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Addressing cancer anorexia-cachexia in older patients: Potential therapeutic strategies and molecular pathways.
Ispoglou, T, McCullough, D, Windle, A, Nair, S, Cox, N, White, H, Burke, D, Kanatas, A, Prokopidis, K
Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland). 2024;(2):552-566
Abstract
Cancer cachexia (CC) syndrome, a feature of cancer-associated muscle wasting, is particularly pronounced in older patients, and is characterised by decreased energy intake and upregulated skeletal muscle catabolic pathways. To address CC, appetite stimulants, anabolic drugs, cytokine mediators, essential amino acid supplementation, nutritional counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and enteral nutrition have been utilised. However, pharmacological treatments that have also shown promising results, such as megestrol acetate, anamorelin, thalidomide, and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, have been associated with gastrointestinal and cardiovascular complications. Emerging evidence on the efficacy of probiotics in modulating gut microbiota also presents a promising adjunct to traditional therapies, potentially enhancing nutritional absorption and systemic inflammation control. Additionally, low-dose olanzapine has demonstrated improved appetite and weight management in older patients undergoing chemotherapy, offering a potential refinement to current therapeutic approaches. This review aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underpinning CC, with a particular focus on the role of anorexia in exacerbating muscle wasting, and to propose pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies to mitigate this syndrome, particularly emphasising the needs of an older demographic. Future research targeting CC should focus on refining appetite-stimulating drugs with fewer side-effects, specifically catering to the needs of older patients, and investigating nutritional factors that can either enhance appetite or minimise suppression of appetite in individuals with CC, especially within this vulnerable group.
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The effect of discretionary snack consumption on overall energy intake, weight status, and diet quality: A systematic review.
Cooke, CB, Greatwood, HC, McCullough, D, Kirwan, R, Duckworth, LC, Sutton, L, Gately, PJ
Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity. 2024;(4):e13693
Abstract
The consumption frequency and portion size of discretionary snacks are thought to contribute to a greater food intake and risk of overweight or obesity in the developed world but evidence from epidemiological studies is inconclusive. To investigate this, we systematically evaluated evidence on the effects of discretionary snack consumption on weight status, energy intake, and diet quality. Articles involving discretionary snacks reported against the outcome measures of any primary, peer-reviewed study using human participants from free-living conditions for all age groups were included. A total of 14,780 titles were identified and 40 eligible publications were identified. Three key outcomes were reported: weight status (n = 35), energy intake (n = 11), and diet quality (n = 3). Increased discretionary snack consumption may contribute modestly to energy intake, however, there is a lack of consistent associations with increased weight/BMI. Although cross-sectional analyses offered conflicting findings, longitudinal studies in adults showed a consistent positive relationship between discretionary snack intake and increasing weight or body mass index. Given that experimental findings suggest reducing the size of discretionary snacks could lead to decreased consumption and subsequent energy intake, food policy makers and manufacturers may find it valuable to consider altering the portion and/or packaging size of discretionary snacks.
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The Effect of Carbohydrate Restriction on Lipids, Lipoproteins, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance-Based Metabolites: CALIBER, a Randomised Parallel Trial.
McCullough, D, Harrison, T, Enright, KJ, Amirabdollahian, F, Mazidi, M, Lane, KE, Stewart, CE, Davies, IG
Nutrients. 2023;(13)
Abstract
Low-carbohydrate high-fat (LCHF) diets can be just as effective as high-carbohydrate, lower-fat (HCLF) diets for improving cardiovascular disease risk markers. Few studies have compared the effects of the UK HCLF dietary guidelines with an LCHF diet on lipids and lipoprotein metabolism using high-throughput NMR spectroscopy. This study aimed to explore the effect of an ad libitum 8-week LCHF diet compared to an HCLF diet on lipids and lipoprotein metabolism and CVD risk factors. For 8 weeks, n = 16 adults were randomly assigned to follow either an LCHF (n = 8, <50 g CHO p/day) or an HCLF diet (n = 8). Fasted blood samples at weeks 0, 4, and 8 were collected and analysed for lipids, lipoprotein subclasses, and energy-related metabolism markers via NMR spectroscopy. The LCHF diet increased (p < 0.05) very small VLDL, IDL, and large HDL cholesterol levels, whereas the HCLF diet increased (p < 0.05) IDL and large LDL cholesterol levels. Following the LCHF diet alone, triglycerides in VLDL and HDL lipoproteins significantly (p < 0.05) decreased, and HDL phospholipids significantly (p < 0.05) increased. Furthermore, the LCHF diet significantly (p < 0.05) increased the large and small HDL particle concentrations compared to the HCLF diet. In conclusion, the LCHF diet may reduce CVD risk factors by reducing triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and improving HDL functionality.
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A Narrative Review of Non-Pharmacological Strategies for Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults with Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases.
