol (P < 0.001) and apoprotein (Apo) A-I (P < 0.001) levels, and a higher TC/HDL-cholesterol ratio (P < 0.05), but a lower HDL-cholesterol/Apo A-I ratio (P < 0.05). ANOVA two-way analysis showed a significant effect of gender and serum cholesterol level and a statistical interaction of these two factors upon triglycerides, Apo A-I, and the HDL-cholesterol/Apo A-I ratio. However, HDL-cholesterol and the TC/HDL-cholesterol ratio were higher in neonates (males plus females) with high serum TC but they were not affected by sex. The larger HDL particles in males with high TC levels (HM) should be associated with the higher triglyceride level found in those individuals.

CONCLUSION

The composition of high density lipoproteins in newborns is influenced by the serum cholesterol level and by gender. Neonates with high total cholesterol have larger average high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles. If total cholesterol is elevated, HDL from males carries more cholesterol than HDL from females.

Heterogeneous responsiveness of normolipemic women to n-3 long chain fatty acid supplementation. Changes in serum lipids and apoproteins

The effect of 10 day-low dosage of n-3 long chain fatty acids (390 mg/day of EPA and 252 mg/day of DHA) on lipid and apolipoprotein (Apo) concentrations has been studied in nine normolipidaemic women aged 28.9 +/- 4.2 years. n-3 fatty acid supplementation did not significantly decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels but markedly decreased the Apo A1 and Apo B concentrations (12.7%, p < 0.01 and 23.1%, p < 0.001, respectively), while the Apo A1/Apo B ratio significantly increased (14.8%, p < 0.02). In contrast to the individual variations found for triglycerides and cholesterol, Apo changes indicate a fairly homogeneous response to the fish oil supplement. In seven women Apo A1 decreased (> 10%), whereas Apo B decreased (> 10%) in all of them. The Apo A1/Apo B ratio increased (> 10%) in five of these nine women. Changes in Apo A-1 and Apo B did not significantly correlate with changes in serum lipids. These findings suggest that short-term supplementation with low amount of n-3 long chain fatty acids, EPA and DHA, influences the serum Apo content more than the lipid levels in normolipidaemic women.

Lipaemia and liver composition in pregnant rats consuming olive oil and olive oil used for frying

The effect of the consumption of unused olive oil (polar content, 2%; oleic acid, 78.9 mg/100 mg oil, and linoleic acid 7 mg/100 mg oil) and olive oil used discontinuously for frying potatoes 15 times (polar content, 9%; oleic acid, 75.8 mg/100 mg oil and linoleic acid 6.2 mg/100 mg oil) was studied in pregnant rats with the aim of better understanding the relationship between the consumption of fat used in frying and lipid metabolism during periods of intense anabolism. Trials were performed in pregnant Wistar rats, divided into 2 groups and fed isocaloric diets in which the fat content (15% wt/wt) consisted of unused olive oil (P1) or oil previously used for frying (P2), and the results were compared with those of nonpregnant rats fed unused olive oil (NP1) and olive oil used for frying (NP2). Pregnancy increased (p < 0.01) food intake, body weight, weight gain, and food efficiency ratio (P2 vs NP2 and P1 vs NP1, respectively), but the treatment of oil included in the diets did not alter these parameters. Gestation significantly increased the serum triglyceride (TG) (p < 0.01) and total cholesterol (TC) (p < 0.05) concentrations and diminished that of phospholipids (PH) (p < 0.01). A significant effect of the type of oil consumed and a pregnancy x oil interaction on Tg and PH levels was observed. The weight of the liver and its fat content increased significantly (p < 0.05) as a result of pregnancy. Liver TC, TG, and PH increased (approximately 3 times the original values) during gestation, but no significant differences due to the intake of used or unused oil (P2 vs P1) were observed. The results indicate that the consumption of moderately altered olive oil, as the sole source of fat, does not alter the effect of pregnancy on the mothers' weight gain, lipaemia, and hepatic fat composition to any important degree.

Low density lipoprotein in neonates with high cord serum cholesterol levels

Differences in cord serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) composition between male and female neonates with normal or high (> or = 100 mg/dl or > or = 2.59 mmol/l) serum cholesterol levels were studied in 548 full-term newborn infants of the Toledo Study (Spain), where the absence of known perinatal factors that would alter lipid levels in cord blood was confirmed. The percentage of females with a high serum total cholesterol (TC) level was higher (p < 0.02) than that of males. ANOVA two-way analysis shows significant interaction of gender and cholesterol level upon LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol/Apoprotein (Apo) B ratio. However, Apo B was higher in those neonates, both male and female, with high cholesterol levels. The LDL fraction carried about 55% of TC in females with high TC levels (HF), whereas it transported just 40% in males with high TC levels (HM). LDL appeared more enriched in cholesterol than in Apo B in HF than in HM (p < 0.01). An increased level of small LDL particles should be associated with the higher triglyceride level found amongst HM. Results in LDL composition suggest that metabolic gender-related differences in infants with normal or high TC are presented at birth.

