Transform your body and mind
COCOA STUDY /CHOCOLATE
https://reference.medscape.com/viewarticle/987212_5
Using cocoa in medicine dates back centuries. This long-standing consumption of chocolate has led to the proliferation of folk wisdom about its effects on health, which has prompted numerous studies and research of varying importance. To offer patients accurate information about how eating chocolate may affect their health, it is critical to separate fact from fiction. Do you know the latest research on cocoa and its impact on heart health, as well as other insights into health outcomes? Test yourself on chocolate and health with this short quiz.
Results of a large, randomized trial, the COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), found that 3.6 years of cocoa extract (500 mg flavanols/d, including 80 mg (–)-epicatechin) was associated with a 10% lower rate of total cardiovascular events in older adults, including myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization, and unstable angina, although this reduction was not statistically significant compared with placebo. However, the supplementation did cause a statistically significant 27% reduction in cardiovascular disease death. Analyses of participants who regularly adhered to supplementation vs those who regularly adhered to placebo found a significant 16% reduction in major cardiovascular events compared with placebo.
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According to the COSMOS-Mind phase 3 study, how does daily supplementation with multivitamins or cocoa compare in terms of effects on age-related cognitive decline?
The COSMOS-Mind phase 3 study compared the effects of a standard multivitamin-mineral and cocoa extract on cognition in more than 2200 older participants. Participants completed tests at baseline and annually to assess cognitive abilities for 3 years. Cocoa extract had no effect on global cognition compared with placebo; however, daily multivitamin-mineral use showed significant benefits on global cognition vs placebo. Participants with a history of cardiovascular disease experienced the most pronounced beneficial effect. Researchers found similar protective effects for executive function and memory.
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Cocoa is a rich source of flavan-3-ols. A recent systematic review found that which of these foods offers a significantly higher bioavailability of flavan-3-ols than cocoa?
According to a recent systematic review, apples, grapes, tea, and cocoa all have similar bioavailability of flavan-3-ols. Hazelnuts and almonds offer significantly greater bioavailability of flavan-3-ols and may be a more efficient source of these nutrients in food..
In a small study of patients with stable coronary artery disease taking maintenance dual antiplatelet therapy of clopidogrel and aspirin, what was the effect of daily consumption of 65% cocoa?
A small number of patients (20) with stable coronary artery disease who were taking maintenance dual antiplatelet therapy of 75 mg/day of clopidogrel and 81 mg/day of aspirin participated in a recent study. Researchers evaluated platelet function in patients prior to initiation of and after a 1-week trial of daily consumption of 30 g/day of 65% cocoa. They then compared the results with a paired t-test.
Cocoa augmented the inhibitory effect of clopidogrel, significantly decreasing the results of VerifyNow P2Y12 reaction unit analysis. However, cocoa did not affect the inhibitory effect of aspirin based on a non-significant reduction in aspirin reaction unit assays.
Chocolate is rich in oxalates; to avoid formation of kidney stones, which of these foods would be best to pair with chocolate?
To prevent kidney stone formation, patients should avoid overindulging in oxalate-rich foods, including chocolate, and pair them with dietary calcium-rich foods such as yogurt. Calcium binds with oxalate in the gut; thus, it will not accumulate in the bloodstream and eventually enter the urine and cause stones. Instead, it excretes oxalate as waste.
Foods rich in oxalates include berries, beets, greens, nuts, and rhubarb. Patients can also avoid kidney stones by consuming less animal protein, which can cause uric acid levels to rise, and following a low-sodium diet.
https://www.prevention.com/weight-loss/g24805401/fat-burning-foods/
Chocolate No, this is not a typo. According to nutritionist and co-author of Diabetes Comfort Food Diet along with the editors of Prevention, Laura Cipullo, R.D., C.D.E., R.Y.T., chocolate can actually help keep your diet on track, by preventing the “last supper” syndrome of binge-eating. “In an effort to convert this attempt at being healthy to a new lifestyle, start with food you know you already love such as dark chocolate or even milk chocolate,” she explains to Prevention. Why chocolate? It contains antioxidants and is a source of satiating fat. “You need fat in your diet to feel full so don’t feel bad about including chocolate in your diet,” she says.
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-01-association-dark-chocolate-consumption-essential.html
Association found between dark chocolate consumption, reduced risk of essential hypertension by Bob Yirka , Medical Xpress Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain
A team of cardiologists at Shaoxing People's Hospital, working with a colleague from Zhuji People's Hospital, both in China, has found an association between consumption of dark chocolate and reductions in the risk of essential hypertension.
In their paper published in the journal Scientific Reports, the group describes how they used Mendelian randomization to discover more about the associations between consumption of dark chocolate and hypertension.
Hypertension is a term used to describe chronic high blood pressure. The term essential hypertension is used when the source of the cause is unknown. Over the past several years there have been reports of dark chocolate consumption providing certain health benefits, due to its flavanol content. Some of those claimed benefits have included reducing inflammation, and other factors involved in coronary disease.
In this new study, the research team wondered if it was possible that consumption of dark chocolate could reduce essential hypertension, which has been implicated in a host of maladies, from strokes to heart attacks.
The work by the team involved the use of a technique called Mendelian randomization—an epidemiological methodology named after Gregor Mendel. It involves studying differences in genetic profiles in a way that shows that a given intervention was what caused a given effect—the method has been promoted due to its ability to reduce the risk of reverse causation.
Using the method on data obtained from the MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, which included genetic profiles of 64,945 people of European descent, the team looked for associations between health benefits of dark chocolate consumption and ailments such as heart failure, blood clots, stroke, coronary heart disease and essential hypertension.
In looking at their data, the researchers found what they describe as a significant association between regular dark chocolate consumption and reductions in the risk of essential hypertension—and some association between dark chocolate consumption and reductions in the risk of venous thromboembolism.
On the other hand, the team found no associations between dark chocolate consumption and any of the other ailments. They suggest their findings are strong enough to warrant further study of dark chocolate and its components to find out if it, or some of its ingredients, might be useful for the treatment of essential hypertension.
More information: Juntao Yang et al, Dark chocolate intake and cardiovascular diseases: a Mendelian randomization study, Scientific Reports (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50351-6
Journal information: Scientific Reports
Why You Should Eat Chocolate- In Moderation
Excerpts from various articles
Chocolate is made from plants, which means it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetables. These benefits are from flavonoids, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from aging caused by free radicals, which can cause damage that leads to heart disease. Dark chocolate contains a large number of antioxidants (nearly 8 times the number found in strawberries). Flavonoids also help relax blood pressure through the production of nitric oxide, and balance certain hormones in the body.
Why You Should Eat Chocolate
Superfoods don't just come from your supermarket's produce aisle. In fact, those chocolate candy bars next to the gummy bears now qualify. Study after study proves that dark chocolate—sweet, rich, and delicious—is good for more than curing a broken heart.
The secret behind its powerful punch is cacao, also the source of the sweet's distinct taste. Packed with healthy chemicals like flavonoids and theobromine, this little bean is a disease-killing bullet. The only problem? Cacao on its own is bitter, chalky, nasty stuff.
Enter milk, sugar, and butter—good for your taste buds, not always good for your health. Besides adding calories, these can dilute the benefits of cacao. So snack smart: Stick to healthy chocolate with at least 70 percent cacao (or cocoa, which is cacao in its roasted, ground form). As long as the content is that high, says Mary Engler, Ph.D., a professor of physiological nursing at the University of California at San Francisco, you can reap the benefits from eating only small amounts. Because of its high fat and sugar content, limit yourself to 7 ounces, or about four dark chocolate bars, a week.
A Healthier Heart
The latest research backs up claims that chocolate has cardiovascular benefits: In a 9-year Swedish study of more than 31,000 women, those who ate one or two servings of dark chocolate each week cut their risk for heart failure by as much as a third.
Wish that was a serving each day? Another big, long-term study in Germany this year found that about a square of dark chocolate a day lowered blood pressure and reduced risk of heart attack and stroke by 39 percent. Most of the credit goes to flavonoids, antioxidant compounds that increase the flexibility of veins and arteries.
But since those antioxidants come with a generous portion of sugar, milk, and butter, chowing down on chocolate isn't an excuse to skip your workout. Chocolate and exercise actually work surprisingly well together: Another recent study, out of Australia this time, showed that eating chocolate high in healthy antioxidants reduced the blood pressure-raising effects of exercise on overweight individuals. So go ahead and reward yourself. A chocolate bar has five times the flavonoids of an apple, after all.
Weight Loss
If you're wondering how you can add dark chocolate to your diet plan without putting on pounds, the good news is that it should be easier than you expect.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen found that dark chocolate is far more filling, offering more of a feeling of satiety than its lighter-colored sibling. That is, dark chocolate lessens cravings for sweet, salty, and fatty foods. So if indulging in a bit of healthy dark chocolate should not only make it easy for you to stick to the small portion recommended for optimal health, but it should make it easier for you to stick to your diet in general. Jackpot!
Happier Kids
Women who ate chocolate daily during their pregnancy reported that they were better able to handle stress than mothers-to-be who abstained. Also, a Finnish study found their babies were happier and smiled more. Hmm, so your options are popping a piece of premium chocolate or sticking a pacifier in your screaming baby's mouth?
Diabetes Prevention
Candy as a diabetes foe? Sure enough. In a small Italian study, participants who ate a candy bar's worth of dark chocolate once a day for 15 days saw their potential for insulin resistance drop by nearly half. "Flavonoids increase nitric oxide production," says lead researcher Claudio Ferri, M.D., a professor at the University of L'Aquila in Italy. "And that helps control insulin sensitivity."
Reduced Stress
UC San Diego researchers recently confirmed what your fat pants could have told them back in college: When times get tough, people tend to dip into the chocolate stash more often than they might otherwise.
And as it turns out, that kind of emotional eating might not be such a bad thing. You know what kind of havoc stress and its sneaky sidekick cortisol can wreak on your body. Swiss scientists (who else?) found that when very anxious people ate an ounce and a half of dark chocolate every day for two weeks, their stress hormone levels were significantly reduced and the metabolic effects of stress were partially mitigated. After a breakup, break out a dark chocolate bar rather than a pint of ice cream.
Sun Protection
London researchers recently tested chocolate flavanols' sun-protecting prowess. After 3 months eating chocolate with high levels of flavanols, their study subjects' skin took twice as long to develop that reddening effect that indicates the beginning of a burn.
Subjects who ate conventional low-flavanol chocolate didn't get the same sun protection. Watch for brands boasting high levels of the healthy compounds.
Higher Intelligence
Next time you're under pressure on a work project, don't feel so guilty about grabbing a dark chocolate bar from the vending machine. Not only will it help your body ward off the effects of stress, but it'll boost your brain power when you really need it.
A University of Nottingham researcher found that drinking cocoa rich in flavanols boosts blood flow to key parts of the brain for 2 to 3 hours, which could improve performance and alertness in the short term.
Other researchers from Oxford University and Norway looked at chocolate's long-term effects on the brain by studying the diets of more than 2,000 people over age 70. They found that those who consumed flavanol-rich chocolate, wine, or tea scored significantly higher on cognitive tests than those who didn't.
Cough Relief
One study found that chocolate quieted coughs almost as well as codeine, thanks to the theobromine it contains. This chemical, responsible for chocolate's feel-good effect, may suppress activity in a part of the brain called the vagus nerve.
Maria Belvisi, a professor of respiratory pharmacology at the National Heart and Lung Institute in London, says, "It had none of the negative side effects." Codeine makes most people feel sleepy and dull—and doesn't taste anything like fine chocolate.
Diarrhea Relief
Both South American and European cultures have a history that dates back to the 16th century of treating diarrhea with cocoa. Modern-day science has shown they were onto something.
Scientists at the Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute found that cocoa flavonoids bind to a protein that regulates fluid secretion in the small intestine, potentially stopping the trots in their tracks.
Eating some chocolate really might be good for you – here’s what the research says Published: March 27, 2024 5:30pm EDT Author Dan Baumgardt Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol
Disclosure statement Dan Baumgardt does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Although it always makes me scoff slightly to see Easter eggs making their first appearance in supermarkets at the end of December, there are few people who aren’t delighted to receive a bit of chocolate every year.
It makes sense that too much chocolate would be bad for you because of the high fat and sugar content in most products. But what should we make of common claims that eating some chocolate is actually good for you?
Happily, there is a fair amount of evidence that shows, in the right circumstances, chocolate may be both beneficial for your heart and good for your mental state.
In fact, chocolate – or more specifically cacao, the raw, unrefined bean – is a medicinal wonder. It contains many different active compounds which can evoke pharmacological effects within the body, like medicines or drugs.
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Compounds that lead to neurological effects in the brain have to be able to cross the blood-brain barrier, the protective shield which prevents harmful substances – like toxins and bacteria – entering the delicate nervous tissue.
One of these is the compound theobromine, which is also found in tea and contributes towards its bitter taste. Tea and chocolate also contain caffeine, which theobromine is related to as part of the purine family of chemicals.
These chemicals, among others, contribute to chocolate’s addictive nature. They have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, where they can influence the nervous system. They are therefore known as psychoactive chemicals.
What effects can chocolate have on mood? Well, a systematic review looked at a group of studies which examined the feelings and emotions associated with consuming chocolate. Most demonstrated improvements in mood, anxiety, energy and states of arousal.
Some noted the feeling of guilt, which is perhaps something we’ve all felt after one too many Dairy Milks.
Health benefits of cocoa
There are other organs, aside from the brain, that might benefit from the medicinal effects of cocoa. For centuries, chocolate has been used as a medicine to treat a long list of diseases including anemia, tuberculosis, gout and even low libido.
These might be spurious claims but there is evidence to suggest that eating cacao has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. First, it can prevent endothelial dysfunction. This is the process through which arteries harden and get laden down with fatty plaques, which can in turn lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Eating dark chocolate may also reduce blood pressure, which is another risk factor for developing arterial disease, and prevent formation of clots which block up blood vessels.
Some studies have suggested that dark chocolate might be useful in adjusting ratios of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which can help protect the heart.
Others have examined insulin resistance, the phenomenon associated with Type 2 diabetes and weight gain. They suggest that the polyphenols – chemical compounds present in plants – found in foodstuffs like chocolate may also lead to improved control of blood sugars.
Chocolate toxicity
As much as chocolate might be considered a medicine for some, it can be a poison for others.
It’s well documented that the ingestion of caffeine and theobromine is highly toxic for domestic animals. Dogs are particularly affected because of their often voracious appetites and generally unfussy natures.
The culprit is often dark chocolate, which can provoke symptoms of agitation, rigid muscles and even seizures. In certain cases, if ingested in high enough quantities, it can lead to comas and abnormal, even fatal heart rhythms.
Some of the compounds found in chocolate have also been found to have potentially negative effects in humans. Chocolate is a source of oxalate which, along with calcium, is one of the main components of kidney stones.
Some clinical groups have advised against consuming oxalate rich foods, such as spinach and rhubarb – and chocolate, for those who suffer from recurrent kidney stones.
So, what should all this mean for our chocolate consumption habits? Science points in the direction of chocolate that has as high a cocoa solid content as possible, and the minimum of extras. The potentially harmful effects of chocolate are more related to fat and sugar, and may counteract any possible benefits.
A daily dose of 20g-30g of plain or dark chocolate with cocoa solids above 70% – rather than milk chocolate, which contains fewer solids and white chocolate, which contains none – could lead to a greater health benefit, as well as a greater high.
But whatever chocolate you go for, please don’t share it with the dog.
Coffee
COFFEE'S BRAIN-muscle EFFECTs GO BEYOND CAFFEINE
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/994049
Megan Brooks July 06, 2023
Coffee's ability to boost alertness is commonly attributed to caffeine, but new research suggests there may be other underlying mechanisms that explain this effect.
"There is a widespread anticipation that coffee boosts alertness and psychomotor performance. By gaining a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying this biological phenomenon, we pave the way for investigating the factors that can influence it and even exploring the potential advantages of those mechanisms," study investigator Nuno Sousa, MD, PhD, with the University of Minho, Braga, Portugal, said in a statement.
The study was published online June 28 in Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience.
The researchers investigated the neurobiological impact of coffee drinking on brain connectivity using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
They recruited 47 generally healthy adults (mean age, 30; 31 women) who regularly drank a minimum of one cup of coffee per day. Participants refrained from eating or drinking caffeinated beverages for at least 3 hours prior to undergoing fMRI.
To tease out the specific impact of caffeinated coffee intake, 30 habitual coffee drinkers (mean age, 32; 27 women) were given hot water containing the same amount of caffeine, but they were not given coffee.
The investigators conducted two fMRI scans ― one before, and one 30 minutes after drinking coffee or caffeine-infused water.
