The Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Glucose Metabolism,Lipid Profiles,Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Patients With Diabetic Nephropathy: A Randomized,Double-Blind,Placebo-Controlled Trial

Objective: Data on the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, inflammation, and oxidative stress in subjects with diabetic nephropathy (DN) are scarce. This research was done to determine the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on metabolic status in subjects with DN.

Methods: This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was done in 50 subjects with DN. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups to intake either 100 mg/day CoQ10 supplements (n = 25) or placebo (n = 25) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were obtained at first and after 12-week intervention to quantify metabolic profiles.

Results: After 12 weeks of treatment, compared with the placebo, CoQ10 supplementation resulted in significant decreases in serum insulin levels (?3.4 ± 6.8 vs +0.8 ± 6.4 µIU/mL, p = 0.02), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (?1.0 ± 2.0 vs +0.2 ± 1.8, p = 0.03), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated B cell function (?12.3 ± 26.3 vs +3.5 ± 23.1, p = 0.02) and HbA1c (?1.1 ± 1.0 vs ?0.1 ± 0.2%, p < 0.001), and a significant improvement in quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+0.009 ± 0.01 vs ?0.006 ± 0.01, p = 0.01). In addition, CoQ10 supplementation significantly decreased plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) (?0.6 ± 0.5 vs +0.5 ± 1.0 µmol/L, p < 0.001) and advanced glycation end products levels (AGEs) (?316.4 ± 380.9 vs +318.6 ± 732.0 AU, p < 0.001) compared with the placebo. Supplementation with CoQ10had no significant impacts on fasting plasma glucose (FPG), lipid profiles, and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) compared with the placebo.

Conclusions: Taken together, our study demonstrated that CoQ10 supplementation for 12 weeks among DN patients had favorable effects on glucose metabolism, MDA, and AGEs levels, but unchanged FPG, lipid profiles, and MMP-2 concentrations.     

Effects of a 12-Week Lifestyle Intervention on Health Outcome and Serum Adipokines in Middle-Aged Korean Men with Borderline High Blood Pressure

Background: High blood pressure, in relation to blood levels of adipokines such as adiponectin and leptin, is highly associated with an unhealthy lifestyle including sedentary behaviors, poor dietary habits such as excess sodium intake, and heavy drinking. Strategies to reduce blood pressure may benefit the levels of adipokines.

Objective: Thus, we aimed to investigate the effects of lifestyle intervention on blood pressure and serum adipokines in middle-aged Korean men with borderline high blood pressure (systolic blood pressure [SBP] ≥ 130 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure [DBP] ≥ 85 mm Hg).

Methods: Fifty-two men (aged 42.5 ± 8.5 years) with normal weight (body mass index [BMI] < 25 kg/m²) and high BP (NH group) and 40 men (age 42.0 ± 8.4 years) who were obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) with high BP (OH group) underwent 5 sessions of one-on-one intensive counseling including instruction on a nutritionally balanced diet, a low-sodium diet, how to understand calorie requirements, and strategies to implement regular exercise for blood pressure regulation over 12 weeks. In order to increase the awareness of sodium education, a salt sensory test using an unseasoned soup was performed. Anthropometrics, blood pressure measurements, 24-hour recalls were performed, and blood levels of lipids, fasting plasma glucose, C-reactive protein (CRP), leptin, and adiponectin were analyzed at week 0 and at week 12. Sodium consumption was roughly estimated using the Dish-based Frequency Questionnaire–15.

Results: Weight, BMI, body fat (kg and %), waist circumference, hip circumference, and blood pressure were significantly decreased after 12 weeks (p < 0.05) in all subjects. Similarly, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and CRP were decreased (p < 0.05), but LDL-C/HDL-C was significantly decreased (p < 0.01) only in the obese subjects. At baseline, blood levels of leptin were significantly higher in the obese subjects than in the normal weight subjects. In the obese subjects, a significantly negative correlation was found between leptin levels at baseline and percentage change in DBP (r = –0.338, p < 0.05). After 12 weeks, blood levels of adipokines did not show significant changes.

Conclusions: These results suggest that a short-term (12 weeks) lifestyle intervention had positive effects on blood pressure control and weight reduction in the subjects, but not on their blood levels of adipokines. It is interesting that blood level of baseline leptin was negatively associated with the changes in blood pressure after this short-term intervention.     