Concern about nutrition and its relation to the food habits of a group of young university students from Madrid (Spain)

The aim of this investigation was to study the relationship between concern about nutrition and food consumption in 533 university students (112 men and 421 women), aged 21.7 +/- 2.1 years old. Fish, dairy products and fruit were consumed in quite satisfactory quantities though cereals and vegetables were consumed less frequently than recommended. Men were found to consume greater quantities of milk, meat, bread and alcoholic drinks, while women ate more fruit and vegetables than men. 35.4% of subjects said they were especially concerned about the intake of fat and cholesterol, 24.5% expressed special interest in weight control and 18.2% recorded worries about the intake of vitamins and minerals. 21.6% of subjects expressed no worries at all. Multiple regression analysis showed no differences in concern about nutrition with respect to the sex or body mass index (BMI) of subjects. However, as age increased, the number of subjects expressing no concern fell whilst worries over the quantity of vitamins and minerals in the diet increased. Worries about bodyweight were found to rise with BMI. However, amongst those who wanted to lose weight, 42.2% of women and 7.4% of men had a BMI < 20 kg/m2. These persons, already very slim (below recommended values), still wished to lose weight and could become susceptible to nutritional imbalances. Relationships between concerns and food habits were scarce. Although fat and cholesterol were a concern in theory, the consumption of foodstuffs such as meat and eggs was quite high. However, relationships were found between concern over the vitamin and mineral content of the diet and the intake of supplements, and concern over bodyweight and intake of products that aid slimming. Nutrition educators may find this information useful in the design of their messages and educational programs.

Male and female cord blood lipoprotein profile differences throughout the term-period

Age- and gender-related differences in cord serum lipids and lipoproteins were studied in 548 singletons from the Toledo Study, Spain, aged 37.0- < 42.0 wk, with body weight between 2.500 and 3.999 kg and Apgar score of > or = 7 at 1 min and > or = 9 at 5 min. Cord total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-cholesterol were significantly higher in females than in males (1.89 +/- 0.53 vs 1.72 +/- 0.42 mmol/l, p < 0.001; and 0.88 +/- 0.43 vs 0.74 +/- 0.36 mmol/l, p < 0.001, respectively). With the exception of triglycerides which significantly increased through the term period in males and females (both p < 0.01), other serum and lipoprotein lipids remained rather constant between wks 38 and 42 in both sexes. However, all lipids and lipoproteins tended to be higher in 38 wk- than in 37 wk-newborns. Females showed higher HDL-cholesterol levels (p < 0.05) at wk 37, and higher TC and LDL-cholesterol values (both p < 0.05) at wks 39 and 40. TC was more or less equivalently carried by LDL and HDL in both sexes but males transported significantly more cholesterol by VLDL (p < 0.001) and less by LDL (p < 0.05) than females. TC was significantly correlated with LDL-cholesterol (p < 0.001) and HDL-cholesterol (p < 0.001). The different levels of TC and LDL-cholesterol, and the cholesterol distribution for lipoproteins in male and female neonates suggest that gender-related factors might influence lipid levels at term-period.

Hydrolysis of used frying palm olein and sunflower oil catalyzed by porcine pancreatic lipase

The enzymatic hydrolysis of frying used vegetable oils with different degrees of alteration were measured using porcine pancreatic lipase (acylglycerol acylhydrolase EC 3.1.1.3). Successive frying of potatoes significantly increased the level of total polar lipid content in the palm olein from 9.3 +/- 0.1 mg/100 mg oil to 26.4 +/- 0.3 mg/100 mg oil after 90 fryings, and from 4.0 +/- 0.1 mg/100 mg oil to 27.7 +/- 0.3 mg/100 mg oil in sunflower oil after 60 fryings. Triacylglycerol polymers, triacylglycerol dimers, and oxidized triacylglycerols also increased 37-, 7.9-, and 7.5-times in palm olein, respectively, and 56-, 22-, and 4.7-times in sunflower oil, respectively. However, diacylglycerols and free fatty acid levels related to hydrolytic alteration did not increase with the number of fryings in both oils. The substrate concentration in the reactor was determined by calculating the molecular weight of each oil showing a different degree of alteration. We compared the methodology used by us and that used by other authors. The results show that the methods are reproducible and that the values obtained are in concordance with theoretical values. The kinetic parameters apparent Michaelis-Menten constant (KMapp) and apparent maximum velocity of hydrolysis (Vmaxapp) were different in unused palm olein (5.1 +/- 0.7 and 166 +/- 7.6, respectively) than in sunflower oil (2.2 +/- 0.3 and 62 +/- 2.2, respectively). However, changes in KMapp and Vmaxapp were not related to the degree of alteration of the oils.