Both drinking coffee and drinking plain caffeine in water led to a decrease in functional connectivity of the brain's default mode network, which is typically active during self-reflection in resting states.
This finding suggests that consuming either coffee or caffeine heightened individuals' readiness to transition from a state of rest to engaging in task-related activities, the researchers note.
However, drinking a cup of coffee also boosted connectivity in the higher visual network and the right executive control network, which are linked to working memory, cognitive control, and goal-directed behavior ― something that did not occur from drinking caffeinated water.
"Put simply, individuals exhibited a heightened state of preparedness, being more responsive and attentive to external stimuli after drinking coffee," said first author Maria Picó-Pérez, PhD, with the University of Minho.
Given that some of the effects of coffee also occurred with caffeine alone, it's "plausible to assume that other caffeinated beverages may share similar effects," she added.
Still, certain effects were specific to coffee drinking, "likely influenced by factors such as the distinct aroma and taste of coffee or the psychological expectations associated with consuming this particular beverage," the researcher write.
A limitation of the study is the absence of a nondrinker control sample (to rule out the withdrawal effect) or an alternative group that consumed decaffeinated coffee (to rule out the placebo effect of coffee intake) ― something that should be considered in future studies, the researchers note.
The study was funded by the Institute for the Scientific Information on Coffee. The authors declare no relevant conflicts of interest.
Front Behav Neurosci. Published online June 28, 2023.
https://newatlas.com/health-wellbeing/espresso-alzheimers-proteins/
Espresso delivers smackdown to Alzheimer's proteins in lab tests
By Michael Franco July 19, 2023
The study has been published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Could this little cup hold a key to fighting Alzheimer's disease?
A nice strong cup of espresso is great for clearing the cobwebs out of the brain first thing in the morning. It might also be good for clearing Alzheimer's-causing protein tangles away too if lab tests hold up in further research.
When it comes to unraveling the mechanisms by which Alzheimer's disease operates, researchers have homed in on two problematic proteins: tau and beta-amyloid. These compounds, when they malfunction, are responsible for causing plaques and tangles in the brain that impair its function and lead to the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's.
In trying to combat the disease, we've seen a lot of research go into keeping tau and beta-amyloid from building up in the brain, with mixed success. After a failed test of a drug in 2022 that was meant to improve Alzheimer's symptoms by reducing amyloid in the brain for example, a more recent Phase 3 clinical trial on a different drug has shown promise.
In terms of better understanding tau's role in the disease, researchers have known that the substance, which normally helps nutrient-delivering microtubules to keep their shape, can sometimes get folded into shapes that cause it to clump and form tangles.
Punching holes
Building on previous research, in 2021, researchers from China and Australia figured out that tau tangles act like seeds that can spread to other neurons by commandeering a cell component known as the lysosome to break through the walls of the cell membranes in which they are encapsulated in structures known as exosomes.
“In people with Alzheimer’s disease, it seems the … exosomes trigger a reaction which punches holes in the wall of their own cell membrane and allows the toxic seeds to escape,” said Jürgen Götz, lead author of that study. “These leaks create a damaging seeding process that causes tau tangles and ultimately lead to memory loss and other impairments.”
Despite findings that have linked our gut bacteria to tau buildup and tests that have been able to identify tau through blood tests and spinal fluid analysis, a definitive way to eliminate the tangles associated with Alzheimer's disease has remained elusive.
Make mine a double
Now researchers at the University of Verona in Italy may have uncovered a way forward on this front – and it might be as simple as a shot of espresso.
In a study conducted by the Italian team, both a complete espresso extract as well as various compounds isolated from the drink including caffeine, trigonelline, genistein, and theobromine were tested to see how they interact with tau protein tangles known as fibrils. It was found that caffeine and genistein, an antioxidant known as a flavonoid, prevented tau protein clumps known as fibrils from forming long strands. This, in turn, prevented them from weaving themselves into the larger sheets that disrupt brain function. It also rendered the fibrils non-toxic and took away their ability to act as seeds and spread to other cells.
Caffeine was further shown to bind to existing fibrils which, the researchers say, could open the door to further investigation of using the compound either as a therapeutic or a potential test for the presence of tau.
While caffeine and genistein had the ability to keep the fibrils short, the full espresso extract had the biggest impact on tau. Because many of the compounds in coffee can cross the blood-brain barrier, the researchers believe that simply drinking espresso might convey some of the same benefits seen in the study.
"Based on the bioavailability of coffee components in the brain, and on the results of our study, we expect that moderate coffee consumption may provide a sufficient number of bioactive molecules to act separately or synergistically as modulators of tau protein aggregation and toxicity," write the researchers. Of course, further research will be needed to see if the tests, which were conducted both on isolated compounds and on live cells in lab dishes, will carry over to studies in animals and humans.
Meta-analysis Found Inverse Association Between Coffee Consumption and Hypertension Risk
Date 09-29-2023 HC# 082341-721
Haghighatdoost F, Hajihashemi P, de Sousa Romeiro AM, et al. Coffee consumption and risk of hypertension in adults: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. July 7, 2023;15(13):3060. doi: 10.3390/nu15133060.
Hypertension (increased blood pressure [BP]) is directly related to an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) diseases (CVDs). Between 1990 and 2019, the number of people with hypertension rose from 648 million to > 1.2 billion, becoming a serious threat to public health worldwide. Evidence suggests that high-quality diets can reduce CVD risk by 22%, while eating red or processed meats, high sodium or low potassium intake, obesity, and/or drinking alcohol or sugar-sweetened beverages raises the risk of hypertension.
Coffee (Coffea spp., Rubiaceae), a daily drink for much of the world's population, can stimulate production of adrenaline, which exerts effects on the CV system. This can result in increased BP, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and decreased insulin sensitivity, all of which may be associated with higher risks of CVDs. Earlier reviews found that habitual coffee consumption by healthy individuals did not raise risks of hypertension, especially for those drinking > three cups/d vs. ≤ one cup/d. Yet, some prospective cohort studies reported that consumption of one to three cups/d may raise hypertension risks. The authors performed an updated meta-analysis (MA), summarizing evidence to date and exploring sources of heterogeneity…
Most reports (n = 18) found a null effect of coffee intake on hypertension risk…
Stratified by region, Western Hemisphere studies showed an association of coffee with lower hypertension risk…
In cross-sectional studies, higher coffee intake vs. lower was associated with lower hypertension risk, with no change in sensitivity analysis and no publication bias…
A variety of dietary, lifestyle, and genetic factors as well as coffee type and preparation may affect coffee's impacts on BP. Only one study, in patients with type 2 diabetes, found a link between coffee intake and hypertension, with ~ 50% of patients taking hypertensive drugs. The authors had no conflicts of interest.—Mariann Garner-Wizard
https://sprudge.com/scientists-discover-how-coffee-may-be-inhibiting-covid-19-infection-193595.html
Scientists Discover How Coffee May Be Inhibiting COVID-19 Infection
ZAC CADWALADER NOVEMBER 7, 2022 NEWS
As we approach Year Four of the coronavirus pandemic, the United States is close to clearing an astounding 100 million cases. Even more confounding? There are people who haven’t gotten it. People with petri dishes for children, folks going about their merry way seemingly unscathed. So, what gives? What’s their secret? Well, it may be coffee. New research finds that drinking coffee be acting as a deterrent for the coronavirus.
We’ve reported previously on a study linking coffee consumption and decreased instances of COVID-19, with the researchers suggesting perhaps that it was the antioxidant properties of coffee leading to the lowered case count (because that’s often the answer in these coffee and healthfulness studies). For this new study, published recently in the journal Food & Function, researchers from Jacobs University in Bremen, Germany were able to show, in a lab setting at least, exactly how coffee could inhibit coronavirus infection.
As reported by Phys.org, for the study, researchers examined one particular chemical compound found in coffee, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, known more colloquially as chlorogenic acid. In experiments, they found that chlorogenic acid worked to prevent the spike protein of SARS CoV-2 from binding to the ACE-2 receptor, “the docking site of the virus on the human cell.” And in fact, chlorogenic acid preventing the binding of the spike protein by a factor of 50. Unable to attach to the human cell, the virus is infect and spread.
Yet there is still more work to be done before any conclusive statements can be made. Researchers don’t know, for instance, how long coffee may act as an inhibitor. And while more research on the subject needs to be done, the authors of this study state the drinking coffee deterring COVID infection is plausible. Plausible is good enough to keep me drinking coffee every morning… and afternoon.
Zac Cadwalader is the managing editor at Sprudge Media Network and a staff writer based in Dallas.
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-03-natural-molecule-coffee-human-body.html
Study finds natural molecule in coffee and human body increases NAD+ levels, improves muscle function during aging by National University of Singapore
Serum trigonelline is reduced in human sarcopenia and is associated with mitochondrial and NAD+ metabolism in skeletal muscle.
A research consortium led by Nestlé Research in Switzerland and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) made a recent discovery that the natural molecule trigonelline present in coffee, fenugreek, and also in the human body, can help to improve muscle health and function.
Sarcopenia is a condition where cellular changes that happen during aging gradually weaken the muscles in the body and lead to accelerated loss of muscle mass and strength and reduced physical independence.
One important problem during sarcopenia is that the cellular cofactor NAD+ declines during aging, while mitochondria, the energy powerhouses in our cells, produce less energy. The study team discovered that levels of trigonelline were lower in older people with sarcopenia.
Providing this molecule in pre-clinical models resulted in increased levels of NAD+, increased mitochondrial activity, and contributed to the maintenance of muscle function during aging.
NAD+ levels can be enhanced with different dietary precursors like the essential amino acid L-tryptophan (L-Trp), and vitamin B3 forms such as nicotinic acid (NA), nicotinamide (NAM), nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN).
Assistant Professor Vincenzo Sorrentino from the Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program at NUS Medicine added, "Our findings expand the current understanding of NAD+ metabolism with the discovery of trigonelline as a novel NAD+ precursor and increase the potential of establishing interventions with NAD+-producing vitamins for both healthy longevity and age-associated diseases applications."
The study is published in the journal Nature Metabolism
https://www.americastestkitchen.com/articles/7948-light-vs-dark-roast-coffee-whats-the-difference?
What’s the Difference Between Dark and Light Roast Coffee?
From floral and funky to full-bodied and caramelly, there are plenty of nuances to discover with the right roast. By Valerie Sizhe Li Published Jan. 13, 2024.
Coffee drinkers are surrounded by options when shopping for coffee. Coffee labels that indicate various roast levels, from light (sometimes marketed as “blonde”) to dark (also marketed as “French”), crowd the shelves, and it can be overwhelming.
So what exactly are they? Here’s how to choose the roast level based on your personal drinking preference.
How Coffee Is Roasted
After harvesting, coffee beans are actually a slightly ashy green as opposed to the dark brown, shiny beans you buy from the store. This stage is called “green coffee.”
The coffee beans go through a quick processing stage, and then coffee companies purchase the green-colored beans in bulk to roast them in an oven-like device that evenly and gently applies heat to each individual bean.
As high heat cooks off the moisture content in the green beans, the exteriors of the beans start to harden to a point that they’ll pop, a phenomenon described as “first crack.” After the first crack, coffee beans continue to get roasted until the desired doneness.
What Is “Light Roast” Coffee?
As the name suggests, light roast coffee doesn’t spend much time in the roaster after the first crack, which means the beans still contain a significant amount of moisture on the inside. The goal of short roasting is to maintain the nuanced, fruity flavors of the coffee itself, rather than having smoky, roasty notes interfering and overpowering those flavors.
Depending on the varietal and climate of growth, light roast coffee typically leans into the fruity and juicy category with common notes of citrus, cherries, and wild berries.
You’ll most likely find light roast coffee from single-origin coffee purveyors; because those coffees are more costly to produce, they may command a higher price than commodity coffee that doesn’t label its regions of origin.
Recommended Brew Method: Because light roast coffee is slightly more delicate, it’s best to brew it quickly and thoroughly in order to extract the most flavors. The pour-over method is the most popular among coffee connoisseurs, followed by AeroPress and French press.
What Is “Medium Roast” Coffee?
Medium roast coffee spends a little more time in the roaster and is roasted at a higher temperature than light roast, becoming a bit more shiny thanks to the rich oils the beans contain. It still retains some of the fruity and bright flavors of a light roast coffee, but with more nuanced richness and complexity. You’ll typically detect notes of stone fruit, brown sugar, and chocolate in a medium roast coffee.
You’ll find medium roast coffee at both supermarkets and specialty coffee shops, as it’s the more popular roast, thanks to its flavor drawing the best of both light and dark roasts.
Recommended Brew Method: Medium roast coffee is the most versatile of all varieties of roasts. It’s great for most applications, such as espresso, French press, and drip coffee.
What Is “Dark Roast” Coffee?
Dark roast coffee spends the most time in the roaster, at a higher temperature than both medium and light roast coffee. It has an oily appearance and has the lowest water content because of its long roasting time. If you often grind dark roast coffee beans in your burr grinder, be sure to deep-clean it regularly because the oils can clog up your precious investment.
Some smoky and roasty flavors come through in a dark roast coffee, such as cocoa nibs, dark chocolate, and warm spices.
Recommended Brew Method: Dark roast coffee can be oily, which makes it a perfect candidate for an espresso shot with foamy, creamy crema because the oils can help build a denser crema on top. It’s also for any coffee applications that require cutting with a dairy component, such as lattes and cappuccinos.
vitamin D
HIGH-DOSE VITAMIN D MAY CUT RISK FOR NEW ATRIAL FIBRILLATION
The use of Vitamin D for cancer patients has been an ongoing study.
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/vitamin-d-fact-sheet
Studies of populations of people, also known as epidemiologic studies, along with laboratory experiments, have raised the possibility that vitamin D influences cancer risk and development
It has been used for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, along with regulating inflammation and improving immune function. Since COVID, more Vitamin D studies have been expanded.
Pauline Anderson July 05, 2023
High-dose vitamin D supplementation may prevent atrial fibrillation (AF) in healthy elderly men and women, a post hoc analysis from a randomized trial conducted in Finland suggests.
METHODOLOGY:
- Observational studies have suggested that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased risk for AF, but few randomized trials have looked at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on AF incidence in healthy people.
- The study, a post hoc analysis from a trial that explored the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on incidence of cardiovascular diseases and cancer, included 2495 vitamin D-sufficient healthy older adults, mean age 68.2 years, of whom 43% were women.
- Participants had been randomized to one of three groups in which they received vitamin D3 at either 1600 IU/day or 3200 IU/day, or placebo.
- Serum 25(OH)D3 concentrations were measured and data on incident AF were gathered from national health records.
TAKEAWAY:
- Atrial fibrillation was diagnosed in 190 participants.
- Over a follow-up averaging 4.1 years, risk for incident AF was reduced by 27% for participants who received the 1600-IU/day dose compared with placebo; hazard ratio (HR), 0.73 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52 - 1.02; P = .07), and by 32% for those in the 3200-IU/day arm; HR, 0.68 (95% CI, 0.48 - 0.96; P = .03).
- The incident-AF risk was reduced by 30% in a comparison of the two vitamin D groups combined versus the placebo group; HR, 0.70 (95% CI, 0.53 - 0.94; P = .02).
- After exclusion of 122 participants who reported being on antiarrhythmic medications at baseline, the 1600-IU/day group showed a significant 27% reduction in risk for AF (95% CI, 4% - 58%; P = .03) and the 3200-IU/day group a nonsignificant 30% (95% CI, 5% - 53%; P = .08) reduction in risk.
IN PRACTICE: High-dose vitamin D3 supplementation may reduce incidence of AF in a generally healthy, largely vitamin D-sufficient elderly population, the authors propose. Additional controlled trials are needed, especially in diverse populations, they note.
STUDY DETAILS: The study was conducted by Jyrki K. Virtanen, PhD, University of Eastern Finland, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, Kuopio, and colleagues. It was published in the American Heart Journal.
LIMITATIONS: Atrial fibrillation was not prespecified as a primary outcome, and the results differ from those of other randomized controlled trials. Information on type of AF (whether paroxysmal or nonparoxysmal, for example) wasn't available nor were participants' history of AF. All participants were White and from Finland, limiting generalizability of the results.
DISCLOSURES: The study was supported by the Academy of Finland, University of Eastern Finland, the Juho Vainio Foundation, Medicinska Understödsföreningen Liv och Hälsa, Finnish Foundation for Cardiovascular Research, Finnish Diabetes Research Foundation, and the Finnish Cultural Foundation. Coauthor JoAnn E. Manson MD, MPH, DrPH, disclosed receiving grants from the National Institutes of Health and Mars Edge. Coauthor Matti Uusitupa, MD, PhD, disclosed receipt of a grant from Orion Corp. The other authors disclosed no relevant financial relationships.