Leptin,adiponectin, and short-term and long-term weight loss after a lifestyle intervention in obese children

ObjectiveIn overweight children, high leptin levels are independently associated with higher risk for cardiovascular disease, whereas adiponectin seems to be protective against type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. The study examines the predictive value of leptin for weight loss after a 4- to 6-wk inpatient therapy and again after 1 y; as well as the association among weight loss, leptin, and adiponectin levels and changes in cardiometabolic risk factors after therapy.MethodsBody mass index (BMI), blood pressure, Tanner stage, and cardiometabolic risk factors were studied in 402 children (59.2% females, 13.9 ± 2.3 y, BMI 33.8 ± 5.7 kg/m²) before and after a 4-to 6-wk inpatient intervention (exercise, diet, and behavioral therapy) and BMI 1 y later (n = 206).ResultsBMI was reduced from 33.8 ± 5.7 to 30.5 ± 5.1 kg/m² (P < 0.001) during the lifestyle intervention and remained unchanged after 1 y. Baseline BMI was positively associated with leptin (r = 0.60; P < 0.001) and cardiometabolic risk factors (blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol, triglycerides). Baseline leptin was associated with BMI and triglycerides (r = 0.39; P < 0.001), baseline adiponectin with HDL-cholesterol (r = 0.40; P < 0.001). Baseline BMI explained 40.7% of the variance in weight loss during therapy. The combination of BMI, sex, and leptin explained 50.4% of the variance. Neither BMI nor leptin predicted weight changes over the long term.ConclusionsOverweight children maintained a substantial amount of weight loss after participation in a short-term inpatient lifestyle intervention. Baseline BMI was positively associated with weight reduction during the intervention, whereas baseline leptin had only a minor predictive value.     

Editorial

Aim: Compare the long-term effects of an energy-restricted very low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LC) diet with an isocaloric high-carbohydrate, low-fat (HC) diet on exercise tolerance and capacity in overweight and obese adults.

Methods: Seventy-six adults (25 males; age 49.2 ± 1.1 years; BMI 33.6 ± 0.5 kg/m²) were randomized to either a hypocaloric (6–7 MJ/day) LC diet (35% protein, 4% carbohydrate, 61% fat) or isocaloric HC diet (24% protein, 46% carbohydrate, 30% fat) for 52 weeks. Pre- and postintervention, participants’ body weight and composition, handgrip, and isometric knee extensor strength were assessed and participants performed an incremental exercise test to exhaustion.

Results: Forty-three participants completed the study (LC = 23; HC = 20). Overall, peak relative oxygen uptake increased (+11.3%) and reductions occurred in body weight (?14.6%), body fat percentage (?6.9% [absolute]), isometric knee extensor strength (?12.4%), handgrip strength (?4.5%), and absolute peak oxygen uptake (?5.2%; p ≤ 0.02 time for all) with no diet effect (p ≥ 0.18). During submaximal exercise, rating of perceived exertion did not change in either group (p = 0.16 time, p = 0.59 Time × Group). Compared to the HC diet, the LC diet had greater reductions in respiratory exchange ratio (LC ?0.04 ± 0.01, HC ?0.00 ± 0.01; p = 0.03), and increased fat oxidation (LC 15.0 ± 5.3% [of energy expenditure], HC 0.5 ± 3.9%; p = 0.04).

Conclusion: In overweight and obese patients, an LC diet promoted greater fat utilization during submaximal exercise. Both an LC diet and an HC diet had similar effects on aerobic capacity and muscle strength, suggesting that long-term consumption of an LC weight loss diet does not adversely affect physical function or the ability to perform exercise.     

TNFα blockade for inflammatory rheumatic diseases is associated with a significant gain in android fat mass and has varying effects on adipokines: a 2-year prospective study

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term consequences of TNFα inhibitors on body composition and fat distribution, as well as changes in serum adipokines in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

Eight patients with RA and twelve with AS requiring a TNFα inhibitor were prospectively followed for 2 years. Body composition was evaluated by dual X-ray absorptiometry and included measurements of total fat mass, lean mass, fat in the gynoid and android regions, and visceral fat. Serum leptin, total and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin, resistin, and ghrelin were also assessed.

