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Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The intake of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill), a source of bioactive compounds, can reduce the risk of developing CVD. Therefore, the present work evaluated the effect of whole soybean flour (UFVTN 105AP) on cardiovascular risk factors in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups (n = 10): AIN-93M (control diet - casein standard); SP100 group (control diet with 100% soybean protein) and SP50 group (control diet with 50% soybean protein). After 56 d, triglycerides, cholesterol and serum lipid peroxidation levels decreased in the SP100 group. Furthermore, an increase in the excretion of faecal lipids and liver fat was observed. The SP50 group presented low lipid peroxidation in the serum and lung, and increased lipid peroxidation in the duodenum and ileum villi. Thus, UFVTN 105AP whole soybean could be a potential functional food, which has cardioprotective effects and reduces cardiovascular risk associated with oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of extrusion and of open-pan cooking on whole germinated and non-germinated grains of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L. R. Br.), on its chemical-nutritional composition and in vitro iron bioavailability. The experimental design consisted of three flours: non-germination open-pan cooked millet flour (NGOPCMF), germination open-pan cooked millet flour (GOPCMF), and extrusion cooked millet flour (ECMF). The ECMF increased the carbohydrates, iron, manganese, diosmin, and cyanidin and decreased the total dietary fiber, resistant starch, lipids, and total vitamin E, in relation to NGOPCMF. The GOPCMF increased the lysine and vitamin C and decreased the phytate, lipids, total phenolic, total vitamin E, and riboflavin concentration, in relation to NGOPCMF. Furthermore, germinated cooked millet flour and extruded millet flour improved iron availability in vitro compared to non-germinated cooked millet flour. GOPCMF and ECMF generally preserved the chemical-nutritional composition of pearl millet and improved in vitro iron bioavailability; therefore, they are nutritionally equivalent and can be used to develop pearl millet-based products., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors affirm that they have no known conflicting financial interests or personal relationships that may have influenced the research presented in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of digested total protein (DTP) from chia seed on the gut microbiota and morphology of mice fed with a high-fat diet. Forty-four male C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 groups: AIN (standard diet), HF (high-fat diet), AIN + DTP (standard diet supplemented with 400 mg of digested chia seed protein), and HF + DTP (high-fat diet supplemented with 400 mg of digested chia seed protein) during 8 weeks. Colon morphology, tight junction's gene expression, and gut microbiota composition were evaluated. The consumption of digested chia seed protein (DTP) increased the crypts width, longitudinal and circular muscular layer. Furthermore, the AIN + DTP group enhanced the expression of tight junction proteins, including occludin and claudin, while the AIN + DTP and HF + DTP groups increase the zonula occludens expression. The α-diversity analysis showed a reduction in bacterial dominance in the HF + DTP group. All the experimental groups were grouped in different cluster, showing differences in the microbiota community in the β-diversity analyzes. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio did not differ among the groups. The genera Olsenella and Dubosiella were increased in the AIN + DTP group, but the Oscillospiraceae _unclassified was increased in the HF + DTP group. The Alistipes was increased, while the Roseburia and Akkermansia were decreased in the AIN + DTP and HF + DTP groups. Then, the consumption of DTP from chia seed improved the gut microbiota composition and mucosal integrity, counteracting the adverse effects of high-fat diet.

This work incorporated bioactives extracted from jabuticaba peel in the form of concentrated extract (JBE) and microencapsulated powders with maltodextrin (MDP) and gum arabic (GAP) in a dairy drink, evaluating its stability, in vitro bioaccessibility, and glycemic response. We evaluated the pH, acidity, colorimetry, total phenolics and anthocyanins, antioxidant capacity, degradation kinetics and half-life of anthocyanins, bioaccessibility, and postprandial glycemic physicochemical characteristics response in healthy individuals. The drinks incorporated with polyphenols (JBE, GAP, and MDP) and the control dairy drink (CDD) maintained stable pH and acidity over 28 days. In color, the parameter a*, the most relevant to the study, was reduced for all formulations due to degradation of anthocyanins. Phenolic and antioxidant content remained constant. In bioaccessibility, we found that after the gastrointestinal simulation, there was a decrease in phenolics and anthocyanins in all formulations. In the glycemic response, we observed that the smallest incremental areas of glucose were obtained for GAP and JBE compared to CDD, demonstrating that polyphenols reduced glucose absorption. Then, the bioactives from jabuticaba peel, incorporated into a dairy drink, showed good storage stability and improved the product's functional aspects., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Background: Chronic kidney disease increases uremic toxins concentrations, which have been associated with intestinal dysbiosis. Sorghum bicolor L. Moench has dietary fiber and bioactive compounds, while Bifidobacterium longum can promote beneficial health effects., Methods: It is a controlled, randomized, and single-blind clinical trial. Thirty-nine subjects were randomly separated into two groups: symbiotic group (SG), which received 100 mL of unfermented probiotic milk with Bifidobacterium longum strain and 40 g of extruded sorghum flakes; and the control group (CG), which received 100 mL of pasteurized milk and 40 g of extruded corn flakes for seven weeks., Results: The uremic toxins decreased, and gastrointestinal symptoms improved intragroup in the SG group. The acetic, propionic, and butyric acid production increased intragroup in the SG group. Regarding α-diversity, the Chao1 index was enhanced in the SG intragroup. The KEGG analysis revealed that symbiotic meal increased the intragroup energy and amino sugar metabolism, in addition to enabling essential amino acid production and metabolism, sucrose degradation, and the biosynthesis of ribonucleotide metabolic pathways., Conclusions: The consumption of symbiotic meal reduced BMI, improved short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) synthesis and gastrointestinal symptoms, increased diversity according to the Chao1 index, and reduced uremic toxins in chronic kidney disease patients.