DAIRY
HEART-PROTECTIVE DIET IN PURE STUDY ALLOWS WHOLE-FAT DAIRY
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/994218
Marilynn Larkin July 11, 2023
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Diets containing higher amounts of certain food categories appear to be protective against cardiovascular (CV) disease and premature death, suggests a new study with a broad international scope. Most of the protective food categories are in line with standard dietary guidelines for good health, but one that may be heart-protective is not usually included in such recommendations.
The food categories that were found to be protective include fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and fish but also dairy, "mainly whole-fat," in an analysis based on the international Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study and data from five other international trials that encompassed more than 240,000 people.
A healthy diet scoring system was derived from dietary patterns and clinical events observed in the PURE study and was applied to the populations of the other trials. Higher scores, corresponding to greater consumption of the six food categories, tracked with significantly reduced risks for death, myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke.
Reductions in mortality and CV-disease risk that were linked to the higher scores were especially pronounced in lower-income countries in the study published online July 6 in the European Heart Journal with lead author Andrew Mente, PhD, Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
The study in part refutes the frequent preference for low-fat or no-fat dairy foods over whole-fat dairy in healthy-diet recommendations. But it is consistent with earlier findings from PURE of reduced mortality risk with increased consumption of dietary fat, including saturated fat.
Whereas healthy-diet recommendations tend to emphasize reduced intake of fat, especially saturated fat, the report notes that "there are almost no national or international strategies and policies to increase a number of protective foods," such as nuts, fish, and dairy.
"Therefore, while the findings from PURE are largely consistent with the nutrition science and modern dietary recommendations to focus on protective foods, the public's understanding of healthy eating and relevant global policies have not yet caught up to this science," it states.
"Guidelines and policy actions need to be updated with this newer evidence," Mente told theheart.org/Medscape Cardiology. "For example, the World Health Organization remains mainly focused on reducing certain nutrients, such as fat, saturated fat, added sugar, and salt," he said. "These recommendations are echoed by government policy actions and industry, as evident by the continued focus on the usual nutrients in food labels of many countries."
The current findings, Mente said, "can be used to ensure that the public's understanding of healthy eating and relevant global policies are able to catch up to the science."
Healthy Diet Score
PURE investigators developed their healthy diet score using data from 147,642 people from the general population in 21 countries. The investigators compared self-reported dietary intakes with long-term clinical outcomes.
The scoring system assigned a value of 1 for each of the six health-food categories when individuals' intake exceeded the entire cohort's median intake. It assigned a 0 when intake was below the median. The total PURE healthy diet score consisted of the sum of the six values, with higher scores corresponding to a healthier diet. The mean score for cohort was 2.95.
There were 15,707 deaths and 40,764 CV events during a median follow-up of 9.3 years. A score of at least 5 points, compared with 0 or 1 point, was associated with significantly reduced hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality, MI, and stroke in multivariable analysis:
· Mortality: HR, 0.70 (95% CI, 0.63 – 0.77; P < .0001)
· Major CV disease: HR, 0.82 (95% CI, 0.75 – 0.91; P < .0001)
· MI: HR, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.75 – 0.99; P = .0014)
· Stroke: HR, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.71 – 0.93; P = .0034)
The healthy diet score's relationship to clinical outcomes was explored in five other large independent studies, including three prospective trials of patients with CV disease that spanned 50 countries, a case-control study with MI patients in 52 countries, and a case-control study with stroke patients in 33 countries.
In the three prospective trials, higher scores were associated with reduced mortality, CV disease events, and MI:
· Mortality: HR, 0.73 (95% CI, 0.66 – 0.81)
· Major CV disease: HR, 0.79 (95% CI, 0.72 – 0.87)
· MI: HR, 0.85 (95% CI, 0.71 – 0.99)
In the two case-control studies, a higher diet score was associated with reduced odds ratios (ORs) for first MI and for stroke:
· MI: OR, 0.72 (95% CI, 0.65 – 0.80)
· Stroke: OR, 0.57 (95% CI, 0.50 – 0.65)
In an analysis based on the PURE cohort, incorporation of unprocessed red meat or whole grains into the health diet score produced similar results, suggesting that a "modest amount" of meat or whole grains can be part of a healthy diet, the authors contend.
The results were similar in a combined analysis of all the prospective studies. In particular, improvement in diet score by one quintile was associated with significantly reduced risks for the following:
· Mortality: HR, 0.92 (95% CI, 0.90 – 0.93)
· Major CV disease: HR, 0.94 (95% CI, 0.93 – 0.95)
· MI: HR, 0.94 (95% CI, 0.92 – 0.96)
· Stroke: HR, 0.94 (95% CI, 0.89 – 0.99)
· Death or CV disease: HR, 0.93 (95% CI, 0.92 – 0.94)
"This strongly indicates that the take-home message for patients is the same as for general populations," Mente said. "Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and a moderate amount of fish and whole-fat dairy to lower risk of CV disease and mortality."
Dairy foods are not widely consumed in some cultures, he said, "but availability and cost are also factors in determining consumption." Nonetheless, a high-quality diet can be achieved without including or excluding dairy foods. Context-specific policies and priorities are needed for different populations, "rather than a one-size-fits-all global policy."
Food labels in many countries mainly focus on "reducing certain nutrients as the end-all, be-all," Mente observed. "Our findings can be used as a basis for recommendations regarding what a healthy diet should be globally and then modified for each region based on the specific types of foods that are available and affordable in each region."
Moreover, he said, "targeted food policies are needed to increase the availability and affordability of healthy foods, especially in lower-income countries where intakes are low."
Common Human Biology
The current results from PURE "confirm prior observations from mostly Western nations that low intakes of fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and fish are major risk factors for poor health," observes Dariush Mozaffarian, MD, DrPH, MPH, Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, in an accompanying editorial. "This suggests that common human biology, not merely confounding, explains these observed diet–disease relationships, strengthening causal inference on the power of nutrition."
Moreover, "These findings provide further support that dairy foods, including whole-fat dairy, can be part of a healthy diet," Mozaffarian writes. "The new results in PURE, in combination with prior reports, call for a re-evaluation of unrelenting guidelines to avoid whole-fat dairy products."
Such studies "remind us of the continuing and devastating rise in diet-related chronic diseases globally, and of the power of protective foods to help address these burdens," the editorial continues. "It is time for national nutrition guidelines, private sector innovations, government tax policy and agricultural incentives, food procurement policies, labelling and other regulatory priorities, and food-based healthcare interventions to catch up to the science."
Not Automatically Superior
"I do not believe guidelines should be changed based on this single study," contends Howard D. Sesso, ScD, MPH, associate director of the Division of Preventive Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, who isn't part of PURE. "But I welcome the scientific dialog that should come out of any study that challenges what we think we know," he told theheart.org / Medscape Cardiology.
"Many other dietary patterns have been identified over the years that also do a great job in predicting disease risk in observational studies," observed Sesso. "Is PURE that much better? Maybe, maybe not. But not enough to dismiss other dietary patterns that are already the basis of dietary recommendations in the US, Europe, and worldwide."
The PURE healthy diet score, he said, "appears to work well within the confines of their large pooling of studies around the world, but that doesn't automatically make it superior to other dietary patterns." The score "was only modestly, but not greatly, better than existing dietary patterns evaluated."
Randomized controlled trials are needed, Sesso said, to "delve into more specific dietary components," including unprocessed red meat, whole grains, and high-fat dairy foods. And, he said, more observational studies are needed to examine the score's association with other cardiometabolic outcomes.
The PURE study is funded by the Population Health Research Institute, the Hamilton Health Sciences Research Institute, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario; with support from Canadian Institutes of Health Research's Strategy for Patient Oriented Research through the Ontario SPOR Support Unit, as well as the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care; and through unrestricted grants from several pharmaceutical companies, with major contributions from AstraZeneca, Sanofi-Aventis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Servier, and GlaxoSmithKline. Additional contributions are from Novartis and King Pharma. Mente, Mozaffarian, and Sesso have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.
Eur Heart J. Published online July 6, 2023.
blueberries
WILD BLUEBERRIES FOR COGNITIVE HEALTH
Cheatham, C. L., Canipe III, L. G., Millsap, G., Stegall, J. M., Chai, S. C., Sheppard, K. W., & Lila, M. A. (2022). Six-month intervention with wild blueberries improved speed of processing in mild cognitive decline: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Nutritional Neuroscience
Abstract
Background: As the sector of the population over 65y increases, cognitive decline and dementia become a public health issue. Interventions to improve brain health and thus, quality of life for older adults are needed. Objective: It was hypothesized that those consuming a flavonoid-rich, lyophilized wild blueberry powder would evidence improvements in cognitive performance as measured behaviorally and electrophysiologically compared to those consuming a placebo powder across a 6-month intervention period. Design: In a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial, participants experiencing cognitive issues as determined by scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) were randomized to consume either wild blueberry (n = 44) or placebo (n = 42) powder daily for 6 months. Participants who were not experiencing any cognitive issues were included as a reference group (n = 45). Participants were tested at baseline and outcome on the Cambridge Neurological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) and in an electrophysiological paradigm known as event-related potentials (ERP). Results: Tests of specific cognitive abilities using the CANTAB showed speed of processing not only improved in the blueberry intervention group relative to the placebo group across the 6-month intervention, but blueberries also restored speed of processing to the level of the reference group. The ERP results also showed that, relative to those consuming placebo, speed of processing improved for those in the blueberry group; this improvement was most prominent in those 75-80y. Conclusions: Consumption of wild blueberries for six months improves cognitive aging sequelae by improving the speed of information processing in older adults. Trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01515098.
Whyte, A. R., Rahman, S., Bell, L., Edirisinghe, I., Krikorian, R., Williams, C. M., & Burton-Freeman, B. (2021). Improved metabolic function and cognitive performance in middle-aged adults following a single dose of wild blueberry. European Journal of Nutrition, 60, 1521-1536.
Abstract
Purpose Research has demonstrated cognitive benefits following acute polyphenol-rich berry consumption in children and young adults. Berry intake also has been associated with metabolic benefits. No study has yet examined cognitive performance in middle-aged adults. We investigated the relationships among cognitive and metabolic outcomes in middle-aged adults following wild blueberry (WBB) consumption.
Subject characteristics Forty individuals were enrolled of which 35 completed the pre-study visit and both study days. The 35 completers had a mean (±SD) age of 50.9±7.8 and BMI of 26.7±4.1 kg/m2. Table 3 contains a summary of participant characteristics.
Conclusion
Here we have presented the effects of a polyphenol-rich, wild blueberry intervention on acute cognitive function and metabolic outcomes in middle-aged adults. The findings provide further support for the efficacy of wild blueberry on improving cognitive outcomes within this age group, particularly where there is increased cognitive demand. Wild blueberry was also found to reduce glucose and insulin concentrations in response to a meal over the initial 120 min having implications for post-meal metabolic control. Although there was little evidence of a direct relationship on cognition, these data have importance for structuring meal plans to reduce the metabolic burden in individuals with glucose homeostasis concerns.
Make relaxation & SLEEP part of your wellness routine
5 Things To Know About Relaxation Techniques for Stress
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips
When you’re under stress, your body reacts by releasing hormones that produce the “fight-or-flight” response. Your heart rate and breathing rate go up and blood vessels narrow (restricting the flow of blood). Occasional stress is a normal coping mechanism. But over the long-term, stress may contribute to or worsen a range of health problems including digestive disorders, headaches, sleep disorders, and other symptoms.
In contrast to the stress response, the relaxation response slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and decreases oxygen consumption and levels of stress hormones. In theory, voluntarily creating the relaxation response through regular use of relaxation techniques could counteract the negative effects of stress.
1. Relaxation techniques are generally safe, but there is limited evidence of usefulness for specific health conditions. Research is under way to find out more about relaxation and health outcomes.
2. Relaxation techniques include a number of practices such as progressive relaxation, guided imagery, biofeedback, self-hypnosis, and deep breathing exercises. The goal is similar in all: to consciously produce the body's natural relaxation response, characterized by slower breathing, lower blood pressure, and a feeling of calm and well-being.
3. Relaxation techniques often combine breathing and focused attention to calm the mind and the body. These techniques may be most effective when practiced regularly and combined with good nutrition, regular exercise, and a strong social support system.
4. Most relaxation techniques can be self-taught and self-administered. Most methods require only brief instruction from a book or experienced practitioner before they can be done without assistance.
5. Do not use relaxation techniques as a replacement for conventional care or to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Talk to your health care providers if you are considering using a relaxation technique for a particular health condition. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa) Seed Oil Extract (BCO-5) May Improve Non-Restorative Sleep (2023 Study)
Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health, deeply intertwined with our overall well-being.
Recent research examined a unique black cumin extract, BCO-5, and found that it may be beneficial in individuals with non-restorative sleep disorders.
Highlights:
· BCO-5, a Unique Black Cumin Extract: BCO-5 is a proprietary extract of Nigella sativa (black cumin) showing promising results in improving sleep quality.
· Evidence-Based Research: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated BCO-5’s effectiveness in enhancing sleep parameters.
· Safe and Well-Tolerated: The study confirmed that BCO-5 is safe, with participants reporting no significant side effects.
· Potential Natural Sleep Aid: BCO-5’s positive impact on sleep quality suggests its potential as a natural alternative to conventional sleep medications.
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition (2023)
Non-Restorative Sleep & Related Disorders
Non-restorative sleep (NRS) refers to the subjective experience of feeling unrefreshed or unrestored upon waking, despite having an adequate quantity of sleep.
This condition often leaves individuals feeling fatigued and can significantly impair daily functioning.
NRS can exist as a standalone issue or as part of other sleep disorders.
Examples of such disorders include:
· Insomnia: Characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep and often associated with NRS.
· Sleep Apnea: A condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to fragmented and non-restorative sleep.
· Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): Causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them, disrupting sleep.
· Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): Although not exclusively a sleep disorder, CFS is often accompanied by NRS.
Current Treatments for Non-Restorative Sleep Disorders
Treatment of NRS and associated sleep disorders typically includes a combination of lifestyle changes, behavioral therapies, and medications:
· Lifestyle Modifications: Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a conducive sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine can be beneficial.
· Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I): This is a structured program that helps individuals identify and replace thoughts and behaviors that cause or worsen sleep problems with habits that promote sound sleep.
· Medications: These may include sleep aids, antidepressants, or drugs specifically targeting the symptoms of conditions like RLS or sleep apnea.
· Relaxation Techniques: Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Black Cumin Seed Oil Extract for Sleep Enhancement (Mechanisms)
Therapeutic Use
· Black Cumin Seed Oil Extract: Extracted from Nigella sativa seeds, black cumin seed oil is revered in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. It has gained attention for its potential role in improving sleep quality, owing to its unique composition.
· BCO-5: This specialized formulation of black cumin seed oil is distinguished by its standardized concentration of thymoquinone, a bioactive compound that amplifies the oil’s beneficial effects on sleep.
Safety Profile
· Black cumin seed oil and formulations like BCO-5 are generally safe for consumption in recommended dosages. However, users should exercise caution and consult healthcare professionals, particularly if they have pre-existing medical conditions or are on other medications.
Mechanisms of Action
· Anti-Inflammatory Impact: Chronic inflammation is known to disrupt sleep patterns. The anti-inflammatory properties of black cumin seed oil can help alleviate such disturbances, facilitating better sleep quality.
· Antioxidant Benefits: The oil combats oxidative stress, a factor that can negatively impact sleep. Its antioxidant effects are believed to contribute significantly to enhancing sleep quality.
· Neurotransmitter Regulation: Black cumin seed oil may exert a positive influence on the sleep-regulating neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are crucial in maintaining the sleep-wake cycle and achieving restful sleep.
· Influence on HPA Axis: BCO-5, in particular, is thought to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This modulation could normalize stress responses, which in turn, may lead to improved sleep quality.
Findings from Study of BCO-5: Black Cumin Extract on Sleep (2023)
A study on BCO-5, a proprietary black cumin extract, yielded significant findings in the realm of sleep enhancement.
1. Improvement in Sleep Efficiency: Participants taking BCO-5 experienced a 7.8% increase in sleep efficiency compared to the placebo group. Sleep efficiency is a critical measure that indicates the percentage of time spent asleep while in bed. A higher sleep efficiency is typically associated with more restorative and uninterrupted sleep.
2. Increase in Total Sleep Time: The total sleep time for individuals on BCO-5 increased by 19.1%. This is a substantial improvement, suggesting that BCO-5 not only helps individuals fall asleep faster but also aids them in maintaining sleep for longer durations, contributing to better overall sleep quality.
3. Reduction in Sleep Onset Latency: Sleep onset latency, the time it takes to transition from full wakefulness to sleep, was reduced by 35.4% in the BCO-5 group. This reduction is indicative of BCO-5’s potential to combat difficulties in falling asleep, a common symptom in those with non-restorative sleep disorders.
