Nutrients

Abstract

Migraine is a widespread and intricate neurological condition that involves various factors and is marked by recurring headache episodes. Migraine is among the ten neurological conditions accounting for the greatest disability in the whole population, the leading cause of disability for children and [...] Read more.

Migraine is a widespread and intricate neurological condition that involves various factors and is marked by recurring headache episodes. Migraine is among the ten neurological conditions accounting for the greatest disability in the whole population, the leading cause of disability for children and adolescents aged 5–19 years, and the second cause of disability for adults aged 20–59 years. Magnesium deficiency is also a very common condition resulting from diverse reasons, including insufficient dietary consumption or increased loss through the gastrointestinal or renal system. Accumulated evidence from case reports, case–control studies, observational studies, and randomized, placebo-controlled trials has shown the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation in alleviating migraine, both acutely and chronically. Mechanisms that may help explain these results include the potential link between magnesium deficit and spreading cortical depression, vascular changes, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, nervous excitation, neurotransmitter release, and electrolyte imbalances. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the available evidence on the links between magnesium and migraine, considering the role of magnesium in the pathogenesis of migraine and the utility of magnesium in its prevention and treatment. Full article

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Long-term spaceflight in a microgravity environment frequently results in gastrointestinal dysfunction, presenting substantial challenges to astronauts’ health. Hericium erinaceus, a plant recognized for its dual use as food and medicine, contains a key functional component called Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide (HEP), [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Long-term spaceflight in a microgravity environment frequently results in gastrointestinal dysfunction, presenting substantial challenges to astronauts’ health. Hericium erinaceus, a plant recognized for its dual use as food and medicine, contains a key functional component called Hericium erinaceus polysaccharide (HEP), which is purported to promote gastrointestinal health. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of HEP against gastrointestinal disturbances induced by simulated weightlessness and to elucidate its regulatory mechanisms. Methods: Sprague Dawley rats subjected to a tail suspension model were administered either a standard diet or a diet supplemented with 0.125% HEP over a period of 4 weeks (the intake of HEP is approximately 157.5 mg/kg bw/d, n = 8), metagenomics and targeted metabolomics to investigate the effects of HEP on gastrointestinal hormone secretion disorders, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and intestinal barrier damage induced by simulated weightlessness. Results: Dietary supplementation with HEP was observed to significantly alleviate weightlessness-induced gastrointestinal hormone disruptions, enhancing motility and intestinal barrier function while reducing inflammation. In addition, HEP improved gut microbiota by boosting beneficial bacteria as Oscillibacter sp.1-3, Firmicutes bacterium ASF500, and Lactobacillus reuteri, while reducing harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli and Mucispirillum schaedleri at the species level. Furthermore, HEP altered the serum metabolic profile of the rats, reducing inflammation by upregulating the tryptophan metabolism pathway and enhancing the production of short-chain fatty acids. Conclusions: HEP effectively protects against gastrointestinal dysfunction induced by simulated weightlessness by regulating hormone secretion and maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Full article

Abstract

Background: Post-COVID-19 irritable bowel syndrome (PCIBS) is a frequent finding and is frequently associated with enteral dysbiosis. This pilot study compared the effects of extracts from curcuma and boswellia on PCIBS and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in individuals who had never had [...] Read more.

Background: Post-COVID-19 irritable bowel syndrome (PCIBS) is a frequent finding and is frequently associated with enteral dysbiosis. This pilot study compared the effects of extracts from curcuma and boswellia on PCIBS and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in individuals who had never had a COVID-19 infection (controls). Methods: A total of 16 subjects with PCIBS and 28 controls with evidence of IBS gastrointestinal symptoms and with enteral dysbiosis were recruited and supplemented for 30 days with sunflower-lecithin-based formulations of extracts of Curcuma longa (500 mg) and Boswellia serrata (150 mg) b.i.d. and with low-FODMAP diet. Abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, enteral dysbiosis (as increased urinary indican), and the global assessment of efficacy (GAE) were evaluated at the end of the study. Results: In both cohorts, intra-cohort changes revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) reduction in bloating and abdominal pain. The GAE showed similar and relevant satisfactory rates in both groups. On the contrary, urinary indican values showed a significant decrease only in the IBS group. Conclusions: Supplementation with Curcuma and Boswellia has favorable effects on abdominal bloating and abdominal pain of subjects with PCIBS and with IBS, while enteral dysbiosis is significantly decreased only in patients with IBS. Additional studies are needed to confirm these preliminary findings and to clarify the reasons for the persistence of dysbiosis in PCIBS. Full article

