-
1.
The synergistic effect of herbal medicine and probiotics in pediatric functional constipation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Kim, E, Chang, S, Nam, J, Park, N, Min, SY
Medicine. 2024;103(7):e36899
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Plain language summary
Paediatric functional constipation (PFC) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder in children. The initial approach to managing PFC involves demystification, education, toilet training, and the use of laxatives. Using laxatives can lead to various adverse effects therefore, patients with functional constipation typically adopt a self-management approach and explore complementary and alternative therapies. The aim of this study was to analyse the synergistic effect of herbal medicine (HM) combined with probiotics in the treatment of PFC, by comparing it to the use of probiotics alone. This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of twenty-two randomised controlled trials. Results showed that the combination of HM with probiotics may yield significantly greater benefits for total effective rate when compared to probiotics alone. Furthermore, HM combined with probiotics could potentially reduce the recurrence rate by 70% compared to probiotics alone. Authors concluded that HM could potentially offer advantages in enhancing the efficacy rate and Bristol faecal score, influencing gastrointestinal peptide hormones, decreasing inflammation indicators and lowering the recurrence rate among children with functional constipation.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric functional constipation (PFC) is a prevalent and persistent gastrointestinal disorder, that requires various treatments, including alternative approaches. This review assessed the synergistic efficacy of herbal medicine (HM) and probiotics for PFC. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive search of 11 databases, including English, Chinese, and Korean databases, until June 29, 2023. The inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the intervention of HM with probiotics to that of the same probiotics. Statistical analyses included calculation of the mean difference (MD), standardized MD, risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), and assessment of risk of bias using Review Manager Version 5.4 software. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation rating system was used to evaluate evidence quality. Potential publication bias was assessed using funnel plots, Egger test, the fail-safe N test, and Duval and Tweedie trim and fill method. RESULTS A total of 22 RCTs involving 2228 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The HM and probiotics group exhibited superior outcomes compared to the probiotics alone group in various parameters: total effective rate (RR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.19-1.29, P < .001), Bristol fecal Score (MD: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.71-0.89, P < .001), gastrointestinal peptide hormone (motilin) (MD: 35.37, 95% CI: 24.64-64.10, P < .001), inflammation indicator (nitrous oxide) (MD: -12.45, 95% CI: -15.12 to -9.77, P < .001), minimal sensitive volume of the rectum (MD: -8.7, 95% CI: -10.91 to -6.49, P < .001), and recurrence rate (RR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.21-0.43, P < .001). CONCLUSION The combination of HM and probiotics may exhibit a synergistic effect on PFC. Nevertheless, it is imperative to undertake rigorously planned RCTs to comprehensively evaluate the synergistic efficacy of HM and probiotics.
-
2.
Effect of gut microbiome modulation on muscle function and cognition: the PROMOTe randomised controlled trial.
Ni Lochlainn, M, Bowyer, RCE, Moll, JM, García, MP, Wadge, S, Baleanu, AF, Nessa, A, Sheedy, A, Akdag, G, Hart, D, et al
Nature communications. 2024;15(1):1859
-
-
-
Free full text
Plain language summary
Humans lose skeletal muscle with advancing age, and this can progress to sarcopenia. Dietary protein is crucial for maintaining skeletal muscle health; however, several factors can lead to reduced protein intake in older age. The aim of this study was to test whether the addition of gut microbiome modulation could augment established muscle function improvements from combined protein (branched chain amino acids [BCAA]) and resistance exercise. This study was based on the PROMOTe (effect of PRebiotic and prOtein on Muscle in Older Twins) trial which was a randomised controlled trial in which twin pairs (n= 72) were randomised, one twin to each study arm. Results showed that prebiotics improved cognition but did not impact muscle strength and function, compared with placebo. Furthermore, gut microbiome modulation via prebiotic supplementation in the context of ageing-muscle research is feasible and well tolerated, with clear responses noted in the gut microbiota composition and function. Authors concluded that cheap and readily available gut microbiome interventions hold promise for improving cognitive frailty in our ageing population.
