Effects of Satureja Khuzestanica supplementation on glycemic indices and lipid profile in type 2 diabetes patients: a randomized controlled clinical-trial

BACKGROUND

Several studies showed the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Satureja Khuzestanica (SK) in animal models. This study aimed to determine the effect of SK supplementation on glycemic and lipid outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

The study was designed as a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial using block randomization. Seventy-eight T2DM patients were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 39) or placebo (n = 39) groups. They received SK or placebo in 500 mg capsules daily for 12 weeks. Anthropometric, blood pressure, liver enzymes, glycemic, and lipid outcomes were measured before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

At baseline, there were no significant differences in age, sex, or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels between the groups. SK supplementation led to a significant decrease in FBS (-12.6 ± 20.7 mg/dl in the intervention group versus 3.5 ± 31.9 mg/dl; p = 0.007), HbA1c (-0.28 ± 0.45 in the intervention group versus 0.11 ± 0.54% in the placebo group; p = < 0.001), insulin (-1.65 ± 6.18 in the intervention group versus 2.09 ± 5.90 mIU/L in the placebo group; p = 0.03), total cholesterol (-14.6 ± 21.1 mg/dl in the intervention group versus 8.2 ± 30.9 mg/dl in the placebo group; p < 0.001), LDL-cholesterol (-4.6 ± 15.2 mg/dl in the intervention group versus 5.8 ± 14.6 mg/dl in placebo group; p < 0.001) levels, and significant increase in HDL-cholesterol (3.9 ± 4.9 mg/dl in the intervention group versus 0.9 ± 5.2 mg/dl in placebo group; p = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Based on the study results, SK supplementation may improve glycemic indices and lipid profile of patients with T2DM. Our findings may provide novel complementary treatments without adverse effects for diabetes complications. These results need to be further confirmed in clinical trials.

REGISTRATION

This trial has been registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT ID: IRCT20190715044214N1, registration date: 21/02/2021).

Nutrient patterns in relation to insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction in Iranian women

Prior studies have mainly focused on the association of one specific nutrient with insulin resistance (IR) and endothelial dysfunction and limited studies have assessed the association with different nutrient patterns (NPs). We examined the association between various NPs and IR and endothelial dysfunction among Iranian women. This cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 368 female nurses. A 106-items food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was applied for dietary assessments. Using factor analysis, the relationships between NPs and markers of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, and QUICKY), and endothelial dysfunction (E-selectin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1) were assessed. Mean age and body mass index of participants were respectively 35.21 years and 24.04 kg/m2. Three major NPs were identified. NP1, named as "dairy, fruits, and vegetables" had high values of potassium, folate, vitamins A and C, magnesium, and beta carotene. No significant association was observed between this NP and insulin resistance or endothelial dysfunction indices. The second NP was full of chromium, selenium, copper, vitamin B6, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), thiamin, vitamin D, and iron. Adherence to NP2 (named "legumes, nuts, and protein foods") was associated with lower values of insulin (6.8 ± 1.1 versus 8.4 ± 1.1, P = 0.01), homeostasis model assessment-Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (1.3 ± 0.2 versus 1.7 ± 0.2, P = 0.02), and vascular adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) (444.2 ± 27.9 versus 475.8 ± 28.4, P = 0.03). However, adherence to the third NP, rich in saturated fatty acid (SFA), cholesterol, sodium, zinc, vitamin E, and B12, described as "animal fat and meat + vitamin E", was associated with higher amounts of homeostasis model assessment-β (HOMA-β) (531.3 ± 176.2 versus 48.7 ± 179.8, P = 0.03). In conclusion, following the NP2, correlated with higher intakes of chromium, selenium, copper, vitamin B6, MUFA and thiamin was associated with lower values of insulin, HOMA-IR, and sVCAM-1. Adherence to NP3, rich in SFA, cholesterol, vitamin E, vitamin B12, and zinc was associated with higher levels of HOMA-β.