Macauba ( Acrocomia aculeata ) is a palm tree native from Brazil, whose pulp is rich in oil that has a high content of oleic acid and carotenoids. Macauba pulp oil can bring health benefits due to its bioactive compounds; however, its effects on gut health are unknown. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of macauba pulp oil on the intestinal health in mice fed a high-fat (HF) diet. Male C57BL1/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups (10 animals/group): control diet, HF diet and HF diet with 4 % of macauba pulp oil (HFM). Concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), faecal pH and histomorphometric analysis of the colon were performed. Content of colon samples was used on microbiome analysis using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Animals from the HFM group had higher butyric acid content and goblet cells number, greater circular and longitudinal muscle layer and higher α -diversity compared with the HF group. Moreover, consumption of MPO reduced Desulfobacterota phylum, Ruminococcaceae , Oscillospiraceae , Prevotellaceae , Bifidobacteriaceae family, Faecalibacterium , Prevotella , Ruminococcus and Enterorhabdus genus. Therefore, macauba pulp oil was able to modulate the gut microbiota and enhance intestinal barrier morphology, showing preventive effects on gut dysbiosis in mice fed a HF diet.

Background: Increased intestinal permeability and dysbiosis are related to obesity. Nuts can provide nutrients and bioactive compounds that modulate gut microbiota and inflammation, enhancing the beneficial effects of weight loss., Objectives: To evaluate the effect of consuming cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale L.) and Brazil nuts (Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K) on intestinal permeability and microbiota, fecal SCFAs and pH, inflammation, and weight loss in energy restriction condition., Methods: In this 8-week randomized controlled trial, 40 women with overweight or obesity were assigned to energy-restricted groups (-500 kcal/d): control group (free of nuts) or Brazilian nuts group (BN: 30 g of cashew nuts and 15 g of Brazil nuts per day). Permeability was analyzed by the lactulose/mannitol test and the microbiota by sequencing the 16S gene in the V3-V4 regions. Plasma concentrations of inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-6, IL-10, IL-8, IL-17A) and C-reactive protein were analyzed., Results: In total, 25 women completed the intervention. Both groups lost weight without statistical differences. Lactulose excretion increased only in the control group (P < 0.05). The BN consumption increased fecal propionic acid and potentially beneficial bacteria, such as Ruminococcus, Roseburia, strains NK4A214 and UCG-002 from the Ruminococcaceae family, but also Lachnospiraceae family, Bacteroides, and Lachnoclostridium, when compared to the control group. Changes in intestinal permeability were correlated to a greater reduction in body fat (kg), and IL-8, and increases in Ruminococcus abundance., Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate a positive impact of BN consumption within an energy-restricted context, linked to the augmentation of potentially beneficial bacteria and pathways associated with body fat reduction. Besides, BN consumption mitigated increased intestinal permeability, although its capacity to diminish permeability or enhance weight loss proved limited. This trial was registered at the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials as ReBEC (ID: RBR-3ntxrm)., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Nutrition. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The consumption of diets high in saturated fat can induce damages in liver morphology and function, which leads to increased inflammation, oxidative stress, and hepatic steatosis. Chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) is rich in protein, which provides bioactive peptides with potential benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. Then, this study aimed to analyze the effect of digested total protein (DTP) of chia on inflammation, oxidative stress, and morphological changes in liver of C57BL/6 mice fed a diet rich in saturated fat. Male C57BL/6 mice (n = 8/group), 8 weeks old, were fed standard diet (AIN), high-fat diet (HF), standard diet added digested protein (AIN + DTP) or high-fat diet added digested protein (HF + DTP) for 8 weeks. In animals fed a high-fat diet, chia DTP was able to reduce weight gain, food efficiency ratio and hepatosomatic index. In addition, it presented antioxidant capacity, which reduced catalase activity and lipid peroxidation. DTP was also able to reduce hepatic inflammation by reducing p65-NFκB expression and IL-1β expression and quantification. The APSPPVLGPP peptide present in chia DTP presented binding capacity with PPAR-α, which contributed to the reduction of hepatic fat accumulation evidenced by histological analysis. Thus, chia DTP improved hepatic inflammatory and histological parameters, being an effective food in reducing the liver damage caused by a high-fat diet., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Sorghum BRS 305 (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a cereal with high tannins and anthocyanins content and keep better the resistant starch when submitted to dry heat treatment. Our objective was to investigate the effects of BRS 305 dry heat treatment whole sorghum flour on satiety and antioxidant response in brain and adipose tissue of Wistar rats fed with a high fat high fructose diet (HFHF). Male Wistar rats were divided in two groups: control (n = 8) and HFHF (n = 16) for eight weeks. After, animals of HFHF group were divided: HFHF (n = 8) and HFHF + BRS 305 sorghum whole flour (n = 8), for 10 weeks. Sorghum consumption reduced gene expression of leptin, resistin, and endocannabinoid receptor 1 type (CB1) in adipose and brain tissues compared to HFHF group. In brain, sorghum consumption also promotes reduction in neuropeptide Y (NPY) gene expression. BRS305 sorghum consumption improved gene expression of sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) in adipose tissue, and in the brain increased heat shock protein 72 (HSP72), erythroid-derived nuclear factor 2 (NRF2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity compared to HFHF. In silicoanalysis showed interaction with PPARα, CB1, and leptin receptors. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) concentrations in group HFHF + sorghum did not differ from HFHF group. Advanced glycation end products receptors (RAGEs) concentrations did not differ among experimental groups. Then, BRS 305 sorghum submitted to dry treatment was able to modulate gene expression of markers related to satiety and improve antioxidant capacity of rats fed with HFHF diet., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers with high morbidity and mortality. The modulation of intestinal health through the administration of pro- and prebiotics may be a viable alternative to reduce the risk of CRC. This study aimed to evaluate the functional effects of yacon and kefir, isolated or associated, in rats with colorectal cancer. Adult Wistar rats were divided into five groups ( n = 8): HC (healthy control AIN-93M diet), CC (CCR + AIN-93M diet), Y (CCR + AIN-93 M + yacon diet), K (CCR + AIN-93-M + kefir diet) and YK (CCR + AIN-93 M + yacon + kefir diet). Colorectal carcinogenesis was induced in groups CC, Y, K, and YK with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (55 mg kg -1 , subcutaneously) for 5 weeks. From the 6 th week onwards, the experimental groups were fed the respective diets. In the 15 th week, urine was collected for analysis of intestinal permeability and then the animals were euthanized. Yacon increased acetate levels, reduced pH and carcinogenic neoplastic lesions, and increased the abundance of bacteria related to the fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates, such as the genera Dorea , Collinsela , and Bifidobacteria . On the other hand, kefir increased macroscopic neoplastic lesions and increased the abundance of Firmicutes and Clostridium . The association of yacon + kefir increased the number of carcinogenic lesions, despite a reduction in pH and beneficial bacteria prevalence. Thus, it is concluded that yacon, unlikely kefir, is a promising alternative to mitigate the manifestations of induced carcinogenesis in rats.