Ispoglou, T, Wilson, O, McCullough, D, Aldrich, L, Ferentinos, P, Lyall, G, Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou, A, Duckworth, L, Brown, MA, Sutton, L, et al
Biology. 2023;(7)
Abstract
This narrative review examines the mechanisms underlying the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic diseases (MDs), along with their association with sarcopenia. Furthermore, non-pharmacological interventions to address sarcopenia in patients with these conditions are suggested. The significance of combined training in managing metabolic disease and secondary sarcopenia in type II diabetes mellitus is emphasized. Additionally, the potential benefits of resistance and aerobic training are explored. This review emphasises the role of nutrition in addressing sarcopenia in patients with CVD or MDs, focusing on strategies such as optimising protein intake, promoting plant-based protein sources, incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and omega-3 fatty acids and ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels. Moreover, the potential benefits of targeting gut microbiota through probiotics and prebiotic fibres in sarcopenic individuals are considered. Multidisciplinary approaches that integrate behavioural science are explored to enhance the uptake and sustainability of behaviour-based sarcopenia interventions. Future research should prioritise high-quality randomized controlled trials to refine exercise and nutritional interventions and investigate the incorporation of behavioural science into routine practices. Ultimately, a comprehensive and multifaceted approach is essential to improve health outcomes, well-being and quality of life in older adults with sarcopenia and coexisting cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
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The Effect of Dietary Carbohydrate and Fat Manipulation on the Metabolome and Markers of Glucose and Insulin Metabolism: A Randomised Parallel Trial.
McCullough, D, Harrison, T, Boddy, LM, Enright, KJ, Amirabdollahian, F, Schmidt, MA, Doenges, K, Quinn, K, Reisdorph, N, Mazidi, M, et al
Nutrients. 2022;14(18)
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Insulin resistance is a complex metabolic disorder that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and is integral to cardiometabolic disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of an ad libitum 8-week low-carbohydrate high fat (LCHF) diet compared with a high-carbohydrate low-fat (HCLF) diet (current UK guidelines) on cardiometabolic risk factors, the plasma metabolome, and markers of glucose and insulin metabolism in adults with a slightly elevated cardiometabolic risk. This is a parallel randomised design study where participants were randomly assigned to either a HCLF (n = 8), or a LCHF (n = 8) diet for 8 weeks. Results show that both the LCHF and HCLF diets exerted benefits on markers of insulin resistance and metabolic risk. Both diets had no effect on fasting glucose levels, but insulin concentrations significantly decreased comparably with both diets. Authors conclude that following either a LCHF or HCLF diet may reduce the risk of developing T2D by reducing markers of insulin resistance.
Abstract
High carbohydrate, lower fat (HCLF) diets are recommended to reduce cardiometabolic disease (CMD) but low carbohydrate high fat (LCHF) diets can be just as effective. The effect of LCHF on novel insulin resistance biomarkers and the metabolome has not been fully explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of an ad libitum 8-week LCHF diet compared with a HCLF diet on CMD markers, the metabolome, and insulin resistance markers. n = 16 adults were randomly assigned to either LCHF (n = 8, <50 g CHO p/day) or HCLF diet (n = 8) for 8 weeks. At weeks 0, 4 and 8, participants provided fasted blood samples, measures of body composition, blood pressure and dietary intake. Samples were analysed for markers of cardiometabolic disease and underwent non-targeted metabolomic profiling. Both a LCHF and HCLF diet significantly (p < 0.01) improved fasting insulin, HOMA IR, rQUICKI and leptin/adiponectin ratio (p < 0.05) levels. Metabolomic profiling detected 3489 metabolites with 78 metabolites being differentially regulated, for example, an upregulation in lipid metabolites following the LCHF diet may indicate an increase in lipid transport and oxidation, improving insulin sensitivity. In conclusion, both diets may reduce type 2 diabetes risk albeit, a LCHF diet may enhance insulin sensitivity by increasing lipid oxidation.
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Feasibility of a high-PRotein Mediterranean-style diet and resistance Exercise in cardiac Rehabilitation patients with sarcopenic obesity (PRiMER): Study protocol for a randomised control trial.