Abstract

Aging and longevity are shaped by the exposome, a dynamic network of environmental, social, and biological factors. Understanding how these exposures interact with biological mechanisms can inform strategies for healthier aging. Background/Objectives: This review explores the exposome as a dynamic system encompassing [...] Read more.

Aging and longevity are shaped by the exposome, a dynamic network of environmental, social, and biological factors. Understanding how these exposures interact with biological mechanisms can inform strategies for healthier aging. Background/Objectives: This review explores the exposome as a dynamic system encompassing both protective and risk factors, with a specific focus on how beneficial environmental exposures, microbiome diversity, lifestyle behaviors, and resilience mechanisms contribute to successful aging. By analyzing high-longevity populations, such as the Blue Zones and Cilento, it aims to identify common determinants of successful aging. Methods: A mixed-method study was conducted, combining a systematic review of the English literature (2003–2024) with a comparative analysis of longevity regions. A structured search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar using keywords such as “longevity”, “Blue Zones”, “Cilento”, “microbiome”, “environmental factors”, and related terms. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative analysis were applied to assess key protective factors across different aging models. Results: This study identified key factors contributing to successful aging in longevity hotspots, including sustained exposure to biodiverse natural environments, adherence to Mediterranean or plant-based diet rich in polyphenols and probiotics, regular physical activity, strong social networks, and psychological resilience. A novel aspect of this review is the role of the gut microbiome as a mediator between environmental exposures and immune–metabolic health, influencing inflammation modulation and cellular aging. Despite geographic and cultural differences, case studies reveal a shared pattern of protective factors that collectively enhance lifespan and healthspan. Conclusions: The exposome is a critical determinant of aging trajectories, acting through complex interactions between environmental and biological mechanisms. By integrating insights from high-longevity populations, this mixed-method study proposes a comprehensive framework for optimizing microbiome health, enhancing resilience, and promoting protective environmental exposures. These findings provide a translational perspective to guide future interventions in aging research and global health initiatives. Full article

Abstract

Background: Obesity impairs renal function through direct mechanisms, such as proinflammatory adipocytokine production, and indirect mechanisms, including obesity-related comorbidities. Despite the increasing prevalence of obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD), clinical guidelines for their combined management remain lacking. Very Low Energy Ketogenic Therapy [...] Read more.

Background: Obesity impairs renal function through direct mechanisms, such as proinflammatory adipocytokine production, and indirect mechanisms, including obesity-related comorbidities. Despite the increasing prevalence of obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD), clinical guidelines for their combined management remain lacking. Very Low Energy Ketogenic Therapy (VLEKT) has demonstrated efficacy in weight loss, but evidence on its safety and efficacy in individuals with obesity and mild renal impairment is limited. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Phase 1 of VLEKT in individuals with obesity and mild renal impairment. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 73 individuals with overweight or obesity (mean age 53.7 ± 8.8 years; BMI 35.3 ± 4.2 kg/m²) and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of at least 60 mL/min/1.73 m² (evaluated using the CKD-EPI equation). Anthropometric (weight, BMI, and waist circumference) and biochemical parameters (fasting plasma glucose, insulin, cholesterol profile, triglycerides, AST, ALT, and urea) were collected at baseline and after 45 (±2) days of Phase 1 of VLEKT. Results: At baseline, 54.8% of participants had an eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m², while 45.2% had an eGFR ≥ 90 mL/min/1.73 m², with no significant differences in sex distribution. After 45 (±2) days of Phase 1 of VLEKT, both groups showed significant reductions in BMI (p < 0.001), waist circumference (p < 0.001), fasting plasma glucose (p ≤ 0.004), insulin (p < 0.001), HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p < 0.001), LDL cholesterol (p < 0.001), LDL/HDL ratio (p ≤ 0.002), triglycerides (p ≤ 0.009), AST (p ≤ 0.034), and ALT (p ≤ 0.009). Notably, the eGFR significantly increased in participants with an eGFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m² (p < 0.001), while no changes were observed in those with an eGFR ≥ 90 mL/min/1.73 m². Conclusions: Phase 1 of VLEKT could effectively promote weight loss and metabolic improvements without compromising renal function, even in individuals with obesity and mild renal impairment. Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of VLEKT and to assess outcomes across all protocol phases. Full article

