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The goal of this narrative review is to summarize the effects of prolonged fasting on various metabolic health measures, including body weight, blood pressure, plasma lipids, and glycemic control. Prolonged fasting is characterized by consciously eating little to no food or caloric beverages for several days to weeks. Results reveal that prolonged fasting for 5–20 days produces potent increases in circulating ketones, and mild to moderate weight loss of 2–10%. Approximately two-thirds of the weight lost is lean mass, and one-third is fat mass. The excessive lean mass loss suggests that prolonged fasting may increase the breakdown of muscle proteins, which is a concern. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure consistently decreased with prolonged fasting. However, the impact of these protocols on plasma lipids is less clear. While some trials demonstrate decreases in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, others show no benefit. With regard to glycemic control, reductions in fasting glucose, fasting insulin, insulin resistance, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were noted in adults with normoglycemia. In contrast, these glucoregulatory factors remained unchanged in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The effects of refeeding were also examined in a few trials. It was shown that 3–4 months after the fast was completed, all metabolic benefits were no longer observed, even when weight loss was maintained. With regard to adverse events, metabolic acidosis, headaches, insomnia, and hunger were observed in some studies. In summary, prolonged fasting appears to be a moderately safe diet therapy that can produce clinically significant weight loss (>5%) over a few days or weeks. However, the ability of these protocols to produce sustained improvements in metabolic markers warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study is done to investigate the hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective effects of corn silk extract in nicotine-administered male mice. Background: Nicotine can induce pathophysiological effects in the liver tissue through oxidative stress and damage cells. Corn silk can improve liver function with its antioxidant effects. Methods: In this experimental study, 30 male NMRI mice (25-30 gr) were divided into 5 groups: controls, sham, nicotine 2.5 mg/kg, nicotine+aqueous extract of corn silk 400 mg/kg, and nicotine+methanolic extract of corn silk 400 mg/kg for 1 month. One day after the last nicotine and extracts consumption, the serum samples were performed for biochemical measurement, and the supernatant of the homogenized liver was administered for antioxidant variables assessment. Results: There was no significant difference in the body weight of different groups. Liver weight and GSH decreased in the nicotine group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, LDL-C, liver enzymes, and MDA increased in the nicotine group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Also, the expansion of sinusoids, the presence of inflammatory cells, and necrosis of liver cells were observed in the nicotine group compared to the control group. Using aqueous and methanolic extracts of corn silk in mice receiving nicotine led to the improvement of the mentioned variables (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the use of nicotine can lead to the induction of hepatotoxicity. The use of aqueous and methanolic extracts of corn silk improved them through its antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Podocarpus gracilis is an evergreen, dioecious tree found in Ethiopia and other African nations. It can reach a height of 60 meters. Without any scientific validation, ethnobotanical studies conducted in Ethiopia revealed that the Podocarpus gracilis plant's leaf is consumed orally to treat diabetes mellitus. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the in vivo blood glucose level lowering, lipid-lowering, and in vitro-free radical scavenging responses of Podocarpus gracilis leaf extract and fractions on experimental mice induced with diabetes. Methods. The in vitro antioxidant activity of PGC (Podocarpus gracilis) leaf extract was assessed by using a diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The oral glucose-loaded, normoglycemic, and streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic mouse models were employed. In the STZ-induced mice model, the leaf extract and solvent fractions activity on serum lipid and weight were also measured. The extract and fractions were tested at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg dosages. One-way ANOVA was used to determine the statistical significance of BGL (blood glucose level) changes within and between groups, and Tukey's post hoc multiple comparisons were then performed. Results. In the acute toxicity study of Podocarpus gracilis leaf extract and fractions, there was no evidence of animal mortality at the maximum dose of 2 g/kg during the observation period. The extract-treated group with normoglycemia revealed a significant lowering in BGL at the 4-hour mark of 27.4% (p < 0.001) and 25.2% (p < 0.01) at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, respectively, compared to that in negative control. In the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) model, only 400 mg/kg treated groups at 120 min after exposure showed a BGL reduction of 31.17% which was statistically significant (p < 0.05) in comparison to the negative control. In the single-dose STZ-induced model, eighth-hour BGL measurements from CE 100, CE 200, CE 400, and GLC5 showed drops in BGL of 43.1%, 44.1%, 45%, and 47.3% from baseline fasting BGL values. In the repeated streptozotocin (STZ)-induced model, at all doses of leaf extract and fractions, the fasting BGL was significantly (p < 0.001) reduced. Moreover, the leaf extract and solvent fractions have shown a significant (p < 0.001) reduction of serum lipids such as LDL, TC, and VLDL, and at the same time, it increases HDL at 14 days with body weight gained. In the test for antioxidant activity, the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for leaf extract and the standard medication (ascorbic acid) were 8.2 μg/ml and 3.3 μg/ml, respectively. The IC50 value denotes the concentration of the sample required to scavenge 50% DPPH radicals. Conclusion. The 80% hydromethanolic leaf extract and fractions of Podocarpus gracilis exhibited blood glucose lowering, lipid-lowering activity in normoglycemic, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) mode, and STZ-induced diabetic mice with weight gains. There is scientific support for the alleged traditional use as an antidiabetic, lipid-lowering, and antioxidant activity. The results need to be confirmed by future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context A recent US national survey of the health status of the male transgender population has raised awareness about the little-studied relationship between testosterone hormone therapy in transgender men and cardiovascular outcomes. Objective The aim of this systematic review was to assess the relationship between cross-sex hormone therapy in transgender men and lipid profiles and cardiovascular risk. Data Sources The PubMed, SciELO, SpringerLink, and EBSCOhost databases were searched up to March 2021 for studies assessing the association between cross-sex hormone therapy and the incidence of outcomes related to cardiovascular disease in transgender men over 18 years of age. Data Extraction Data extracted were sorted into clinical data (systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure), anthropometric data (body mass index, weight, waist circumference, fat mass, and lean mass), and biochemical data (triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [VLDL-C], and the HDL-C to LDL-C ratio). Data Analysis Study quality was appraised independently by two reviewers using the Cochrane tools for assessment of methodological quality or risk of bias in nonrandomized studies, and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was applied. Of 735 studies identified, 11 were included in the review. Most studies reported no change in cholesterol or triglyceride levels after hormone treatment. A reduction in HDL-C levels was observed in 7 of 11 studies, although this alone cannot be considered a cardiovascular risk factor. Likewise, clinical and anthropometric findings showed no changes predictive of cardiovascular risk. Conclusions Although these findings suggest that hormone therapy may lead to a decrease in HDL-C levels and an increase in LDL-C levels, they are insufficient to establish a relationship with cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, no significant effects on metabolic and anthropometric values were found. Further studies with higher quality and longer follow-up periods are needed to establish cardiovascular risk. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration number CRD 42020212560. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There is a known association between hyperglycemia and the presence of coronary syndrome. The purpose of this work is to study risk factors and clinical manifestations of hyperglycemia in patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease. Methods: The study was conducted in 2018–2020 among 505 patients in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam. Based on the results of the glucose test at 0 and 120 min, the patients were divided into the groups: with normal glucose metabolism (control, 204), patients with impaired fasting glucose levels (175 patients, group 2), and patients with impaired glucose tolerance, including diabetes mellitus (126, group 3). Anthropometric measurements were performed, and the levels of hemoglobin HbA, glucose, lipids were measured. Results: In the group of patients with fasting hyperinsulinemia, all variables (body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, LAP, creatinine clearance) differed considerably as compared to the control group (p ≤ 0.0001). Decrease in tissue sensitivity to insulin is already present at normal levels of glucose metabolism. Conclusions: The study found that diabetes mellitus and prediabetes are more typical for patients with metabolic syndrome and acute coronary syndrome. The results obtained will allow predicting the risk of developing coronary syndrome depending on the presence of diabetes mellitus or prediabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Visceral adipose tissue performs an important role in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Expressing its close association with epicardial adipose tissue simplifies the understanding of visceral adipose tissue in terms of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk and facilitates the implementation of necessary lifestyle changes. In this study, we aimed to explore the relationship between epicardial adipose tissue and visceral adipose tissue proxies such as visceral fat rating, visceral adiposity index, and lipid accumulation product index as well as anthropometrics and lipid profile. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 244 participants (131 female, 113 males), aged 18-83 years without established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. Epicardial adipose tissue was measured by transthoracic echocardiography. Visceral fat rating, total body fat percentage, and mass were assessed by a bioimpedance analyzer. Mathematical formulas calculated the visceral adiposity index and lipid accumulation product index. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical information of the participants was provided from the hospital's data system. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance -insulin resistance was calculated using fasting insulin and glucose. Results: Epicardial adipose tissue was significantly correlated with the visceral fat rating, visceral adiposity index, lipid accumulation product index, age, body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, waist-to-hip ratio, total body fat percentage and mass, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and cigarette smoking. Multivariate regression analyses revealed that age (β = 0.036, P = .001), visceral fat rating (β = 0.221, P < .001), systolic blood pressure (β = 0.033, P < .001), diastolic blood pressure (β = -0.048, P < .001), and cigarette smoking (β = 0.042, P < .001) were independent variables related to epicardial adipose tissue. Conclusion: Epicardial adipose tissue is associated with cardiovascular disease risk factors and indices of visceral adiposity in people without established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Metabolic syndrome is a potential side effect of atypical antipsychotics which are the current standard treatment for schizophrenia. Therefore, we aimed to examine the effect of barberry root (Berberis vulgaris) on the prevention of metabolic syndrome caused by atypical antipsychotic drugs in patients with schizophrenia. Method: Our research was a three-blind randomized clinical trial. The participants included all patients who were diagnosed with schizophrenia through the SCID-5 questionnaire and based on the DSM-5-TR criteria by two psychiatric experts. These patients were randomly divided into intervention and placebo groups. During a three-month treatment period, the intervention group received three 500 mg capsules of barberry root extract daily, whereas the placebo group received the same capsules containing 500 mg of starch powder. Metabolic syndrome variables including fasting blood glucose, serum lipids (triglyceride and cholesterol), blood pressure, weight and waist circumference were measured before and after the treatment as outcome measure. Chi-square and t-tests were used for data analysis using SPSS-22 software. Results: At the beginning of the study, there was no significant difference between the intervention group (n = 41) and the placebo group (n = 47) in terms of demographic factors, and pre-treatment assessments including weight, waist size, fasting blood HDL, fasting blood triglycerides and systolic and diastolic blood pressure and fasting blood glucose (P > 0.05). Within group analysis showed that some metabolic factors significantly increased in both groups after the treatment (P < 0.05). Indeed, in both groups, metabolic syndrome measures worsened after the three-month treatment period. The parameters of weight and waist size were significantly higher in the intervention group than the placebo group after treatment (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Barberry root extract was not able to control the Effects of antipsychotic drugs on metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity and chronic disease are increasing problems in refugee populations. Afghani refugees undergoing hepatitis B vaccination between January 2015 and December 2017 at a general practice clinic received dietary counselling sessions in Dari by native speaking clinicians. Anthropometry, blood pressure, fasting lipids and liver function tests were measured at both visits with results compared over time. 110/119 refugees requiring hepatitis B vaccination were recruited into the study. Mean BMI was lower at follow up visits (25.4 vs 26.1 by wilcoxon signed rank test p 0.04) with 72 of 110 participants losing a median of 2 kg between visits (range 0.5–14 kg) a mean of 206 days after the initial consultation. Median triglyceride levels were lower at the second visit than the first (1.4 vs 1.3 mmol/L Wilcoxon signed rank test Z = 3.5, p 0.0004). This cohort of refugees lost weight and showed a small improvement in triglyceride levels between visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We explored the dietary effects of replacing normal dietary staple foods with supplementary nutritional protein powder, dietary fiber, and fish oil on several metabolic parameters. We examined weight loss, glucose and lipid metabolism, and intestinal flora in obese individuals when compared with individuals on a reduced staple food low carbohydrate diet. Methods: From inclusion and exclusion criteria, 99 participants (28 kg/m2 ≤ body mass index (BMI) ≤ 35 kg/m2) were recruited and randomly assigned to control and intervention 1 and 2 groups. Physical examinations and biochemical indices were performed/gathered before the intervention and at 4 and 13 weeks post intervention. After 13 weeks, feces was collected and 16s rDNA sequenced. Results: After 13 weeks, when compared with controls, body weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure values in intervention group 1 were significantly reduced. In intervention group 2, body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and hip circumference were significantly reduced. Triglyceride (TG) levels in both intervention groups were significantly reduced. Fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, glycosylated albumin, total cholesterol, and apolipoprotein B levels in intervention group 1 were decreased, while high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) decreased slightly. Glycosylated albumin, TG, and total cholesterol levels in intervention group 2 decreased, while HDL-c decreased slightly, High sensitive C-reactive protein, MPO, Ox-LDL, LEP, TGF-β1, IL-6, GPLD1, pro NT, GPC-4, and LPS levels in both intervention groups were lower when compared with controls. Adiponectin (ADPN) levels in intervention groups were higher when compared with controls. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in intervention group 1 were lower when compared with controls. There is no obvious difference in α diversity and β diversity between intestinal flora of 3 groups. Among the first 10 species of Phylum, only the control group and the intervention group 2 had significantly higher Patescibacteria than the intervention group 1. Among the first 10 species of Genus, only the number of Agathobacter in intervention group 2 was significantly higher than that in control group and intervention group 1. Conclusions: We showed that an LCD, where nutritional protein powder replaced some staple foods and dietary fiber and fish oil were simultaneously supplemented, significantly reduced weight and improved carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in obese individuals when compared with an LCD which reduced staple food intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is known to be one of the severe health issues worldwide, as its prevalence continues to rise as well as its association with other chronic diseases worsens. Even though various approaches have been underway to prevent or treat obesity, alternative approaches are in need to combat this chronic condition because of the unsatisfactory effectiveness and adverse side effects of the existing approaches. Dolichos biflorus L. seeds have been employed as a weight-loss treatment in folk medicine. Considering the necessity to develop a safe alternative remedy to rising obesity, the current investigation has been set up to assess the antiobesity potential and the mode of action of the aqueous seed extract of D. biflorus (ASEDB) in a cell line (3T3-L1) and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced rats. For in-vitro studies, 3T3-L1 cell lines were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium (DMEM) augmented with adipogenic-inducing medium and the influence of the extract (10 µg/mL–500 µg/mL) on 3T3-L1 adipocyte viability, adipogenesis, and lipolysis was assessed. An in-vitro study revealed maintenance of cell viability, reduced triglycerides (TG) accumulation, and promoted lipolysis in 3T3-L1 cells by ASEDB. Following in-vitro analysis, the HFD-induced obese rats were treated with ASEDB at different concentrations (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 300 mg/kg) for 60 days and the effect was evaluated through various anthropometric and biochemical parameters. The findings revealed a significant decrement in total body weight, organ weights, fat pad weights, and restoration of abnormal levels of glucose, leptin, insulin, lipid markers, and antioxidant system to normal by ASEDB treatment. Also, pancreatic lipase inhibition analysis of ASEDB revealed a modest level of inhibition with an IC50 value of 213.3 µg/mL. All these findings exposed that ASEDB possesses pronounced antiobesity potential and exhibits its protective effect by suppressing food intake, reducing fat digestion and absorption, limiting adipogenesis, enhancing lipolysis, and alleviating oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, the aim was to evaluate the effect of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and criteria on the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) in patients with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value of 2.5-4 ng/mL. Materials and Methods: A total of 116 patients who underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy between January 2016-June 2018 with a PSA value of 2.5-4 ng/mL were included in the study. Patient height, body weight, waist circumference (WC) and blood pressure were measured and body mass indexes were calculated. Blood samples were also collected and tested for fasting and postprandial blood glucose, along with lipid profiles. Patients were divided into two groups as those with and without PCa. The presence of MetS was evaluated according to the measurements and laboratory results. Results: Patients were divided into two groups as those without PCa (n=101) and those with PCa (n=15). A significant difference was found between the groups in terms of the frequency of hypertension (p=0.024). There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of other demographic characteristics. There was a significant difference between the groups in terms of hypertension, a criterion for MetS. The presence of MetS and other MetS criteria (WC >102 cm, triglyceride ≥150 mg/dL, high density lipoprotein <40 mg/dL, fasting blood glucose ≥110 mg/dL or type 2 diabetes mellitus) was not associated with PCa in patients with PSA levels of 2.5-4 ng/mL. Conclusions: Among the MetS criteria, there was only a positive relationship between hypertension and PCa in patients with PSA 2.5-4 ng/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Sumac fruit is an antioxidant and reduces serum triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol (CHOL) levels. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of sumac fruit on serum lipids and body mass index (BMI) of hemodialysis (HD) patients. Materials and Methods. This triple-blind randomized clinical trial study was conducted for 12 weeks on HD patients. Participants were randomly divided into three groups of 2-gram sumac (N = 40), 3-gram sumac (N = 40), and placebo (N = 40) by nonprobability consecutive sampling and stratified block randomization method based on inclusion criteria. Serum lipids and BMI were measured at the beginning of the study and also at the end of the sixth and the twelfth weeks. The physical activity and 24-hour dietary recall questionnaires were used to collect data. Results. No significant difference was found between the level of nutrient and micronutrient intake (P > 0.05), physical activity (P = 0.159), and BMI (P = 0.718) of patients in the three groups before and after the intervention. However, the difference in serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in each studied group was significant over time (P < 0.001). The difference was not statistically significant between the groups before the intervention, 6 and 12 weeks after the intervention (group effect), and between the study groups over time (time-group interaction). No statistically significant difference was observed between the mean levels of TG (P = 0.875), CHOL level (P = 0.969), LDL level (P = 0.998), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level (P = 0.136), and BMI (P = 0.608) in the groups over time. Conclusion. Consumption of sumac fruit significantly changed the LDL level over time. Although BMI and serum lipids changed in HD patients, these changes were not significant. Future studies are needed to determine the effective dose of sumac and any dose increase should take toxicity into account and consider a larger sample size and longer intervention and follow-up times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatic steatosis, a hallmark of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), represents a significant global health issue. Liver lipidomics has garnered increased focus recently, highlighting Traditional Chinese Medicine's (TCM) role in mitigating such conditions through lipid metabolism regulation. The Zuogui Jiangtang Qinggan Formula (ZGJTQGF), a longstanding TCM regimen for treating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) with NAFLD, lacks a definitive mechanism for its lipid metabolism regulatory effects. This research aims to elucidate ZGJTQGF's mechanism on lipid metabolism in T2DM with NAFLD. The study, utilized db/db mice to establish T2DM with NAFLD models. Evaluations included Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) and Oil Red O stainedstaining of liver tissues, alongside biochemical lipid parameter analysis. Liver lipidomics and Western blotting further substantiated the findings, systematically uncovering the mechanism of action mechanism. ZGJTQGF notably reduced body weight, and Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), enhancing glucose tolerance in db/db mice. HE, and Oil Red O staining, complemented by biochemical and liver lipidomics analyses, confirmed ZGJTQGF's efficacy in ameliorating liver steatosis and lipid metabolism anomalies. Lipidomics identified 1571 significantly altered lipid species in the model group, primarily through the upregulation of triglycerides (TG) and diglycerides (DG), and the downregulation of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Post-ZGJTQGF treatment, 496 lipid species were modulated, with increased PC and PE levels and decreased TG and DG, showcasing significant lipid metabolism improvement in T2DM with NAFLD. Moreover, ZGJTQGF's influence on lipid synthesis-related proteins was observed, underscoring its anti-steatotic impact through liver lipidomic alterations and offering novel insights into hepatic steatosis pathogenesis. Liver lipidomics analysis combined with protein verification further demonstrated that ZGJTQGF could ameliorate the lipid disturbance of TG, DG, PC, PE in T2DM with NAFLD, as well as improve fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis and metabolism through De novo lipogenesis pathway. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hodgsonia heteroclita has been known as an important traditionally consumed medicinal plant of North-East India known to have antidiabetic properties. This study aims to investigate the effects of the ethanolic fruit extract of Hodgsonia heteroclita against hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia by using streptozotocin (STZ) treated diabetic mice. The fruits of H. heteroclita were collected from the various parts of Kokrajhar district, Assam India (Geographic coordinates: 26°24′3.85″ N 90°16′22.30″ E). Basic morphological evaluations were carried out by the Botanical Survey of India, Eastern circle, Shillong, who also certified and identified the plant. Hexane, chloroform, and ethanolic extracts of the fruit of H. heteroclita were investigated for α-amylase inhibition assay as a rapid screening tool for examining anti-diabetic activity. The efficacy of ethanolic extract at a dose of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg body weight was tested for 21 days in STZ-induced diabetic mice. The body weight, fasting plasma glucose and serum lipids, and hepatic glycogen levels were measured in experimental animals to examine the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic efficacy of the extract. Both HPTLC and LC-MS analysis was performed to examine the phyotochemicals present in the ethanolic extract of H. heteroclita. It has been observed that treatment with the ethanolic extract dose-dependently reduced the plasma glucose levels, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglyceride, and increased the body weight, liver glycogens and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol in STZ treated diabetic mice. HPTLC demonstrated the presence of triterpene compounds and LC-MS analysis revealed the presence Cucurbitacin I, Cucurbitacin E, and Kuguacin G as the triterpene phytoconstituents. The present study demonstrated that ethanolic fruit extract of H. heteroclita improved both glycemic and lipid parameters in mice model of diabetes. Graphical abstract depicting the beneficial role of Hodgsonia heteroclita in the regulation of anti-hyperglycemic and anti - hyperlipidemic activities. [Display omitted] • Diabetes is a chromic metabolic disorders affecting worldwide population. • Hodgsonia heteroclita is a traditionally consumed medicinal plant of North-East India with antidiabetic properties. • Ethanolic fruit extract of H. heteroclita improved glycemic and lipid profiles in diabetic mice. • H. heteroclita can be used for the development of effective new medications for diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidney problems are becoming more common globally and are considered a major health issue in the modern world with high mortality rate. Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites is a tropical ethnomedicinal plant used to treat various diseases like diabetes, hypertension and urinary disorders and possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition of 70% ethanolic leaf extract of Polyalthia longifolia (Sonn.) Thwaites (PL) and evaluates its nephroprotective effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats. The leaves of PL were extracted with 70% ethanol and performed the phytochemical profiling using Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). The nephroprotective effect of PL leaf extract was evaluated at three doses (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days against cisplatin toxicity (16 mg/kg, i.p., once) in male Wistar rats. Body and kidney weight indices, kidney function markers and lipid profile markers in serum, and oxidative stress markers in kidney tissue were performed along with the histopathological analysis of kidney. The LC-MS chromatograph confirmed the presence of various phytocompounds include N-Methylhernagine (aporphine alkaloid), 4-Acetamidobutanoic acid (gamma amino acid) and choline, etc. in the PL leaf extract. Exposure of cisplatin (16 mg/kg, i.p. , once only) to the animals significantly elevated the levels of kidney functional markers (i.e. serum urea, uric acid, creatinine) and the lipid markers (triglyceride and total cholesterol) in blood circulation with depletion of serum albumin which were reversed by the therapy of PL leaf extract (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg) in dose-dependent manner. The altered level of body and kidney weight in cisplatin treated group was also restored by the therapy. PL leaf extract effectively improved the antioxidant defense system of kidney at all doses by restoring the levels of tissue glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase with the dose-dependent reduction of lipid peroxidation against cisplatin-induced renal oxidative stress. The histopathological observations also showed the significant recovery in cellular morphology after PL treatment when compared to the cisplatin toxicity group. The highest dose 600 mg/kg of PL leaf extract showed more pronounced renal recovery (p < 0.001) followed by other two doses, which was similar to the silymarin treatment group (a reference drug) against nephrotoxicity. The results of this study revealed the nephroprotective effects of PL leaves against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by reversing the level of biochemical markers and mitigating oxidative stress as well as improving the architecture of renal tissues. This renal protection by PL might be due to the synergistic effect of its phytoconstituents and antioxidant efficacy. [Display omitted] • Polyalthia longifolia ethanolic leaf extract - • Shows dose-dependent recovery against cisplatin induced kidney injury. • Possess antioxidant and anti-lipid peroxidative effect. • Recovers the biochemical and oxidative markers towards normal level. • Ameliorates kidney at cellular level with reduction of inflammation against drug induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationships between vegetarian diet and growth, micronutrient stores, and serum lipids among healthy children. Secondary objectives included exploring whether cow's milk consumption or age modified these relationships. METHODS: A longitudinal cohort study of children aged 6 months to 8 years who participated in the TARGet Kids! cohort study. Linear mixed-effect modeling was used to evaluate the relationships between vegetarian diet and BMI z-score (zBMI), height-for-age z-score, serum ferritin, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and serum lipids. Generalized estimating equation modeling was used to explore weight status categories. Possible effect modification by age and cow's milk consumption was examined. RESULTS: A total of 8907 children, including 248 vegetarian at baseline, participated. Mean age at baseline was 2.2 years (SD 1.5). There was no evidence of an association between vegetarian diet and zBMI, height-for-age z-score, serum ferritin, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, or serum lipids. Children with vegetarian diet had higher odds of underweight (zBMI <-2) (odds ratio 1.87, 95% confidence interval 1.19 to 2.96; P = .007) but no association with overweight or obesity was found. Cow's milk consumption was associated with higher nonhigh-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P 5 .03), total cholesterol (P = .04), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = .02) among children with vegetarian diet. However, children with and without vegetarian diet who consumed the recommended 2 cups of cow's milk per day had similar serum lipids. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence of clinically meaningful differences in growth or biochemical measures of nutrition for children with vegetarian diet was not found. However, vegetarian diet was associated with higher odds of underweight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Compliance to dietary recommendations by patients is the most difficult part of diabetes management. The nature of any educational method is to increase patients' awareness. But the question is, what is the effect of each method and for this purpose a comparative method should be considered. Therefore, this study was conducted to compare the effects of in-person education versus video tele-education on dietary regimen compliance in patients with T2DM. Methods: In this trial, 378 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were random allocated into video tele-education, in-person education and control groups. The patients' weight and biochemical parameters were measured before educational programs and three-month later. Results: The mean changes of patients' weight, glycemic parameters, and Lipid profiles decreased more in the two educational groups than the control group in a three-month period. There were no significant differences in the all study variables between the in-person and video education groups in post interventions except Total Cholesterol (TC). The pre- and post-intervention changes in the weight, TC, hemoglobin A1c, Triglyceride, and Very Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol were significant in both in-person group and video group. None of the educational programs had a significant impact on the Fasting blood sugar, Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, and High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol. Discussion: Video tele-education was just as effective as in-person educational method on dietary regimen compliance among patients with T2DM in a three-month period. Therefore, it is recommended to use video tele-education in combination with or as an alternative to the in-person education method. This study provides support for diabetes educator. Trial registration: This investigation was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials Center (IRCT20150302021307N4). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context There is renewed interest in using very low-carbohydrate ketogenic (VLCK) diets to manage diabetes. Many clinical trials have been published, often with mixed results. Objective This meta-analysis compares the effect of a VLCK diet on glycemic control, body weight, lipid profile, medication use, and dropouts with that of recommended diets for 12 weeks or longer in people with type 2 diabetes. Data Sources Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases were searched (January 1980 through September 2019). Study Selection Two authors independently reviewed search results to select randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing a VLCK diet (carbohydrate intake < 50 g/d or < 10% of total energy) with any recommended diet for type 2 diabetes in adults. Discrepancies were resolved after consulting with the third author. Data Extraction Eight RCTs with 648 participants were identified. Results Compared with control diets, the VLCK diet resulted in a greater decrease in hemoglobin A1c after 3 months (weighted mean difference[WMD]: −6.7 mmol/mol; 95%CI, −9.0 to −4.4) (WMD: −0.61%; 95%CI, −0.82 to −0.40; P  < 0.001; moderate-certainty evidence) and after 6 months (WMD: −6.3 mmol/mol; 95%CI, −9.3 to −3.5) (WMD: −0.58%; 95%CI, −0.85 to −0.32; low-certainty evidence). There was a significantly greater weight loss with the VLCK diet after 3 months (WMD: −2.91 kg; 95%CI, −4.88 to −0.95; low-certainty evidence) and after 6 months (WMD: −2.84 kg; 95%CI, −5.29 to −0.39; low-certainty evidence). The VLCK diet was not better than a control diet after 12 months. It was superior in decreasing triglyceride levels, increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and reducing the use of antidiabetic medications for up to 12 months. Conclusion The VLCK diet appears to control glycemia and decrease body weight for up to 6 months in people with obesity and diabetes. Beneficial changes in serum triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, along with reductions in antidiabetic medications, continued in the VLCK group until 12 months. However, the quality of currently available evidence is not sufficient to recommend VLCK diets. A major limitation of the VLCK diet is patients' lack of adherence to carbohydrate restriction. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration number CRD42020154700 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin D insufficiency has been suggested as a risk factor for several metabolic disorders. The objective of the study was to investigate the association between serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and metabolic health markers of Brazilian individuals with normal-weight, overweight or obesity. We hypothesized that serum 25(OH)D would be inversely associated with glycemic, lipid and inflammatory markers indicative of metabolic abnormality. Data of 511 individuals (33-79 years), recruited from a longitudinal investigation (Pró-Saúde Study), were analyzed cross-sectionally. Anthropometric, biochemical, body composition, socio-demographic and lifestyle data were collected. Based on body mass index (BMI; normal weight, overweight, obesity) and metabolic health (metabolically healthy (MH) and metabolically unhealthy (MU)) categories, the participants were classified into 6 phenotypes. Individuals having zero components of the metabolic syndrome were considered as "MH". MH obesity was frequent in 2.0% of the participants and 56.0% exhibited vitamin D insufficiency (<20 ng/mL). In the subgroups of the same BMI category, there were no significant differences in 25(OH)D concentrations between individuals classified as MH and MU. After adjustments (including %body fat and BMI), an inverse association was observed between 25(OH)D and visceral adipose tissue (B = -6.46, 95% confidence interval, CI: -12.87, -0.04), leptin (B = -0.09, 95% confidence interval, CI: -0.14, -0.03), insulin (B = -0.21, 95%CI: -0.34, -0.07), HOMA-IR (B = -0.06, 95%CI: -0.10, -0.02), triglycerides (B = -2.44, 95%CI: -3.66, -1.22), and TNF-α (B = -0.12, 95%CI: -0.24, -0.005) only in MU individuals. Our results indicate that the association of 25(OH)D concentrations with a favorable biochemical profile (glycemic, lipidic and inflammatory) seems to depend on the individual's overall metabolic health, suggesting more benefits from higher serum vitamin D in MU individuals, regardless of their adiposity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Nutritional obesity causes oxidant damage in the body and cataract formation in the lenses by increasing the formation of free radicals. Myrtus communis leaf extracts (Myr) have antioxidant properties, and apocynin (Apo) is an effective NADPH-oxidase inhibitor. The data on tissue boron levels are quite lacking. The aim of this novel study was to investigate the effects of Myr and Apo treatment on boron levels and oxidative lens damage in rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Materials and Methods: Wistar albino male rats were randomly divided into four groups: the control group, HFD group, HFD + Myr group, and HFD + Apo group. Body weight and blood lipids were determined before and after the experiment. After decapitating the rats, the lenses were removed and homogenized. Catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and boron, malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in the lens homogenates were determined. Results: The HFD increased serum triglyceride (p<0.05), total cholesterol level (p<0.001), body weight (p<0.001), and lens MDA levels (p<0.01) and decreased lens GSH (p<0.05) and boron level (p<0.01), SOD (p<0.001), and CAT activity (p<0.001). However, Myr and Apo treatment reduced the rats' body weight (p<0.001), serum triglyceride (p<0.05), and total cholesterol level (p<0.001) and increased lens boron (p<0.01; p<0.001), GSH levels (p<0.05; p<0.01), and CAT activity (p<0.001). Conclusion: Both Myr and Apo may be able to reduce oxidative stress in the lenses of obese rats caused by HFD by increasing boron levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of a recreational training (RET) protocol in elderly women with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We hypothesized that non-conventional physical activities of RET protocol might improve clinical outcomes regarding cardiovascular function, metabolic profile and mental health as participants keep the adherence to the protocol during the 3-month follow-up. Cardiovascular parameters (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure), circulating biomarkers (glucose and lipids) and salivary cortisol were attenuated in response to exercise. RET also reduced anxiety and depression indexes. RET protocol constitutes a potential therapeutic approach for managing T2DM in elderly women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Previous studies have reported that resveratrol has various biological effects such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor. This study aimed to investigate the effects of resveratrol on blood glucose and blood lipids in rats with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods. The rat diabetes model was prepared by one-time intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 35 mg/kg). Fasting blood glucose was measured by using a blood glucose meter. The ELISA method was used to detect the levels of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, resistin, TNF-α, and IL-6. The content of TC, TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C was determined by using an automatic biochemical detector. Results. Compared with the GDM group, the insulin level in the resveratrol (120 and 240 mg/kg) treatment group was significantly increased. But, the blood glucose level and body weight were significantly reduced. The content of TC, TG, and LDL-C in the resveratrol (240 mg/kg) treatment group was significantly reduced, and the content of HDL-C was significantly increased. In addition, leptin, resistin, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels in the 240 mg/kg resveratrol treatment group were significantly reduced, and adiponectin was significantly increased. Also, resveratrol (240 mg/kg) was stronger than metformin hydrochloride in improving insulin secretion and regulating blood lipids and adipokine content. Conclusion. Resveratrol has a dose-dependent effect on GDM rats to increase insulin secretion, reduce blood glucose and body weight, and regulate blood lipids and plasma adipokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Flaxseed is widely used as a functional food for its rich sources of linolenic acid, lignans and dietary fibers in the world. This systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is first to evaluate effects of different flaxseed products (whole flaxseed, oil and lignans) on lipid profiles, inflammatory and anthropometric parameters in patients with dyslipidemia related diseases. Methods: Literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, Scopus, and Web of Science from the inception dates to January, 2020. Weighted mean differences with the 95% confidence interval (CI) were pooled using fix or random-effects models. Results: Thirty-one RCTs involving 1,698 participants were included. The present meta-analysis revealed that flaxseed consumption had an overall beneficial effect on serum TC, LDL-C, TG, apo B and IL-6 in patients with dyslipidemia related diseases, but not on apo A, HDL-C, hs-CRP, CRP and anthropometric indices. However, different flaxseed products showed obviously different effects. Whole flaxseed supplementation significantly reduced TC (− 11.85 mg/dl, 95% CI − 20.12 to − 3.57, P = 0.005), LDL-C (− 10.51 mg/dl, 95% CI − 14.96 to − 6.06, P < 0.001), TG (− 19.77 mg/dl, 95% CI − 33.61 to − 5.94, P = 0.005), apolipoprotein B (− 5.73 mg/dl, 95% CI − 7.53 to − 3.93, P < 0.001), TC/HDL-C (− 0.10, 95% CI − 0.19 to − 0.003, P = 0.044) and weight (− 0.40 kg, 95% CI − 0.76 to − 0.05, P = 0.027); Lignans supplementation significantly reduced TC (− 17.86 mg/dl, P = 0.004), LDL-C (− 15.47 mg/dl, P < 0.001) and TC/HDL-C (− 0.45, P = 0.04). Although flaxseed oil supplementation had no such lowering-effect on lipid, meta-analysis revealed its lowering-effect on IL-6 (− 0.35 pg/ml, P = 0.033) and hs-CRP (− 1.54 mg/l, P = 0.004). Subgroup analysis revealed that whole flaxseed decreased TC, LDL-C and TG levels irrespective of country and the intervention time prescribed, but was more pronounced when the dose of whole flaxseed was ≤ 30 g/day (TC: WMD − 13.61 mg/mL; LDL-C: WMD − 10.52 mg/mL; TG: WMD − 23.52 mg/mL), rather not a dose > 30 g/day. Moreover, a linear relationship between dose of whole flaxseed and absolute changes in C-reactive protein (P = 0.036) and a nonlinear relationship between with IL-6 (P < 0.001) were detected. Conclusions: Flaxseed intervention suggested the positive effects on lipid profiles, inflammatory cytokines and anthropometric indices in patients with dyslipidemia related diseases. Of these, whole flaxseed and lignans play an important role in reducing blood lipid, while flaxseed oil mainly plays in anti-inflammatory. Lipid- and weight-lowering was significant when whole flaxseed was consumed at doses < 30 mg/d, for lipid status with mixed dyslipidemia and patients with BMI > 25. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is commonly used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during hospitalization in patients with acute stroke. However, if DVT exists at admission, IPC of the legs with DVT may cause migration of the thrombi, resulting in pulmonary emboli. Whole-leg ultrasonography (wl-US) is a practical tool to detect DVT; however, wl-US is not always performed at admission in all stroke patients. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to investigate DVT frequency and identify significant factors indicating the presence of DVT at admission for acute stroke. Methods: We included patients admitted within 24 h of stroke onset between 2017 and 2019. Patients who did not undergo blood tests for D-dimer or wl-US within 72 h of arrival were excluded. We collected patient data on age; sex; anthropometric variables; presence of DVT on wl-US; and biomarkers such as D-dimer, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and lipids. Results: Of 1129 acute stroke patients, 917 met our inclusion criteria. DVT was detected in 161 patients (17.6 %). Patients with DVT were older; were more likely to be female; had lower body weight; had higher D-dimer and hs-CRP levels; had lower albumin, hemoglobin, and triglyceride levels; and had higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and pre-stroke modified Rankin scale scores than patients without DVT (n = 756). In addition, multiple logistic regression analysis showed that sex (female) and D-dimer levels (≥ 1.52 µg/mL) were independent significant factors for the presence of DVT. Among 161 patients with DVT, 78 (48.4 %) had both these significant factors. Among 756 patients without DVT, 602 (79.6 %) had no or one significant factor. The odds ratio of the presence of DVT in patients with both significant factors was 6.29, using patients without any significant factors as the group for comparison. Conclusions: The frequency of DVT is high in acute stroke patients at admission. Female sex and a high D-dimer level were independent significant factors for the presence of DVT. Therefore, in patients with these two significant factors at admission, IPC should be avoided or wl-US should be performed before IPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Obesity is a chronic low-grade systemic inflammation state, which causes insulin resistance, diabetes, and other metabolic diseases. Baicalin is known to have anti-inflammatory and antiobesity effects. In this study, we investigated the cellular and molecular immunological effects of baicalin on obesity-induced inflammation. Methods. Male C57BL/6 mice were assigned to four groups: the normal chow, high-fat diet (HFD), BC2 (HFD + baicalin 200 mg/kg), and BC4 (HFD + baicalin 400 mg/kg) group; the three groups except normal chow were fed with a high-fat diet for 8 weeks to induce obesity followed by baicalin treatment with two doses for 8 weeks. The body weight, epididymal fat weight, liver weight, food intake, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), oral fat tolerance test (OFTT), and serum lipids were measured. We evaluated insulin resistance by measuring the serum insulin level and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Also, the major obesity-associated immune cells including monocytes, macrophages, T lymphocytes, and dendritic cells in the blood, fat, and liver and the inflammatory and insulin signaling-related gene expressions in the fat and liver were evaluated. Results. Baicalin significantly reduced the body weight and liver weight and improved serum fasting glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, free fatty acid, HDL cholesterol, and the levels of glucose and triglyceride at each time point in the OGTT and OFTT. In the analysis of immune cells, baicalin significantly decreased inflammatory Ly6Chi monocytes, M1 adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs), and M1 Kupffer cells. On the contrary, baicalin increased anti-inflammatory M2 ATMs and liver CD4+ T cells and CD4/CD8 ratio. In the analysis of inflammatory and insulin signaling molecules, baicalin significantly downregulated the gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-α, F4/80, and C-C motif chemokine 2 while upregulated the insulin receptor mRNA expression. Conclusion. From these results, baicalin can be a promising treatment option for obesity and its related metabolic diseases based on its anti-inflammatory property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avocado pear pulp (Persea americana) is indigenous to Mexico. It is widely cultivated and consumed all over the world. Its oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (SFAs) and can be used to replace SFAs in a diet to lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Consumers seek healthy foods that aid in reducing metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of the best acceptable cakes supplemented with 0%, 10%, 30%, and 50% avocado on the serum lipid profile and plasma protein in rats. Twenty-five rats separated into five groups of four test groups and one control group were fed individually for 14 days, after which blood samples were withdrawn and subjected to biochemical analysis. Intake of cake supplemented with avocado pear pulp resulted in significant (P < .05) increment in the body weight, total cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL, and serum protein and decrement in LDL of the rats. The group fed 50% supplemented cake showed highest increase in HDL and least decrease in LDL. Cake supplemented with 50% avocado pear pulp proved to be a better supplementation in reducing serum LDL and increasing serum HDL and serum protein in rats, indicating to be a promising nutraceutical for the management of cardiovascular diseases and its associated complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Purpose: Excess fat mass (FM) contributes to poor prostate cancer (PCa) prognosis and comorbidity. However, FM gain is a common side effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We examined the efficacy of a 12-wk weight loss intervention to reduce FM and maintain lean mass (LM) in ADT-treated obese PCa patients. Methods: Fourteen ADT-treated obese PCa patients (72 ± 9 yr, 39.7% ± 5.4% body fat) were recruited for a self-controlled prospective study, with 11 completing the 6-wk control period, followed by a 12-wk intervention comprising 300 min·wk−1 of exercise including supervised resistance training and home-based aerobic exercise, and dietitian consultations advising a daily energy deficit (2100–4200 kJ) and protein supplementation. Body composition was assessed by dual x-ray absorptiometry. Secondary outcomes included muscle strength (one-repetition maximum), cardiorespiratory fitness (maximal oxygen consumption), and blood biomarkers. Results: There were no significant changes during the control period. Patients attended 89% of supervised exercise sessions and 100% of dietitian consultations. No changes in physical activity or energy intake were observed. During the intervention, patients experienced significant reductions in weight (−2.8 ± 3.2 kg, P = 0.016), FM (−2.8 ± 2.6 kg, P < 0.001), and trunk FM (−1.8 ± 1.4 kg, P < 0.001), with LM preserved (−0.05 ± 1.6 kg, P = 0.805). Muscle strength (4.6%–24.7%, P < 0.010) and maximal oxygen consumption (3.5 ± 4.7 mL·min−1·kg−1, P = 0.041) significantly improved. Leptin significantly decreased (−2.2 (−2.7 to 0.5) ng·mL−1, P = 0.016) with no other changes in blood biomarkers such as testosterone and lipids (P = 0.051–0.765); however, C-reactive protein (r s = −0.670, P = 0.024) and triglycerides (r = −0.667, P = 0.025) were associated with individual changes in LM. Conclusions: This study shows preliminary efficacy for an exercise and nutrition weight loss intervention to reduce FM, maintain LM, and improve muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness in ADT-treated obese PCa patients. The change in body composition may affect blood biomarkers associated with obesity and PCa progression; however, further research is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jianpi Shengqing Huazhuo Formula (JSH) is a modified prescription based on traditional Chinese medicine theory and classic prescriptions (Buzhong Yiqi Decoction and Yuye Decoction). It has been found that JSH has a good effect on obese patients with early abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to study its clinical efficacy and pharmacological effect. To observe the clinical efficacy of JSH and explore the mechanism of the formula to improve glucose and lipid metabolism in obese rats. 1. Clinical observation: 10 overweight/obese patients with abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism were selected to observe the indicators of serum glucose, serum lipids and liver damage of the patients before and after treatment with JSH. 2. Animal experiments: Fifty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, Metformin group (120 mg/kg/day), JSH-L group (5 g/kg/day) and JSH-H group (20 g/kg/day), with 10 rats in each group. The obese SD rat model was produced by feeding 60% high-fat diet for 8 weeks, and the drug group was given prophylactic administration for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, body weight, abdominal fat, plasma glucose, plasma lipids, plasma alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in plasma were detected by Elisa, and the changes of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) in plasma and liver tissue were detected by kits. The pathological changes and lipid deposition in liver were observed by HE staining and oil red O staining, and the changes in the number of mitochondria in liver cells were observed by transmission electron microscopy. RT-qPCR and Western Blot (WB) were used to detect the mitochondrial regulation-related indicators PGC-1α, NRF1, TFAM, MFN2, DRP1 and apoptosis-related indicators Bcl-2, Bax, caspase 8 in liver tissue. 1. Clinical observation: After one month administration, the patient's body weight, BMI, 2 h oral glucose tolerance test (2hOGTT), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) decreased significantly, and the indicators of liver damage AST and ALT also decreased significantly. 2. Animal experiments: JSH can significantly reduce body weight and abdominal fat area, improve glucose and lipid metabolism, and also reduce plasma IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α content in obese rats, and improve oxidative stress; HE staining and oil red O staining also showed that JSH can alleviate liver damage and lipid deposition in the liver. Further observations of liver cell ultrastructure showed that JSH can ameliorate the reduction of liver mitochondria caused by a high-fat diet and promote the expression of indicators of mitochondrial biogenesis related to PGC-1α, NRF1, and TFAM. Moreover, JSH could promote the expression of MFN2 and DRP1, decrease Bcl-2 and increase Bax in the liver. 1. Clinical observation: JSH can reduce body weight, serum glucose, serum lipid, and liver injury in overweight/obese patients. 2. Animal experiments: JSH regulates PGC-1α/NRF1/TFAM signaling pathway promotes liver mitochondrial biogenesis, improves glucose and lipid metabolism in obese rats, and regulates mitochondrial dependent apoptosis indicators Bcl-2/Bax to reduce liver injury. [Display omitted] • A new traditional Chinese medicine compound (Jianpi Shengqing Huazhuo Formula, JSH) was obtained by optimizing the traditional classical prescriptions. • Clinical observation and animal experiments were used to explore the clinical efficacy and pharmacological mechanism of JSH. • JSH can improve the glucose and lipid metabolism disorder and liver injury in overweight/obese patients. • JSH can improve glucose and lipid metabolism disorder, liver lipid deposition and liver injury in obese rats. • JSH regulates PGC-1α/NRF1/TFAM signaling pathway promotes liver mitochondrial biogenesis, improves glucose and lipid metabolism in obese rats, and regulates mitochondrial dependent apoptosis index Bcl-2/Bax to reduce liver injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Introduction: fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic rheumatic disorder that is related to high levels of cholesterol, high values of diastolic pressure, higher waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR), and higher body mass index. Objectives: the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Ganoderma lucidum (GL) and Ceratonia siliqua (CS) on blood parameters and anthropometrical measures in women with fibromyalgia. Methods: a double-blind randomized pilot trial was carried out. One group took 6 g/day of micro-milled carpophore powder of GL for 6 weeks, while the second group took the same dose of CS flour. Fasting glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides levels, weight, fat mass, muscular mass, waist-hip ratio, and blood pressure were assessed. Results: our results did not show any statistically significant differences in any of the outcome measures, even if there was a CS tendency to reduce fasting glucose levels and increase WHR. Conclusions: our