Lack of association between nuts and legumes consumption and metabolic syndrome in young Iranian nurses

BACKGROUND

Most studies have investigated the association between dietary pattern and risk of metabolic syndrome. Limited studies have examined the association between nuts and legumes as a food group and metabolic syndrome. This study explored the association between nuts and legumes and components of metabolic syndrome in Iranian nurses.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included a representative sample of 420 female nurses of Isfahan who were randomly selected. Nuts and legumes consumption was assessed using a validated dish-based semi quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Metabolic syndrome was defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III). Linear and logistic regression tests were used to study the association between nuts and legumes consumption and metabolic syndrome and its components.

RESULTS

Mean age of study participants was 35 years. The prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among study participants was 3.6%. Consumption of nuts and legumes was not associated with waist circumference either before (β = -0.01, P = 0.24) or after adjusting for potential confounders (β = -0.18, P = 0.41). The same findings were also observed for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (β = 0.001, P = 0.42), serum triglyceride (TG) (β = 0.07, P = 0.32), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (β = 0.008, P = 0.65) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) (β = -0.001, P = 0.94). We failed to find a significant association between consumption of nuts and legumes and systolic blood pressure (SBP) after adjusting for confounders (β = 0.002, P = 0.38). Individuals in the highest category of nuts and legume consumption did not had elevated odds for metabolic syndrome after adjusting for potential confounders (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.08-9.80, P = 0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Nuts and legumes consumption was not associated with metabolic syndrome or its components. Prospective studies are needed to investigate further this association.

The effects of the ginger supplements on inflammatory parameters in type 2 diabetes patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVES

The effect of ginger supplements on inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has been investigated, but findings are inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to determine the effects of ginger supplementation on inflammatory parameters (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], tumour necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α], and interleukin-6 [IL-6]) in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), published until March 17, 2021. The quality assessment was carried out using the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. The Q-test and I 2 tests were used for the determination of heterogeneity of the included studies. Data were pooled using a random-effects model, and weighted mean difference (WMD) was used for the overall effect size.

RESULTS

Pooled findings of the five RCTs demonstrated that ginger supplementations had significantly reduced hs-CRP (WMD -0.42 mg/L; 95% CI, -0.78, -0.05, P = 0.03), TNF-α (-2.13 pg/mL; 95% CI: -3.41, -0.86, P = 0.001), and IL-6 (WMD: -0.61 pg/mL; 95% CI: -0.92, -0.30, P = 0.001) levels in patients with T2DM. The quality assessment of the studies showed that all of the included studies were at high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS

The meta-analysis shows that ginger supplementations reduced inflammatory parameters in patients with T2DM. Nonetheless, the reduction is relatively small, and its meaningful clinical effects are unknown. Future high-quality RCTs are needed to confirm the beneficial effects of ginger supplementation in patients with T2DM.

Systematic review and meta-analyses of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) supplementation and blood lipid parameters in patients with diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The studies have shown that α-tocopherol supplementation could improve lipid profile in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Nonetheless, the result remains inconsistent. Therefore, this meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy of α-tocopherol supplement on lipid parameters in DM patients.

METHODS

We conducted an extensive search via Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to acquire the reported RCTs up to October 2020.

RESULTS

The results showed no effects of α-tocopherol supplementation on lipid profile in DM patients except when used ≥12 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

α-tocopherol supplementation in DM patients had no significant effect on lipid profiles.

Association between deficient levels of circulating vitamin D, dietary intake of vitamin D, calcium and retinol, and risk of colorectal cancer in an Iranian population: A case control study

AIM

We aimed to assess the association between deficient levels of circulating vitamin D, dietary intake of vitamin D, calcium and retinol, and risk of colorectal cancer in an Iranian population.

METHODS

In this retrospective case-control study that was conducted between 2012 and 2015, 278 first incident colorectal cancer cases (colon cancer = 103; rectal cancer = 175), and 278 sex and age matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Serum 25(OH)D, dietary vitamin D, and calcium intake were assessed. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) between studied factors and colorectal cancer. Estimates of OR were calculated according to both bivariate analyses based on the matching factors and multivariate analyses, with additional adjustment for potential confounders.