A diet rich in sugar and fat can promote metabolic disorders development, especially in the intestine. Chia flour (Salvia hispanica. L) is a source of dietary fiber, alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA), bioactive peptides, and phenolics, promoting health benefits. This study aimed to analyze chia flour's effect on gut microbiota modulation and intestinal health in adult male Wistar rats fed a high-fat and high-fructose (HFHF) diet. Male Wistar rats (n = 10/group) were fed the diets standard (AIN-93M) or HFHF (31% saturated fat and 20% fructose) in the first phase to induce metabolic disorders. In the second phase, the rats were fed AIN-93M, HFHF, or HFHF plus 14.7% chia flour (HFHF + CF) for 10 weeks. The consumption of chia flour increased the ALA (3.24 ± 0.24) intake and significantly improved immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels (1126.00 ± 145.90), goblet cells number (24.57 ± 2.76), crypt thickness (34.37 ± 5.86), crypt depth (215.30 ± 23.19), the longitudinal muscle layer (48.11 ± 5.04), cecum weight (4.39 ± 0.71), Shannon index (p < 0.05), and significantly increased the production of acetic (20.56 ± 4.10) and butyric acids (5.96 ± 1.50), Monoglobus sp., Lachnospiraceae sp., and Prevotellaceae sp. abundance. Furthermore, chia significantly reduced the cecal pH content (7.54 ± 1.17), body mass index (0.62 ± 0.03) and weight (411.00 ± 28.58), and Simpson index (p < 0.05). Therefore, chia intake improved intestinal health parameters and functionality in rats with metabolic disorders, which demonstrates to be an effective strategy for gut microbiota modulation., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Phenolic compounds can act as a substrate for colonic resident microbiota. Once the metabolites are absorbed and distributed throughout the body, they can have diverse effects on the gut. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the intra-amniotic administration of a chia phenolic extract on intestinal inflammation, intestinal barrier, brush border membrane functionality, intestinal microbiota, and morphology in vivo ( Gallus gallus model). Cornish-cross fertile broiler eggs, at 17 days of embryonic incubation, were separated into groups as follows: non-injected (NI; this group did not receive an injection); 18 MΩ H 2 O (H 2 O; injected with ultrapure water), and 10 mg/mL (1%) chia phenolic extract (CPE; injected with phenolic extract diluted in ultrapure water). Immediately after hatch (21 days), chickens were euthanized and their small intestine, cecum, and cecum content were collected and analyzed. The chia phenolic extract reduced the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and increased the sucrose isomaltase (SI) gene expression, reduced the Bifidobacterium and E. coli populations, reduced the Paneth cell diameter, increased depth crypt, and maintained villus height compared to the non-injected control group. Chia phenolic extract may be a promising beneficial compound for improving intestinal health, demonstrating positive changes in intestinal inflammation, functionality, microbiota, and morphology.

Colorectal cancer has a high worldwide incidence. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of yacon flour (YF) on oxidative stress, inflammation, and endotoxemia in rats with induced colorectal cancer (CRC). The Wistar male rats were divided and kept for 8 weeks in four groups: S (basal diet, n = 10), Y (YF flour + basal diet, n = 10), C (CRC-induced control + basal diet, n = 12), CY (CRC-induced animals + YF, n = 12). CRC was induced by intraperitoneal injections of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (25 mg/kg body weight). Groups Y and CY received 7.5% of the prebiotic FOS from YF. The treatment with YF increased fecal secretory immunoglobulin A levels and decreased lipopolysaccharides, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-12. However, no effect was observed on the oxidative stress by the total antioxidant capacity of plasma, anion superoxide, and nitric oxide analysis of the animals ( p < 0.05). The short-chain fatty acids acetate, propionate, and butyrate showed interactions with NF-κB, TLR4, iNOS, and NADPH oxidase by in silico analysis and had a correlation (by the Person analysis) with CRC markers. The yacon flour treatment reduced the inflammation in rats with induced CRC, and could be a promising food to reduce the damages caused by colorectal cancer.