McCullough, D, Kirwan, R, Butler, T, Perez de Heredia, F, Thijssen, D, Lip, GYH, Mills, J, Davies, IG
Clinical nutrition ESPEN. 2021;:492-498
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an essential component of long-term recovery following a cardiac event. Typical CR may not be optimal for patients presenting with sarcopenic obesity (SO) who present with reduced muscle mass and elevated adipose tissue, and may indicate greater cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Resistance exercise and high-protein diets are known to increase muscle mass, while Mediterranean-style diets have been shown to reduce CVD risk. A high-protein Mediterranean-style diet combined with resistance exercise intervention is yet to be trialled in cardiac rehabilitation populations. OBJECTIVES Primary outcome: to determine the feasibility of such an intervention by investigating the perceptions, acceptance and adherence to a resistance exercise protocol and high-protein Mediterranean style diet in a UK cardiac rehabilitation population with SO. Secondary outcome: to trial this protocol ahead of a fully powered clinical study. METHODS Eligible cardiac rehabilitation patients will be randomised to one of the following: 1) a control group (standard CR), 2) high-protein Mediterranean-style diet, 3) resistance exercise group, or 4) both high-protein Mediterranean-style diet and resistance exercise group. The pilot study will last 12 weeks. Measures of body composition (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) grip strength, CVD risk (e.g., fasting triglycerides, glucose, cholesterol) and dietary adherence will be assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. To compare groups, a mixed model ANOVA (time x intervention) will be performed. Patient participant involvement throughout the development of this project will be used to determine the feasibility of a future, fully powered, randomised control trial. A feasibility questionnaire will help establish the proportion of eligible participants, their willingness to be randomised, response rates, and ethical considerations. Furthermore, focus groups, food tasting and telephone interviews will be conducted to assess the acceptability of recipes and exercise protocols provided. DISCUSSION This pilot trial will determine whether a fully powered, multi-centred randomised control trial in CR patients with SO can be implemented. The information received from patient involvement will be invaluable for identifying possible barriers to participation and tailoring interventions to participant needs, helping to increase the likelihood of long-term compliance to health-promoting lifestyle changes. REGISTRATION This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04272073), registered on 17/02/2020, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04272073. DATE AND VERSION 28/12/20 version 3.0.
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How the love of muscle can break a heart: Impact of anabolic androgenic steroids on skeletal muscle hypertrophy, metabolic and cardiovascular health.
McCullough, D, Webb, R, Enright, KJ, Lane, KE, McVeigh, J, Stewart, CE, Davies, IG
Reviews in endocrine & metabolic disorders. 2021;(2):389-405
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Abstract
It is estimated 6.4% of males and 1.6% of females globally use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), mostly for appearance and performance enhancing reasons. In combination with resistance exercise, AAS use increases muscle protein synthesis resulting in skeletal muscle hypertrophy and increased performance. Primarily through binding to the androgen receptor, AAS exert their hypertrophic effects via genomic, non-genomic and anti-catabolic mechanisms. However, chronic AAS use also has a detrimental effect on metabolism ultimately increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Much research has focused on AAS effects on blood lipids and lipoproteins, with abnormal concentrations of these associated with insulin resistance, hypertension and increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT). This clustering of interconnected abnormalities is often referred as metabolic syndrome (MetS). Therefore, the aim of this review is to explore the impact of AAS use on mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and markers of MetS. AAS use markedly decreases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and increases low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Chronic AAS use also appears to cause higher fasting insulin levels and impaired glucose tolerance and possibly higher levels of VAT; however, research is currently lacking on the effects of AAS use on glucose metabolism. While cessation of AAS use can restore normal lipid levels, it may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as depression and hypogonadism that can increase CVD risk. Research is currently lacking on effective treatments for withdrawal symptoms and further long-term research is warranted on the effects of AAS use on metabolic health in males and females.
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Sarcopenia during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions: long-term health effects of short-term muscle loss.
Kirwan, R, McCullough, D, Butler, T, Perez de Heredia, F, Davies, IG, Stewart, C
GeroScience. 2020;(6):1547-1578
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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is an extraordinary global emergency that has led to the implementation of unprecedented measures in order to stem the spread of the infection. Internationally, governments are enforcing measures such as travel bans, quarantine, isolation, and social distancing leading to an extended period of time at home. This has resulted in reductions in physical activity and changes in dietary intakes that have the potential to accelerate sarcopenia, a deterioration of muscle mass and function (more likely in older populations), as well as increases in body fat. These changes in body composition are associated with a number of chronic, lifestyle diseases including cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, osteoporosis, frailty, cognitive decline, and depression. Furthermore, CVD, diabetes, and elevated body fat are associated with greater risk of COVID-19 infection and more severe symptomology, underscoring the importance of avoiding the development of such morbidities. Here we review mechanisms of sarcopenia and their relation to the current data on the effects of COVID-19 confinement on physical activity, dietary habits, sleep, and stress as well as extended bed rest due to COVID-19 hospitalization. The potential of these factors to lead to an increased likelihood of muscle loss and chronic disease will be discussed. By offering a number of home-based strategies including resistance exercise, higher protein intakes and supplementation, we can potentially guide public health authorities to avoid a lifestyle disease and rehabilitation crisis post-COVID-19. Such strategies may also serve as useful preventative measures for reducing the likelihood of sarcopenia in general and in the event of future periods of isolation.
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Moms fit 2 fight: Rationale, design, and analysis plan of a behavioral weight management intervention for pregnant and postpartum women in the U.S. military.
Fahey, MC, Wayne Talcott, G, Cox Bauer, CM, Bursac, Z, Gladney, L, Hare, ME, Harvey, J, Little, M, McCullough, D, Hryshko-Mullen, AS, et al
Contemporary clinical trials. 2018;:46-54