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Acute alcohol consumption can cause intestinal dysfunction, whereas L-theanine (LTA) has shown the potential to support intestinal health. We explored L-theanine’s ability to protect against acute alcohol-induced injury. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were administered LTA for 28 d and then underwent acute [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Acute alcohol consumption can cause intestinal dysfunction, whereas L-theanine (LTA) has shown the potential to support intestinal health. We explored L-theanine’s ability to protect against acute alcohol-induced injury. Methods: Male C57BL/6 mice were administered LTA for 28 d and then underwent acute alcohol intestinal injury modeling for 8 days. Results: The results revealed that LTA ameliorated alcohol-induced pathological damage in the duodenum and gut permeability, improved secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) content, and reduced oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, and serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) content in mice. Furthermore, LTA restored the composition of the intestinal flora, increasing the abundance of Alloprevotella, Candidatus_Saccharimonas, Muribaculum, and Prevotellaceae_UCG-001. Additionally, LTA increased beneficial metabolites, such as oxyglutaric acid and L-ascorbic acid, in the HIF-1 pathway within the enrichment pathway. Further investigation into the HIF-1 signaling pathway identified up-regulation of claudin-1, HIF-1α, occludin, and ZO-1, and down-regulation of TLR4, PHD2, p65 NF-κB, TNF-α, and IFN-γ mRNA and protein levels. Conclusions: These results suggest that LTA may enhance the intestinal barrier by activating the HIF-1 signaling pathway to regulate the TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α axis, thereby reducing acute alcoholic intestinal injury. Full article

Abstract

Objectives: This study examines the mediating role of nutritional intake in the relationship between tooth loss and healthy ageing in older American adults. Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a longitudinal survey of American older [...] Read more.

Objectives: This study examines the mediating role of nutritional intake in the relationship between tooth loss and healthy ageing in older American adults. Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a longitudinal survey of American older adults aged 50 years and over. Data from six waves from 2006 to 2016 were used. Nutritional intake was assessed in 2013 using ten essential nutrients, categorised as adequate or inadequate based on national dietary recommendations. Healthy ageing was an aggregate variable composed of freedom from cognitive impairment, freedom from disability, and high physical functioning. Tooth loss was measured as a dichotomous variable (edentate/dentate). Structural equation modelling was used to assess the associations between tooth loss in 2012, nutrition in 2013, and healthy ageing in 2016, accounting for demographic/socioeconomic factors and behaviours. Results: A total of 3665 participants were included on the analysis. A significant association was found between being dentate in 2012 and nutritional intake in 2013 (coefficient 0.63: 95% CI: 0.62, 0.54, p < 0.001). Healthy ageing in 2016 was significantly influenced by socioeconomic factors in 2006 (coefficient 0.84: 95% CI: 1.38, 1.42, p < 0.001) and nutrition in 2013 (coefficient 0.05: 95% CI: 0.04, 0.05, p < 0.001). Non-Black individuals showed a significant association with healthy ageing. Conclusions: The findings underscore the complex interplay of nutrition, socioeconomic status, health behaviours, and oral health in predicting healthy ageing trajectories. This study highlights the importance of oral health to maintaining adequate nutritional intake, which in turn promotes healthy ageing. Full article

Abstract

Background: A 2014 survey showed nutritional management could be improved in Belgian pediatric departments. This follow-up survey aimed to: (1) list allied health resources/staffing in Belgian pediatric departments, (2) survey nutritional screening and follow-up, and (3) identify barriers. Methods: A nationwide [...] Read more.