Results

There was a significant gain in body mass index (p = 0.05) and a tendency for weight (p = 0.07), android fat (p = 0.07), and visceral fat (p = 0.059) increase in patients with RA, while in AS, total fat mass significantly increased (p = 0.02) with a parallel weight gain (p = 0.07). When examining the whole population of patients, we observed after 2 years a significant increase in body weight (+1.9 %; p = 0.003), body mass index (+2.5 %; p = 0.004), total fat mass (+11.1 %; p = 0.007), and fat in the android region (+18.3 %; p = 0.02). There was a substantial, albeit nonsignificant gain in visceral fat (+24.3 %; p = 0.088). Lean mass and gynoid fat were not modified. No major changes were observed for serum leptin, total adiponectin, and ghrelin, while HMW adiponectin and the HMW/total adiponectin ratio tended to decrease (?15.2 %, p = 0.057 and ?9.3 %, p = 0.067, respectively). Resistin decreased significantly (?22.4 %, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Long-term TNFα inhibition in RA and AS is associated with a significant gain in fat mass, with a shift to the android (visceral) region. This fat redistribution raises questions about its influence on the cardiovascular profile of patients receiving these treatments.     

Effects of Various Forms of Calcium on Body Weight and Bone Turnover Markers in Women Participating in a Weight Loss Program

Objective: This study examined the effects of calcium intake on body weight, body fat, and markers of bone turnover in pre-menopausal adult women undergoing a 12 week weight loss program of diet and exercise.

Methods: Subjects were prescribed a 12 week diet with a 500 Kcal restriction containing about 750 mg calcium/day, exercised 3 times/week, and were given either placebo capsules, capsules of calcium lactate or calcium phosphate (daily dose about 800 mg calcium), or low fat milk (daily dose about 800 mg calcium). Subjects completed and returned daily diet diaries weekly.

Results: Daily calcium intake in mg from diet records + supplement assignment was: 788 ± 175 (placebo), 1698 ± 210 (Ca lactate), 1566 ± 250 (Ca phosphate), 1514 ± 225 (milk)(no significant differences among the calcium and milk groups). Each group had statistically significant changes in body weight (p < 0.01), but there were no significant differences among groups for the weight loss: 5.8 ± 0.8 kg (placebo), 4.1 ± 0.7 kg (Ca lactate), 5.4 ± 1.3 kg (Ca phosphate), 4.2 ± 0.8 kg (milk). Body fat was changed significantly in each group (p < 0.01), with milk group showing a little less change than the other groups. Serum bone specific alkaline phophatase activity, a bone synthesis marker, increased similarly in all groups (p < 0.001 within groups, no significance for changes among groups). In contrast, the Ca lactate group, but not other groups, had a drop in urine values for alpha helical peptide, a bone resorption marker (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: For the conditions of this study, increased calcium intake, by supplement or milk, did not enhance loss of body weight or fat, though calcium lactate supplementation lowered values for a marker of bone degradation.     

Adiponectin/leptin ratio increases after a 12-week very low-carbohydrate,high-fat diet,and exercise training in healthy individuals: A non-randomized,parallel design study

This study aimed to investigate the effect of a 12-week very low-carbohydrate, high-fat (VLCHF) diet and exercise on biomarkers of inflammation in healthy individuals. Since the anti-inflammatory effects of a ketogenic diet have been established, we hypothesized that the VLCHF diet, along with exercise, would have an additional favorable effect on biomarkers of inflammation. Twenty-four healthy individuals were allocated to the VLCHF diet (VLCHF: N = 12, age 25.3 ± 2.0 years, body mass 66.7 ± 9.8 kg, fat mass 21.5% ± 4.9%), or habitual diet (HD: N = 12, age 23.9 ± 3.8 years, body mass 72.7 ± 15.0 kg, fat mass 23.4 ± 8.4 %) group. Biomarkers of inflammation (adiponectin, leptin, and high-sensitive interleukin-6 [hs-IL-6]) and substrate metabolism (glycated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, triacylglycerides, and cholesterol) were analyzed from blood at baseline and after 12 weeks. The adiponectin-leptin ratio significantly increased in the VLCHF group after the intervention period (ES [95% CL]: −0.90 [−0.96, −0.77], P ≤ .001, BF₁₀ = 22.15). The adiponectin-leptin ratio changes were associated with both a significant increase in adiponectin (−0.79 [−0.91, −0.54], P ≤ .001, BF₁₀ = 9.43) and a significant decrease in leptin (0.58 [0.19, 0.81], P = .014, BF₁₀ = 2.70). There was moderate evidence of changes in total cholesterol (−1.15 [−2.01, −0.27], P = .010, BF₁₀ = 5.20), and LDL cholesterol (−1.12 [−2.01, −0.21], P = .016, BF₁₀ = 4.56) in the VLCHF group. Body weight (kg) and fat mass (%) decreased in the VLCHF group by 5.4% and 14.9%, respectively. We found that in healthy young individuals, consuming a VLCHF diet while performing regular exercise over a 12-week period produced favorable changes in body weight and fat mass along with beneficial changes in serum adiponectin and leptin concentrations. These data support the use of a VLCHF diet strategy for the primary prevention of chronic diseases associated with systemic low-grade inflammation.     