Millet is a promising cereal with high amounts of dietary fibre and protein, and in addition, bioactive compounds with health-promoting functional properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of germinated and cooked whole millet flour ( Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) on protein quality, biochemical profile and intestinal health in vivo . Thirty-two male Wistar rats (21 days old) were separated into four groups, which received a casein control diet (CC; n = 8), a free protein diet (aproteic; n = 8) and two treatment diets: non-germinated millet (NM; n = 8) and germinated millet (GM; n = 8) for 29 days. The whole millet flours presented an adequate essential amino acid profile, except for lysine. The GM group presented a higher protein efficiency ratio and net protein ratio compared to the NM group. Weight gain, Lee index, and food efficiency ratio were lower in the treatment groups, compared to the control group. The GM group had lower plasma glucose, uric acid, cholesterol, and faecal pH compared to the other groups. The treatment groups presented lower triglyceride levels, higher levels of acetic and propionic acids, a larger thickness and depth of the colonic crypts, and a higher expression of PepT1 genes than the CC group. In conclusion, the millet flours demonstrated potential for controlling the lipid profile and biometric measurements. Additionally, the whole germinated millet flour provided better protein quality and improved intestinal morphology and functionality. These results indicate that the consumption of millet could be increased in human food, and considering its potential health benefits, it could be an alternative for dietary diversification, and germination is a good processing option.

As a protein source, chia contains high concentrations of bioactive peptides. Probiotics support a healthy digestive tract and immune system. Our study evaluated the effects of the intra-amniotic administration of the hydrolyzed chia protein and the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei on intestinal bacterial populations, the intestinal barrier, the inflammatory response, and brush border membrane functionality in ovo ( Gallus gallus ). Fertile broiler ( Gallus gallus ) eggs ( n = 9/group) were divided into 5 groups: (NI) non-injected; (H 2 O) 18 MΩ H 2 O; (CP) 10 mg/mL hydrolyzed chia protein; (CPP) 10 mg/mL hydrolyzed chia protein + 10 6 colony-forming unit (CFU) L. paracasei ; (P) 10 6 CFU L. paracasei. The intra-amniotic administration was performed on day 17 of incubation. At hatching (day 21), the animals were euthanized, and the duodenum and cecum content were collected. The probiotic downregulated the gene expression of NF-κβ, increased Lactobacillus and E. coli , and reduced Clostridium populations. The hydrolyzed chia protein downregulated the gene expression of TNF-α, increased OCLN, MUC2, and aminopeptidase, reduced Bifidobacterium , and increased Lactobacillus . The three experimental groups improved in terms of intestinal morphology. The current results suggest that the intra-amniotic administration of the hydrolyzed chia protein or a probiotic promoted positive changes in terms of the intestinal inflammation, barrier, and morphology, improving intestinal health.

Macauba is a palm tree native to Brazil, which fruits are rich in oil. Macauba pulp oil has high contents of oleic acid, carotenoids, and tocopherol, but its effect on health is unknown. We hypothesized that macauba pulp oil would prevent adipogenesis and inflammation in mice. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of macauba pulp oil on the metabolic changes in C57Bl/6 mice fed a high-fat diet. Three experimental groups were used ( n = 10): control diet (CD), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat diet with macauba pulp oil (HFM). The HFM reduced malondialdehyde and increased SOD activity and antioxidant capacity (TAC), showing high positive correlations between total tocopherol, oleic acid, and carotenoid intakes and SOD activity (r = 0.9642, r = 0.8770, and r = 0.8585, respectively). The animals fed the HFM had lower levels of PPAR-γ and NF-κB, which were negatively correlated with oleic acid intake (r = -0.7809 and r = -0.7831, respectively). Moreover, the consumption of macauba pulp oil reduced inflammatory infiltrate, adipocyte number and length, (mRNA) TNF-α , and (mRNA) SREBP-1c in the adipose tissue, and it increased (mRNA) Adiponectin . Therefore, macauba pulp oil prevents oxidative stress, inflammation, and adipogenesis and increases antioxidant capacity; these results highlight its potential against metabolic changes induced by an HFD.

Aim: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of dry heated whole sorghum BRS 305 hybrid flour on the gut microbiota modulation and gut health of rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHF)., Methods: In phase I (8 weeks), 45-50 days, male Wistar rats, were separated into the AIN93-M group (n = 10; fed with normal diet) and HFHF group (n = 20; fed with diet rich in saturated and simple carbohydrate). In phase II (10 weeks), we maintained the AIN-93-M group, and the HFHF group was divided into the HFHF group (n = 10) and HFHF plus sorghum flour group (n = 10)., Results: The consumption of sorghum flour increased the circular muscle layer and propionic acid when compared to the HFHF group. The sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene of the cecal microbiota presented no changes in the α-diversity and β-diversity between. However, the sorghum group exhibited higher relative abundance of Firmicutes and higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio compared to the other experimental groups, and lower abundance of Bacteroidetes, compared to the HFHF group. Despite, sorghum increased the abundance of the genera Roseburia and Lachnospiraceae&#95;NK4A136&#95;group compared to the HFHF group. No differences were observed in total goblet cell number, crypt thickness and height, circular muscle layer, secretory IgA, and butyric acid between all groups., Conclusions: The consumption of sorghum flour can modulate the gut microbiota composition, abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria, and intestinal morphology even with consumption of an HFHF diet., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany.)