Background: A 2014 survey showed nutritional management could be improved in Belgian pediatric departments. This follow-up survey aimed to: (1) list allied health resources/staffing in Belgian pediatric departments, (2) survey nutritional screening and follow-up, and (3) identify barriers. Methods: A nationwide survey (February–April 2021) via national and regional pediatric associations. Results: 61/90 (67.8%) of Belgian pediatric departments responded (80.1% of all Belgian pediatric hospital beds); 60.7% of the respondents were from larger centers (LCs, ≥20 beds). A dietitian was present in 80.3% of all responding units (LCs vs. smaller centers (SCs): p = 0.133), compared to 46.5% in the 2014 survey. Most dietitians seldom or never participate in ward rounds (86.9%) and participate only ad hoc to case discussions (72.1%). Systematic nutritional screening is implemented in 32.8% of pediatric departments. The screening tool STRONGkids is used in 30% of responding centers, compared to 21% in 2014. The most common barriers to conducting nutritional screening were lack of time (59.0%), a lack of knowledge (47.5%), and a lack of staff (42.6%). In French-speaking centers (FrCs), a positive screening result most often led to referral to a dietitian (86.7%), whereas in Dutch-speaking centers (DuCs), it more frequently resulted in a discussion with the pediatrician about nutritional management (54.3%) than referral to a dietitian (34.8%). Nutritional follow-up after discharge is most often conducted by a physician, with or without the involvement of a dietitian (95.1%), rather than a dietitian alone (3.3%). Malnutrition management barriers included “no barriers” (50.8%), a lack of knowledge (34.4%), a lack of reimbursement (24.6%), and a lack of time (24.6%). The barriers remain largely unchanged compared to 2014. Conclusions: The increasing availability of dietitians and the use of a screening tool in pediatric departments suggest an encouraging but limited improvement in nutritional care in Belgium. Persistent barriers that have remained unchanged since 2014 continue to hinder substantial advancements in nutritional care. Full article

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of metabolic disorders underscores the need for effective interventions to mitigate environmental stressors such as diesel particulate matter (DPM), a major urban air pollutant. DPM is composed of fine carbonaceous particles that can induce systemic inflammation. This phenomenon results [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The increasing prevalence of metabolic disorders underscores the need for effective interventions to mitigate environmental stressors such as diesel particulate matter (DPM), a major urban air pollutant. DPM is composed of fine carbonaceous particles that can induce systemic inflammation. This phenomenon results in metabolic dysfunction such as adipocyte hypertrophy, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial impairment in body tissues. Methods: This study investigated the impact of DPM exposure on murine lung, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissues and evaluated the protective effects of supplementation with sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC). Results: Compared to controls, DPM-exposed mice exhibited significantly elevated oxidative stress markers (* p ≤ 0.05), systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, MCP-1, IL-6, and IL-1β (* p ≤ 0.05), and adipocyte hypertrophy of both subcutaneous and visceral fat depots, supporting prior findings of DPM-induced metabolic dysfunction. SCC supplementation restored pulmonary ATP levels (* p ≤ 0.05), significantly reduced ROS production in lung and muscle tissue (* p ≤ 0.05), and significantly attenuated DPM-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion (* p ≤ 0.05), while lessening DPM-induced adipocyte hypertrophy. Conclusions: These effects highlight the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of SCC, which likely mitigates systemic metabolic compromise by modulating mitochondrial function and inflammatory pathways. This study further demonstrated that SCC supplementation may be an effective intervention for alleviating the adverse effects of DPM exposure on metabolic and inflammatory compromise. Additional research may clarify a role for SCC in reducing systemic health risks associated with air pollution and offer a foundation for future translational research in human populations exposed to environmental pollutants. Full article