4. Decrease in Wake-After-Sleep-Onset (WASO): WASO, which measures the total time spent awake after initially falling asleep, saw a 22.5% reduction. This improvement points to BCO-5’s role in reducing middle-of-the-night awakenings, a key factor in non-restorative sleep.
5. RSQ-W Scores: The Restorative Sleep Questionnaire-Weekly version (RSQ-W) scores improved by 75.3% from baseline in the BCO-5 group, signifying a substantial enhancement in the participants’ perception of sleep restoration and quality.
6. Safety & Tolerability: Crucially, the trial underscored the safety of BCO-5, with no significant side effects or toxicities reported, indicating its suitability as a sleep aid for the general population.
BCO-5 (Black Cumin Extract) on Non-Restorative Sleep Disorders (2023 Study)
Mohan et al. evaluated the efficacy of BCO-5, a proprietary black cumin extract, in improving sleep quality among individuals suffering from non-restorative sleep disorder.
Methods
· Design: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
· Participants: The study included 70 healthy male and female participants aged 18-65 years, with a BMI of 22-28 Kg/m², characterized by self-reported non-restorative sleep disorder.
· Intervention: Participants were randomly assigned to either the BCO-5 group or a placebo group, with 35 individuals in each group. The intervention involved a daily supplement of 200 mg of BCO-5 or placebo for seven days.
· Assessment Tools: Two primary methods were employed for monitoring the impact of BCO-5 on sleep – actigraphy (a non-invasive method of monitoring rest and activity cycles) and the Restorative Sleep Questionnaire-Weekly version (RSQ-W).
· Data Analysis: The study used intra-group and inter-group analyses of the actigraphy data and the RSQ-W scores to assess the effectiveness of BCO-5.
Results
· Improvement in Sleep Parameters: Compared to the placebo, BCO-5 significantly improved sleep quality. Key improvements included sleep efficiency (7.8% increase), total sleep time (19.1% increase), sleep onset latency (35.4% reduction), and wake-after-sleep-onset (22.5% reduction).
· RSQ-W Scores: There was a 75.3% improvement in sleep as per the RSQ-W scores compared to the baseline for the BCO-5 group, and a 68.9% improvement compared to the placebo.
· Safety & Tolerability: BCO-5 was well-tolerated with no reports of side effects or toxicity.
Limitations
· Short Duration: The study spanned only seven days, which may not be sufficient to assess long-term effects and sustainability of the sleep benefits.
· Lack of Long-term Follow-up: Without a follow-up period, it’s unclear if the effects of BCO-5 are sustained after discontinuation.
· Specific Population: The study was limited to healthy individuals within a specific age and BMI range, which may not represent the broader population with varied health conditions.
· No Measurement of Hormonal Levels: The study did not include the measurement of cortisol and melatonin levels, which are crucial in understanding the physiological impact of BCO-5 on sleep patterns.
· Absence of Washout Period: The study design did not include a washout period, which could have provided clearer insights into the effects of BCO-5 independent of any residual benefits from prior treatments or lifestyle factors.
BCO-5 (Black Cumin Extract) for Sleep (How to Use)
Given its promising results in enhancing sleep quality, BCO-5 could be considered for various applications.
1. As a Natural Sleep Aid: BCO-5 presents itself as a potential natural alternative for individuals struggling with non-restorative sleep, particularly those seeking to avoid the side effects associated with conventional sleep medications.
2. Dosage & Administration: The study administered 200 mg of BCO-5 daily for seven days. While this dosage showed efficacy, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized dosage and duration, especially for long-term use.
3. Safety Considerations: Although BCO-5 was well-tolerated in the study, individual reactions can vary. Monitoring for any adverse reactions when starting the supplement is advised.
4. Integrating with Sleep Hygiene Practices: For optimal results, BCO-5 should be used in conjunction with good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and minimizing exposure to screens before bedtime.
Skepticism & Considerations with BCO-5 for Sleep
While the study on BCO-5, the black cumin seed oil extract, showed promising results in improving sleep quality, it is important to consider its limitations and broader implications.
Individual Physiology
The effect of BCO-5 on sleep may not be uniform across all individuals.
Variations in physiology, genetic makeup, and existing health conditions can influence how one responds to the supplement.
In some cases, BCO-5 might not be effective or could potentially disrupt sleep patterns due to individual sensitivities or interactions with other medications or supplements being taken.
Short-Term Study Duration
The trial’s duration was relatively short, spanning only seven days.
This timeframe limits the ability to assess the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of BCO-5’s benefits.
It remains unclear whether the improvements in sleep quality observed during the study would persist over a more extended period or if they were merely transient effects.
Lack of Long-Term Follow-Up
Without a follow-up period after the conclusion of the supplement regimen, the study does not provide insights into potential rebound effects or the duration of the benefits post-treatment.
Long-term studies are necessary to understand if continuous use of BCO-5 is required to maintain its sleep-enhancing effects or if there are any risks associated with prolonged use.
Effect on Different Stages of Sleep
The study did not differentiate between the effects of BCO-5 on various sleep stages, such as REM and non-REM sleep.
These stages play different roles in sleep quality and overall health.
Understanding how BCO-5 influences these distinct stages could provide a more comprehensive view of its impact on sleep architecture.
Potential for Placebo Effect
As with any study involving self-reported outcomes, there is a possibility that some of the observed benefits might be attributed to the placebo effect.
Further research with larger sample sizes and perhaps comparison against other known sleep aids could help clarify the extent of the placebo effect in this context.
Generalizability of Results
The study’s participant pool was relatively small and may not represent the broader population, especially those with specific sleep disorders or chronic health conditions.
Future studies should aim to include a more diverse group of participants to enhance the generalizability of the findings.
Takeaways: BCO-5 (Black Cumin Seed Oil) & Sleep Quality
The study on BCO-5 suggests that this supplement could significantly improve sleep for some individuals – at least over the short-term.
Its significant improvement in key sleep parameters like sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and reduction in sleep onset latency marks it as a promising candidate in the management of non-restorative sleep disorders.
The notable rise in RSQ-W scores further underscores its perceived effectiveness from a user standpoint.
Importantly, its safety profile positions BCO-5 as a viable and potentially superior alternative to conventional sleep medications, particularly for those wary of side effects.
However, as with any supplement, it is crucial to approach its use under medical guidance, especially considering individual health circumstances and the need for personalized dosage.
This study not only highlights the therapeutic potential of BCO-5 but also paves the way for further research in natural sleep aids, potentially revolutionizing the approach to managing sleep-related issues.
Olive oil for dementia, colon cancer, ulcerative colitis
Olive oil may lower risk of dying from dementia
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/27/health/olive-oil-benefits-dementia-death-risk-wellness
Olive oil may lower risk of dying from dementia, research finds By Kristen Rogers, CNN Updated 11:19 AM EDT, Thu July 27, 2023
Including olive oil in your regular diet offers several benefits — such as protecting heart health or cognitive function.
The Mediterranean staple might also reduce your risk of dying from dementia by 28% if you eat just a spoonful every day.
This new finding is according to research presented Monday in Boston at Nutrition 2023, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition.
Whether olive oil is linked with risk of dementia-related death had never been studied until now, according to the authors.
“Our study reinforces dietary guidelines recommending vegetable oils such as olive oil and suggests that these recommendations not only support heart health but potentially brain health, as well,” said Anne-Julie Tessier, a coauthor of the research and postdoctoral fellow at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in a news release. “Opting for olive oil, a natural product, instead of fats such as margarine and commercial mayonnaise is a safe choice and may reduce the risk of fatal dementia.”
Research participants included nearly 60,600 women who had participated in the Nurses’ Health Study from 1990 to 2018, and nearly 32,000 men who had been in the Health Professionals’ Follow-Up Study during the same time period. The former study investigated risk factors for major chronic diseases among women in North America, whereas the latter is looking into the same topics but for men.
The authors of the latest research assessed the diet of the participants — who were age 56 on average at the start of the study — every four years via a questionnaire. The team also reviewed diet quality using the Alternative Healthy Eating Index, which assigns ratings to foods and nutrients predictive of chronic disease. The higher people score on this index, the better.
Over a follow-up period of 28 years, regardless of diet quality, eating more than half a tablespoon of olive oil per day was associated with a 28% lower risk of dying from dementia, compared with participants who never or rarely consumed olive oil.
Additionally, replacing a daily teaspoon of mayonnaise or margarine with the same amount of olive oil was correlated with an 8% to 14% lower risk of dementia-related death, the authors found.
However, this research is early, so some experts uninvolved with it urge caution.
“These findings are simply being reported at a conference and have not undergone peer-review so there has been no examination of the study by independent experts,” said David Curtis, honorary professor at the UCL Genetics Institute at University College London, in a statement. “We do not know whether the results will end up being published in a journal. If the study does eventually result in a published paper, we do not know whether the published results will be the same as those now being presented.”
The 4,749 participants who died from dementia were more likely to have APOE e4 — the strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease — according to analysis of DNA from participants’ blood or mouth cells. But having the gene doesn’t mean a person will certainly develop the disease, and the authors’ findings were still consistent after taking this factor into account, they said.
Regardless, “it is important to note that this is not causal, as the authors point out, only an association,” said registered dietitian Duane Mellor, a senior teaching fellow at Aston Medical School of Aston University in England. “More research is needed.”
People with dementia have 11 times the risk of dying soon after starting any opioids, study finds.
Olive oil and dementia risk
The potential benefits of olive oil for brain health could be due to antioxidant compounds that can cross the blood-brain barrier, directly affecting the brain, Tessier said. “It is also possible that olive oil has an indirect effect on brain health by benefiting cardiovascular health,” she added.
Though participants’ overall diet quality didn’t make a difference in the findings, those who consume olive oil may have overall healthier lifestyles.
“There are many, many differences between people who consume olive oil and those who do not, and it is never possible to fully account for all possible confounding factors,” Curtis said.
Another important point to keep in mind is that about half of dementia cases are caused by vascular disease, Curtis added.
“Anything which improved cardiovascular health, such as not smoking, would be expected to reduce dementia risk,” he said. “It has been shown that olive oil consumption is associated with better cardiovascular health, so one would expect that it would also be associated with lower dementia risk.”
Olive oil is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, which has been found helpful for health of the brain, heart, bones and more. Besides cooking with olive oil, you can also use it to make salad dressings or vinaigrettes, mayonnaise, pesto or bread dip. And people should also remember that when it comes to food and brain function, it’s not just about what we eat, but how we eat, Mellor said.
“Remaining sociable around mealtimes and eating with others can benefit our mental health in the short term and cognitive function as we age,” he added.
Hydroxytyrosol May Help Prevent Colon Cancer Spread, New Research Suggests
During in vitro experiments, hydroxytyrosol, a prominent olive oil polyphenol, was found to target a protein involved in cancer cell reproduction.
New research sheds light on how hydroxytyrosol, one of the main phenolic compounds of extra virgin olive oil, might help prevent the spread of colon cancer.
In a study published in Pharmacological Research, scientists from the Biomedical Institute of Research in Málaga and the Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism at the Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA) found that hydroxytyrosol increased global DNA methylation.
“DNA methylation is one of the mechanisms that can change the expression of DNA, which can activate or deactivate a specific function,” Andrea del Saz-Lara, a researcher at IMDEA and co-author of the study, told Olive Oil Times. “Just like a switch, it might express an ‘on’ status or an ‘off’ status.”
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0223523410007683
Synthesis of a novel ester of hydroxytyrosol and α-lipoic acid exhibiting an antiproliferative effect on human colon cancer HT-29 cells
Roberta Bernini a, Fernanda Crisante a, Nicolò Merendino b, Romina Molinari b, Maria Chiara Soldatelli a, Francesca Velotti b
Abstract: A novel ester of hydroxytyrosol and α-lipoic acid was synthesized in satisfactory yield by original and simple procedures and evaluated about its antiproliferative activity on the human colorectal adenocarcinoma HT-29 cell line. The compound exhibited a cell growth inhibitory activity significantly more potent than the corresponding parent natural compounds, very likely due to the induction of cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase. These data suggest that the novel ester might exert a more effective antitumor activity than hydroxytyrosol and α-lipoic acid.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043661822005588
Hydroxytyrosol decreases EDNRA expression through epigenetic modification in colorectal cancer cells
Andrea del Saz-Lara, Hatim Boughanem, María-Carmen López de las Hazas, Carmen Crespo, Alicia Saz-Lara, Francesco Visioli, Manuel Macias-Gonzales, Alberto Dávalos
Abstract: The Mediterranean diet (MD) is one of the healthiest ones and is associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases as well as cancer. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is probably the most idiosyncratic component of this diet. EVOO has been attributed with many healthful effects, which may be due to its phenolic components, e.g. including hydroxytyrosol (HT). Recent studies suggest that EVOO and HT have molecular targets in human tissues and modulate epigenetic mechanisms. DNA methylation is one of the most studied epigenetic mechanisms and consists of the addition of a methyl group to the cytosines of the DNA chain. Given the purported health effects of EVOO (poly)phenols, we analyzed the changes induced by HT in DNA methylation, in a colorectal cancer cell line. Caco-2 cells were treated with HT for one week or with the demethylating agent 5'-azacytidine for 48 h. Global DNA methylation was assessed by ELISA. DNA bisulfitation was performed and Infinium Methylation EPIC BeadChips were used to analyze the specific methylation of CpG sites. We show an increase in global DNA methylation in Caco-2 cells after HT treatment, with a total of 32,141 differentially methylated (CpGs DMCpGs). Interestingly, our analyses revealed the endothelin receptor type A gene (EDNRA) as a possible molecular target of HT. In summary, we demonstrate that cellular supplementation with HT results in a specific methylome map and propose a potential gene target for HT.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332221008568
Hydroxytyrosol alleviate intestinal inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis resulted in ulcerative colitis
Hussein A. Abd Elmaksoud a, Muhammed H. Motawea a, Afaf A. Desoky a, Mohamed G. Elharrif b, Asmaa Ibrahimi c
Abstract: Hydroxytyrosol (HYT) is one of the main alcoholic compounds of the olive leaves extract (OLE), which is known for its beneficial effects. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of olive leaves extract standardized with 25% hydroxytyrosol (OLES-25%HYT) in treatment of induced ulcerative colitis. Three groups of albino rats, were divided as following, group 1 (normal control), group 2 (induced ulcerative colitis and untreated) and group 3 (induced ulcerative colitis and treated with OLES-25%HYT). Colonic tissue samples were collected from all studied groups, the antioxidant activity for malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO) were performed. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the apoptotic gene Bax and the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl2 was obtained in colon tissue to evaluate the OLES-25%HYT effect on ulcerative colitis. OLES-25%HYT showed effectiveness on reduction of mortality rate and disease activity index (DAI). Also, reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in colon tissue, OLES-25%HYT showed a significant reduction in colon MDA, MPO and NO levels and a significant elevation in SOD, CAT and GPX levels and cause down regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Also, the apoptotic gene Bax downregulated and the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl2 upregulated as a result of the treatment compared to untreated induced ulcerative colitis group. OLES-25%HYT showed intestinal anti-inflammatory, antioxidants and anti-apoptotic effects in experimental models of ulcerative colitis.
black and pinto bean varieties are high in healthy compounds
Common beans are important food sources with high nutritional content
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/07/230728170630.ht
Unique Mexican black and pinto bean varieties are high in healthy compounds Date:July 28, 2023
Source: :University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
Summary: Common beans are important food sources with high nutritional content. Bean seeds also contain phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote health. A study explored the composition of seed coat extracts from black and pinto bean varieties unique to the Chiapas region of Southern Mexico.
Common beans are important food sources with high nutritional content. Bean seeds also contain phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote health. A study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and CIATEJ in Guadalajara, Mexico, explored the composition of seed coat extracts from black and pinto bean varieties unique to the Chiapas region of Southern Mexico.
"These beans are preserved among Mayan communities and grown by indigenous farmers. They are heirlooms from past generations and are important because of their cultural significance and contribution to biodiversity," explained study co-author Elvira de Mejia, professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN), part of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at U. of I.
The research team selected two varieties from several collected in the Chiapas region because of their high phenolic content, present in the seed coat pigment that gives the beans their dark red or black coloring.
"These phenolic compounds have the capability of keeping oxidation and inflammation under control, which could help decrease the risk of chronic health issues such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes," de Mejia said.
First, the researchers removed the bean seed coat and ground it for processing. Then they analyzed the chemical composition of a crude extract, as well as an enriched extract that was purified to concentrate the phenolic content. They also measured the bean extracts' antioxidant capacity and ability to inhibit free radicals through biochemical assays and in silico molecular docking, a type of computer simulation.