Functions of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Liver Enzymes,Markers of Systemic Inflammation,and Adipokines in Patients Affected by Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Double-Blind,Placebo-Controlled,Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disorder related to inflammation. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural compound that has recently been considered as an anti-inflammatory factor. In the current study we aimed to evaluate the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on liver enzymes, inflammation status, and adipokines in patients with NAFLD.

Methods: Forty-one subjects with NAFLD participated in the current randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The participants were randomly divided into 2 groups: one group received CoQ10 capsules (100 mg once a day) and the other received placebo for 12 weeks. Blood samples of each patient were taken before and after the 12-week intervention period for measurement of liver aminotransferases, inflammatory biomarkers, and adipokines (adiponectin and leptin).

Results: Taking 100 mg CoQ10 supplement daily resulted in a significant decrease in liver aminotransferases (aspartate aminotransferase [AST] and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase [GGT]), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor α, and the grades of NAFLD in the CoQ10 group in comparison to the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, patients who received CoQ10 supplement had higher serum levels of adiponectin (p = 0.016) and considerable changes in serum leptin (p = 0.053). However, no significant changes occurred in serum levels of interleukin-6 in both groups.

Conclusion: The present study suggested that CoQ10 supplement at a dosage of 100 mg could be effective for improving the systemic inflammation and biochemical variables in NAFLD.     

Effect of Galactose Ingestion Before and During Exercise on Substrate Oxidation,Postexercise Satiety,and Subsequent Energy Intake in Females

Objective: To examine the effects of consuming a galactose carbohydrate (CHO) drink on substrate oxidation, postexercise satiety, and subsequent energy intake.

Methods: Nine recreationally active eumenorrheic females undertook 3 trials, each consisting of running for 60 minutes at 65% VO_2peak followed immediately by a 90-minute rest period. Prior to (300 ml) and at 15-minute intervals during exercise (150 ml), participants consumed either a glucose (GLU: GI 89) or galactose (GAL: GI 20) drink, each of which contained 45 g of CHO, or an artificially sweetened placebo (PLA). Following the rest period, participants were provided with an ad libitum test lunch and asked to record food intake for the remainder of the day.

Results: Plasma glucose was significantly greater throughout exercise and rest following the GLU trial compared with the GAL and PLA trials (P < 0.05); however there were no differences in CHO oxidation. Hunger was significantly lower (P < 0.05) throughout the GAL compared to the GLU and PLA trials. There were no significant differences between trials for energy intake during the postexercise meal. Overall net energy balance for the 24 hours was negative in both the GAL (?162 ± 115 kcal; P < 0.05 vs GLU) and PLA trials (?49 ± 160 kcal).

Conclusions: Results demonstrate that ingesting a solution containing GAL before and during exercise can positively impact postexercise satiety and energy balance throughout the day, compared to a more readily available and widely consumed form of CHO. Despite this, there appears to be no apparent benefit in consuming a CHO beverage on fuel utilization for this moderate exercise intensity and duration.     

Influence of Energy Balance and Glycemic Index on Metabolic Endotoxemia in Healthy Men

Objective: Overfeeding with a high-fat and/or high-carbohydrate (CHO) diet is known to increase plasma concentrations of endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide [LPS]) that may lead to metabolic disturbances like insulin resistance. The impact of CHO quality (i.e., the glycemic index [GI]) independent of fat intake on metabolic endotoxemia remains unclear. In the present study, the effects of changes in energy balance and GI on plasma endotoxin were studied.

Methods: Fifteen healthy young men overconsumed diets containing 65% CHO and 20% fat for 1 week (OF; +50% of energy requirement) followed by 3 weeks of caloric restriction (CR; ?50% of energy requirement) and were then randomized to 2 weeks hypercaloric refeeding (RF, +50% of energy requirement) with either a low- or high-GI (40 vs 74) diet.