The Western diet can negatively affect the gut microbiota and is associated with metabolic disorders. Kombucha, a tea fermented by a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), is known for its bioactive properties and has become popular in the last years. In this study, we evaluated the effects of regular kombucha consumption on the gut microbiota and on outcomes related to the intestinal health of Wistar rats fed a high-fat high-fructose diet. After eight weeks receiving a standard diet (AIN-93M) (n = 10) or a high-fat and high-fructose diet (HFHF) (n = 30) to induce metabolic disorders, the animals were subdivided into four groups: AIN-93M (n = 10); HFHF (n = 10); GTK (HFHF + green tea kombucha (n = 10); and BTK (HFHF + black tea kombucha; n = 10) for 10 weeks. Although body composition did not differ among the groups, the HFHF diet was associated with metabolic alterations, and stimulated the growth of gram-negative bacteria such as Proteobacteria and Bacteroides . Kombucha ingestion could somewhat modulate the gut microbiota, attenuating the effects of a Western diet by increasing propionate production and favoring the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as Adlercreutzia in the GTK group. Our results suggest that regular kombucha consumption may be beneficial to intestinal health, which can be mostly attributed to its high content and diversity of phenolic compounds.

High-fat diets are associated with intestinal dysbiosis and leaky gut leading to intestinal inflammation. Bioactive components, including phenolic compounds, isolated or in their original food matrix, have alleviated intestinal impairments promoted by a high-fat diet. Black corn (Zea mays L.) is a colored corn in which anthocyanins are the most abundant bioactive compound. Thus, we hypothesized that black corn flour may have preventive effects on poor intestinal health in mice fed a high-fat diet. To study this, 30 C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups receiving the following diets for 8 weeks: normal control (fed a normal diet); high-fat (fed a high-fat diet: 60% of calories from fat); high-fat corn (fed a high-fat diet added with 20% of black corn whole flour). The cecal microbiota analyzed by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing showed that black corn flour intake increased the relative abundance of Ruminococcus, Roseburia, and Prevotellaceae&#95;UCG-001, and decreased Bacteroides and Faecalibaculum. No difference was observed in the cecal short-chain fatty acids and fecal pH among the experimental groups (P > .05). Further, the consumption of black corn flour improved cecal morphology by increasing the number of goblet cells but with no difference in the crypt depth and width. These findings suggest that black corn flour as a source of anthocyanins could have preventive effects on gut dysbiosis resulting from a high-fat diet. SCFA, short chain fatty acids., Competing Interests: Author declarations The authors declare they have conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Germinated millet ( Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is a source of phenolic compounds that has potential prebiotic action. This study aims at evaluating the action of germinated pearl millet on gut function and its microbiota composition in Wistar rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose (HFHF) diet. In the first stage, lasting eight weeks, the experiment consisted of two groups: AIN-93M (n = 10) and HFHF group (n = 20). In the second stage, which lasted ten weeks, the animals of the AIN-93M group (n = 10) were kept, while the HFHF group was dismembered into HFHF (HFHF diet, n = 10) and HFHF + millet (HFHF added 28.6% of germinated millet flour, n = 10) groups. After the 18th week, the urine of the animals was collected for the analysis of lactulose and mannitol intestinal permeability by urinary excretion. The histomorphometry was analyzed on the proximal colon and the fecal pH, concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and sequencing of microbiota were performed in cecum content. The Mothur v.1.44.3 software was used for data analysis of sequencing. Alpha diversity was estimated by Chao1, Shannon, and Simpson indexes. Beta diversity was assessed by PCoA (Principal Coordinate Analysis). The functional predictive analysis was performed with PICRUSt2 software (version 2.1.2-b). Functional traits attributed to normalized OTU abundance were determined by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). In the results, germinated millet flour reduced Oscillibacter genus and Desulfobacterota phylum, while increasing the Eggerthellaceae family. Furthermore, germinated millet flour: increased beta diversity, cecum weight, and cecum/body weight ratio; improved gut histological parameters by increasing the depth and thickness of the crypt and the goblet cell count ( p < 0.05); reduced ( p < 0.05) the fecal pH and mannitol urinary excretion; increased ( p < 0.05) the propionate short-chain fatty acid concentration. Thus, germinated millet has the potential to improve the composition of gut microbiota and the intestinal function of rats fed with an HFHF diet.

Black corn has been attracting attention to investigate its biological properties due to its anthocyanin composition, mainly cyanidin-3-glucoside. Our study evaluated the effects of black corn extract (BCE) on intestinal morphology, gene expression, and the cecal microbiome. The BCE intra-amniotic administration was evaluated by an animal model in Gallus gallus . The eggs ( n = 8 per group) were divided into: (1) no injection; (2) 18 MΩ H 2 O; (3) 5% black corn extract (BCE); and (4) 0.38% cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G). A total of 1 mL of each component was injected intra-amniotic on day 17 of incubation. On day 21, the animals were euthanized after hatching, and the duodenum and cecum content were collected. The cecal microbiome changes were attributed to BCE administration, increasing the population of Bifidobacterium and Clostridium, and decreasing E. coli. The BCE did not change the gene expression of intestinal inflammation and functionality. The BCE administration maintained the villi height, Paneth cell number, and goblet cell diameter (in the villi and crypt), similar to the H 2 O injection but smaller than the C3G. Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between Bifidobacterium , Clostridium , E. coli , and villi GC diameter. The BCE promoted positive changes in the cecum microbiome and maintained intestinal morphology and functionality.