"We found the black beans had high quantities of anthocyanin, in particular delphinidin, petunidin, and malvidin glucosides, which have antioxidative properties. The pinto beans had the highest total content of phenolic compounds and showed great potential for inhibiting enzymes that contribute to inflammation," said David Fonseca Hernández, a doctoral student at CIATEJ, and lead author of the paper. Fonseca conducted the research as a visiting scholar in FSHN at U. of I.
The seed coat extracts can be used as additives in the food industry or in cosmetics, Fonseca explained.
"My research focuses on skin health, because there is a lot of interest in new ingredients with bioactive properties to use in formulations for creams. One of the main issues with aging skin is the oxidative stress that results from environmental factors. When the skin is exposed to air pollution and sunlight, it produces higher quantities of free radicals and inflammation pathways are activated," he stated.
"We tested some markers related to inflammation, such as cyclooxygenase and inducible nitric oxide synthase. We had really good results showing the extracts, especially from pinto beans, could inhibit and reduce the activity of these enzymes."
The researchers also found that the process of enriching the extracts can further concentrate the anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, which is useful both for industry and research purposes.
The study is part of a large project supported by CONAHCYT, Mexico's National Science Foundation, explained study co-author Luis Mojica, research professor at CIATEJ and Fonseca's advisor.
"One of the project's goals was to find cultivars with an interesting profile to be used as a source of phytochemicals for the cosmetic industry. This industry is growing very fast, and there is a demand for natural products to treat skin-related diseases or aging," he said. "In our research, we compared around 60 cultivars of common beans from the south of Mexico, and these two varieties are three or four times higher than others in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins. These beans are very interesting for health; they are also high in other nutrients such as proteins, fiber, and oligosaccharides."
The project can help provide regional support by increasing wellness and developing Mexico's southern region by preserving these unique bean varieties, the researchers stated.
Following up on the study's significant laboratory findings, the next steps will be to test the extracts on cell tissue cultures and eventually in clinical trials.
Fonseca attended the U. of I. through I-MMAS, a program created to increase recruitment of Mexican and Mexican-American students within the University of Illinois System.
"Our collaboration with Dr. Mojica's research group through I-MMAS is meaningful because there is a large number of migrants from Guadalajara in Illinois, but also because of the quality of their work. Dr. Mojica's lab conducts basic research, but they also work with industry to apply the knowledge to solve practical problems. Dr. Mojica completed his doctorate degree in FSHN at U. of I. Both he and David were very productive and successful students during their time here, and we are very happy to continue our work with them," de Mejia concluded.
The paper, "Black and pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) unique Mexican varieties exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential," is published in Food Research International [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.112816]. Authors are David Fonseca Hernández, Luis Mojica, Mark A. Berhow, Korey Brownstein, Eugenia Lugo Cervantes, and Elvira Gonzalez de Mejia.
Funding for this research was provided by the Consejo Nacional de Humanidades Ciencias y Tecnologías CONAHCYT-Mexico, number 901000 and FORDECYT grant number 292474, and by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service.
Eating beans improves gut health, regulates immune and inflammatory processes in colorectal cancer survivors
By Editor | December 1, 2023 |
Adding navy beans to diet diversified gut microbiome which could aid in cancer prevention and treatment
HOUSTON ― Incorporating navy beans into the diet of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors has the potential to positively impact both gut and host health by modulating markers linked to obesity and disease, according to new research from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
The findings published today in eBIOMedicine, part of The Lancet family of journals, revealed BE GONE trial participants who added a cup of navy beans daily to their regular meals saw positive changes in their gut microbiome, which is associated with cancer prevention and improved treatment outcomes. Changes included an increase of alpha diversity, or beneficial bacteria (Faecalibacterium, Eubacterium and Bifidobacterium) and a decrease in pathogenic, or opportunistic, bacteria.
“Observing a shift in microbiome diversity with diet intervention alone is rare, and this study underscores the ability of a readily available prebiotic food to bring about such changes,” said corresponding author Carrie Daniel-MacDougall, Ph.D., associate professor of Carrie Daniel-MacDougall, Ph.D.
Epidemiology. “Over the course of eight weeks, there was an improvement in participants’ gut health, marked by an increase in beneficial bacteria, which wards off the harmful bacteria.”
Obesity, poor diet, or gastrointestinal issues can cause disturbances in a person’s normal microbial balance. For people who have had or have CRC, these changes cause inflammation and can affect survival. Even after cancer treatment or precancerous polyp removal, a poor diet and an unbalanced gut microbiome can have negative effects on prevention efforts for both cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Beans, particularly small white navy beans, are full of gut-supporting fibers, amino acids, and other nutrients, which can help the beneficial bacteria in your colon flourish, supporting immune health and regulating inflammation, Daniel-MacDougall explains. Despite being accessible and cost-effective, the legumes are frequently avoided by Americans due to mild or acute gastrointestinal side effects, which can be mitigated by proper preparation and consistent consumption.
Daniel-MacDougall cautions that individuals should not attempt this diet without speaking to a physician, as it could have negative impacts without proper guidance. Further study is needed in order to determine how dietary changes can be used to lower cancer risk or improve treatment outcomes.
The randomized BE GONE trial followed 48 men and women over age 30 who met the criteria for obesity via body mass index (BMI) or waist size and who had a history of bowel lesions. This included patients with a history of colorectal cancer (75%) and/or high-risk, precancerous polyps of the colon or rectum detected at colonoscopy. For eight weeks, participants either followed their regular diet or included a daily cup of organic, canned pressure-cooked white navy beans.
Patients were able to choose and prepare their own meals, with close follow-up and counseling from the study dietitian. Every four weeks, participants provided stool and fasting blood samples to assess shifts in the gut microbiome as well as host metabolites and markers. Participants were considered adherent if they consumed at least 80% of the beans over the intervention period and followed the prescribed regimen at least five days a week. Limitations of this study include participant aversion to continually consuming navy beans. No serious side effects were reported.
“The beans did not appear to induce gut inflammation or seriously impact bowel habits, which is crucial for CRC survivors and patients,” Daniel-MacDougall said. “However, once participants stopped eating the beans, the positive effects faded quickly, highlighting the need to educate patients on how to maintain healthy habits.”
The study highlights the therapeutic role of naturally prebiotic-rich foods, while further emphasizing the need for consistent and sustainable dietary adjustments for high-risk cancer patients. In the next steps, researchers will focus on a wider variety of prebiotic foods and how changes to the microbiome affect patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The trial was funded by the American Cancer Society, with initial support from an MD Anderson Institutional Research Grant Read this press release in the MD Anderson Newsroom.
HOPS
Many positive health studies of Hops. Consume alcoholic beverages in moderation. Use Hops extracts
NEWS RELEASE 7-NOV-2022 https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/970332
Beer hops compounds could help protect against Alzheimer’s disease
Peer-Reviewed Publication AMERICAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY
Beer is one of the oldest and most popular beverages in the world, with some people loving and others hating the distinct, bitter taste of the hops used to flavor its many varieties. But an especially “hoppy” brew might have unique health benefits. Recent research published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience reports that chemicals extracted from hop flowers can, in lab dishes, inhibit the clumping of amyloid beta proteins, which is associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
AD is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease, often marked by memory loss and personality changes in older adults. Part of the difficulty in treating the disease is the time lag between the start of underlying biochemical processes and the onset of symptoms, with several years separating them. This means that irreversible damage to the nervous system occurs before one even realizes they may have the disease. Accordingly, preventative strategies and therapeutics that can intervene before symptoms appear are of increasing interest.
One of these strategies involves “nutraceuticals,” or foods that have some type of medicinal or nutritional function. The hop flowers used to flavor beers have been explored as one of these potential nutraceuticals, with previous studies suggesting that the plant could interfere with the accumulation of amyloid beta proteins associated with AD. So, Cristina Airoldi, Alessandro Palmioli and colleagues wanted to investigate which chemical compounds in hops had this effect.
To identify these compounds, the researchers created and characterized extracts of four common varieties of hops using a method similar to that used in the brewing process. In tests, they found that the extracts had antioxidant properties and could prevent amyloid beta proteins from clumping in human https://img1.wsimg.com/dc-assets/live-engage/images/chat-baloon-dark.svgnerve cells. The most successful extract was from the Tettnang hop, found in many types of lagers and lighter ales. When that extract was separated into fractions, the one containing a high level of polyphenols showed the most potent antibiotic and aggregation-inhibiting activity. It also promoted processes that allow the body to clear out misfolded, neurotoxic proteins. Finally, the team tested the Tettnang extract in a C. elegans model and found that it protected the worms from AD-related paralysis, though the effect was not very pronounced. The researchers say that although this work may not justify drinking more bitter brews, it shows that hop compounds could serve as the basis for nutraceuticals that combat the development of AD.
The authors acknowledge funding from the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR).
The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a nonprofit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress. ACS’ mission is to advance the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Earth and all its people. The Society is a global leader in promoting excellence in science education and providing access to chemistry-related information and research through its multiple research solutions, peer-reviewed journals, scientific conferences, eBooks and weekly news periodical Chemical & Engineering News. ACS journals are among the most cited, most trusted and most read within the scientific literature; however, ACS itself does not conduct chemical research. As a leader in scientific information solutions, its CAS division partners with global innovators to accelerate breakthroughs by curating, connecting and analyzing the world’s scientific knowledge. ACS’ main offices are in Washington, D.C., and Columbus, Ohio.
HerbClip™ Mariann Garner-Wizard Shari Henson Dani Hoots Samaara Robbins Gavin Van De Walle, MS, RD, LN Executive Editor – Mark Blumenthal Managing Editor – Lori Glenn Consulting Editors –Thomas Brendler, Meghan Henshaw, Kristen McPhee, MSciTH, Beth Quintana, ND, Carrie Waterman, PhD
File: ■ Hops (Humulus lupulus, Cannabaceae) ■ Bone Health ■ Postmenopausal Women HC 072331-718 Date: August 15, 2023 RE:
Hops Extract Improves Bone Health in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia Lecomte M, Tomassi D, Rizzoli R, et al.
Effect of a hop extract standardized in 8- prenylnaringenin on bone health and gut microbiome in postmenopausal women with osteopenia: A one-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Nutrients. June 9, 2023;15(12):2688. doi: 10.3390/nu15122688. Postmenopausal women are at risk of developing osteoporosis due to a decline in endogenous estrogen that accelerates bone remodeling, with an imbalance between bone formation and resorption. Phytoestrogens are often used to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Among the dietary sources of phytoestrogens is the hops (Humulus lupulus, Cannabaceae) plant, which contains the potent phytoestrogen 8- prenylnaringenin (8-PN), as well as the prenylated phenols, xanthohumol (X) and isoxanthohumol (IX), which can be metabolically converted to 8-PN. These authors conducted a parallel, placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial to determine whether the long-term consumption of Lifenol® (Givaudan France Naturals; Avignon, France), a hops extract standardized in 8-PN, moderates the decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women with osteopenia and to explore the potential mechanism of action through modulation of the gut microbiome.
Fat mass and visceral fat significantly increased compared with baseline after the Hops Extract (HE) supplementation (P < 0.05). Compared with the placebo group, the HE group reported higher fat, calcium, and vitamin K2 intake at the end of the study (P < 0.05). Physical functioning (ability to perform daily activities) significantly increased in the HE group compared with the placebo group during the study (P < 0.05). No between-group differences were observed in gut microbiome alpha-diversity or in total and individual levels of short-chain fatty acids; however, in the HE group, there was a higher abundance of the genera Turicibacter and Shigella, which have been associated with total body BMD.
HerbClip™ Mariann Garner-Wizard Shari Henson Dani Hoots Samaara Robbins Gavin Van De Walle, MS, RD, LN Executive Editor – Mark Blumenthal Managing Editor – Lori Glenn Consulting Editors –Thomas Brendler, Meghan Henshaw, Kristen McPhee, MSciTH, Beth Quintana, ND, Carrie Waterman, PhD
File: ■ Hops (Humulus lupulus, Cannabaceae) ■ COVID-19 HC 032311-710 Date: April 14, 2023 RE:
Xanthohumal Extract from Hops May Reduce Severe Respiratory Symptoms and Decrease Mortality in Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19 Dabrowski W, Gagos M, Siwicka-Gieroba D, et al.
Humulus lupulus extract rich in xanthohumol improves the clinical course in critically ill COVID-19 patients. Biomed Pharmacother. February 2023;158:114082. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114082. Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with multiorgan dysfunction resulting from an inflammatory response causing endothelial damage. A strong correlation between the severity of clinical symptoms and the degree of inflammation has been shown. Increased inflammatory cytokines have been correlated with poor outcomes and mortality in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The rapid inflammatory response results in the uncontrolled production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals, which impair cellular metabolism. Recent studies examined the efficiency of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant treatments in reducing symptoms of COVID-19. In silico studies have shown high efficiency of naturally occurring prenylated chalcones in treating COVID-19. Xanthohumol (Xn) is a prenylated chalcone extracted from hops (Humulus lupulus, Cannabaceae). Studies have shown that Xn has immunomodulatory properties and efficacy against DNA and RNA viruses, including porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). PRRSV infection follows a similar course to coronavirus, including high fever, morbidity, and severe respiratory distress. In vivo and other experimental studies have shown that Xn inhibits many viral diseases, including SARS-CoV-2. This double-blind, placebo-controlled observational trial examined the efficacy of Xn on the clinical course, inflammatory response, and outcomes in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with a diagnosis of COVID-19- related acute respiratory failure with an oxygenated index < 150.
Patients in the Xanthohumal Extract (Xn) group demonstrated a significant reduction in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) at day 7 compared to baseline (P < 0.05). D-dimer decreased in both groups but was significantly lower in the Xn group on days 3 and 7 (P < 0.05). Changes in platelet-tolymphocyte ratio decreased on days 3 and 7 in the Xn group and days 5 and 7 in the control group. Changes were comparable in both groups. Xn treatment reduced plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentrations on days 3 and 7 compared to days 5 and 7 in the control. Decreases in IL-6 were more pronounced in the Xn group. Patients in the Xn group demonstrated significant improvements in CT lung scans (P < 0.001). Mechanical ventilation was completed within seven days in 14 patients in the Xn group compared with four in the control. None of the patients in the Xn group required tracheostomy compared with eight in the control. PaO2/FiO2 decreased in both groups but decreased more in the Xn group.
ISOMETRIC & PLANK EXERCISE, Intense Exercise problems
Is Isometric Exercise Optimal for Lowering Blood Pressure?
Walking and running is about movement, isometric exercise encompasses the contracting of muscles and holding the position for a few minutes, without moving. It is very intense.
Sumo wrestlers, just beginning to charge forwards after crouching down, are performing an isometric press. The press enables them to charge their opponent more powerfully—especially useful when a match begins. You may not want to be a Sumo wrestler, but this is a small example of an isometric exercise.
Marilynn Larkin August 09, 2023
Isometric exercise training emerged as the most effective mode to reduce blood pressure in a systematic review and meta-analysis of 270 randomized trials with close to 16,000 participants.
The findings support the development of new exercise guidelines for blood pressure control, the authors say.
Previous research, based on older data that excluded high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and isometric exercise training (IET), led to aerobic exercise training (AET) being recommended for managing blood pressure, according to the authors.
Although AET, HIIT, dynamic resistance training (RT) and combined training (CT) are also effective in reducing both systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), the new analysis suggests that IET does it best.
The analysis showed reductions in blood pressure of 8.24/4 mm Hg after IET, compared with 4.49/2.53 mm Hg after AET; 4.55/3.04 mm Hg after RT; 6.04/2.54 mm Hg after CT; and 4.08/2.50 mm Hg after HIIT.
"These findings mirror our smaller-scale trials, and therefore we anticipated that isometrics would be largely effective," Jamie O'Driscoll, PhD, of Canterbury Christ Church University, Kent, UK told theheart.org | Medscape Cardiology. However, "the magnitude of difference between isometrics and some other modes was surprising."
The study was published online July 25 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
All Modes Effective
The investigators analyzed data from 270 randomized controlled trials including 15,827 people published between 1990 and February of this year. For consistency, the protocol/intensity of each included paper was screened against the Exercise Prescription in Everyday Practice and Rehabilitative Training tool to be defined and categorized.
All protocols were then stratified as AET, RT, CT, HIIT or IET.
As appropriate, protocols were then further stratified into subgroups: AET included walking, running, and cycling; HIIT included sprint interval training and aerobic interval training; and IET included isometric leg extension and isometric wall squat.
Healthy resting blood pressure was defined as a reading below 130/85 mm Hg, pre-hypertension as 130–139/85–89 mm Hg, and hypertension as 140/90 mm Hg or higher.
All exercise modes led to statistically significant reductions in SBP in normal blood pressure cohorts; however, all reductions were substantially larger in individuals with hypertension.