Abstract
Studies suggest that inducing gut microbiota changes may alter both muscle physiology and cognitive behaviour. Gut microbiota may play a role in both anabolic resistance of older muscle, and cognition. In this placebo controlled double blinded randomised controlled trial of 36 twin pairs (72 individuals), aged ≥60, each twin pair are block randomised to receive either placebo or prebiotic daily for 12 weeks. Resistance exercise and branched chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation is prescribed to all participants. Outcomes are physical function and cognition. The trial is carried out remotely using video visits, online questionnaires and cognitive testing, and posting of equipment and biological samples. The prebiotic supplement is well tolerated and results in a changed gut microbiome [e.g., increased relative Bifidobacterium abundance]. There is no significant difference between prebiotic and placebo for the primary outcome of chair rise time (β = 0.579; 95% CI -1.080-2.239 p = 0.494). The prebiotic improves cognition (factor score versus placebo (β = -0.482; 95% CI,-0.813, -0.141; p = 0.014)). Our results demonstrate that cheap and readily available gut microbiome interventions may improve cognition in our ageing population. We illustrate the feasibility of remotely delivered trials for older people, which could reduce under-representation of older people in clinical trials. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04309292.
-
3.
Reducing meat and/or dairy consumption in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of effects on protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition.
Habumugisha, T, Engebretsen, IMS, Måren, IE, Kaiser, CWM, Dierkes, J
Nutrition reviews. 2024;82(3):277-301
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Plain language summary
Reduced consumption of meat and dairy is being encouraged over climate change fears, and health implications. However, meat and dairy provide high quality protein and nutrients and concerns have grown over nutrient deficiencies in people on plant-based diets. This systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 randomised control trials (RCTs) aimed to determine the effect of a reduced meat/dairy diet in protein intake, and body shape and composition. The results showed that the RCTs included ran for a median duration of 12 weeks. Participants on a reduced meat/dairy diet had lower protein intakes, and reduced meat/dairy diet had no effect on body weight, body mass index, waist circumference, body fat, or muscle mass. It was concluded that a low meat/dairy diet decreases protein intake, however it does not affect body shape, or composition. It was also concluded that studies of longer duration are warranted to determine long-term effects. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand that reduced meat/dairy intake over a moderate period of time may have no effect on body shape or composition but will result in lower protein intakes.
Abstract
CONTEXT Consumers are increasingly encouraged to reduce meat and dairy consumption. However, few meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of reducing meat and/or dairy on (absolute) protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition are available. OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of reducing meat and/or dairy consumption on (absolute) protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition in adults aged ≥ 45 years. DATA SOURCES The MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases were searched up to November 24, 2021. DATA EXTRACTION Randomized controlled trials reporting protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition were included. DATA ANALYSIS Data were pooled using random-effects models and expressed as the mean difference (MD) with 95%CI. Heterogeneity was assessed and quantified using Cochran's Q and I2 statistics. In total, 19 RCTs with a median duration of 12 weeks (range, 4-24 weeks) and a total enrollment of 1475 participants were included. Participants who consumed meat- and/or dairy-reduced diets had a significantly lower protein intake than those who consumed control diets (9 RCTs; MD, -14 g/d; 95%CI, -20 to -8; I2 = 81%). Reducing meat and/or dairy consumption had no significant effect on body weight (14 RCTs; MD, -1.2 kg; 95%CI, -3 to 0.7; I2 = 12%), body mass index (13 RCTs; MD, -0.3 kg/m2; 95%CI, -1 to 0.4; I2 = 34%), waist circumference (9 RCTs; MD, -0.5 cm; 95%CI, -2.1 to 1.1; I2 = 26%), amount of body fat (8 RCTs; MD, -1.0 kg; 95%CI, -3.0 to 1.0; I2 = 48%), or lean body mass (9 RCTs; MD, -0.4 kg; 95%CI, -1.5 to 0.7; I2 = 0%). CONCLUSION Reduction of meat and/or dairy appears to reduce protein intake. There is no evidence of a significant impact on anthropometric values or body composition. More long-term intervention studies with defined amounts of meat and dairy are needed to investigate the long-term effects on nutrient intakes and health outcomes. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020207325.