RESULTS

A strong inverse linear dose-response association was seen between serum 25(OH)D and colorectal cancer (P for trend = .002). In comparison to serum 25(OH)D more than 40 nmol/L, lower serum concentrations were significantly associated with an increased OR of colorectal cancer. When analyzing anatomical subsites separately, lower circulating 25(OH)D was associated with higher OR for both colon and rectum cancers. Dietary vitamin D and calcium intake were not associated with colorectal cancer. Interaction analysis between serum 25(OH)D and the amount of calcium intake demonstrated that the lowest level of both factors was associated with an increased OR of colorectal cancer. The highest OR of colorectal cancer that was associated with lowest circulating 25(OH)D was stronger at the highest retinol intakes.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated an inverse strong association between 25(OH)D concentration and colorectal cancer in an Iranian population.

Effect of Different Dietary Approaches in Comparison with High/Low-Carbohydrate Diets on Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Dietary modification is an effective method for preventing and managing hypertension. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of different dietary approaches for comparing high- and low-carbohydrate diets on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP, respectively) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We carried out a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus without any language and time restrictions until April, 2019. We carried out a meta-analysis using both fixed and random effects models where appropriate and used the I2 index to evaluate heterogeneity. We identified 16 eligible studies, with a total of 1,610 participants. The overall pooled net effect of different dietary approaches on SBP and DBP were -2.29 mmHg [95% confidence interval (CI): -3.49 to -1.1] and -1.03 mmHg (95% CI: -1.77 to -0.29), respectively, compared with high-carbohydrate diets. Indeed, diets high in monounsaturated fatty acids more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP than high-carbohydrate diets, whereas high-protein diets were not effective. Furthermore, we found that different dietary approaches, such as low-fat diets, did not reduce SBP or DBP to a greater extent than low-carbohydrate diets. Overall, the results of our meta-analysis show that diets high in monounsaturated fatty acids are more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP than diets high in carbohydrate, whereas other dietary approaches were not effective.

Effect of L-Carnitine Supplementation on Lipid Profiles of Patients with Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Results of previous studies regarding the effect of L-carnitine on lipid profiles in the patients with liver diseases are contradictory. This meta-analysis was performed to assess the effect of L-carnitine on serum levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) in overweight patients with liver diseases. A systematic search was carried out using the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane library databases to identify articles published before April 2019 investigating the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on patients with liver disease. There was no language or time limitation for the studies. A meta-analysis was carried out using both the random and fixed effects model where appropriate, and I2 index were used to evaluate heterogeneity. These results indicated that L-carnitine supplementation significantly reduces blood levels of TC and TG in patients with liver disease, whereas carnitine had no effect on the levels of HDL and LDL. The reducing effect of L-carnitine on both TC and TG was found following long-term carnitine supplementation (≥24 weeks), supplementation with doses less than or equal to 2,000 mg/d, and in patients with chronic hepatitis C. This meta-analysis indicates the beneficial effect of L-carnitine on TC and TG in overweight patients with liver disease, particularly patients with chronic hepatitis C, in both long-term and low doses.

Effects of l-arginine supplementation on glycemic profile: Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials

BACKGROUND

The effects of l-arginine supplementation on indices of glycemic control and the role of many factors influencing this intervention have been controversial in clinical trials.

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis was performed to assess the effects of l-arginine supplementation on indices of glycemic control, including fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), serum insulin and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels in randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

SEARCH STRATEGY

This study conducted a systematic review of RCTs published in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Embase, up to 5 May, 2018.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies were included in this meta-analysis if they were RCTs with parallel design and reported sufficient data on participants before and after intervention, and outcomes of glycemic profile parameters in both the arginine supplementation and control groups.

DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS

The screening of titles and abstracts was performed independently by two reviewers. Selected articles were considered if they met the study's inclusion criteria. The quality of included studies was assessed by using the Cochrane Collaboration modified tool. From 710 articles retrieved in the initial search, only 10 trials were suitable for pooling the effects of arginine supplementation on serum glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR and HbA1c levels, with effect sizes of nine, eight, five and five, respectively.

RESULTS

Pooled random-effect analysis revealed that l-arginine supplementation could significantly decrease FBG level (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 3.35 mg/dL; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [-6.55, -0.16]; P = 0.04) and serum insulin level (WMD: -2.19 μIU/mL; 95% CI = [-3.70, -0.67]; P = 0.005). However, the effects of l-arginine supplementation on HOMA-IR and HbA1c were not significant. Results of subgroup analysis showed that supplementation with l-arginine could significantly decrease serum insulin levels when the dosage of l-arginine is > 6.5 g/d (WMD: -3.49 μIU/mL; 95% CI = [-5.59, -1.38]; P = 0.001), when the duration of supplementation is ≤ 12.8 weeks (WMD: -3.76; 95% CI = [-6.50, -0.98]; P = 0.008), when the participants are not diabetic patients (WMD: -2.54 μIU/mL; 95% CI = [-4.50, -0.50]; P = 0.01) and when the baseline serum level of insulin was > 20 μIU/mL (WMD: -3.98; 95% CI = [-6.31, -1.65]; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Although the results of this study confirmed that supplementation with l-arginine could have significant effects on some glycemic profile indices of participants in clinical trials, the clinical importance of this reduction may not be meaningful.

Effect of different dietary approaches compared with a regular diet on systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

We aimed to investigate the effect of different dietary approaches on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) in Type II diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

A systematic search was performed in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane library without any language and time restriction up to December 2018, to retrieve the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which examined the effects of different dietary approaches on SBP and DBP in T2D patients. Meta-analyses were carried out using a random effects model. I2 index was used to evaluate the heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Twenty four RCTs with 1130 patients were eligible. The dietary modifications were more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP vs. control diet. The Low-sodium, High-fiber, DASH, Low-fat, Low-protein and Vegan dietary approach were significantly more effective in reducing SBP compared to a control diet. The High-fiber, Low-fat, Low-protein and Vegan diet were significantly more effective in reducing DBP. The Low-sodium and High fiber diets had the greatest lowering effect on SBP and DBP in T2D patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Adopting healthful dietary modifications were more effective in reducing both SBP and DBP vs. control. The High-fiber and Low-sodium diets had the greatest lowering effect on SBP and DBP in T2D.

Effect of Vitamins C and E Co-Supplementation on Serum C-Reactive Protein Level: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Studies assessing the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on levels of circulating C-reactive protein (CRP) show contradictory results. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on CRP. A systematic search was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, Ovid, Cochrane, Embase, and the Web of Science without any language or time restriction (until 31 March 2019) to retrieve RCTs that examined the effect of vitamin C and E co-supplementation on CRP. A meta-analysis was carried out using a random effects model, and I² indexes were used to evaluate the heterogeneity. The search yielded 5,134 publications, including 8 eligible RCTs. The results indicate that vitamin C and E co-supplementation does not significantly impact levels of serum CRP [weighted mean difference and 95% confidence interval with random effects model analysis: −0.22 mg/L (−0.85, 0.41), P=0.5]. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that vitamin C and E co-supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP in participants ≥30 years of age, but significantly increased serum CRP in participants <30 years of age. The results of this meta-analysis indicate beneficial effects of vitamins C and E co-supplementation on CRP in participants ≥30 years of age, and not in younger participants. To confirm these results, further well-designed RCTs are needed.

Effects of carnitine supplementation on liver aminotransferase enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

This meta-analysis of the randomized controlled trials was performed to assess effects of carnitine supplementation on serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Cochrane's library, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase was performed up to May 2018. From a total of 2012 articles identified initially, only 17 articles were included in the final meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of carnitine supplementation on serum levels of ALT and AST enzymes.