Macauba ( Acrocomia aculeata ) has aroused interest in the food industry due to the high nutritional value of its fruits. This study aimed to evaluate the protein quality and influence on biochemical markers, short chain fatty acids content, intestinal morphology, and intestinal functionality in Wistar rats of macauba kernel. Male young rats were divided into three groups ( n = 8) that received a control diet (casein), and two test diets (M30: 30% semi-defatted macauba kernel flour or M50: 50% semi-defatted macauba kernel flour) for 29 days. Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER), Net Protein Ratio (NPR), True Digestibility (TD), biochemical, and intestinal morphology and functionality markers were evaluated. The PER and NPR values were lower in test groups compared to the control group. TD did not differ between M30 and M50. The animals that were fed the macauba kernel flour had lower concentrations of total cholesterol and triglycerides compared to the control group. The concentration of acetic and propionic acids was higher and the fecal pH was lower in M30 and M50 groups compared to the control group. Gene expression of aminopeptidase (AP) and sodium-glucose transport protein 1 (SGLT1) did not differ among the groups, and the M50 group had lower expression of peptide transporter 1 (PepT1) and sucrase isomaltase (SI) than the control group. Crypts thickness was higher in the M50 group compared to the other groups, while the intestinal muscle layer width did not differ among groups. Therefore, macauba kernel flour proved to be a good plant protein alternative, and its consumption reduced blood lipids and increased short chain fatty acids content.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of spray drying (SD) and freeze-drying (FD) on the microencapsulation of green coffee extracts by using polydextrose (PD) and inulin (IN) as encapsulating agents and their physicochemical, bioactive compounds' stability, phenolic compounds' bioaccessibility after digestion, and sensory effects in unfermented dairy beverages. The extract encapsulated with IN by FD had lower moisture content, water activity, and hygroscopicity, while particles encapsulated by SD exhibited a spherical shape and the structure of the FD products was irregular. No difference was observed in phenolic compounds' bioaccessibility. Dairy beverages with added encapsulated extracts had higher total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Microencapsulation allowed a controlled release of the bioactive compounds with an increase in the content of caffeine, chlorogenic acid, and trigonelline during storage. The dairy beverage with added extract encapsulated with IN by FD had the highest scores of acceptability regarding the overall impression and purchase intent.

Black corn ( Zea mays L.) is a source of anthocyanins, which have shown the ability to reduce metabolic disorders. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-adipogenic preventive effects of black corn. C57BL/6 mice were divided into 3 groups ( n = 10): normal control (NC): AIN-93 M; high-fat diet (HF); HF + corn (20%) (HFC). Black corn improved the antioxidant status, through the superoxide dismutase hepatic levels and serum total antioxidant capacity. Animals fed an HFC diet showed decreased gene expression of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and increased gene expression of adiponectin and lipoprotein lipase in the adipose tissue, which led to a less inflammatory infiltrate and decreased the adipocyte number and length. In the liver, black corn reduced the gene expression of SREBP-1c and acetyl CoA carboxilase 1. Therefore, black corn whole flour improved the antioxidant capacity, contributed to hepatic β-oxidation, and decreased adipogenesis in animals.

The bioaccessibility and the bioavailability of iron complexed to peptides (active) in microparticles forms contained in dry beverages formulations were evaluated. The peptide-iron complexes microparticles were obtained by spray drying and added in three dry formulations (tangerine, strawberry, and chocolate flavors). The peptides isolated by iron ion affinity (IMAC-Fe III) had their biological activity predicted by BIOPEP® database and were evaluated by molecular coupling. The bioaccessibility was evaluated by solubility and dialysability and the bioavalability was assessed by Caco-2 cellular model. The proportion 10:1 of peptide-iron complexes presented higher rates of bioaccessibility (49%) and bioavailability (56%). The microparticle with peptide-iron complex showed greater solubility after digestion (39.1%), bioaccessibility (19.8%), and bioavailability (34.8%) than the ferrous sulfate salt (control) for the three assays (10.2%; 12.9%; 9.7%, respectively). Tangerine and strawberry formulations contributed to the iron absorption according to the results of bioaccessibility (36.2%, 30.0% respectively) and bioavailability (80.5%, 84.1%, respectively). The results showed that iron peptide complexation and microencapsulation process improve the bioaccessibility and bioavailability when incorporated into formulations., Competing Interests: The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Maria Teresa Bertoldo Pacheco reports equipment, drugs, or supplies, statistical analysis, and writing assistance were provided by Institute of Food Technology. All co-authors have seen and agreed with the contents of the manuscript and there is no financial interest to report. We certify that the manuscript contains original research and the submission is not under review at any other journal., (© 2022 The Authors.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of green and black tea kombuchas consumption on adiposity, lipid and glucose metabolism, liver steatosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in Wistar rats fed a high-fat high-fructose (HFHF) diet. Wistar rats, after 8 weeks to induce metabolic alterations, were divided into an AIN-93M control group, HFHF control group, green tea kombucha + HFHF diet (GTK group), and black tea kombucha + HFHF diet (BTK group), for 10 weeks. The kombuchas improved glucose metabolism, plasma total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase activity, and decreased nitric oxide concentration. Moreover, both kombuchas reduced systemic inflammation by decreasing the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), reduced the total adipose tissue and blood triglyceride, and reverted liver steatosis (from grade 2 to 1), besides the modulation of genes related to adipogenesis and β-oxidation. Therefore, kombuchas from green and black teas have bioactive properties that can help control metabolic alterations induced by the HFHF diet.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dry heated sorghum BRS 305 hybrid flour, as a rich source of resistant starch and tannins, on inflammation and oxidative stress in animals fed with a high-fat high-fructose diet. Phase 1 (8 weeks): male Wistar rats were divided into a group fed with an AIN-93 M diet ( n = 10) and a group fed with a high-fat (35%) high-fructose (20%) (HFHF) diet ( n = 20). Phase 2 (intervention 10 weeks): the control group was continued with the AIN-93 M diet ( n = 10) and the HFHF group was divided into HFHF ( n = 10) and sorghum flour ( n = 10) groups. Sorghum flour decreased the NO, Akt, p65-NFκB, TLR4, and lipid peroxidation in the liver. Furthermore, sorghum flour improved SOD and CAT activities and the total antioxidant capacity of plasma. The phenolic compounds found in sorghum flour interacted in silico with AKT and p65-NFκB, mainly quercetin-3-rutinoside that showed the highest interaction with AKT (EFE -8.0) and procyanidins B1 and B2 that showed the highest interaction with p65-NFκB (EFE -8.9). The consumption of BRS 305 sorghum with a high tannin and resistant starch content improved inflammation and oxidative stress by inhibition of p65-NFκB activation in rats fed a high-fat high-fructose diet.