-
4.
A starch- and sucrose-reduced diet may lead to improvement of intestinal and extraintestinal symptoms in more conditions than irritable bowel syndrome and congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency.
Roth, B, Ohlsson, B
Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.). 2024;117:112254
-
-
-
Free full text
Plain language summary
Studies have shown that a starch and sucrose-reduced diet (SSRD) leads to considerable improvements of gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The purpose of this pilot study was to see if a SSRD would be beneficial in other conditions with similar symptoms. Two people took part in the study. A man with functional diarrhoea and a woman with microscopic colitis. The SSRD consists of low intakes of sugar-rich products, but continued or increased intakes of all meats and fish, fat, natural dairy products, eggs, berries, fruits, nuts, seeds, and vegetables low in starch. Fiber-rich bread and pasta and raw or wild rice were recommended instead of white bread and more processed rice and pasta. During the 4-week intervention, the participants lost weight and waist circumference reduced. The degree of satiety after a meal was increased and the sweet cravings were strongly reduced. The gastrointestinal symptoms improved in the participant with diarrhoea but was unaffected in the participant with microscopic colitis. Reductions of diarrhoea and of bloating and flatulence were most pronounced in both patients. The psychological well-being was improved during the intervention. Extraintestinal symptoms were also reduced during the SSRD, especially urinary urgency and belching. This is a small intervention study and therefore not possible to make generalised claims or recommendations. However, healthcare practitioners could look at SSRD when working with IBS patients as a therapeutic dietary option.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A starch- and sucrose-reduced diet has been found to improve gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome, as well as reduce weight and improve psychological well-being. Our hypothesis was that a starch- and sucrose-reduced diet would also be beneficial in other conditions with similar symptoms. The aim of the present research letter was to describe the role of a starch- and sucrose-reduced diet in a pilot project in patients with diarrhea having varying causes. METHODS One man, age 36 y, suffering from functional diarrhea and one woman, 56 y, suffering from microscopic colitis, were randomized to a starch- and sucrose-reduced diet for 4 wk. At baseline, dietary information was given, and blood samples collected. Weight and waist circumference were measured. The participants completed the irritable bowel syndrome severity scoring system for evaluating specific gastrointestinal and extraintestinal symptoms and visual analog scale for irritable bowel syndrome for evaluation of specific gastrointestinal symptoms and psychological well-being. The degrees of satiety and sweet craving were measured on visual analog scales. After 4 wk, all procedures were repeated. RESULTS Weight, body mass index, and waist circumference were decreased during the intervention. The total amount of gastrointestinal symptoms was decreased in the participants with functional diarrhea, and diarrhea and bloating were decreased in both participants. Both had reduced extraintestinal symptoms and improved psychological well-being. Blood levels had mainly unchanged or slightly increased values of measurements reflecting nutrient intake. CONCLUSIONS A starch- and sucrose-reduced diet may lead to weight reduction, reduced symptoms, and improved well-being in several patient categories, not only in patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Future randomized trials should be done.
-
5.
A multidomain intervention against cognitive decline in an at-risk-population in Germany: Results from the cluster-randomized AgeWell.de trial.