RESULTS

Random effects model meta-analysis showed that carnitine supplementation led to reduction in serum ALT (weighted mean difference [WMD] - 10.25 IU/L; 95% CI = - 15.73, - 4.77; p < 0.001) and AST levels (WMD - 7.85 IU/L; 95% CI = - 11.85, - 3.86; p < 0.001). The results of subgroup analysis showed that carnitine could reduce serum AST levels at dosages equal to 2000 mg/day (p = 0.014) or more than 2000 mg/day (p < 0.001). However, carnitine supplementation at dosages of ≤ 1000 mg/day (p = 0.035) or equal to 2000 mg/day (p = 0.013) resulted in significant reduction in ALT level, while doses more than 2000 mg/day did not change ALT significantly. Carnitine exerts its reducing effect on serum ALT and AST levels only when these aminotransferases are raised or when the duration of supplementation lasts at least 3 months.

CONCLUSION

Results of the current meta-analysis showed that carnitine supplementation can decrease serum AST and ALT levels significantly, especially when supplementation lasts 3 months or more in patients with elevated serum aminotransferase levels.

Effects of ginseng on C-reactive protein level: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess effects of ginseng supplementation on CRP/hs-CRP levels in clinical trial studies.

DESIGN

A systematic literature search was carried out for clinical trials published in ISI web of Science, Scopus, PubMed and Cochrane Library databases from the beginning to 16th February 2018. Of 83 articles found in the first step of the systematic search, seven studies with nine arms included in this meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Results of pooled random-effect size analysis of nine trials showed non-significant decreasing effects of ginseng supplementation on CRP level (WMD: -0.1 mg/l, 95% CI, -0.26, 0.1; P = 0.27) with significant heterogeneity shown within the studies. The subgroup analysis showed that ginseng supplementation could significantly reduce CRP level by 0.51 (95% CI: -0.68, -0.34; P < 0001, test for heterogeneity: P = 0.44, I² = 0.0%) in patients with a baseline serum CRP level of greater than 3 mg/dl. Trial duration and dose of ginseng supplementation included no significant effects on CRP level in this meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

Results of the current meta-analysis study have shown that ginseng supplementation can decrease significantly serum CRP/hsCRP levels in patients with elevated serum level of this inflammatory marker.

Effect of Q10 supplementation on body weight and body mass index: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials

AIMS

This meta-analysis study was carried out to assess the effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on body weight and body mass index of patients in randomized controlled clinical trial studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive systematic search of literature was performed through ISI web of sciences, PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane library databases up to February 2018 which was supplemented by manual search of the references list of included studies. From a total of 1579 identified articles, only 17 trials with 14 and 14 effect-sizes were included for pooling the effects of co-enzyme Q10 supplementation on body weight and body mass index, respectively.

RESULTS

Results of random-effect size meta-analysis showed that supplementation with coenzyme Q10 had no significant decreasing effects on body weight (WMD: 0.28 kg; 95% CI = -0.91, 1.47; P = 0.64) and BMI (WMD: -0.03; 95% CI = -0.4, 0.34; P = 0.86) of study participants. Subgroup analysis revealed that dosage of Q10 and trial duration could not differ the results of Q10 supplementation.

CONCLUSION

Results of this meta-analysis study failed to show any beneficial effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on body weight and BMI of patients in clinical trial studies.

Serum insulin level, HOMA-IR and prostate cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

This meta-analysis study was performed to assess serum insulin level and insulin resistance status in prostate cancer patients in observational studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed for observational studies in Scopus, PubMed, Ovid and ISI Web of Science up to July 2017.