Results: During OF, subjects gained 1.9 ± 0.7 kg body weight (+0.6 ± 0.8% fat mass) followed by a weight loss of 6.1 ± 0.8 kg (?2.0 ± 0.6% fat mass) and weight regain of 4.0 ± 0.6 kg (0.9 ± 0.8% fat mass). Fasting insulin and homeostasis model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA_IR) increased with OF and RF and decreased with CR, Matsuda_ISI decreased by 37% after RF (all p < 0.05). Endotoxin significantly increased by 30.8% with OF and by 24.7% with RF (both p < 0.05), whereas CR normalized endotoxin levels. No difference in endotoxin levels was observed between refeeding a hypercaloric high- or low-GI diet. Changes in endotoxin levels with RF were not related to changes in insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion: A hypercaloric diet (OF and RF) increased plasma endotoxin irrespective of GI, whereas a negative energy balance did not reduce endotoxemia. Impaired insulin sensitivity with hypercaloric refeeding on a high-GI diet was not explained by metabolic endotoxemia.     

Determinants of plasma adiponectin levels in patients with anorexia nervosa examined before and after weight gain

Summary Objective To examine the determinants of adiponectin levels (i) in 23 women with anorexia nervosa (mean BMI 15.0 ± 1.2) and 43 healthy normal weight females (mean BMI 22.3 ± 2.3; cross–sectional design) as well as (ii) after six and twelve weeks of weight gain in subgroups of 18 and 11 anorectic patients (mean weight gain 5.8kg; longitudinal design). Plasma adiponectin and leptin concentrations were measured and their relationships to body composition (fat mass by bioelectrical impedance analysis and anthropometrics), different hormones and metabolic parameters (insulin, ACTH, cortisol, glucose, FFA, lipid profile) were investigated. Results In anorectic patients, adiponectin levels were higher (+29 %) and leptin levels were lower (–75 %) than in control subjects. There was a high variance in adiponectin levels in patients ranging from 2.6 to 18nM. Combining patients and controls, an inverse linear correlation was observed between adiponectin levels and fat mass (r = –0.36, p < 0.05), while a positive exponential relation was found between leptin levels and fat mass (r = 0.82, p < 0.001). In anorectic patients, there were no significant correlations between adiponectin and hormonal or metabolic parameters. Weight gain resulted in increasing leptin (+0.17 ± 0.12nM; p < 0.001) and a nonsignificant decrease in adiponectin concentrations (–1.12 ± 2.51nM). Changes in leptin levels were mainly explained by a gain in fat mass (r = 0.85, p < 0.001). In contrast, changes in adiponectin levels were closely linked to initial adiponectin levels (r = –0.84, p < 0.001) but not to changes in fat mass or BMI. Conclusion Cross–sectionally serum adiponectin concentration followed a linear inverse function with fat mass when patients and controls were combined. Longitudinally gain in fat mass was not associated with changes in adiponectin levels suggesting other yet unidentified influences on adiponectin secretion in anorexia nervosa.     

The Effects of Fortetropin Supplementation on Body Composition,Strength, and Power in Humans and Mechanism of Action in a Rodent Model

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Fortetropin on skeletal muscle growth and strength in resistance-trained individuals and to investigate the anabolic and catabolic signaling effects using human and rodent models.

Methods: In the rodent model, male Wistar rats (250 g) were gavage fed with either 1.2 ml of tap water control (CTL) or 0.26 g Fortetropin for 8 days. Then rats participated in a unilateral plantarflexion exercise bout. Nonexercised and exercised limbs were harvested at 180 minutes following and analyzed for gene and protein expression relative to mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and ubiquitin signaling. For the human model, 45 (of whom 37 completed the study), resistance-trained college-aged males were divided equally into 3 groups receiving a placebo macronutrient matched control, 6.6 or 19.8 g of Fortetropin supplementation during 12 weeks of resistance training. Lean mass, muscle thickness, and lower and upper body strength were measured before and after 12 weeks of training.