Zülke, AE, Pabst, A, Luppa, M, Roehr, S, Seidling, H, Oey, A, Cardona, MI, Blotenberg, I, Bauer, A, Weise, S, et al
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association. 2024;20(1):615-628
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Plain language summary
Due to ageing populations, there is a rapid increase in people living with dementia. A number of modifiable risk factors have been identified, including obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, diabetes mellitus, depression, physical inactivity, smoking and social isolation. The aim of this cluster-randomised controlled trial, including 1030 participants at risk of developing dementia aged 60-77, was to evaluate the effectiveness of a multidomain intervention which included optimisation of nutrition and medication, and physical, social, and cognitive activity for two years compared to standard care. There was no benefit of the intervention for the primary outcome global cognitive performance. The intervention had a positive effect on the secondary outcome health-related quality of life but did not have any significant effect on quality of life, depressive symptoms, social inclusion, activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. The study period coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. Significantly more participants than controls reported perceived COVID-19-related restrictions with regards to nutrition, whilst there was no such differences between groups for physical, cognitive or social activity. Better adherence to the nutrition and social activity components of the programme were associated with better global cognitive performance, whilst there was no association with physical and cognitive activity.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We investigated the effectiveness of a multidomain intervention to preserve cognitive function in older adults at risk for dementia in Germany in a cluster-randomized trial. METHODS Individuals with a Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Dementia (CAIDE) risk score ≥ 9 aged 60 to 77 years were recruited. After randomization of their general practitioner (GP), patients received a multidomain intervention (including optimization of nutrition and medication, and physical, social, and cognitive activity) or general health advice and GP treatment as usual over 24 months. Primary outcome was global cognitive performance (composite z score, based on domain-specific neuropsychological tests). RESULTS Of 1030 participants at baseline, n = 819 completed the 24-month follow-up assessment. No differences regarding global cognitive performance (average marginal effect = 0.010, 95% confidence interval: -0.113, 0.133) were found between groups at follow-up. Perceived restrictions in intervention conduct by the COVID-19 pandemic did not impact intervention effectiveness. DISCUSSION The intervention did not improve global cognitive performance. HIGHLIGHTS Overall, no intervention effects on global cognitive performance were detected. The multidomain intervention improved health-related quality of life in the total sample. In women, the multidomain intervention reduced depressive symptoms. The intervention was completed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
-
6.
The roles of the dietitian in an 18-week telephone and mobile application nutrition intervention for upper gastrointestinal cancer: a qualitative analysis.
Testa, S, Furness, K, Choi, T, Haines, T, Huggins, CE
Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer. 2023;31(4):245
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Plain language summary
Patients with upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancer (oesophagus, gastric, and pancreas) are vulnerable to malnutrition. Symptoms of the cancer and its treatment are barriers to usual eating patterns that contribute to unintentional weight loss. The aim of this study was to explore the patient-dietitian experience of an 18-week nutrition intervention (the TEND study) delivered using the telephone and a mobile application to people newly diagnosed with UGI cancer to elucidate the roles of the dietitian. This study was an analysis set within the TEND study (a three-arm randomised controlled trial exploring the impact of delivering an 18-week intensive nutrition intervention to patients newly diagnosed with UGI cancer). Participants were allocated to receive the intervention using either the telephone or a mobile application, myPace. Results showed that: - rapport can be built within the patient-dietitian relationship without face-to-face communication. - the roles of the dietitian were characterised by regular collaborative problem-solving to encourage empowerment, a reassuring care navigator (including anticipatory guidance), and rapport building via reliable psychosocial support. - that role limitations led to unmet needs as the dietitian was constrained by poorly managed cancer symptoms that negatively impacted oral intake and subsequently weight stability. Authors concluded that more research is needed to examine an advanced care role for dietitians in the management of nutrition impact symptoms.