Pairwise analyses showed significant reductions in resting SBP and DBP following AET (−4.49/–2.53 mm Hg); RT (–4.55/–3.04 mm Hg), CT (–6.04/–2.54 mm Hg), HIT (–4.08/–2.50 mm Hg); and IET (–8.24/–4.00 mm Hg).
In the network meta-analysis, the rank order of effectiveness for SBP based on surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values were IET (SUCRA: 98.3%), CT (75.7%), RT (46.1%), AET (40.5%), and HIIT (39.4%).
Secondary network meta-analyses showed that isometric wall squat was the most effective sub mode for reducing SBP (90.4%), followed by isometric leg extension, isometric handgrip, cycling, running, CT, sprint interval training, other aerobic, RT, aerobic interval training, and walking.
Examples of isometric exercises.
https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/isometric-exercises
Strength Training Promotes Knee Health, Lowers OA Risk
Heidi Splete November 02, 2023
Strength training at any point in life is associated with a lower risk of knee pain and osteoarthritis, contrary to persistent assumptions of adverse effects.
METHODOLOGY:
- Researchers reviewed data on strength training and knee pain from 2607 adults. They used the Historical Physical Activity Survey Instrument to assess the impact of strength training during four periods (ages 12–18 years, 19–34 years, 3549 years, and 50 years and older).
- The participants were enrolled in the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a multicenter, prospective, longitudinal study; 44% were male, the average age was 64.3 years, and the mean body mass index was 28.5 kg/m2.
- Strength training was defined as those exposed and not exposed, as well as divided into low, medium, and high tertiles for those exposed; a total of 818 individuals were exposed to strength training, and 1789 were not exposed to strength training.
- The primary outcomes were frequent knee pain, radiographic OA (ROA), and symptomatic radiographic OA (SOA).
TAKEAWAY:
- The study is the first to examine the effect of strength training on knee health in a community population sample not selected for a history of elite weight lifting.
- Overall, strength training at any point in life was associated with lower incidence of frequent knee pain, ROA, and SOA, compared with no strength training (odds ratios, 0.82, 0.83, and 0.77, respectively).
- When separated by tertiles, only the high-exposure group had significantly reduced odds of frequent knee pain, ROA, and SOA, with odds ratios of 0.74, 0.70, and 0.69, respectively; a dose-response relationship appeared for all three conditions, with the lowest odds ratios in the highest strength training exposure groups.
- Findings were similar for different age ranges, but the association between strength training and less frequent knee pain, less ROA, and less SOA was strongest in the older age groups.
IN PRACTICE:
"Our findings support the idea that the medical community should proactively encourage more people to participate in strength training to help reduce their risk of osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions," the researchers write.
SOURCE:
The study, with first author Grace H. Lo, MD, of Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, and colleagues, was published on October 23 in Arthritis and Rheumatology.
LIMITATIONS:
The observational design and self-selected study population of strength training participants might bias the results, including participants' recall of their activity level levels and changes in exercise trends over time; more research is needed to explore associations between strength training and knee OA among those who started strength training at a younger age.
Plank Exercise, Sit-ups once ruled as the way to tighter abs and a slimmer waistline. While "planks" were merely flooring. Now plank exercises, in which you assume a position and hold it, are the gold standard for working your core. While classic sit-ups and crunches have fallen out of favor.
Intense Exercise May Lead to Colds. A New Study Tells Us Why
Courtney Southwick November 21, 2023
Antimicrobial peptides are part of the immune response but they're "usually not very effective for viral infections," said lead author Ernesto Nakayasu, PhD, senior research scientist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, a US Department of Energy lab in Richland, Washington. "That's why we think it may make you more exposed to respiratory infections."
The drop in proinflammatory molecules had an inverse relationship with opiorphin, a peripheral tissue vasodilator thought to increase blood flow and improve oxygen delivery to the muscles during exercise. This may be an adaptive mechanism to improve gas exchange in response to greater oxygen demand.
But as with many adaptive mechanisms, this one may have an unintended consequence. Fewer proinflammatory molecules on patrol may leave you more vulnerable to infection. Plus, during intense exercise, people tend to breathe through their mouths, bypassing the nasal barriers and allowing more microbes — including viruses — to penetrate and deposit in the distal airways of the lungs.
"Regular moderate exercise is generally associated with better health outcomes [and] improved immune function," said Mamoun. For those who exercise to the extreme, proper rest and recovery are "essential for maintaining a robust immune system," Mamoun said.
BLACK CURRANT, EVENING PRIMROSE, BORAGE, AND FUGAL OILS
Positive Health Benefits
Many studies have brought out the positive heart-health and other health effects of Black Currant, Evening Primrose, Borage, and Fugal oils. Though many have been animal studies, all different types of positive health benefits have been seen in humans.
This study showed black currant extract effectively increased the hypotensive benefits of exercise.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0271531798001286
Nutrition Research Volume 18, Issue 9, September 1998, Pages 1533-1544
Animal study
The effects of dietary evening primrose, black currant, borage and fungal oils on plasma, hepatic and vascular tissue fatty acid composition in the spontaneously hypertensive rat
Author links open overlay panelMarguerite M Engler PhD 1, Mary B Engler PhD
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0271-5317(98)00128-6Get rights and content
Hypertension is associated with alterations in the metabolism of ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in tissues. Compositional changes in tissue fatty acids may affect cellular properties such as ion permeability and receptor interactions important to blood pressure regulation. Recent evidence suggests that the ω-6 PUFA, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), is a potent blood pressure lowering nutrient. In this study, the effects of dietary oils enriched with GLA (evening primrose, black currant, borage and fungal) on plasma, hepatic and vascular tissue fatty acid composition were determined in spontaneously hypertensive rats. The oils increased the composition of GLA and dihomogamma-linolenic acid in hepatic, aortic and renal arterial tissue (p<0.05). Arachidonic acid levels were also increased in the liver (p<0.05). The data suggest that alterations in the fatty acid profiles of hepatic and vascular tissue induced by GLA-enriched oils may be responsible for the favorable blood pressure lowering effect of GLA.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/095232789390030Z
Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids
Volume 49, Issue 4, October 1993, Pages 809-814
Comparative study of diets enriched with evening primrose, black currant, borage or fungal oils on blood pressure and pressor responses in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Author links open overlay pane lM.M. Engler
https://doi.org/10.1016/0952-3278(93)90030-ZGet rights and content
The effects of oils enriched with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) on blood pressure and pressor responses were examined in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Rats were fed purified diets containing evening primrose (EPO), black currant (BCO), borage (BOR) or fungal (FGO) oils for 7 weeks. Significant reductions in blood pressure were obtained in SHR rats maintained on diets enriched with GLA oils. The antihypertensive effect was not associated with enhanced pressor responsiveness to norepinephrine or angiotensin II. Moreover, no differences were found in blood pressure responses to the calcium channel blocker, verapamil. The results suggest that GLA-enriched oils inhibit the development of hypertension in the SHR rat. The blood pressure lowering effect is not mediated by altered pressor responses to vasoconstrictor hormones or intracellular calcium mechanisms.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0271531705802623
Nutrition Research Volume 14, Issue 7, July 1994, Pages 1089-1099
Gamma-linolenic acid, black currant seed and evening primrose oil in the prevention of cardiac arrhythmia in aged rats
Author links open overlay panel PhD. DSc John S Charnock, PhD GayleL Crozier, BSc Julie Woodhouse
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0271-5317(05)80262-3Get rights and content
Cardiac Arrhythmia frequently develops as a consequence of reduced blood flow to the heart. In a rat model of cardiac ischemia, the susceptibility to develop sustained ventricular fibrillation is increased with the age of the animal, but this increased susceptibility can be diminished by inclusion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the diet. As the mechanism of action of PUFA probably involves the metabolism of linoleic acid (LA) to arachidonic acid (AA) and thence to the myocardial eicosanoids, an age effect on the conversion of LA to gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) by Δ6-desaturase may be involved. If this is so, replacement of LA rich PUFA oils with others containing both GLA and LA may be of enhanced benefit in aged animals. We have examined this possibility by feeding either evening primrose (9% GLA) or black currant seed oil (17% GLA) to already mature rats for another 48 weeks prior to occlusion of their coronary artery and measurement of the incidence and severity of induced arrhythmias. The results were compared to those from similar age-matched animals fed either saturated animal fat (SF) or sunflower seed oil (SSO) dietary supplements. All PUFA enriched diets were effective with a trend towards diminished arrhythmia with enhanced GLA in the diet. However black current seed oil also contains less LA and more alpha linolenic acid (ALA; 18:3 n-3) than either sunflower seed oil or evening primrose oil, two circumstances which could lead to enhanced metabolism of dietary n-3 PUFA rather than n-6 PUFA. Previous studies in this laboratory have already demonstrated the effectiveness of the relatively small amount of dietary n-3 PUFA in canola oil in reducing the susceptibility to ischemic arrhythmia in rats, and this may account for the apparently enhanced benefit of blackcurrant seed oil over evening primrose oil or sunflower seed oil in these experiments.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0163782786900536
Progress in Lipid Research Volume 25, 1986, Pages 255-26
Fatty acid patterns in organ lipids in response to dietary black currant seed oil rich in gamma-linolenic acid Author links open overlay panel H. Traitler, H. Winter
https://doi.org/10.1016/0163-7827(86)90053-6Get rights and content
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Feeding animals (rats) with SFO and BCO, respectively, over a period of 3 months led to a decrease of total lipids (phospholipids and triglycerides) in the two organs, liver and heart. It can be seen that the reduction of lipids during the period of 36 days and 92 days was ca. 20% for BCO and around 16% for SFO in liver whereas in the control group the overall decrease was only I0% with no decrease at all in males. Changes in amounts of heart lipids are less significant but the same tendency was observed in particular for the control group, where no reduction was seen (Table 2), with even an increase in females. Figure I0 summarizes the changes in total lipids in control, SFO and BCO groups together with the evolution of phospholipids and triglycerides. It can be seen that the most important decrease of lipids took place in the liver of female animals. The increase of phospholipids in the same period from 36 to 92 days did not follow the general tendency. Administration of various dietary lipids in rats over a period of 3 months had an influence on the lipid composition in different organs (liver, heart) mainly in triglycerides and far less in phospholipids. The overall phospholipid composition did not show a significant incorporation of 3,-LinA after the administration of black currant oil. 3,-LinA could be seen in the triglycerides with the general tendency of higher values for ~t-LinA
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278691504000936
Volume 42, Issue 8, August 2004, Pages 1315-1322
Commonly consumed and naturally occurring dietary substances affect biomarkers of oxidative stress and DNA damage in healthy rats
Author links open overlay panelE.O Farombi a b, M Hansen a, G Ravn-Haren a, P Møller c, L.O Dragsted a
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2004.03.009Get rights and content
The search for phytochemicals and dietary compounds with potent antioxidant and otherwise preventative properties continues to be of great importance in the search for remedies against free radical mediated diseases. From prevention of the oxidative reactions in foods, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to the role of ROS in chronic degenerative diseases including cancer, coronary heart disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, macular degeneration and aging, there is great interest in these compounds,
GRIP STRENGHT and BURSTS of EFFORT - Health Predictors
SHORT BURSTS OF EXERCISE CONSUME MORE ENERGY
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/995121?src=FYE News > Medscape Medical News
The Argument for Grip Strength as a Vital Sign
Lou Schuler August 03, 2023
Most people hear "firm handshake" and automatically think "business world." A cursory search reveals articles with titles like "Seven Super-Revealing Things Your Handshake Says About You" (Forbes) and "How a Handshake Can Tell You Everything You Need to Know About a Person" (Inc).
Those in the know, however, understand what a handshake really reveals: Current health and vitality. The amount of force you can generate with your hand is a valid proxy for total-body strength. And total-body strength is one key to healthy aging.
Body temperature, weight, heart rate, and blood pressure inform any patient appointment. Should physicians include grip strength in that group?
Grip-strength testing is easy, fast, and noninvasive. It can be monitored over time. All it requires is a handgrip dynamometer, a tool that may cost less than a stethoscope, and a chair.
"Many studies have looked at strength as a predictor of positive health and weakness as a predictor of negative health outcomes," says Mark Peterson, PhD, an associate professor at the University of Michigan who's worked on dozens of those studies.
Among the health risks associated with low grip strength:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Dementia and Alzheimer's disease
- Depression
- Functional disability
- Osteoporosis
- Premature death from any cause
The prognostic merits of grip strength have been documented across continents and cultures. Although most of those studies have focused on older adults, they aren't the only age group researchers have looked at.
"We have several papers on the value of grip strength for predicting diabetes and cardiovascular disease in children and adolescents," Peterson says.
Survival of the Strongest
The first thing to understand about grip-strength testing is that it's only partially about grip. It's mostly about strength. That's what attracted Peterson to this line of research.
"I'm a former strength coach, so I wanted to make a case for why strength was important across populations, not just athletes," he says. "I strongly believe in strength preservation and healthy living as a predictor for longevity."
Short, Intense Bursts of Effort Reduce the Risk for Cancer
Doris Maugg, PhD August 18, 2023
The results of a recent study in JAMA Oncology suggest that even short periods of intense, intermittent physical activity are associated with a lower risk for cancer. This activity could be a promising measure for cancer prevention in people who otherwise find it difficult to exercise regularly.
Periods of intense, intermittent physical activity are short phases of strenuous physical exercise that normally last for 1 or 2 minutes, such as a short sprint for the bus or walking up the stairs. In the prospective cohort study conducted in a large group of unathletic adults, researchers investigated a potential dose-effect relationship between intense and daily intermittent physical activity and the cancer incidence rate.
Using data gathered from wearable arm trackers, the researchers analyzed the physical activity of 22,398 people with an average age of 62 years from the UK Biobank. Of these participants, 54.8% were women. After a median follow-up of 6.7 years, corresponding to 149,650 person years, they determined the general cancer incidence rate in this cohort and the incidence rate of 13 kinds of cancer associated with minimal physical activity (physical-activity related cancers).
Over the study period, 2356 cancer events occurred, of which 1084 could be attributed to kinds of cancer associated with minimal physical activity. Nearly all of the intense physical activity (92.3%) was achieved in bursts of up to 1 minute.
Four Minutes
The daily duration of activity was almost linearly associated with the outcome, wrote Emmanuel Stamatakis, PhD, professor of physical activity, lifestyle, and population health at the University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia. "The dose-effect curve was more vertical, and the extent of the risk reduction for kinds of cancer associated with minimal activity was larger than for the overall cancer incidence rate."
For example, the lowest dose of intense, intermittent physical activity of up to 1 minute was generally 3.4 minutes per day for cancer in general and 3.7 minutes per day for cancer associated with minimal activity (hazard ratio [HR], 0.83 and HR, 0.72, respectively).
"The results of the study with an average follow-up time of almost 7 years suggest that people with a little less than 4 minutes per day of sporadic intense activity had an overall 17% lower risk of cancer," wrote Yvonne Wengström, PhD, professor of nursing at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, in an accompanying editorial.
For kinds of cancer possibly associated with minimal activity, the researchers found the risk to be reduced by 28% through daily intermittent physical activity. "Even a few minutes of short, intense physical exercise in people with less leisure activity could lower their cancer risk," wrote Wengström and colleagues.
Only at the end of 2022 did the data from Stamatakis and his colleagues suggest a correlation between a little more than 4 minutes of intense physical activity per day and a lower risk for cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and overall mortality in athletes and nonathletes.
Wearable Arm Trackers
The authors of the recent study used an existing cohort’s activity data from an earlier substudy of the UK Biobank that measured acceleration in the wrist. The movement behavior here was recorded over a period of 7 days in more than 90,000 people between 2013 and 2015.
Wengström and her colleagues rated the arm trackers to be more reliable than the questionnaires that were completed by the subjects. "One strength of the present study is that physical activity was evaluated with the help of wrist acceleration meters, even though nonathletes were defined using the questionnaire data."
Information about the general lifestyle of healthy living people also had to be included. Wengström believes that the researchers succeeded in this, since they adjusted the analyses for the following important factors:
- Age
- Sex
- BMI
- Level of education
- Smoking status
- Alcohol consumption
- Duration of sleep
- Fruit and vegetable consumption
- Medication intake
- Parental cancer history
Clinical Implications
According to Wengström, more studies are required to see whether the results of this study can also be transferred to patients who already have a cancer disease. This is because patients with cancer such as premenopausal and postmenopausal women with breast cancer diseases, who have different biologies and hormonal environments, are affected differently by physical activity.
However, physical activity does play a role in patients with cancer "since physical fitness improves muscle strength, cancer-related fatigue, and the survivors’ quality of life," said Wengström. However, it is still important to find the correct amount of physical activity for each group of patients and for each individual patient. Nevertheless, "any physical activity is better than none," wrote Wengström and her colleagues.