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Observing a patient’s dietary behaviour before bariatric surgery may help to predict their diet (and indirectly, the rate of weight loss) after the procedure. Consequently, the aim of this study was to identify dietary patterns (DPs) in bariatric surgery candidates, as well [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Observing a patient’s dietary behaviour before bariatric surgery may help to predict their diet (and indirectly, the rate of weight loss) after the procedure. Consequently, the aim of this study was to identify dietary patterns (DPs) in bariatric surgery candidates, as well as to assess the relationship between DPs, degree of obesity, and body composition. Methods: The participants were comprised of 117 bariatric surgery candidates. Data concerning their diet, lifestyle, and socioeconomic status was collected using the KomPAN^® questionnaire. The following three DPs were identified using a principal component analysis: ‘Sandwiches & Sweets’, ‘Fast Food, Convenience Food & Alcohol’ and ‘Prudent’. Baseline nutritional status and body composition using electric bioimpedance were assessed. Results: Differences were found between the DPs, degree of obesity, and body composition. The Prudent DP primarily involved a high consumption of healthy products. Following the Prudent DP, differentiated the degree of obesity and the patient’s body composition the most. In turn, the Fast Food, Convenience Food & Alcohol DP was associated with a higher likelihood of Degree III obesity and a very high visceral fat level (VFL). The Sandwiches & Sweets DP included the most participants with a very high VFL. Conclusions: The bariatric surgery candidates were shown to follow different diets, and different DPs could be identified. Patients with a higher degree of obesity followed a more beneficial DP, which was likely due to their higher awareness of the risks of morbidity in obesity and of post-surgical complications. Socioeconomic factors may attenuate the association between diet and the degree of obesity and body composition in bariatric surgery candidates. Full article

Abstract

Background: The use of mental health questionnaires is common in desk-based public health epidemiological research; however, the burden this might put on participants and researchers has been questioned and has not been previously addressed. This paper delves into the ethical issues and challenges [...] Read more.

Background: The use of mental health questionnaires is common in desk-based public health epidemiological research; however, the burden this might put on participants and researchers has been questioned and has not been previously addressed. This paper delves into the ethical issues and challenges of using such scales and questionnaires, providing a real-life case study where the Beck’s Depression Inventory-II was used. Methods/Results: The ethical considerations raised by using mental health questionnaires in public health epidemiological research include incorrectly identifying participants as depressed or non-depressed; inability to identify participants for referral procedures due to the anonymous nature of some research studies; an increased burden on participants through depression and suicidal questions; and the high expectation of participants towards the researcher. Preventative measures to reduce these challenges include choosing appropriate cut-off scores for correctly identifying participants; highlighting whether the mental health questionnaires used may elicit negative emotional or psychological reactions related to suicidality; specifying the criteria for referral to clinical services; detailing the intended referral processes; including approaches where the researcher directly connects participants with a psychological service provider; and including a passive referral method such as contact details for participants to initiate their own referrals to clinical care. Conclusions: This paper serves as a guide for researchers aiming to collect data on mental health through questionnaires. The ethical challenges discussed in this paper should be considered and reviewed at all stages of the research project. Full article

Abstract

Objectives: The primary aim of this single cross-sectional study was to identify the physical characteristics (anthropometric, somatotype, body composition) of orienteering athletes (OAs) and to compare them with nutrition knowledge (NK) and physical activity level (PAL). Methods: Data were collected from [...] Read more.