RESULTS

From 2070 publication were searched firstly, only 10 studies with 9 and 6 arms included for the meta-analysis assessing serum insulin level and HOMA-IR status in prostate cancer patients, respectively. Pooled effects analysis showed that the Fasting insulin level was significantly higher in men with prostate cancer compared to control group (WMD = 2.12 μ IU/ml, 95%CI; 0.26, 3.99; P = 0.02). Sub-group analysis showed that the elevation in serum insulin level takes place only in patients with ages more than 65 years old (WMD = 3.88 μ IU/ml, 95%CI; 2.28, 5.48; P < 0.001). HOMA-IR was no significantly different between study groups. However, the difference got statistically significant after sub-grouping patients based on their age (WMD = 1.37, 95% CI; 0.61, 2.12; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the results of this meta-analysis study showed higher fasting serum insulin and HOMA-IR levels especially in patients with ages more than 65 years..

Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on C-reactive protein level: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in clinical trial studies.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A systematic search was carried out on clinical trial studies published in PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Scopus databases completed by manual search on reference list of eligible studies accomplished by November 4, 2017. Of a total number of 508 studies found in the first step of literature search, only 11 were included with 264 participants in supplementation groups and 287 in control groups. Estimated pooled random effects size analysis showed a significant reducing effect of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on CRP level (-0.72 mg/l, 95% CI; -1.4, -0.04; P = 0.03) with a significant heterogeneity between the selected studies. Sub-group analysis showed that alpha-lipoic acid supplementation could significantly reduce serum CRP level when the baseline CRP level was greater than 3 mg/l (-1.02 mg/l, 95% CI: -1.3, -0.73) and when trial duration was >8 weeks (-0.99 mg/l, 95% CI: -1.29, -0.70). Results of subgroup analysis also showed that alpha lipoic acid supplementation could decrease CRP level only in non-diabetic patients (-1.02 mg/l, 95% CI: -1.31, -0.74).

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the current meta-analysis study showed that alpha-lipoic acid supplementation could significantly decrease CRP level in patients with elevated levels of this inflammatory marker.

Effect of Vitamin E Supplementation on Plasma and Urine Levels of Isoprostane F2α in Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Vitamin E can reduce the level of lipid peroxidation and the related markers such as urine and plasma levels of isoprostanes. However, effects of vitamin E supplementation on plasma and urine level of isoprostane F2α as markers of lipid peroxidation were conflicting in various clinical trials. The current meta-analysis was carried out to determine the effects of vitamin E supplementation on plasma and urine levels of isoprostanes F2α in randomized clinical trials. A systematic search of RCTs was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Cochrane Library databases. OF 889 relevantly founded articles, only four articles with five arms met the criteria for meta-analysis of plasma level of isoprostanes F2α. For the urine level of isoprostane F2α, three studies with 14 arms were included in the meta-analysis. After pooled analyzing, a significant reduction of 6.98 ng / l was seen in plasma level of isoprostane F2α in vitamin E receiving group (95% CI = -11.2, -2.76; P < 0.001) while no significant heterogeneity was seen between the studies included in this meta-analysis (P = 0.81 and I2 = 0.0%). However, the pooled effect of vitamin E supplementation on urine level of isoprostane F2α was not statistically significant (-11.31 pg / mg creatinine (95% CI = -26.4, 3.78; P = 0.88). Results of this meta-analysis have shown that vitamin E supplementation can only reduce plasma level of isoprostane F2α and has no significant effect on reducing urine level of this biomarker.

Effect of vitamin D supplementation on anthropometric indices among overweight and obese women: A double blind randomized controlled clinical trial

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate effect of vitamin D supplementation on anthropometric indices among women with overweight and obesity.

METHODS

This double blind randomize clinical trial was conducted on 66 overweight and obese women. Those in intervention group received oral supplement of vitamin D 50,000 IU (1250 mcg) per 25 day and in control group participants received placebo for 3 months. Anthropometric indices were measured before and after 3 months intervention. Before the intervention a 24-h dietary recall (3 days) were used to assess dietary intake of individuals. Independent t test and multivariate repeated measure were used to data analysis.