Exercise Timing May Dictate Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Liam Davenport September 21, 2023
Exercising in the morning may have the biggest impact on the likelihood of having obesity, whereas morning and afternoon exercise appear to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, suggest two studies.
The results, published in Diabetologia, also indicated that people who undertook at least Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity were protected against developing type 2 diabetes no matter what time of day they exercised.
No matter what time, exercise is important and should be put into a daily routine. Diabetics on insulin need to watch their insulin levels, since exercise and time of the day will cause a change in insulin requirements.
Short bursts of exercise found to consume more energy
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain
“A team of pathophysiologists at the University of Milan has found that climbing stairs or walking for short bursts allows people to consume 20% to 60% more energy than if they do the same activity nonstop for the same distance.
The team suggests that people who wish to get more out of their exercise routines perform multiple short bursts of activity rather than carrying on for long periods of time at a steady pace.
ALCOHOL -Saves Lives and Attributed to Certain Cancers
More Expensive Alcohol Saves Lives. Will It Affect Cancer?
No, the study does not show that drinking expensive alcohol affects cancer, but it does raise questions and future studies, All alcohol should be consumed in moderation.
More Expensive Alcohol Saves Lives. Will It Affect Cancer?
David J. Kerr, CBE, MD, DSc August 08, 2023
I'm David Kerr, professor of cancer medicine from the University of Oxford. I'd like to discuss an article that's appeared recently in The Lancet. It looks at the impact of minimum unit pricing for alcohol on alcohol-related deaths and hospital admissions in Scotland, my home country. Why is that important to me as a cancer doctor? We know that alcohol underpins epidemiologically a whole range of different tumor types.
Anyway, it's a really interesting experiment. It also looks at the impact of governments and health policy. In 2018, the Scottish Government introduced a minimum unit pricing for alcohol of around $0.60 per unit of alcohol. The idea was that if you drive up the price of getting access to alcohol, that should reduce harm, deaths, and hospital admissions.
Wyper and colleagues did a rather nice controlled, time-interrupted series. The legislation was introduced in 2018, so they looked at our public-health databases, hospital admissions, deaths, and so on for the time span from 2012 to 2018, then for about 3 years after the introduction of legislation in 2018. They used England as a control. England — our old enemy when we think about how the Union works together.
They showed that there was a reduction in fully alcohol-attributed deaths by 13.4% in Scotland, and a reduction in chronic hospital admissions related to alcohol by almost 10%. It works.
What was also interesting was that the benefits were confined to the lower socioeconomic classes. One could argue, whether intended or otherwise, that this was a health-policy intervention targeted at the lower socioeconomic classes. Perhaps, one would hope as a consequence that this would reduce the health equity gap.
We know that the differences in Scotland are remarkable. When we compare the highest with the lowest socioeconomic classes, there's a fourfold to 4.5-fold difference in likelihood of death benefiting, of course, the wealthy. The health-equity gap between rich and poor is getting wider, not becoming narrower. Interventions of this sort make a difference.
Of course, there's good evidence from other areas in which price control can make a difference. Tobacco is perhaps the best example of it. People have also talked about sugar or fat taxes to see whether their actions reduce levels of obesity, overeating, and other problems.
It's a really nice study, with very compelling data, very well worked out in terms of the methodology and statistics. There are lives saved and lives prolonged.
What it doesn't do is tell us about the amount of alcohol that people were taking. It shows that if you are less well-off and the price of alcohol goes up, you've got less money to spend on alcohol. Therefore, that reduction results in the reduction in harm associated with it.
What's really interesting is something I hadn't realized about what's called the alcohol-harm paradox. When you look at drinkers across the socioeconomic spectrum, including wealthy and poor drinkers, even for those who have exactly the same consumption of alcohol, there seems to be significantly more harm done to the poor than to the wealthy.
There may be some behavioral explanations for this, but they don't explain all the difference. More work needs to be done there. It's a really interesting story and I think a brave policy put forward by the Scottish Government, which has returned rewards and is something that one would consider replicating around the world to see what other benefits might accrue from it.
I'm very interested to watch further forward over the next 2 decades to see what impact, if any, this alcohol-pricing legislation has on the incidence of cancer, looking at breast cancer, some gastrointestinal tumors, and so on, in which we know alcohol plays a part in their carcinogenesis.
Have a look at the study. I'd be very interested in any comments that you might have. As always, I'm very happy to respond to anything that you might wish to ask.
For the time being, Medscapers, ahoy. Thank you.
David J. Kerr, CBE, MD, DSc, is a professor of cancer medicine at the University of Oxford. He is recognized internationally for his work in the research and treatment of colorectal cancer and has founded three university spin-out companies: COBRA Therapeutics, Celleron Therapeutics, and Oxford Cancer Biomarkers. In 2002, he was appointed Commander of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II.
Alcohol Attributed to Certain Cancers
The Sobering Facts About Alcohol and Cancer
Megan Brooks October 24, 2023
There is an urgent need to raise global awareness about the direct link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk.
That message was delivered by Isabelle Soerjomataram, PhD, with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France, at a session devoted to alcohol and cancer at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Annual Meeting 2023.
"Global awareness about the link between alcohol and cancer continues to be very low," Soerjomataram told the audience. "Health professionals — oncologists, nurses, medical doctors, GPs — have an important role in increasing awareness and bringing this knowledge to people, which may lead to reduced consumption."
Session chair Gilberto Morgan, MD, medical oncologist, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden, agreed.
Morgan noted that healthcare professionals tend to downplay their influence over patients' drinking habits and often don't address these behaviors.
But that needs to change.
"We have absolutely no problem asking patients if they take supplements or vitamins or if they're eating [healthy]," Morgan said. "So, what is the difference? Why not recommend that they cut down their alcohol intake and leave it up to everybody's personal choice to do it or not?"
In the session, Soerjomataram highlighted the global statistics on alcohol use. IARC data show, for instance, that nearly half (46%) of the world's population consumes alcohol, with rates higher in men (54%) than women (38%).
How much are people drinking?
Globally, on average, the amount comes to about six liters of pure ethanol per year per drinker, or about one wine bottle per week. However, consumption patterns vary widely by country. In France, people consume about 12 liters per year or about two wine bottles per week.
Soerjomataram stressed the link between alcohol consumption and cancer.
According to IARC data, heavy drinking — defined as more than 60 g/day or about six daily drinks — accounts for 47% of the alcohol-attributable cancers. Risky drinking — between 20 and 60 g/day — accounts for 29%, she explained, while moderate drinking — less than 20 g/day or about two daily drinks — accounts for roughly 14% of cases of alcohol-attributable cancers.
Globally, alcohol intake accounted for 4% of all cancers diagnosed in 2020, according to a 2021 analysis by IARC.
In the UK alone, "alcohol drinking caused nearly 17,000 cases of cancer in 2020," Soerjomataram said, and breast cancer made up almost one in four of those new cases.
In addition to breast cancer, six other cancer types — oral cavity, pharyngeal, laryngeal, esophageal, colorectal, and liver cancer — can be attributed to alcohol consumption, and emerging evidence suggests stomach and pancreatic cancer may be as well.
The good news, said Soerjomataram, is that long-term trends show declines in alcohol drinking in many countries, including the high wine-producing countries of France and Italy, where large reductions in consumption have been noted since the peak of intake in the 1920s.
"If it's possible in these countries, I can imagine it's possible elsewhere," said Soerjomataram.
Alcohol Has Its Good Effects
Moderate drinkers can relax, quite literally. An alcoholic pre-dinner drink increases "good" cholesterol. It also lubricates the blood so there's a decreased chance of a blood clot. The relaxing effect of a small amount of alcohol does no harm, and the commitment of an easygoing social connection with loved ones at the workday’s end would be a world of good to many.
TURMERIC FOR INDIGESTION
Turmeric May Be as Good as OTC Drug Omeprazole -A note on PPIs
Share Turmeric may be as effective at treating indigestion as the over-the-counter drug Omeprazole.
· A small study has found turmeric to be as effective as Omeprazole at treating indigestion.
- Participants experienced a significant reduction in symptom severity after taking turmeric supplements for 28 days.
- Curcumin, found in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation.
- Turmeric can be added to tea, stews, curries, or taken in supplement form
The culinary spice turmeric may be as effective as some medications for treating indigestion symptoms, according to the results of a small study.
New research has found that Curcumin, a natural compound found in turmeric, may be as effective as omeprazole— a drug used to curb excess stomach acid — at relieving indigestion in people diagnosed with functional dyspepsia–meaning other pathologies like ulcers or cancer have been excluded already
Researchers at Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Medicine, Bangkok, randomly assigned 151 patients aged 18-70 with recurrent stomach upset to one of three treatment groups for 28 days.
The first group had two large 250mg capsules of curcumin four times a day and one small dummy capsule. The second group took one 20mg capsule of omeprazole daily and two large placebo capsules four times a day. Finally, the third group was given turmeric plus omeprazole.
At the start of the study, participants in all three groups had similar clinical characteristics and indigestion scores, as assessed by the Severity of Dyspepsia Assessment score or SODA.
At the study’s end, SODA scores indicated significant reductions in symptom severity by day 28 for pain and other symptoms for those in the combined, curcumin alone, and omeprazole alone groups.
These improvements were even stronger after 56 days.
Though the researchers acknowledged the small study size and the short intervention period, they said: “The new findings from our study may justify considering curcumin in clinical practice.”
So, does this mean turmeric is a reliable alternative for proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs like Omeprazole? We asked two experts.
Turmeric and indigestion: what’s the link?
Sas Parsad, nutritionist and founder of The Gut Co isn’t surprised by the study results. “Turmeric has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, for its digestive benefits and role in nurturing a healthy gut,” he points out.
“Curcumin, the compound it contains has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to its effectiveness in alleviating indigestion symptoms and supporting gut well-being,” he explains.
Parsad says part of the reason turmeric is linked with indigestion relief is because of its ability to stimulate bile.
“Curcumin stimulates the gallbladder to release bile, which aids in the digestion of fats,” he explains. “Improved fat digestion can reduce symptoms like bloating and discomfort, further supporting gut comfort.”
Indigestion often involves inflammation of the stomach lining or other parts of the digestive tract. Parsad says the anti-inflammatory properties found in turmeric can counter this.
“Curcumin can help reduce this inflammation, which may alleviate discomfort and pain while promoting a healthier gut environment,” he notes.
On the other hand, conventional indigestion medications, like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Omeprazole, primarily work by reducing stomach acid production.
“While effective in many cases, long-term use of PPIs can have side effects, including potential impacts on gut health. In contrast, turmeric addresses indigestion through its anti-inflammatory properties and enhancement of digestive processes, contributing to a healthier gut,” Parsad surmises.
While the results of this study are promising, particularly for people who prefer to use natural remedies, registered nutritionist Anna Maspon says it’s important to note that the study has two big drawbacks.
“Firstly, this study didn’t have a control group of participants who either had no intervention or took only a placebo, therefore we don’t know the comparison to doing nothing, which is always an important consideration,” she explains.
“Secondly, there was no mention of diet, so while participants were randomized into groups, we have no idea what they ate, if diet differed between groups, how it might have changed, and if their diets were a factor in their improvement,” she adds.
Still, Parsad describes it as a “promising alternative” or “complementary approach” to indigestion treatment, especially for those looking to support a healthy gut naturally or experiencing side effects from medications.
Pros and cons of turmeric for indigestion relief
Turmeric isn’t just shown to be an effective treatment for indigestion, it also has a wealth of other benefits that may make it the chosen method for anyone weighing up the pros and cons between it and drugs like Omeprazole.
Parsad says it has antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, supports brain health, and reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
It is also linked with enhanced liver function and detoxification and has potential anti-depressant and mood improvement effects.
So, is increasing turmeric intake a good plan for people suffering from indigestion when compared to drugs like Omeprazole? Parsad says it’s essential to consider the pros and cons.
On the one hand, turmeric is natural and widely available, offers digestive benefits with potentially fewer side effects than medications, and provides additional health benefits, especially for gut health.
On the other, Mapson says people should be careful about taking any new supplements. “Turmeric can affect blood clotting, so it shouldn’t be taken by anyone on blood thinning medication, such as warfarin or aspirin. It can also interfere with other supplements or medications such as antidepressants,” she warns.
Additionally, turmeric may irritate the gut. “Some people have noticed gastrointestinal symptoms when taking large doses of curcumin and this study excluded anyone with IBS, constipation, diarrhea, gastritis, etc. so you’ll need to take care with your digestion,” Mapson explains.
How to safely increase your turmeric intake
If you are considering turmeric for indigestion relief, you might wonder how to get more of it into your diet.
Parsad suggests making ‘Golden Milk’, by heating a dairy or plant-based milk with turmeric and black pepper – which enhances curcumin absorption – and a touch of honey.
Turmeric Tea is another option. Parsad says you can make it by steeping turmeric slices or powder in hot water and adding ginger and lemon for extra flavor.
Turmeric naturally lends itself to curries, soups, and stews as well. However, if you’re serious about increasing your consumption, turmeric supplements may be your best bet.
“Look for supplements containing piperine (black pepper extract) to enhance curcumin absorption,” Parsad advises.
The optimal daily dose for turmeric can vary, but Parsad says a standard guideline is 1-3 grams of dried, ground turmeric or 400-600 milligrams of standardized curcumin extract a day.
“However, individual tolerance and needs may differ, so consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice is advisable,” he says.
Takeaway
Ultimately, Mapson says people shouldn’t stop taking PPI medications like Omeprazole without first speaking to their doctor, particularly as they may experience an acid reflux rebound when coming off these medications.
Turmeric shows promise as an indigestion treatment, but Parsad says the choice between turmeric and Omeprazole will ultimately depend on the severity of symptoms, individual preferences, and the advice of a healthcare professional.
A note on PPIs, like omeprazole
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are prescribed for the short-term prevention and treatment of acid-related conditions such as GERD, ulcers, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The PPI test had been shown to be a sensitive tool for diagnosing GERD in noncardiac chest pain patients, but has recently been reevaluated.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are usually well-tolerated and have few adverse effects. Short-term side effects include headache, rash, dizziness, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, and diarrhea. Long-term usage may lead to chronic kidney disease, bone fractures, dementia, pneumonia, vitamin B12 deficiency, Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, hypomagnesemia, and hypomagnesemia. They can also make some medications less effective by reducing their absorption. Overprescription of PPIs has been observed in numerous studies. Prolonged use of PPIs may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile infection of the colon, osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine, and low levels of magnesium.
Studies have shown that PPI use is an independent predictor of heart failure or death, with negative inotropic effects on isolated myocardium, and seeing an increase in heart failure and death in humans.
For spot treatment, the old standby antacids, like Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox will most likely work just as well as any of the PPIs. It is a mistake to consider PPIs better or more effective. Relaxation, avoiding eating large meals, not eating before bedtime, trying to control weight, not reclining or leaning (recumbence) after meals and elevating your head and chest in bed may also help.
Pomegranate-Vitamins/Chronic Fatigue, beet root=performance
Clinical Efficacy of Combined Treatment
Mark Blumenthal Executive Editor Lori Glenn Managing Editor
Mariann Garner-Wizard, Shari Henson, Dani Hoots, Samaara Robbins, Gavin Van De Walle, MS, RD, LN
Thomas Brendler, Meghan Henshaw, Kristen McPhee, MSciTH, Beth Quintana, ND, Carrie Waterman, PhD Consulting Editors
Ullah H, Sommella E, Minno AD, et al. Combination of chemically characterized pomegranate extract and hydrophilic vitamins against prolonged fatigue: a monocentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Nutrients. June 26, 2023;15(13):2883. doi: 10.3390/nu15132883.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disabling condition characterized by a sense of exhaustion after activities and tiredness at rest. It is defined by lasting more than six months and generally occurs in individuals with other medical conditions. Despite the high prevalence of prolonged fatigue, there are limited effective and recommended pharmacological and therapeutic treatments. The results of studies using various drugs to treat patients with CFS who have serious pathological conditions have been weak and inconclusive. Thus, new and alternative treatments are being investigated to manage CFS.
Pomegranate (Punica grantum, Lythraceae) fruit is rich in dietary polyphenols; its bioactive compounds are associated with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and dermatologic health effects. Hydrophilic vitamins, including vitamin B complex and vitamin C, are important in preventing chronic degenerative disorders due to their many health benefits. These authors report the results of a monocentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted to assess the efficacy of Improve™ (Esserre Pharma Srl; Rome, Italy), a food supplement based on a standardized chemically characterized pomegranate extract and hydrophilic vitamins against prolonged fatigue.
Pomegranate extract was obtained by mixing a hydroalcoholic solution with various parts of the pomegranate fruit, particularly the peel; the resultant solution was concentrated and spray-dried to obtain the standardized extract. An analysis of the pomegranate extract using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry revealed the presences of 59 compounds, with gallotannins and ellagitannins being the most abundant phytochemicals.