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to explore the patient-dietitian experience during an 18-week nutrition counselling intervention delivered using the telephone and a mobile application to people newly diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancer to (1) elucidate the roles of the dietitian during intervention delivery and (2) explore unmet needs impacting nutritional intake. METHODS Qualitative case study methodology was followed, whereby the case was the 18-week nutrition counselling intervention. Dietary counselling conversations and post-intervention interviews were inductively coded from six case participants which included fifty-one telephone conversations (17 h), 244 written messages, and four interviews. Data were coded inductively, and themes constructed. The coding framework was subsequently applied to all post-study interviews (n = 20) to explore unmet needs. RESULTS Themes describing the roles of the dietitian were as follows: regular collaborative problem-solving to encourage empowerment, a reassuring care navigator including anticipatory guidance, and rapport building via psychosocial support. Psychosocial support included provision of empathy, reliable care provision, and delivery of positive perspective. Despite intensive counselling from the dietitian, nutrition impact symptom management was a core unmet need as it required intervention beyond the scope of practice for the dietitian. CONCLUSION Delivery of nutrition care via the telephone or an asynchronous mobile application to people with newly diagnosed UGI cancer required the dietitian to adopt a range of roles to influence nutritional intake: they empower people, act as care navigators, and provide psychosocial support. Limitations in dietitians' scope of practice identified unmet patient's needs in nutrition impact symptom management, which requires medication management. TRIAL REGISTRATION 27th January 2017 Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12617000152325).
-
7.
Dyslipidemia, inflammation, calcification, and adiposity in aortic stenosis: a genome-wide study.
Yu Chen, H, Dina, C, Small, AM, Shaffer, CM, Levinson, RT, Helgadóttir, A, Capoulade, R, Munter, HM, Martinsson, A, Cairns, BJ, et al
European heart journal. 2023;44(21):1927-1939
-
-
-
Free full text
-
Plain language summary
Aortic stenosis (AS) is a form of heart disease that is an abnormal narrowing of the aortic valve in the heart, which restricts blood flow. Although being over the age of 75 appears to increase the risk for development, it is unclear as to who else may be at risk. A better understanding of genetic factors, which may be involved in its development could better help to identify those at risk. This meta-analysis of 10 cohort studies aimed to determine genetic contributors to AS and possible mechanisms involved. The results showed that 15 different gene variations were strongly associated with AS including those in the CELSR2-SORT1, NLRP6, LPA and SMC2 genes. Interestingly some of these genes were also identified in individuals with African and Latin American ancestry. It was concluded that these genes, many of which are associated with hardening of the arteries, altered lipid metabolism, excess storage of fat, and inflammation may all contribute to AS. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand that there are specific genetic contributors to the development of AS and that in the future we may be able to target these to identify high-risk individuals and use them in therapeutic management.
Abstract
AIMS: Although highly heritable, the genetic etiology of calcific aortic stenosis (AS) remains incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to discover novel genetic contributors to AS and to integrate functional, expression, and cross-phenotype data to identify mechanisms of AS. METHODS AND RESULTS A genome-wide meta-analysis of 11.6 million variants in 10 cohorts involving 653 867 European ancestry participants (13 765 cases) was performed. Seventeen loci were associated with AS at P ≤ 5 × 10-8, of which 15 replicated in an independent cohort of 90 828 participants (7111 cases), including CELSR2-SORT1, NLRP6, and SMC2. A genetic risk score comprised of the index variants was associated with AS [odds ratio (OR) per standard deviation, 1.31; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.26-1.35; P = 2.7 × 10-51] and aortic valve calcium (OR per standard deviation, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.08-1.37; P = 1.4 × 10-3), after adjustment for known risk factors. A phenome-wide association study indicated multiple associations with coronary artery disease, apolipoprotein B, and triglycerides. Mendelian randomization supported a causal role for apolipoprotein B-containing lipoprotein particles in AS (OR per g/L of apolipoprotein B, 3.85; 95% CI, 2.90-5.12; P = 2.1 × 10-20) and replicated previous findings of causality for lipoprotein(a) (OR per natural logarithm, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.17-1.23; P = 4.8 × 10-73) and body mass index (OR per kg/m2, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.05-1.9; P = 1.9 × 10-12). Colocalization analyses using the GTEx database identified a role for differential expression of the genes LPA, SORT1, ACTR2, NOTCH4, IL6R, and FADS. CONCLUSION Dyslipidemia, inflammation, calcification, and adiposity play important roles in the etiology of AS, implicating novel treatments and prevention strategies.