results did not support the utility of both GL and CS as nutritional supplements to control blood parameters and anthropometric measures as assessed in women with fibromyalgia. Due to the limitations of the research, additional studies will be necessary to confirm our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity is a principal risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Natural plants and/or foods play an important role in the management of obesity. Acalypha australis L. (AAL) is a kind of potherb popular among Asian populations, and it is also consumed as a food ingredient and traditional herbal medicine. Objective: We investigated the effects of water extract from AAL on high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced obese mice and 3T3-L1 adipocytes to develop a new functional food material. Design: Nine-week-old male mice were randomly divided into control (chow diet, n = 6) and HFD (n = 30) group. From 12-weeks onward, mice in the HFD group were further separated into model (saline, 6 mL/kg), simvastatin (0.11 mg/mL, 6 mL/kg), and AAL treatment (low, middle, and high dosage: 300, 600, and 900 mg/kg) group, with 6 animals per group, while mice in the control group were treated with saline (6 mL/ kg). Food intake, body/fat weight, liver/kidney indexes, and lipid profiles were determined. Tissues were fixed with formalin for pathological examination. Western blotting and PCR were performed to evaluate the protein and mRNA expression in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Oil Red O staining was used to determine lipid accumulation. Results: AAL administration significantly suppressed body weight gain, and reduced fat pad weight and Lee's index in obese mice, but had no effect on liver/kidney index. AAL also reduced serum cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL-C and increased HDL-C levels. Histological analysis revealed that AAL significantly ameliorated lipid accumulation in the liver and subcutaneous adipose tissue. In vitro, Oil Red O staining showed that AAL inhibited adipose differentiation by down-regulating the gene and protein expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα. AAL also reversed HFD-induced intestinal dysbacteriosis. Conclusion: AAL water-soluble extract has a significant anti-adipogenic effect in the HFD-induced obese mice model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are environmentally persistent chemicals widely detected in women of reproductive age. Prenatal PFAS exposure is associated with adverse health outcomes in children. We hypothesized that DNA methylation changes may result from prenatal PFAS exposure and may be linked to offspring cardio-metabolic phenotype. OBJECTIVES: We estimated associations of prenatal PFAS with DNA methylation in umbilical cord blood. We evaluated associations of methylation at selected sites with neonatal cardio-metabolic indicators. METHODS: Among 583 mother–infant pairs in a prospective cohort, five PFAS were quantified in maternal serum (median 27 wk of gestation). Umbilical cord blood DNA methylation was evaluated using the Illumina HumanMethylation450 array. Differentially methylated positions (DMPs) were evaluated at a false discovery rate (FDR)< 0.05 and differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified using comb-p (Å idák-adjusted 푝< 0.05). We estimated associations between methylation at candidate DMPs and DMR sites and the following outcomes: newborn weight, adiposity, and cord blood glucose, insulin, lipids, and leptin. RESULTS: Maternal serum PFAS concentrations were below the median for females in the U.S. general population. Moderate to high pairwise correlations were observed between PFAS concentrations (?= 0.28-0.76). Methylation at one DMP (cg18587484), annotated to the gene TJAP1, was associated with perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) at FDR < 0.05. Comb-p detected between 4 and 15 DMRs for each PFAS. Associated genes, some common across multiple PFAS, were implicated in growth (RPTOR), lipid homeostasis (PON1, PON3, CIDEB, NR1H2), inflammation and immune activity (RASL11B, RNF39), among other functions. There was suggestive evidence that two PFAS-associated loci (cg09093485, cg09637273) were associated with cord blood triglycerides and birth weight, respectively (FDR < 0.1). DISCUSSION: DNA methylation in umbilical cord blood was associated with maternal serum PFAS concentrations during pregnancy, suggesting potential associations with offspring growth, metabolism, and immune function. Future research should explore whether DNA methylation changes mediate associations between prenatal PFAS exposures and child health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 227 adults, 162 using antiretroviral therapy (ART), both sexes, in Secondary Immunodeficiency Outpatient Clinic of the Department of Dermatology of the Hospital das Clínicas of the Faculty of Medicine of University of São Paulo. The patients were grouped into 92 under ART and self-reported lipodystrophy (G1); 70 under ART and without self-reported lipodystrophy (G2); 65 without ART (G3). We evaluated: (1) self-reported lipodystrophy, self-perception and feeling about body image; (2) Anthropometric and lipemic profile. We included 67% (n = 152) male; 33% (n = 77) female. There was a negative impact of self-reported lipodystrophy on body image, where female was more critical, although it was significant for male (p = 0.014). BMI revealed excess weight in female (p = 0.058). Hip waist ratio was shown to be a better parameter than abdominal perimeter when measuring fat in central region of male and lipohypertrophy was characterized in both sexes. There was lipoatrophy in upper and lower limbs for individuals of the (G1) and the male of this group presented hypertriglyceridemia, (p = 0.012). There was a difference in sex, pattern of self – perceived morphologic alterations and feeling in relation to body image when associated with self – reported lipodystrophy, ART use, anthropometric and lipemic profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperlipidemia and its associated obesity, hepatic steatosis, and NAFLD are worldwide problems. However, there is no ideal pharmacological treatment for these. Therefore, the complementary therapies that are both natural and safe have been focused. Healthy foods, such as fruit vinegar, may be one of the best choices. In this study, we made a special medicinal fruit vinegar, Schisandra fruit vinegar (SV), and examined its lipid-lowering effects and the underlying mechanisms in a high-fat diet rat model. The results showed that SV significantly reduced the body weight, liver weight, liver index, the serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), free fatty acid (FFA), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and malondialdehyde (MDA), increased the content of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), upregulated the expressions of peroxisome proliferative activated receptor (PPAR-α), peroxisomal acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1 (ACOX1), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) proteins, increased the contents of key component of antioxidant defense NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and its downstream heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein, and downregulated the expression of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1). These results suggest that SV has weight loss and lipid-lowering effects in HFD rats, which may be related to its upregulation of the expressions of β-oxidation -elated PPAR-α, CPT1, and ACOX1 and the regulation of the expressions of antioxidant pathway-related KEAP1-NRF2-HO-1. Therefore, all these data provide an experimental basis for the development of SV as a functional beverage which is safe, effective, convenient, and inexpensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To examine the association of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) polymorphisms with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in European adolescents, along with the influence of physical activity on these associations. Methods: A total of 13 LPL polymorphisms were genotyped in 1.057 European adolescents (12‐18 years old) from the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence Cross‐Sectional Study. Serum lipids, glucose, insulin, and leptin (LEP) levels were measured and a CVD risk score was computed. We also measured body weight and height, waist and hip circumferences, and triceps and subscapular skinfold thickness. Physical activity was objectively measured by accelerometry for 7 days. Results: The rs1534649, rs258, rs320, and rs328 polymorphisms were associated with several CVD risk factors (ie, body mass index, triglycerides [TG], LEP, and cholesterol/high‐density lipoprotein [HDL], low‐density lipoprotein [LDL]/HDL, TG/HDL ratios). TG and TG/HDL were associated with haplotype blocks 3 (rs282, rs285 polymorphisms) and 4 (rs3126, rs320, rs328, rs10099160 polymorphisms), being the latter also associated with the CVD risk score. Physical activity modulated the association of adiposity with rs1534649 and rs258 polymorphisms. Conclusions: Polymorphisms rs1534649, rs258, rs320 and rs328, and two haplotypes of LPL were significantly associated with CVD risk factors in European adolescents. Higher levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity may attenuate the effects of rs1534649 and rs258 polymorphisms on adiposity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postmenopausal women have an increased risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We formulated a combination of three herb mixtures (HPC03) and observed lipid-lowering efficacy. HepG2 cells were treated with oleic acid to induce an NAFLD model (in vitro). Also, we investigated potential of HPC03 in an ovariectomize- (OVX-) induced NAFLD model (in vivo). We separated the mice into six groups, as follows: SHAM, OVX, OVX + β-estradiol, and OVX + HPC03 (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg). Rats were administered with/without HPC03 for 12 weeks. HPC03 dose dependently inhibited the lipid accumulation involved in lipogenesis in HepG2 cells. The body weight, fat mass, and weights of the liver were decreased in the OVX group than that in the other groups. HPC03 had decreased adiposity that was induced by OVX. HPC03 treatment reduced liver lipid deposition and prevented the increase in serum and liver triglyceride export when there was a deficiency in estradiol. HPC03 improves OVX-induced fatty liver and lipid metabolism. These findings suggest that HPC03 from postmenopausal women has a protective effect during NAFLD conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Leptin/adiponectin (L/A) ratio is considered a predicting factor of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its related morbidities. In the present study, we determined the association of serum L/A ratio with MetS parameters in apparently healthy Iranian adults. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 apparently healthy adults aged 25 to 50 years, who were selected by random sampling from different medical centers of Tabriz city, Iran. Our criteria for being a healthy individual were based on self-report of the participants. Anthropometric measures, fasting blood sugar (FBS) and lipid profile, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP), and fasting serum L/A levels were measured. Results: There were significant differences (p<0.05) in weight, height, waist circumference (WC), SBP, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), serum leptin concentration, and L/A ratio between males and females. Univariate linear regression model revealed a significant positive association of serum leptin concentration with WC (p=0.024) and FBS (p=0.046). A similar result was obtained using the multiple regression model after adjusting for confounding factors (p<0.001 and p=0.045). A significant positive correlation was found between the L/A ratio and WC (p=0.010) in the adjusted model. However, no significant association was observed between adiponectin and MetS indices. Conclusion: Our findings indicated a significant positive association of serum leptin concentration with WC and FBS and between L/A ratio and WC in apparently healthy adults. Therefore, compared to adiponectin, leptin, and L/A ratio could be useful predictors of MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flavonoid dihydromyricetin (DMY) is the main component of Ampelopsis grossedentata (Hand-Mazz) W. T. Wang (AG), a daily beverage and folk medicine used in Southern China to treat jaundice hepatitis, cold fever, and sore throat. Recently, DMY and AG were shown to have a beneficial effect on lipid metabolism disorder. However, the mechanisms of how DMY and AG protect the liver during lipid metabolism disorder remain unclear. In this study, we first analyzed the chemical compounds of AG by HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn. Of the 31 compounds detected, 29 were identified based on previous results. Then, the effects of DMY and AG on high-fat diet hamster livers were studied and the metabolite levels and metabolic pathway activity of the liver were explored by 1H NMR metabolomics. Compared to the high-fat diet group, supplementation of AG and DMY attenuated the high-fat-induced increase in body weight, liver lipid deposition, serum triglycerides and total cholesterol levels, and normalized endogenous metabolite concentrations. PCA and PLS-DA score plots demonstrated that while the metabolic profiles of hamsters fed a high-fat diet supplemented with DMY or AG were both far from those of hamsters fed a normal diet or a high-fat diet alone, they were similar to each other. Our data suggest that the underlying mechanism of the protective effect of DMY and AG might be related to an attenuation of the deleterious effect of high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia on multiple metabolic pathways including amino acid metabolism, ketone body metabolism, energy metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and enhanced fatty acid oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flavonoid dihydromyricetin (DMY) is the main component of Ampelopsis grossedentata (Hand-Mazz) W. T. Wang (AG), a daily beverage and folk medicine used in Southern China to treat jaundice hepatitis, cold fever, and sore throat. Recently, DMY and AG were shown to have a beneficial effect on lipid metabolism disorder. However, the mechanisms of how DMY and AG protect the liver during lipid metabolism disorder remain unclear. In this study, we first analyzed the chemical compounds of AG by HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn. Of the 31 compounds detected, 29 were identified based on previous results. Then, the effects of DMY and AG on high-fat diet hamster livers were studied and the metabolite levels and metabolic pathway activity of the liver were explored by 1H NMR metabolomics. Compared to the high-fat diet group, supplementation of AG and DMY attenuated the high-fat-induced increase in body weight, liver lipid deposition, serum triglycerides and total cholesterol levels, and normalized endogenous metabolite concentrations. PCA and PLS-DA score plots demonstrated that while the metabolic profiles of hamsters fed a high-fat diet supplemented with DMY or AG were both far from those of hamsters fed a normal diet or a high-fat diet alone, they were similar to each other. Our data suggest that the underlying mechanism of the protective effect of DMY and AG might be related to an attenuation of the deleterious effect of high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia on multiple metabolic pathways including amino acid metabolism, ketone body metabolism, energy metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and enhanced fatty acid oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heracleum persicum (H. persicum) is a medicinal herb used in Iranian traditional medicine for its anti-toxic property. It is commonly consumed in the form of food additives and as a medicinal herbal tonic to treat liver and kidney diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-oxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of H. persicum hydroalcoholic extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Adult male Wistar rats (n=30) were assigned to five groups: a normal group, a diabetic control group, and three diabetic groups treated orally with 200 and 400 mg/kg of the extract and 5 mg/kg of glibenclamide, respectively, for two weeks. Blood glucose and bodyweight were measured at the end of each week. On day 15, blood samples were collected to measure the levels of insulin, insulin growth factor-I (IGF-I), antioxidant markers for malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant activity (TAS), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) using commercial kits. The data were analyzed using SPSS Software (version 22.0). Results: Daily treatment with 400 mg/kg of the extract significantly reduced the blood glucose level (P<0.001) and improved bodyweight (P=0.002), insulin (P<0.001), IGF-I (P=0.024), SOD (P=0.001), GPx (P=0.009), MDA (P<0.001), TAS (P=0.006), TG (P<0.001), HDL (P=0.023), LDL (P=0.005), and VLDL (P<0.001) compared with the diabetic control group. Conclusion: Beneficial effects of H. persicum for the treatment of diabetes were confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity reduces the quality of life and life expectancy, whereas nonoperative interventions have shown poor results so far. Statins effectively combat hypercholesterolemia but are not well tolerated at high doses, raising the need for coprescription with cholesterol sorbents and/or absorption inhibitors. Montmorillonite (MMT) clay was found to attenuate hypercholesterolemia and obesity by reducing cholesterol and fat absorption. However, acicular clay-like sepiolite may offer better results due to its more substantial adsorption of nonpolar molecules. We herein aimed at (1) assessing in vitro the capacity of sepiolite to adsorb edible oil and cholesterol compared with that of MMT and (2) assessing in vivo the effect of continuous feeding on a high-fat high-cholesterol diet (HFD) (53.6% w/w fat and 0.2% cholesterol) supplemented with 5% (w/w) edible sepiolite, on diet-induced obesity rate, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperlipidemia. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed in vitro that sepiolite adsorption of olive oil and cholesterol was five to eight times greater than that of MMT clay. Sepiolite supplementation to HFD fed to mature mice for 12.5 weeks resulted in lower total blood cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels and attenuated body weight gain, by reducing fat gain. Sepiolite supplementation did not affect energy intake but increased fecal extraction of sterols and lipids, without notable side effects. These results demonstrate that supplementing a HFD with sepiolite attenuates gastrointestinal absorption of dietary lipids and sterols, thus mitigating obesity, hyperlipidemia, and hypercholesterolemia. Further exploration of the efficacy, mechanism of action, and safety of sepiolite as a food supplement for combating the metabolic syndrome is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of added sugars in the US is estimated to be approximately 1.5 times recommended levels and has been linked to increased risk for developing chronic diseases. We hypothesized that relative to sugar, honey would reduce energy intake and improve serum lipid profiles. To test this, we assessed the short-term (1-week) and relatively long-term (1-month) effects of honey versus sucrose on changes in dietary intake and serum lipid concentrations. Thirty-seven apparently healthy subjects (21 males; 16 females) aged 24–57 years (BMI = 17.6–37.2 kg/m2) completed two 4-week trials in a randomized, cross-over design separated by ≥4-week washout. During each trial, subjects consumed either clover honey or sucrose providing 1.2 g/kg/day of carbohydrate under free-living conditions with instructions to avoid changing their habitual food intake. Serum triglyceride (TG) concentrations were elevated (P <.05) after 1 week for both trials but only remained elevated (P <.05) at the 4-week time-point during sucrose consumption. The elevation after 1 week during the honey trial was concurrent with a transient increase (P <.05) in body weight. No effects on serum concentrations of insulin, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, or high density lipoprotein-cholesterol were detected for either trial. Subjects consumed significantly less energy (P <.05), carbohydrate (P <.005), sugars (P <.05), and saturated fat (P <.05) during the honey trial. These data suggest that honey may serve as a favorable substitute for sucrose with regard to reduced energy intake, carbohydrate and sugars, without negatively influencing serum lipid concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flavonoid dihydromyricetin (DMY) is the main component of Ampelopsis grossedentata (Hand-Mazz) W. T. Wang (AG), a daily beverage and folk medicine used in Southern China to treat jaundice hepatitis, cold fever, and sore throat. Recently, DMY and AG were shown to have a beneficial effect on lipid metabolism disorder. However, the mechanisms of how DMY and AG protect the liver during lipid metabolism disorder remain unclear. In this study, we first analyzed the chemical compounds of AG by HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn. Of the 31 compounds detected, 29 were identified based on previous results. Then, the effects of DMY and AG on high-fat diet hamster livers were studied and the metabolite levels and metabolic pathway activity of the liver were explored by 1H NMR metabolomics. Compared to the high-fat diet group, supplementation of AG and DMY attenuated the high-fat-induced increase in body weight, liver lipid deposition, serum triglycerides and total cholesterol levels, and normalized endogenous metabolite concentrations. PCA and PLS-DA score plots demonstrated that while the metabolic profiles of hamsters fed a high-fat diet supplemented with DMY or AG were both far from those of hamsters fed a normal diet or a high-fat diet alone, they were similar to each other. Our data suggest that the underlying mechanism of the protective effect of DMY and AG might be related to an attenuation of the deleterious effect of high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia on multiple metabolic pathways including amino acid metabolism, ketone body metabolism, energy metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and enhanced fatty acid oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. In folk medicine, common chickweed (Stellaria media) has traditionally been applied for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia; however, there is no firm experimental proof to support the rationale of this practice. Therefore, we aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Stellaria media tea in hypercholesterolemic rats. Materials and Methods. Adult male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups. The (i) control group received standard laboratory chow, the (ii) hypercholesterolemic group received cholesterol-enriched diet, and the (iii) chickweed-treated hypercholesterolemic group received cholesterol-enriched diet and 100 mg/kg body weight Stellaria media tea lyophilizate for 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected to determine serum lipid profile as well as liver and kidney function, and echocardiography was performed to assess cardiac morphology and function. Results. Cholesterol-enriched diet significantly increased serum total cholesterol, LDL- and HDL-cholesterol levels, but did not affect triacylglycerol concentrations. The addition of chickweed to the diet did not cause any significant change in serum lipid profile or body weight increase. Liver and kidney functions were unaltered and cardiac morphology and function were not changed due to Stellaria media tea lyophilizate. Conclusion. Although chickweed does not seem to be toxic, our results do not support the rationale of its use in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a global epidemic leads to multiple serious health complications, including nephropathy. Diabetic