Objectives: The primary aim of this single cross-sectional study was to identify the physical characteristics (anthropometric, somatotype, body composition) of orienteering athletes (OAs) and to compare them with nutrition knowledge (NK) and physical activity level (PAL). Methods: Data were collected from 58 subjects of seven countries, including Angola (n = 1), Brazil (n = 5), Poland (n = 1), Portugal (n = 26), South Africa (n = 1), Spain (n = 22) and Sweden (n = 2). The subjects included 10 elite (E) female (F) OAs [age: 25.5 ± 6.4 years, body mass: 59.5 ± 7.7 kg, stature: 168.1 ± 6.5 cm, body mass index (BMI): 21.0 ± 1.9 kg/m²], 13 E male (M) OAs (age: 24.3 ± 5.0 years, body mass: 65.0 ± 5.5 kg, stature: 175.1 ± 6.0 cm, BMI: 21.3 ± 2.2 kg/m²), 18 non-elite (NE) FOAs (age: 41.7 ± 10.3 years, body mass: 60.6 ± 8.5 kg, stature: 161.3 ± 11.7 cm, BMI: 23.4 ± 3.7 kg/m²), and 17 NEMOAs (age: 37.2 ± 14.6 years, body mass: 71.5 ± 14.2 kg, stature: 174.0 ± 8.8 cm, BMI: 23.6 ± 4.1 kg/m²). The participants were selected to ensure a diverse and representative sample of international-level orienteering athletes. Measurements were taken at two IOF world ranking events, the “Portugal “O” Meeting (POM)” and the “35° Trofeo Internacional Murcia Costa Cálida”, where only top-ranked orienteers compete. The selected participants from these seven countries were among the registered athletes in these international competitions. The OAs were measured according to the guidelines of the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK). NK was evaluated using the updated Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (A—NSKQ). PAL was assessed using the short version of the self-reported International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Short Form (IPAQ—SF). Results: The percentage of body fat (p < 0.01) in MOAs was significantly lower than in FOAs. Endomorphy (p = 0.037) and mesomorphy (p = 0.025) in EOAs were significantly lower than in NEOAs, but ectomorphy (p = 0.038) was significantly higher. EMOAs are ectomorphic mesomorphs, while NEMOAs are balanced mesomorphs, EFOAs are central, and NEFOAs are endomorphic mesomorphs. Significant differences (p < 0.01) were also observed in sports nutrition knowledge (SNK) among EOAs and NEOAs, with the former group achieving a higher percentage of correct responses. In the case of total nutritional knowledge (TNK), EOAs of both sexes scored significantly higher (p = 0.043) than their NEOA counterparts. A significant negative correlation was also observed between percentage of body fat (%BF) and metabolic equivalent (MET) in minutes per week (min/week) (r = −0.39, p = 0.038), bone mass (BM) and MET-min/week (r = −0.40, p = 0.033), and endomorphy and SNK (r = −0.38, p = 0.045) in FOAs. Among MOAs, the most significant findings included a negative correlation between age and METmin/week (r = −0.49, p = 0.010), kilocalorie (kcal) per week (r = −0.46, p = 0.016), and SNK (r = −0.40, p = 0.029). Conclusions: The key findings indicate that EOAs have lower BF percentages and higher NK scores compared to NEOAs. These results on the physical characteristics of OAs and the score of PAL and classification of NK can be useful to coaches and sports scientists to improve orienteer’s performance. Full article

Abstract

Background/objectives: The implementation of appropriate hemodialysis treatment in the transition from end-stage kidney disease to reduced frequency schedules represents a major challenge. The aim of our work is to report only treatment protocols that used once-weekly hemodialysis. Methods: The benefits and [...] Read more.