RESULTS

The mean difference of anthropometric indices, serum calcium, 25 (OH) D₃ and serum PTH between the intervention and control groups were significant (P < 0/05). However, no significant differences in serum phosphorus between the intervention and control groups were seen.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation with vitamin D 50 μg for each day for 3 months resulted in a significant reduction in anthropometric indices in women with obesity and overweight with normal primary 25(OH) D₃ serum levels.

Prevalence of Food Insecurity in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Food security is one of the main factors of individual and social health. It is of such importance that the World Bank and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced it as one of the Millennium Development Goals. This study aimed to report the prevalence of food insecurity in Iran.

METHODS

We searched English databases including; Scopus, Ovid, Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar and also Iranian databases; SID, Magiran and IranMedex for words Iran, food insecurity, and prevalence up to August 2015. The pooled food insecurity prevalence was calculated using Der-Simonian test. All analyses were performed using random effects model with 95% CI. We assessed heterogeneity of the studies using sub-group and meta-regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies were included. The prevalence of food insecurity was 49% among households (95% CI: %40-%59), 67% in children (95% CI: %63-%70), 61% in mothers (95% CI: %35-%88), 49% in adolescents (95% CI: %33-%66) and 65% in the elderly (95% CI: %44-%86).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of food insecurity is high in Iran. Fiscal policies should promote the nutritional knowledge of household members and also support the households to meet their nutritional needs. This plan should give priority to mid and low socioeconomic groups.

What is the best biomarker for metabolic syndrome diagnosis?

AIMS

There are three definitions belong to metabolic syndrome (MetS). These definitions have some differences that make some problem for MetS diagnosis criteria. So a new diagnosis marker can help to MetS diagnosis. The aim of this study was the assess of serum levels of leptin, total adiponectin, high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin, and their ratio with MetS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched Science direct, Pubmed, and Google Scholar for related articles in English. Review studies excluded.

RESULTS

Of 1827 articles found, 16 articles met our inclusion criteria. leptin is higher in MetS group but adiponectin is lower (<4 μg/ml) and it shows the paradoxical effect of them in MetS. Higher L/A ratio is a better biomarker for MetS diagnosis criteria than leptin and adiponectin separately. HMW adiponectin (<2.5 μg/ml) can be the most reliable biomarker for MetS diagnosis criteria.

CONCLUSION

Our systematic review showed that HMW adiponectin and Leptin to adiponectin ratio should be the best biomarkers for MetS.

Dairy product consumption and the metabolic syndrome

AIMS

To briefly summarize findings from epidemiological studies on the relationship between dairy product consumption and the metabolic syndrome(MetS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search for relevant literature was undertaken on Web of Science, Google scholar, Pubmed (2000 to July 2013), to identify observational studies which examined the association between dairy intake and MetS (prevalence or incidence), and for any randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of dairy intake on MetS.

RESULTS

Here we review the physiological effects and possible mechanisms involved of three main dairy constituents (calcium (Ca), protein, fat) on important components of the MetS. Effects of Ca may be related to intestinal binding to fatty acids or bile acids, or to changes in intracellular Ca metabolism by suppressing calciotropic hormones. Dietary proteins may increase satiety in both the short and longer term, which may result in a reduced energy intake. Dairy proteins are precursors of angiotensin-I converting enzyme-inhibitory peptides, which may lower blood pressure. To reduce the intake of saturated fatty acids (SFA), the consumption of low-fat instead of high-fat dairy products is recommended.

CONCLUSION

More research is warranted to better understand the physiological effects and the mechanisms involved of dairy products in the prevention and treatment of the MetS.