nephropathy is a serious kidney-related complication of type 1 or 2 diabetes that is prevalent in almost 40% of the people with diabetes. We examined whether folic acid and melatonin can reduce progression of nephropathy in rats of type 1 diabetes mellitus by controlling the level of oxidative stress, glucose, lipids, and cytokines. Methods: Forty-two male albino rats were distributed into six groups, (n = 7 per group). Five of the groups were induced with diabetes by a single intraperitoneal injection of freshly prepared streptozotocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight. After the induction of diabetes, the rats were treated with folic acid (100 mg/kg) and melatonin (10 mg/kg) separately and in combination daily for 6 weeks, whereas, the other diabetic group was treated with glibenclamide (5 mg/kg). One of the diabetic groups served as a positive control. One-way ANOVA was used to compare those five subfields ability followed by LSD multiple comparisons. Results: The data indicated that diabetes significantly altered the body weight, lipids and kidney function. Diabetic rats exhibited a significant increase in plasma levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine, sodium, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6(IL-6), cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). In contrast, plasma total protein, potassium, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) decreased significantly in diabetic rats compared to the control rats. Moreover, levels of renal malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) were significantly increased while the levels of renal glutathione(GSH), superoxide dismutase(SOD), and catalase (CAT) were significantly decreased in diabetic rats comparison to those in the control rats. Hence, diabetic rats treated with folic acid and melatonin alone as well as in combination showed improvements with respect to the indices in addition to a significant recovery observed via histopathology when compared to the diabetic group. Conclusions: These results revealed that treatment with folic acid in combination with melatonin in diabetic rats was more effective than treatment with either of folic acid or melatonin alone to alleviate the symptoms of diabetic nephropathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have shown that the consumption of a diet containing whole grains may improve metabolic homeostasis and is related to the reduction of risk factors for the development of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. We aimed to investigate the effects of Triticum aestivum and Triticum turgidum on the metabolic profile of Wistar rats. Animals were divided into G1 (control group), G2 (T. turgidum), and G3 (T. aestivum). Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were evaluated after 45 days of treatment with both types of wheat. Our results showed that the use of the common or green wheat improved body weight percentage, visceral fat, glycemia, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and atherogenic indices such as atherogenic index, CCR1, and CCR2. Furthermore, wheat may also improve high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The health-promoting properties of wheat occur probably due to the content of phytochemicals, antioxidants, and fibers. We suggest that the intake of T. aestivum and T. turgidum may be helpful in the prevention or treatment of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polydatin (PD), an active component of Chinese herbs, is reported to have many biological functions, such as cardioprotective actions, anti-inflammatory activities, and antitumor effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of PD on body weight control, glucose and lipid metabolic regulation, and anti-inflammation in a high-fat-diet- (HFD-) induced obese mice model. After treatment of PD (100 mg/kg/d for 4 weeks), HFD mice reduced body weight, retroperitoneal fat mass, and adipose cell sizes; significantly lowered serum total cholesterol triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels; and increased high- density lipoprotein (HDL) levels compared with the HFD control mice. Further studies showed that PD downregulated the mRNA and protein expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), a transcription factor involving in the regulation of adipocyte differentiation, in the retroperitoneal fat of HFD mice. Additionally, PD significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein expressions of leptin, an adipocyte-derived anorexic hormone that regulates food intake and energy expenditure, in the adipose tissues of HFD mice. Moreover, PD reduced the expression levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the retroperitoneal and epididymal tissues of HFD mice, suggesting that PD prevented adipose tissue inflammation. In conclusion, PD may serve as a pharmaceutic candidate for obesity-related lipid metabolism, anti-inflammation, and body weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We systematically reviewed available randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to elucidate the overall effects of synbiotic supplementation in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Methods: PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of science and Google Scholar were searched up to December, 2017. All RCTs using synbiotic supplements to treat NAFLD included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Mean Difference (MD) was pooled using a random-effects model. Results: Eleven eligible databases from seven RCTs were identified for the present meta-analysis. Our results showed that synbiotic supplementation can decrease body weight, fasting blood sugar, insulin, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor alpha, alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels among patients with NAFLD. In contrast, synbiotic did not have favorable effects on body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) levels compared with the placebo group. Conclusion: The current study revealed that synbiotic supplementation has favorable effect on inflammatory factors, liver enzymes and some anthropometric indices, lipid profiles and glucose homeostasis parameters in patients with NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to compare blood pressure (BP) levels in 2 groups of Indigenous Argentine school children from similar ethnic backgrounds but living at different altitudes. One hundred and fifty-two (46.3%) children (age, 4–14 years) from San Antonio de los Cobres (SAC), at 3750 m above sea level, and 176 children (53.7%) from Chicoana (CH), at 1400 m above sea level, participated in this cross-sectional study. Data for children's anthropometry, BP, glucose, lipids, vitamin D, and insulin, as well as mothers' height and weight were assessed. Hypertension was defined as BP ≥ 95th percentile. The prevalence of overweight/obesity among children was significantly lower in SAC (n = 17, 11.2%) than in CH (n = 74, 42%) (body mass index (BMI) > 85th percentile per US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention norms). However, the prevalence of hypertension was significantly higher among children in SAC (n = 15, 9.9%) than among those in CH (n = 2, 1.1%). Children were divided into 4 groups by mean arterial BP quartiles for comparison by ANOVA. As mean arterial BP increased, age, BMI, glucose, triglycerides, triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and insulin levels increased significantly. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that children's mean arterial BP was significantly associated with altitude adjusted for confounding variables (R2 = 0.42). Furthermore, when mean arterial BP was replaced by systolic BP (R2 = 0.51) or diastolic BP (R2 = 0.33), similar results were obtained. Our results suggest that Indigenous children who live permanently at high altitude have higher levels of BP, adjusted for confounding variables. Routine BP measurements conducted in the SAC community could be essential for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the current meta-analysis, we aimed to systematically review and summarize the eligible studies evaluating the association between dietary acid load in terms of potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net-endogenous acid production (NEAP) with anthropometric parameters and serum lipids in adult population. Methods: In a systematic search from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences and Cochrane electronic databases up to December 2018, relevant studies were included. Cross-sectional, case control or cohort studies evaluating the association between PRAL and NEAP with the mean values of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), low and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL, HDL), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and the prevalence of obesity were included. Results: According to our results, having higher dietary acid load content in terms of high PRAL scores was associated with higher triglyceride concentrations (weighted mean difference (WMD): 3.468; confidence interval (CI): -0.231, 7.166, P = 0.04) and higher obesity prevalence (30% and 27% in highest versus lowest categories). Accordingly, being in the highest category of NEAP was associated with higher prevalence of obesity (25% and 22% in highest versus lowest category). In subgroup analysis, higher PRAL scores was associated with higher BMI in women (WMD: 0.122; CI: -0.001, 0.245; P = 0.049) and higher NEAP in men (WMD: 0.890; CI: 0.430, 1.350; P < 0.001). There was no association between dietary acid load and other studied parameters. Conclusions: In the current meta-analysis, high dietary acid load content was associated with higher serum triglyceride concentrations and higher obesity prevalence. Reducing dietary acid load content might be a useful preventive strategy against obesity and metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the comorbidities of high body mass index, cardiovascular disease continued to be the leading cause of death and disability globally in 2015, while type 2 diabetes remained second. The primary objectives of this observational study were to confirm the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of our calorie-restricted Mediterranean diet with targeted dietary supplementation (PROG1) using globally recognized dietary supplementation. Fifty healthy overweight and obese subjects with cardiometabolic risk factors were assigned a modified Mediterranean diet, including protein shakes and targeted supplementation (PROG2), providing ∼68–76% of subject estimated calorie requirements. Salivary nitrite was assessed weekly and key cardiometabolic metrics were recorded at baseline and weeks 9 and 13. PROG2 was well tolerated with 86% compliance. The most common adverse effects were bloating, flatulence, and constipation, which were self-limiting. Subjects exhibited decreases (P < .01) from baseline of 12% in body weight, 18% in body fat, and 8.8% in waist circumference. Total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG) were reduced (P < .01), respectively, 19%, 22%, and 40%. Lipid ratios of TC/high-density lipoprotein (HDL), TG/HDL, and oxidized LDL (oxLDL)/HDL were decreased 15% (P < .01), 35% (P < .01), and 13% (P < .05), respectively. Inflammation biomarkers, oxLDL and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, were reduced 17% (P < .01) and 30% (P < .05), respectively. Reductions of 9.0% for systolic (P < .01) and 12% (P < .01) for diastolic blood pressure were noted. In concert, the nitrogen dioxide salivary biomarker for nitric oxide was increased relative to baseline. PROG2 produced a dramatic 50% reduction in subjects meeting cardiometabolic syndrome criteria and a 38% decrease in Framingham 10-year cardiovascular risk. These results confirmed our previous findings that the addition of targeted nutraceutical supplementation to a calorie-restricted Mediterranean diet with lifestyle modifications improves multiple longevity risk factors more effectively than diet and lifestyle modification alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]