Background/objectives: The implementation of appropriate hemodialysis treatment in the transition from end-stage kidney disease to reduced frequency schedules represents a major challenge. The aim of our work is to report only treatment protocols that used once-weekly hemodialysis. Methods: The benefits and risks of 1WHD were explored in this systematic review. A search of MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register was conducted to identify publications relating to once-weekly hemodialysis trials performed between June 1981 and December 2024 and assess clinical impact, duration, safety, and mortality. Items, including age, causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD), creatinine levels, Blood Urea Nitrogen and GFR values, diuresis, nutritional supplementation, drop-out, survival, clinical benefit or drawbacks, and data from eventual control groups relating to higher frequency weekly HD sessions were included. Outcome at the end of a 1WHD regimen was represented by death or transition to twice/thrice-weekly HD rhythms. Results: A total of 1238 articles focused on IHD were included in the review, and 1226 trials were excluded as they referred either to twice-weekly hemodialysis (2WHD) schedules or failed to meet eligibility criteria, whilst another two were excluded based on incomplete outcome or patient recruitment issues. A total of eight articles comprising 254 patients undergoing 1WHD schedules were ultimately identified and evaluated. Only three studies focused on a comparison with a 1WHD schedule, whilst 107 referred to thrice-weekly HD (3WHD) and 15 2WHD). This choice demonstrated the possibility of slowing down the progression of CKD in the patients studied. Daily amino acid supplementation also proved to be beneficial. However, the milestone on which the 1WHD protocol is based is a low-protein diet. Conclusions: 1WHD has been shown to be safe and may result in improved clinical outcomes, particularly in appropriately selected patients. Large-scale randomized controlled trials should be carried out to confirm these potential advantages. However, the standard recruitment techniques applied tended to prevent suitably selected patients from transitioning into less frequent and potentially long-lasting 1WHD schedules. Full article

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of quail egg-based supplements (QES) as an integrative remedy for treating allergic rhinitis. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was conducted up to January 2025 to address [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of quail egg-based supplements (QES) as an integrative remedy for treating allergic rhinitis. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was conducted up to January 2025 to address the research question. Results: A total of 294 studies were initially identified, with five clinical reports meeting the inclusion criteria. Participant numbers ranged from 40 to 180 (median: 77), with a balanced gender ratio. Four reports focused on allergic rhinitis, and one investigated nonsymptomatic atopic individuals exposed to volatile allergens. The findings suggest that a combination of QES and zinc significantly improves peak nasal inspiratory flow, mucociliary transport time, and symptoms such as rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, itchy nose and eyes, and sneezing in patients with allergic rhinitis. Additionally, QES may reduce the reliance on standard symptomatic medications. The intervention was generally well tolerated, with side effects being rare, mild, and transient; however, QES should be avoided in patients with egg allergies. Conclusions: The reviewed studies indicate that QES with zinc can serve as an effective integrative approach to alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Further research is recommended to confirm these findings. Full article

Abstract

Introduction/Objectives: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to pose a substantial global public health challenge. Current evidence has linked an increase in the risk of T2D to chronic exposure to the heavy metals cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb). The present study aimed to [...] Read more.

Introduction/Objectives: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to pose a substantial global public health challenge. Current evidence has linked an increase in the risk of T2D to chronic exposure to the heavy metals cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb). The present study aimed to examine whether the reported links existed in an area of southern Thailand with known Pb contamination. Materials and Methods: A case–control study design was used to recruit 88 diagnosed T2D cases and 90 age-, gender- and locality-matched non-diabetic controls. Blood levels of Cd and Pb were used as exposure indicators. Exposure-related risk factors and socio-demographic data were collected through questionnaires. Results: A significant association was found between blood Pb and T2D diagnosis, but the association between blood Cd and T2D was not statistically significant. Factors related to high Pb exposure were education, occupation, income, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and dietary patterns, particularly the consumption of sweet and fatty foods. Participants with higher blood Pb levels had poorer glycemic control, thereby suggesting potential interference of Pb with oral hypoglycemic agents. Conclusions: This study confirms the connection between Pb exposure and increased risk of having T2D. Additionally, it identified socio-demographic factors, and consumption habits that contributed to such an enhanced T2D risk. The role of Cd exposure requires further studies, using urinary Cd excretion, which reflects long-term exposure conditions. These findings suggest the need to incorporate environmental and occupational exposure in diabetes care strategies. From the clinical and public health perspectives, targeted interventions should focus on reducing heavy metal exposure, improving risk awareness, and strengthening occupational safety measures to prevent disease progression. Full article

Abstract

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is a significant health concern in the 21st century, and its prevalence continues to rise despite efforts to promote preventive lifestyle changes. This increase has led to higher economic burdens, prompting the search for non-pharmacological methods to manage glucose [...] Read more.