This study investigated the effects of germinated millet flour on adipogenesis, insulin resistance, glucose tolerance and thyroid function in Wistar rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHF). The experiment was divided into two phases. Phase 1: control group, which received an AIN-93M diet (n = 10) and HFHF group (n = 20), which received a diet rich in saturated fat (31%) and fructose (20%), for eight weeks. Phase 2: intervention: the control group maintained the AIN-93M diet (n = 10) and the HFHF group was divided into two groups: the HFHF (n = 10) and the germinated millet group (n = 10), for 10 weeks. The germinated millet flour maintained (p > 0, 05) the plasma levels of thyroid hormones, increased (p < 0.05) the insulin receptor (INSR) mRNA expression, protein kinase B (AKT) mRNA expression and the phospho-AKT1 protein concentration, phosphofructokinase (PFK) mRNA, pyruvate kinase (PK) mRNA and activated protein kinase (AMPK) mRNA expression, and the brown adipose tissue and reduced (p < 0.05) the glucose triglyceride index (TyG), glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR and hypercorticosteronemia, compared to the HFHF group. These effects contributed to reduce the gluconeogenesis, hyperinsulinemia and adiposity. Thus, germinated millet flour is a good alternative for modulating the adipogenesis and glucose metabolism, without interfering with the thyroid hormones, in rats with an insulin resistance condition with a high-fat high-fructose diet.

The objective was to evaluate the mechanisms of digested total proteins (DTP), albumin, glutelin, and pure peptides from chia seed ( Salvia hispanica L.) to prevent adipogenesis and its associated inflammation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Preadipocytes (3T3-L1) were treated during differentiation with either DTP or digested albumin or glutelin (1 mg/mL) or pure peptides NSPGPHDVALDQ and RMVLPEYELLYE (100 µM). Differentiated adipocytes also received DTP, digested albumin or glutelin (1 mg/mL), before (prevention) or after (inhibition) induced inflammation by addition of conditioned medium (CM) from inflamed macrophages. All treatments prevented adipogenesis, reducing more than 50% the expression of PPARγ and to a lesser extent lipoprotein lipase (LPL), fatty acid synthase (FAS), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), lipase activity and triglycerides. Inflammation induced by CM was reduced mainly during prevention, while DTP decreased expression of NF-κB (-48.4%), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) (-46.2%) and COX-2 (-64.5%), p < 0.05. Secretions of nitric oxide, PGE2 and TNFα were reduced by all treatments, p < 0.05. DTP reduced expressions of iNOS (-52.1%) and COX-2 (-66.4%). Furthermore, digested samples and pure peptides prevented adipogenesis by modulating PPARγ and additionally, preventing and even inhibiting inflammation in adipocytes by inhibition of PPARγ and NF-κB expression. These results highlight the effectiveness of digested total proteins and peptides from chia seed against adipogenesis complications in vitro.

Objective: The aim of this study was to verify the effect of a beverage containing ora-pro-nobis (OPN) flour on intestinal microbiota, gastrointestinal symptoms, and anthropometric parameters in women., Methods: This prospective, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial included 24 women volunteers. For 6 wk, the test group received a beverage supplemented with OPN, and the control group received the same beverage without OPN. Fecal microbiota were evaluated by the fluorescence in situ hybridization method. Each participant responded to a questionnaire based on the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale. The data were analyzed by Student's t test to compare the effects between treatments (P < 0.05)., Results: Supplementation with the OPN beverage reduced weight (P = 0.008), waist circumference (P = 0.010), and body fat (P = 0.000). Additionally, the treatment increased satiety (P = 0.039), reduced eructation (P = 0.038) and constipation (P = 0.017), and improved feces consistency (P = 0.017)., Conclusion: The OPN flour beverage has an effect on weight reduction, body fat composition, and improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms. These results highlight the beneficial effects of ora-pro-nobis flour beverage against the development of obesity., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The aim of this review was to compile evidence and understand chia seed effects on unbalanced diet animal studies and the molecular mechanisms on metabolic biomarker modulation. A systematic review was conducted in electronic databases, following PRISMA recommendations. Risk of bias and quality was assessed using SYRCLE toll and ARRIVE guidelines. Seventeen articles were included. Throughout the studies, chia's main effects are associated with AMPK modulation: improvement of glucose and insulin tolerance, lipogenesis, antioxidant activity, and inflammation. Details about randomization and allocation concealment were insufficient, as well as information about blind protocols. Sample size, chia dose, and number of animals evaluated for each parameter were found to be lacking information among the studies. Based on experimental study data, chia has bioactive potential, and its daily consumption may reduce the risk of chronic disease development, mainly due to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects of the seed. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The consumption of chia seeds may improve lipid profile, insulin and glucose tolerance, and reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Whole seed or its oil presents positive effect, but the effects of chia oil can act faster than the seed., (© 2020 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