Recent patents on physical, mineral & organic Acid composition of golden delicious and red delicious apples (malus×domestica borkh) grown in the west of Iran

Apple is one of the fruits that has beneficial effects on human healthy diet and life. The aim of this study is to determine some physical, mineral and organic acids composition of apple cultivars grown in different locations throughout Lorestan province. Apple cultivars had been harvested from different locations throughout Lorestan province of Iran. Analyses for 3 elements (Iron, Zinc, and calcium) were conducted by the flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Phosphorus was measured by the UV-Vis spectrophotometer and Sodium and Potassium were measured by the flame photometer. Organic acids were determined by Titration method using NaOH and phenolphethalein indicator. Weight was measured by scale based on 0.1 g and length and diameters were measured by caliper. The mean weight of Red Delicious and Golden Delicious apples was 173.7 g and 146.7 g, respectively. The amount of iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and potassium for the red variety was 0.24, 0.14, 28, 8.9, 4.7 and 63.8 respectively; values for the Golden variety were 0.23, 0.14, 27.9, 8.8, 4.5, and 66.3 mg/100g fresh weight, respectively. The amount of ascorbic acid, malic acid, and citric acid for Golden delicious was 9.09, 0.27 and 0.28, respectively; for Red delicious apples, the amount was 9.47, 0.26 and 0.28 mg/100 g, respectively. Acidities for Golden delicious and Red delicious were 3.7 and 4, respectively. One hundred gram of apple fruit grown in Lorestan would provide 3% of iron, 1.5% of zinc, 2.8% of calcium and 1.4% of potassium requirements. The amount of organic acid in apples of Lorestan province was lower than some other countries.

Determination of the causes of tendency toward red meat and meat products in the west of Iran

BACKGROUND

Although meat constitutes an important part of many consumers' diet, its consumption has become a quiet controversial issue. Several factors are effective on tendency to red meat consumption. The 2007's report of the world Cancer Research Fund makes the recommendation to limit the consumption of red meat to less than 500 g per week. The aim of this study is to determine meat and meat products consumption and causes of tendency to red meat among people of Khorramabad city, Iran.

METHODS

This cross- sectional study was carried out on 300 adults (178 women and 122 men; aged 19-70 years) of Khorramabad city, Iran. Red meat and processed meat intake (from a FFQ), demographic and causes of tendencies to red meat consumption (from a self-reported questionnaire) were evaluated. Statistical methods included independent t- test and one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

Consumption of red meat and meat products was 531.8 ± 543.5 g/w and 132.5 ± 251.1 g/w, respectively. The most important factors of tendencies toward red meat consumption were delectability, palatability, accessibility, cultural and traditional beliefs, and lack of food diversity in Lorestan province, animal husbandry, nomadic life, and hospitality. Red meat consumption was more common among men and lower in the income levels of $300.

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrated that red meat consumption in adult people of the west of Iran was high. Since consumption of meat and meat products may create health concerns for people, it is necessary for policymakers to adopt effective strategies to advocate the use of fish and poultry.

Impact of prophylactic iron supplementation in healthy pregnant women on maternal iron status and birth outcome

BACKGROUND

In spite of the beneficial effect of iron supplementation in iron-deficient pregnant women, iron supplementation may not be needed for women who are iron replete or not anemic. Moreover, the theoretical possibility of adverse effects, such as oxidative damage,from administration of iron supplements during pregnancy has been raised.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of prophylactic iron supplementation on iron status and birth outcomes among nonanemic pregnant women. METHODS. A randomized, triple-blind clinical trial was conducted. One hundred forty-eight nonanemic pregnant women with hemoglobin > 110 g/L, serum ferritin > 12 microg/L, and gestational age < 20 weeks were randomly assigned to receive either ferrous sulfate (60 mg elemental iron) (n = 70) or placebo (n = 78) until delivery. Hemoglobin concentration and serum ferritin were measured by electronic counter and radioimmunoassay, respectively. Data were analyzed by independent t-tests, ANCOVA, and repeated measures.

RESULTS

At delivery, the incidence of iron deficiency was significantly lower in the iron than in the placebo group. There were no significant differences between the two groups in maternal hemoglobin and ferritin concentrations at delivery or in the infant's birthweight, birth length, or length of gestation.

CONCLUSIONS

Iron supplementation during pregnancy in nonanemic women with low serum ferritin may have benefits beyond the prevention of iron-deficiency anemia.