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is a significant health concern in the 21st century, and its prevalence continues to rise despite efforts to promote preventive lifestyle changes. This increase has led to higher economic burdens, prompting the search for non-pharmacological methods to manage glucose levels. Objective: To assess the effects of flaxseed consumption on biochemical markers (glucose, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, and triglycerides) in adult patients with Type 2 diabetes in Oaxaca, Mexico. Materials and Methods: Participants were recruited and randomized into clinical trials between April and June 2023, and the study protocol was approved by a Human Research Ethics Committee. Results: Consuming 16 g of flaxseed daily for three months led to a significant decrease in glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels (p < 0.001) in Type 2 diabetes patients in the intervention group (n = 82). Belonging to the control group (n = 84) was correlated with presenting higher levels of glycated hemoglobin (Spearman’s Rho 0.640; p < 0.001), higher levels of glucose (Spearman’s Rho 0.352; p < 0.001), total cholesterol (Spearman’s Rho 0.796; p < 0.001), and triglycerides (Spearman’s Rho 0.700; p < 0.001). Conclusions: A daily intake of 16 g of flaxseed is an effective supplementary treatment for adult Mexican patients with Type 2 diabetes, as evidenced by reduced levels of glycated hemoglobin, glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides in the intervention group. Potential implications for clinical practice: Healthcare providers may consider recommending flaxseed in the diets of patients with obesity, prediabetes, or Type 2 diabetes to improve glucose and lipid metabolism and overall metabolic health. Full article

Abstract

Background: There is growing interest in the role of gut microbiota in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including Crohn’s disease (CD). Probiotics have been proposed as a potential adjunct therapy for these conditions by altering the intestinal environment, although studies on [...] Read more.

Background: There is growing interest in the role of gut microbiota in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including Crohn’s disease (CD). Probiotics have been proposed as a potential adjunct therapy for these conditions by altering the intestinal environment, although studies on their effectiveness have yielded mixed results. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the short-term (2 months) effects of a dietary supplement containing Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, and Lactococcus bacillus on disease progression, remission, quality of life, and nutritional intake in Lebanese patients with CD. Method: A multicenter, randomized, single-blind controlled trial was conducted in 2 medical centers in Beirut from 1 April 2024 to 1 August 2024. Recruitment, prescreening, screening, enrollment, and protocol implementation were carried out at both centers. Data were collected from 21 patients with CD, who were randomly assigned to the control group (n = 10) and the intervention group (n = 11). At baseline and after two months, participants underwent clinical assessments, WHOQOL-BREF evaluation, and 24 h dietary recalls. Follow-up visits included surveys on disease progression, quality of life, adherence, and adverse events, along with repeat body composition and anthropometric measurements. Results: Probiotic supplementation over two months did not significantly alter symptoms, flares, or hospitalizations outcomes between the control and intervention groups. However, the intervention group experienced notable increases in body weight (p = 0.01), BMI (p = 0.01), body fat mass (p = 0.04), and arm muscle circumference (p = 0.01). Nutrient intake patterns differed, with the intervention group showing increased consumption of calcium, riboflavin, and folate compared to controls (p = 0.01, p = 0.04, p = 0.013, respectively). Probiotic supplementation led to significant within-group increases in dietary fiber (p = 0.01), total sugar (p = 0.02), and caffeine (p = 0.01) among the intervention participants. Adverse effects in the intervention group were mild, including nausea (18.2%) and abdominal discomfort (9.1%). QOL improved significantly in the intervention group, particularly in physical (p = 0.03), psychological (p = 0.04), and environmental domains (p = 0.003), while the control group exhibited improvements only in psychological health. Conclusions: Overall, the findings suggest that probiotics can enhance body composition, nutrient intake, and certain aspects of QOL among CD patients, despite minimal impact on disease symptoms or dietary patterns. Full article