Results: The human study results indicated a Group × Time effect (p ≤ 0.05) for lean mass in which the 6.6 g (+1.7 kg) and 19.8 g (+1.68 kg) but not placebo (+0.6 kg) groups increased lean mass. Similarly, there was a Group × Time effect for muscle thickness (p ≤ 0.05), which increased in the experimental groups only. All groups increased equally in bench press and leg press strength. In the rodent model, a main effect for exercise (p ≤ 0.05) in which the control plus exercise but not Fortetropin plus exercise increased both ubiquitin monomer protein expression and polyubiquitination. mTOR signaling was elevated to a greater extent in the Fortetropin exercising conditions as indicated by greater phosphorylation status of 4EBP1, rp6, and p70S6K for both exercising conditions.

Conclusions: Fortetropin supplementation increases lean body mass (LBM) and decreases markers of protein breakdown while simultaneously increasing mTOR signaling.     

Changes in plasma adipokines in prepubertal children with a history of extrauterine growth restriction

ObjectiveBecause nutritional support in perinatal life has been associated with metabolic programming, children with a history of extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) might display alterations in the adipocyte and in the secretion of adipokines. The aim of this study was to assess adiponectin, resistin, and leptin concentrations in prepubertal children with a history of EUGR, and to determine the potential correlation between these adipokines and metabolic parameters.MethodsThis case–control study sample included 38 prepubertal children with a history of EUGR and a control group of 123 healthy children of similar age and sex. Anthropometric measures and blood pressure were assessed. Biochemical markers and blood adipokine concentrations (adiponectin, resistin, and leptin) were evaluated.ResultsAdiponectin concentration was significantly lower in the EUGR group compared with controls (EUGR: 11.49 ± 6.07 versus control: 25.72 ± 10.13 μg/mL), and resistin concentration was higher (EUGR: 20332.95 ± 6401.25 versus control: 8056.31 ± 3823.63 pg/mL), even after adjustment for gestational age, weight, and size at birth. Systolic blood pressure was associated with adipokines concentrations in the EUGR group (P < 0.001). In EUGR children adiponectin was associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.042), whereas resistin was associated with carbohydrate metabolism parameters (P < 0.001).ConclusionsEarly postnatal malnutrition in EUGR children could program adipose tissue. Plasma adipokines can be measured in childhood to identify precocious changes that may be associated with a higher risk for metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular disease later in life.     

Short-term Effects of Green Tea on Blood Pressure,Endothelial Function,and Metabolic Profile in Obese Prehypertensive Women: A Crossover Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Green tea consumption has been inversely associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in epidemiological studies. Although some interventional trials suggest that green tea has beneficial effects on CVD risk factors, such as hypertension and obesity, others have failed to show such benefits.

Aims: To evaluate the short-term effects of green tea on blood pressure, endothelial function, metabolic profile, and inflammatory activity in obese prehypertensive women.

Methods: This study was a crossover, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants were randomly allocated to receive daily 3 capsules containing either 500 mg of green tea extract (GTE) or a matching placebo for 4 weeks, with a washout period of 2 weeks between treatments. Each GTE capsule contained 260 mg of polyphenols. At the beginning and at the end of each treatment, participants were submitted to evaluation of blood pressure (ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, ABPM), endothelial function (Endo-PAT 2000 and cellular adhesion molecules), nutritional parameters, metabolic profile, and biomarkers of inflammation.

Results: Twenty women age 41.1 ± 8.4 years completed the study. After 4 weeks of GTE supplementation in comparison with placebo, there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in systolic blood pressure at 24 hours (?3.61 ± 1.23 vs 1.05 ± 1.34 mmHg), daytime (?3.61 ± 1.26 vs 0.80 ± 1.57 mmHg), and nighttime (?3.94 ± 1.70 vs 1.90 ± 1.66 mmHg). Changes in diastolic blood pressure and in all other parameters did not present a significant difference between GTE and placebo.

Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that in obese prehypertensive women, short-term daily intake of GTE may decrease blood pressure.     

Effect of Low-Energy-Dense Diet Rich in Multiple Functional Foods on Weight-Loss Maintenance,Inflammation, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: There are no investigations regarding the effects of consuming low-energy-dense diets rich in multiple functional foods on weight-loss maintenance, inflammatory markers, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors simultaneously.

Method: This randomized controlled trial design was conducted on 90 men and women who were under a previous weight loss diet. Three months of intervention with recruitment at Allzahra Hospital, Isfahan, Iran, was done. Intervention was conducted following achieving 7–11 kg weight loss. Participants were encouraged to consumed these three: an isocaloric control diet (50% of energy from carbohydrate, 35% from fat, 15% from protein), a low-glycemic-index diet (LE) (60% from carbohydrate, 25% from fat, and 15% from protein), and a low-glycemic-index diet rich in multiple functional foods (LE + FF) (60% from carbohydrate, 25% from fat, and 15% from protein). Fasting blood glucose, serum insulin level, lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, adiponectin, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and anthropometric measurements were assessed using standard guidelines.