Scope: The objectives are to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects of digested total protein and digested protein fractions from chia seed in macrophages in vitro., Methods and Results: Total protein and protein fractions (albumin, globulin, glutelin, and prolamin) are isolated from chia seed and digested using simulated gastrointestinal conditions, resulting in digested total protein (DTP) and digested protein fractions (DPF). DTP and DPF are applied (1.0 mg mL -1 ) in RAW 264.4 macrophages stimulated with LPS (1 µg mL -1 ) for inflammation or ox-LDL (80 µg mL -1 ) for atherosclerosis. In the inflammatory process, DTP and DPF reduce p-NF-κB, iNOS, p-JNK, and AP-1. Digested glutelin reduces the secretion of nitric oxide (65.1%), reactive oxygen species (19.7%), prostaglandins (34.6%), TNF-α (24.1%), MCP-1 (18.9%), IL-6 (39.6%), and IL-10 (68.7%). DTP and DPF reduce the NF-κB translocation to nuclei. DTP and digested glutelin reduce iCAM expression (86.4%, 80.8%), LOX-1 (37.3%, 35.7%), iNOS (67.0%, 42.2%), and NF-κB (57.5%, 71.1%). DTP is effective in reducing secretion of nitric oxide (43.4%), lipid accumulation (41.9%), prostaglandins (41.9%), TNF-α (43.3%), MCP-1 (47.6%), and IL-6 (50.5%). Peptides from chia DTP and DPF are also characterized., Conclusion: DTP and digested glutelin from chia seed reduce expression and secretion of markers related to inflammation and atherosclerosis pathways., (© 2019 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.)

The objective was to identify and characterize peptides from digested total protein (DTP) and isolated protein fractions (DPF), and their potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects, from chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.). Total protein and protein fractions from chia seed underwent simulated gastrointestinal digestion. The sequence, physicochemical properties, and biological potential of peptides were determined using chemical, in silico, and biochemical assays. Peptides from DTP (n = 9) and DPF albumin (n = 12), globulin (n = 11), prolamin (n = 5) and glutelin (n = 17) had interaction with cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), p65- nuclear factor kappa B, lipoxygenase-1 (LOX-1) and toll-like receptor 4 (p < 0.05). DTP, and digested albumin, globulin, and glutelin showed scavenging capacity for superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide and DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), and inhibition of 5-LOX, COX-1-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) enzymes (p < 0.05). Chia seed proteins has peptides with potential beneficial health effects highlighting the importance of chia consumption., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The consumption of chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) has increased in recent years due its high content of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. This seed also has a high concentration of proteins and essential amino acids, becoming a promising source of bioactive peptides. The objective of this review was to identify the composition and the beneficial effects of chia seeds (S. hispanica L.), their proteins, peptides, and their potential impact on human health. The UniProt database was used to identify the chia proteins and their amino acid sequences. The BIOPEP database was used to analyze the peptides's bioactive potential. A total of 20 proteins were cataloged in chia seed, 12 of those were involved in the regular metabolic processes of the plant cells. However, eight proteins were specifically related to production and storage of plant lipids, thus explaining the high concentration of lipids in chia seeds (around 30%), especially omega-3 fatty acids (around 20%). The analyses of amino acid sequences showed peptides with bioactive potential, including dipeptidyl peptidase-IV inhibitors, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and antioxidant capacity. These results correlated with the main health benefits of whole chia seed in humans such as antioxidant capacity, and hypotensive, hypoglycemic, and anticholesterolemic effects. Such relation can be associated with chia protein and peptide compositions and therefore needs further investigation in vitro and in vivo., (© 2019 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

Chia is a good source of calcium, however it is not been previously reported its bioavailability associated with an inflammatory condition. Thus, the present study evaluated the effect of chia on calcium bioavailability, inflammation, and oxidative stress in Wistar rats fed a high-fat diet or standard diet for 35 days. Chia consumption resulted in lower calcium balance and calcium absorption and retention rates. In addition, the urinary calcium concentration was lower in groups that were fed chia. The bone resistance of animals feed chia was lower than that in rats fed the standard diet receiving calcium carbonate. Animals that were fed chia showed lower total, very low-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than animalsfed calcium carbonate. Animals fed standard diet showed higher superoxide dismutase plasma concentrations than animals in the high fat calcium carbonate group. PPAR-α protein levels were higher in animals fed chia whereas TNF-α and IL-10 were lower in these animals. NFκB mRNA expression and protein levels were lower in the groups that received chia compared with HFD + CC. Chia intake presented low calcium bioavailability regardless of the type of diet consumed and was able to improved inflammation and the lipid profile in young Wistar rat. Besides this, the consumption of this seed increased the activity of antioxidants enzymes., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of yacon flour on iron and zinc nutritional status and immune response biomarkers in preschool children., Methods: Preschool children ages 2 to 5 y were selected from two nurseries and were placed into a control group (n = 58) or a yacon group (n = 59). The yacon group received yacon flour in preparations for 18 wk at a quantity to provide 0.14 g of fructooligosaccharides/kg of body weight daily. Anthropometric parameters were measured before and after the intervention and dietary intake was measured during the intervention. To assess iron and zinc status, erythrograms, serum iron, ferritin, and plasma, and erythrocyte zinc were evaluated. Systemic immune response was assessed by the biomarkers interleukin IL-4, IL-10, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α). Intestinal immune response was analyzed by secretory IgA (sIgA) levels before and after the intervention. Statistical significance was evaluated using the paired t test (α = 5%)., Results: Before and after the study, the children presented a high prevalence of overweight and an inadequate dietary intake of zinc and fiber. The yacon group presented with lower hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration at the end of the study (P < 0.05). Erythrocyte zinc was reduced in both groups at the end of the study (P < 0.05). Yacon intake increased the serum levels of IL-4 and fecal sIgA (P < 0.05). The control group had lower serum TNF-α after the study period (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: Yacon improved intestinal immune response but demonstrated no effect on the nutritional status of iron and zinc in preschool children., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)