Single-dose stick packs of the food supplement Improve contained 500 mg of pomegranate extract, 200 mg of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 16 mg of niacin (nicotinamide), 7 mg of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), 6 mg of vitamin B5 (D-pantothenate, calcium), 5.55 mg of vitamin B1 (thiamine hydrochloride), 4 mg of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), 200 µg of folate (pteroylmonoglutamic acid), 50 µg of D-biotin, and 12.5 µg of vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin). Soluble granules of the placebo in stick packs contained inert excipients.
The study was conducted by Comegen—Società Cooperativa Sociale in Naples, Italy. Twenty-two males and 36 females aged 18-75 years were recruited by Comegen general practitioners in February 2023. The patients had mild to moderate fatigue and scored 5 or lower on the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), a 9-item scale that measures the severity of fatigue and its effects on a patient's lifestyle. Higher scores on the FSS indicate greater fatigue severity.
The primary outcome of the study was the change in fatigue severity as indicated on the FSS; secondary outcomes included the improvement in quality of life as indicated on the Short Form-12 Survey and changes in fatigue-associated biomarkers.
During the screening visit, the patients completed the FSS questionnaire and were randomly assigned to two groups of 29 patients each. At the baseline visit, the patients consumed a stick-pack of the food supplement or placebo; they continued the treatment daily for two months. The patients were evaluated after 28 days, after 56 days, and at a follow-up visit 28 days after the discontinuation of the placebo or food supplement. Blood draws at baseline and after 56 days of treatment were used to measure biomarkers of fatigue and stress.
In the food supplement group, a significant improvement in FSS scores was observed from baseline to 28 days (P = 0.010) and from 56 days to the follow-up visit (P < 0.001). A decrease in FSS scores from 28 days to 56 days was not significant. No significant changes were observed in FSS scores in the placebo group. Between-group comparisons reveal significantly lower FSS scores in the food supplement group compared with the placebo group at 56 days (P < 0.001) and at the follow-up visit (P < 0.001).
No significant changes were observed in the patients' quality of life, and the biochemical markers remained constant and within normal ranges in both groups throughout the study. No adverse effects were reported during the study.
This study has several limitations. According to the authors, they could not show an improvement in quality of life, probably due to the way the sample number calculation was conducted on the FSS questionnaire; the number of patients was insufficient to make a significant conclusion for an increase in SF-12 scores; and the mechanism(s) responsible for the effects of the food supplement remains unknown.
The authors conclude that "a food supplement based on the combination of a chemically characterized pomegranate extract, B vitamins, and vitamin C, supplemented for two months of intake in healthy consumers, reduces prolonged fatigue."
Author C. Riccioni is an employee of Esserre Pharma Srl. The other authors did not disclose any conflicts of interest.—Shari Henson
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37696044/
Randomized Controlled Trial Appl Physiol Nutr Metab
2024 Jan 1;49(1):105-113. doi: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0179. Epub 2023 Sep 11.
Chronic beetroot juice supplementation attenuates neuromuscular fatigue etiology during simulated soccer match play
Wael Daab 1, Firas Zghal 1, George P Nassis 2 3, Haithem Rebai 4, Wassim Moalla 1, Mohamed Amine Bouzid 1 *PMID: 37696044 *DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0179
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of beetroot juice supplementation (BEET) on neuromuscular fatigue etiology during simulated soccer match play. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 13 soccer players completed the Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test (LIST). Players received either BEET (2×150 mL; ∼8 mmol/L nitrate) or placebo (PLA) for 7 days (6 days prior to the experimental session and on the day of trial, 2 h before LIST). Neuromuscular assessments were performed at baseline, 45 min (half time: HT), and 90 min (full time: FT) following LIST. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and twitch responses, delivered through electrical femoral nerve stimulation, were used to assess peripheral (quadriceps resting twitch force Qtw,pot) and central fatigue (voluntary activation, VA). Compared with baseline, MVC Qtw,pot and VA values decreased in PLA and BEET conditions at HT and FT (P < 0.05). Compared with PLA, the decrease in MVC and Qtw,pot was significantly attenuated with BEET at HT and FT (P < 0.001). Likewise, BEET attenuated the decrease in VA at HT (P < 0.001, d = 1.3) and FT (P < 0.001, d = 1.5) compared with the PLA condition. Chronic beetroot juice supplementation attenuates neuromuscular fatigue development during simulated soccer matches, and this is due to both central and peripheral factors. Consequently, chronic beetroot may optimize physical performance.
Pomegranate Extract Linked to Gut, Mitochondria Benefits
Supplementation with Verdure Sciences’ Pomella was linked to increases in SCFA production, changes in the gut microbiome, and increased urolithin A levels.
01.02.24
A pomegranate extract marketed by Verdure Sciences as Pomella was associated with improvements in markers of gut and mitochondrial health, according to a new human clinical study involving 18 women.
In the placebo-controlled study, women who took 250 mg per day of the pomegranate extract over a period of four weeks saw significant, beneficial effects in gut microbiome composition, circulating short-chain fatty acids, and gut—derived ellagitannin metabolites like urolithins. The findings were achieved by the researchers by using whole-genome sequencing for analysis.
“Our study revealed that the oral supplementation of Pomella leads to significant shifts in the gut microbiota, increases the circulating plasma levels of short-chain fatty acids such as propionate and acetate, and increases the plasma levels of urolithin A levels,” the authors said.
“Our results demonstrate a significant increase in the abundance of multiple short-chain producing bacteria in the gut microbiome of the PE group along with an increase in the circulating acetate and propionate levels.”
While there were no significant changes in the placebo group, there was a substantial change in short-chain fatty acids profiles in the treatment group, including a 162% increase in the propionate level and a 38% increase in the acetate level. There was also an increase in gut microbial species such as Coprococcus eutectus, Roseburia faecis, Roseburia inullnivorans, Ruminococcus bicirculans, Ruminococcus calidus, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Methanobrevibacter smithii, and Collinsella aerofaciens.
These bacteria are thought to have modulated the short-chain fatty acids, secondary metabolites, and urolithin A synthesis within the treatment group, the authors said.
“Results show that the functional analyses of the gut correlate with circulating SCFAs and further support the notion that Pomella supplementation augments circulating SCFAs through modulation of the gut microbiome as one of the mechanisms,” the authors wrote. Overall, findings suggest that Pomella pomegranate extract consumption supports a healthier gut and gut–body communication, they said.
In addition to the gut microbial findings, the new study found that Pomella supplementation augmented genetic expression for the synthesis of several key amino acids and supported a catabolic state for what is known as the TCA cycle.
The TCA (tricarboxylic acid) cycle is a major energy yielding metabolic pathway in cells which produces adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This, according to authors, has the potential to impact mitochondrial and cellular health, and may be the mechanism by which Pomella improves markers of cardio-metabolic health as seen in prior studies. Given these initial findings in the small group of women, the researchers suggested similar studies with larger cohorts over a longer duration.
“We are thrilled to have this new publication in support of Pomella,” said Kristen Marshall, digital marketing manager for Verdure Sciences. “The support for the gut microbiome, short chain fatty acids, metabolic health, mitochondrial and cellular support are all areas we have seen previous data support. This study helps bolster an already interesting story making it much more compelling now. Tremendous interest continues to build for gut and digestive health, skin support, and beauty-from-within as well as specific gut and skin microbiota and we are honored that Pomella is so well poised to tackle this category’s needs.”
Transforming healthcare, food as medicine
Food as medicine could avert millions of hospitalizations, experts flag.
27 Sep 2023 --- A comprehensive new report endorsed by several esteemed US research institutions has quantified the potential health and economic benefits of Food is Medicine (FIM) – food-based nutrition interventions used in healthcare to treat or prevent chronic diet-related disease.
Incorporating targeted food and nutrition strategies into healthcare on a national level will improve health and quality of life, reduce work for hospitals, and cut healthcare costs, according to experts studying FIM efforts.
“For too long, our medical system has undervalued the importance of food as both treatment and prevention for many serious and chronic illnesses. But this is now starting to change as evidence accumulates about the benefits of effective Food is Medicine interventions, such as those described in our new report,” the report’s senior author, Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and director of the Food is Medicine Institute tells Nutrition Insight.
FIM interventions show tremendous promise for improving nutrition, reducing food insecurity, improving health outcomes and increasing health equity.
“Despite the proven and estimated benefits to patients, healthcare systems, and the economy, FIM interventions are not universally available to healthcare providers as a prescribable intervention, nor to patients as a covered intervention. As a result, FIM is largely unavailable to individuals who might benefit,” Mozaffarian explains.
Preventive nutrition makes economic sense. While Food is Medicine interventions have been known for years, they are not implemented in ways that reach many US citizens.
“The True Cost of Food: Food is Medicine” case study report is the brainchild of researchers at the Food is Medicine Institute at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, through support from The Rockefeller Foundation.
“A broad, overarching recommendation is that we must place a stronger emphasis on providing healthy food as a tool for treating chronic disease and developing the infrastructure needed to support national scaling of FIM interventions,” says Mozaffarian.
“It’s important to share the results of reports like ours through education and outreach to policymakers, advocates, and stakeholders in the health and nutrition research and policy worlds.”
National implementation of Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs) in Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance for patients with both a diet-related condition and limited ability to perform activities of daily living could avert approximately 1.6 million hospitalizations, the data shows.
The net savings of such an endeavor would be around US$13.6 billion in one year of healthcare costs alone. Implementing produce prescription programs for patients with diabetes and food insecurity has the potential to avert 292,000 cardiovascular events.
The strategy could add 260,000 quality-adjusted life years, measuring how well a treatment lengthens or improves patients’ lives. This approach has shown promise in recent years for boosting nutrition and improving health outcomes, reducing food insecurity, and increasing health equity.
“Today’s report further demonstrates how FIM interventions, combined with nutrition education for doctors and insurance coverage of nutrition counseling provided by a registered dietitian, could make a real difference in the 10,000 weekly US deaths and 1.1 trillion dollars in annual healthcare spending and lost productivity due to poor diets,” says Mozaffarian.
Matter of national concern. The report demonstrates the enormous health potential and economic benefits of producing prescription programs and medically tailored meals using FIM.
The report comes in the wake of 2022’s historic White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health and the National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health that highlighted the need to harness the potential of FIM.
The report discusses several potential national policy solutions, organized broadly around developing infrastructure, generating opportunities and funding, and strengthening USDA nutrition programs.
“The true costs of our food system – the environmental impact of how food is produced, the working conditions of the people who grow our food, and the impacts on our health, health care spending and health equity are too often left off the price tag,” laments Devon Klatell, VP, Food Initiative at The Rockefeller Foundation.
“This report can assist governments, companies and consumers in better evaluating the value of FIM interventions by considering not just the price paid for food, but the return on investment in improved health outcomes they can deliver.”
Scientifically sound guidelines
The report findings are built around two studies published in JAMA Network and the Journal of the American Heart Association.
“The association of national expansion of insurance coverage of medically tailored meals with estimated hospitalizations and health care expenditures in the US” is a health and economic evaluation of the true cost of expanding the implementation of MTMs nationally.
“The health and economic impacts of implementing produce prescription programs for diabetes in the United States: A microsimulation study” is a health and economic evaluation of the true cost of expanding the implementation of produce prescriptions nationally for adults with diabetes and food insecurity.
In 2021, it was addressed that a shift toward food as medicine could help address a host of chronic diseases that are on an upward trend, according to Susan Benigas, the executive director of The American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM).
By Inga de Jong
three types of knee pain in primary care
Knee Pain
Three Tyes of Knee Pain in Primary Care
Matthew F. Watto, MD; Paul N. Williams, MD October 24, 2023
This transcript has been edited for clarity.
Matthew F. Watto, MD: Welcome back to The Curbsiders. I'm Dr Matthew Watto, here with my great friend, Dr Paul Nelson Williams, America's primary care physician. It's fitting that we're going to be talking about knee pain, a very common complaint in your primary care clinic.
Paul N. Williams, MD: I think it's the number-two musculoskeletal complaint. Back pain will always be number one.
Watto: I've heard of this thing called patellofemoral pain syndrome, but I don't really know how to recognize it. When might you think of this diagnosis in your clinic?
Williams: Otherwise known as anterior knee pain, it's typically caused by maltracking of the patella as the knee flexes and extends. When you ask patients, they will say that it's worse when squatting, descending stairs, or rising from a seated position. All of those actions put a lot of pressure on the joints, resulting in pain. Anterior knee pain tends not to be well characterized.
Another historical feature is the "theatergoer sign": When you've been sitting for a long period of time with your needs hyperflexed, you are in agony when you stand up.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome tends to happen more in women than men because of the configuration of their joints; they have a wider so-called Q angle.
Watto: It's wider because of how the hip and knee are connected in women. Wider hips pull the joint from a different angle.
I love the theatergoer sign. It also happens in stadiums where the seats don't provide much legroom. You have to curl your heels under your seat, and that pulls the patella sharply against the femur. It hurts when you stand up.
How do we treat anterior knee pain — surgery?
Williams: You know the saying: "A chance to cut is a chance to cure." Dr [Ted] Parks is a surgeon, but he says not to refer these patients for surgery if you can avoid it. The treatment is primarily stretching, trying to loosen things up. Tightness is a driver of this condition, so the patient should do hamstring stretches, bringing their heel to their butt and stretching that way. He also mentioned medial strengthening with an exercise bike. There are some fancy hinge braces and boots but he doesn't recommend any of them routinely. It's mostly stretching and exercise.
Watto: That was fascinating. Cycling strengthens your quadriceps muscles and seems to help with the alignment. To look for alignment problems, you can order an x-ray called the "sunrise view" or "merchant's view," which gives a top-down view of the kneecap. The patella should be sitting between the heads of the femur, and you can tell if it tracks off to one side, or you may see jagged osteophytes, which could also cause pain.
I usually get that view. It's nice to show a visual to the patient about what may be causing their pain.
Let's say a patient comes in to the office of America's primary care physician. They heard about you and saw the billboards all around Hershey, Pennsylvania. They are pointing to the middle of their knee, 2-3 inches below the joint line, saying, "It hurts right here." What might that be?
Williams: That medial inferior to the joint line point tenderness is consistent with pes anserine bursitis. There's a bursa there. Dr Parks described it as a "bony wasteland." You walk your fingers down and feel the bone. If you find the tender spot, then you have a pretty good idea of what's causing the pain.
Let's say you make the diagnosis based on palpation. It's a fairly straightforward diagnosis. What can you do to help this patient?
Watto: Three tendons insert there. Two of them are hamstring tendons, so hamstring stretches can help. This type of bursitis is so close to the surface that topical NSAIDs might help. In general, Dr Parks is not a fan of them; we've asked him every time he's on the podcast, but he tells us that we can try, but they don't work very well. In this case, being close to the surface, topical NSAIDs might work.
You can also inject cortisone. He has the patient indicate the point of maximal tenderness and gives the injection. Whether it's a tendonitis or pes anserine bursitis doesn't matter; the treatment should help.
The last thing that I want to talk about, because this is a bit more vexing and complicated, is the patient who has knee pain after knee replacement. It should be getting better; why are they still having pain?
Williams: Dr Parks differentiates between the patient who doesn't get better and has constant pain — they are never happy with the knee replacement; and the patient who has a great initial result and then the pain recurs. It's not arthritis, because the joint is gone. With the latter, you start thinking about potential late-stage surgical complications. And we went down a deep rabbit hole as to what those might look like. Let's focus on the patient whose pain recurs after a good result. What kinds of things should we think about?
Watto: Could the hardware be loosening? That can be aseptic or caused by an infection. You order an x-ray or a bone scan to look for lucency around the hardware. Several years after surgery, you should see activity around the implant. If you do, that would be a reason to go in and remove or revise the implant, because it's not going to get better.
The surgeon can also determine whether it's aseptic or infected by sending material for culture. If you don't see any loosening on imaging, then you can get a CRP and ESR, which are pretty sensitive for inflammation. If elevated, you can aspirate and look for infection, and then you get into antibiotics and spacers and things like that.
We shouldn't forget that the patient's knee wore out, so another joint could also be worn out. We should look at the hip. We can do the windshield-wiper test, in which the patient sits on the edge of the table with their hips flexed at 90 degrees. You move their heel back and forth to see if that action causes hip pain. You don't want to miss hip pain as a cause of knee pain.
Williams: Hopefully the surgeon is also doing that before they replace a knee. But it's true — a patient who has knee arthritis can also develop hip arthritis. You are allowed to have both, and many patients do.
Watto: This is just a little taste of what we talked about with Dr Parks on the podcast Kneedful Things: Knee Pain With Dr Ted Parks.