-
8.
Examining the Association between Coffee Intake and the Risk of Developing Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Lee, JY, Yau, CY, Loh, CYL, Lim, WS, Teoh, SE, Yau, CE, Ong, C, Thumboo, J, Namasivayam, VSO, Ng, QX
Nutrients. 2023;15(22)
-
-
-
Free full text
Plain language summary
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent disorder of brain–gut interaction with a significant impact on quality of life and social functioning. Diet has been implicated in the pathophysiology of IBS as well as disease flares. A significant proportion of IBS patients experience food-related symptoms associated with consuming or eliminating certain foods. This study's aim was to determine if there is an association between coffee intake and the likelihood of developing IBS. This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of eight studies with 432,022 participants. Results showed that coffee drinkers (any intake) may have a decreased risk of developing IBS compared to controls. However, these findings must be interpreted in light of several shortcomings. Authors concluded that future studies should (1) prioritise high-quality prospective cohort studies with well-documented coffee consumption (and exposure) and track the development of incident IBS in previously healthy individuals over time, and (2) investigate biological mechanisms.
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a highly prevalent disorder of brain-gut interaction with a significant impact on quality of life. Coffee is a widely consumed beverage with numerous bioactive compounds that have potential effects on human health and disease states. Current studies on the effect of regular coffee consumption on the risk of developing IBS symptoms have yielded conflicting results. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine whether coffee intake is associated with developing IBS. A systematic literature search was performed in three electronic databases, namely PubMed, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Library, from inception until 31 March 2023. All original studies reporting associations between coffee intake and IBS were considered for inclusion. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for each study, and estimates were pooled, and where appropriate, 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) and p-values were calculated. Eight studies comprising 432,022 patients were included in the final meta-analysis. Using a fixed-effects model, coffee drinkers (any intake) had a reduced likelihood of developing IBS compared to controls, with a pooled OR of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.80 to 0.84). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the stability of the estimates. Future research should prioritise prospective cohort studies that are robust and closely track the development of incident IBS in previously healthy individuals.
-
9.
Do Colonic Mucosal Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Levels Play a Role in Diverticular Disease? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Sabo, CM, Ismaiel, M, Ismaiel, A, Leucuta, DC, Popa, SL, Grad, S, Dumitrascu, DL
International journal of molecular sciences. 2023;24(12)
-
-
-
Free full text
Plain language summary
Diverticular disease (DD) is a disease of the colon that can be split into symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD), asymptomatic complicated, and segmental colitis associated with diverticulosis (SCAD). They are all diseases of the colon that are poorly understood. It is thought that inflammation of the colon may play a part in their development, however levels of certain inflammatory biomarkers have shown contradicting relationships. This systematic review of 12 studies and meta-analysis of 6 of these aimed to determine the role of one inflammatory biomarker known as tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) in DD. The results showed that mucosal TNF-a levels were unchanged in individuals with SUDD compared to healthy controls. They were also unchanged in SUDD vs asymptomatic DD. They were higher in individuals with DD and SCAD when compared to individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It was concluded that TNF-a may be involved in the development of specific types of DD. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand that the management of inflammation in individuals with DD may be of benefit.
Abstract
Diverticular disease (DD) is the most frequent condition in the Western world that affects the colon. Although chronic mild inflammatory processes have recently been proposed as a central factor in DD, limited information is currently available regarding the role of inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis aiming to assess the mucosal TNF-α levels in DD. We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus to identify observational studies assessing the TNF-α levels in DD. Full-text articles that satisfied our inclusion and exclusion criteria were included, and a quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The principal summary outcome was the mean difference (MD). The results were reported as MD (95% confidence interval (CI)). A total of 12 articles involving 883 subjects were included in the qualitative synthesis, out of which 6 studies were included in our quantitative synthesis. We did not observe statistical significance related to the mucosal TNF-α levels in symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD) vs. the controls (0.517 (95% CI -1.148-2.182)), and symptomatic vs. asymptomatic DD patients (0.657 (95% CI -0.883-2.196)). However, the TNF-α levels were found to be significantly increased in DD compared to irritable bowel disease (IBS) patients (27.368 (95% CI 23.744-30.992)), and segmental colitis associated with diverticulosis (SCAD) vs. IBS patients (25.303 (95% CI 19.823-30.784)). Between SUDD and the controls, as well as symptomatic and asymptomatic DD, there were no significant differences in the mucosal TNF-α levels. However, the TNF-α levels were considerably higher in DD and SCAD patients than IBS patients. Our findings suggest that TNF-α may play a key role in the pathogenesis of DD in specific subgroups and could potentially be a target for future therapies.
-
10.
Increased ultra-processed food consumption is associated with worsening of cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with metabolic syndrome: Longitudinal analysis from a randomized trial.
González-Palacios, S, Oncina-Cánovas, A, García-de-la-Hera, M, Martínez-González, MÁ, Salas-Salvadó, J, Corella, D, Schröder, H, Martínez, JA, Alonso-Gómez, ÁM, Wärnberg, J, et al
Atherosclerosis. 2023;377:12-23
-
-
-
Free full text
Plain language summary
Evidence is increasing linking the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and an increased risk for the development of heart disease. However, there is still uncertainty surrounding how changes in UPF consumption can affect heart disease risk factors. This secondary analysis of a randomised control trial, which looked at the effects of an energy restricted Mediterranean diet in combination with exercise on the prevention of heart disease, aimed to determine how changes in UPF consumption can affect indicators of heart disease risk over a 12-month period. The results showed that high UPF consumption was associated with higher heart disease risk factors including weight, body mass index, waist circumference, diastolic blood pressure, blood sugar levels, measures of insulin resistance, and triglycerides. Further detrimental effects were seen with UPF consumption increasing, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreasing. No associations were seen with systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. It was concluded that high UPF consumption has a detrimental effect on heart disease risk. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to recommend a diet low or devoid of UPF to stay heart healthy.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The association between changes in ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption and cardiometabolic risk (CMR) factors remains understudied. We evaluated the association between changes in UPF consumption over 12 months of follow-up and changes in CMR factors in adults diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. METHODS We analysed data from 5373 adults (aged 55-75 years) participating in the PREDIMED-Plus trial. Diet was evaluated at baseline, 6- and 12-month visits using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and UPF consumption (in grams/day and percentage of total daily dietary intake in grams) was categorized based on NOVA classification. We used mixed-effects linear models with repeated measurements at baseline, 6 and 12 months of follow-up to assess the associations between changes in UPF consumption and changes in CMR factors adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyles variables. RESULTS In multivariable-adjusted models, when comparing the highest versus the lowest quartile of UPF consumption, positive associations were found for several CMR factors: weight (kg, β = 1.09; 95% confidence interval 0.91 to 1.26); BMI (kg/m2, β = 0.39; 0.33 to 0.46); waist circumference (cm, β = 1.03; 0.81 to 1.26); diastolic blood pressure (mm Hg, β = 0.67; 0.29 to 1.06); fasting blood glucose (mg/dl, β = 1.66; 0.61 to 2.70); HbA1c (%, β = 0.04; 0.01 to 0.07); triglycerides (mg/dl, β = 6.79; 3.66 to 9.91) and triglycerides and glucose index (β = 0.06; 0.04 to 0.08). CONCLUSIONS Higher UPF consumption was associated with adverse evolution in objectively measured CMR factors after 12 months of follow-up in adults with metabolic syndrome. Further research is needed to explore whether these changes persist for longer periods.