Results: The percent changes of weight, waist, and body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, malondialdehyde (MDA), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglyceride, and fasting blood glucose (FBS) were substantially more decreased in the LE + FF group compared to the LE and control groups (p ≤ 0.03). Percent change of adiponectin among the LE + FF group was significantly more enhanced (7.29 ± 0.10) compared with the LE group (1.28 ± 0.20) (p = 0.001). Significantly more increment in the percent change of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (6.91 ± 0.10) was obtained among the LE + FF group compared to the LE group (1.79 ± 0.04).

Conclusions: This study provides established evidence supporting the beneficial effects of a low-energy-dense diet rich in multiple functional foods diet on improving weight-loss maintenance, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk factors.     

The Consumption of Synbiotic Bread Containing Lactobacillus sporogenes and Inulin Affects Nitric Oxide and Malondialdehyde in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Randomized,Double-Blind,Placebo-Controlled Trial

Objectives: To our knowledge, no reports are available indicating the effects of synbiotic bread consumption on nitric oxide (NO), biomarkers of oxidative stress, and liver enzymes among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study was performed to determine the effects of the daily consumption of synbiotic bread on NO, biomarkers of oxidative stress, and liver enzymes in patients with T2DM.

Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed among 81 patients with diabetes, aged 35–70 years old. After a 2-week run-in period, patients were randomly divided into 3 groups: group A (n = 27) received synbiotic bread containing viable and the heat-resistant probiotic Lactobacillus sporogenes (1 × 10⁸ CFU) and 0.07 g inulin per 1 g, group B (n = 27) received probiotic bread containing Lactobacillus sporogenes (1 × 10⁸ CFU), and group C (n = 27) received control bread for 8 weeks. Patients were asked to consume the synbiotic, probiotic, or control breads 3 times a day in 40 g packages for a total of 120 g/day. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after an 8-week intervention for quantificationof related markers.

Results: After 8 weeks, the consumption of synbiotic bread compared to the probiotic and control breads resulted in a significant rise in plasma NO (40.6 ± 34.4 vs 18.5 ± 36.2 and ?0.8 ± 24.5 µmol/L, respectively, p < 0.001) and a significant reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (?0.7 ± 0.7 vs 0.6 ± 1.7 and 0.5 ± 1.5 µmol/L, respectively, p = 0.001). We did not find any significant effect of the synbiotic bread consumption on plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC), plasma glutathione (GSH), catalase, serum liver enzymes, calcium, iron, magnesium levels, and blood pressure compared to the probiotic and control breads.

Conclusion: In conclusion, consumption of the synbiotic bread for 8 weeks among patients with T2DM had beneficial effects on plasma NO and MDA levels; however, it did not affect plasma TAC, GSH, catalase levels, serum liver enzymes, calcium, iron, magnesium levels, and blood pressure.     

Nutritional dwarfing: growth,dieting, and fear of obesity.

Objective: Current methods for measuring regional body fat are expensive and inconvenient compared to the relative cost-effectiveness and ease of use of a stereovision body imaging (SBI) system. The primary goal of this research is to develop prediction models for android and gynoid fat by body measurements assessed via SBI and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Subsequently, mathematical equations for prediction of total and regional (trunk, leg) body adiposity were established via parameters measured by SBI and DXA.

Methods: A total of 121 participants were randomly assigned into primary and cross-validation groups. Body measurements were obtained via traditional anthropometrics, SBI, and DXA. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to develop mathematical equations by demographics and SBI assessed body measurements as independent variables and body adiposity (fat mass and percentage fat) as dependent variables. The validity of the prediction models was evaluated by a split sample method and Bland-Altman analysis.

Results: The R² of the prediction equations for fat mass and percentage body fat were 93.2% and 76.4% for android and 91.4% and 66.5% for gynoid, respectively. The limits of agreement for the fat mass and percentage fat were ?0.06 ± 0.87 kg and ?0.11% ± 1.97% for android and ?0.04 ± 1.58 kg and ?0.19% ± 4.27% for gynoid. Prediction values for fat mass and percentage fat were 94.6% and 88.9% for total body, 93.9% and 71.0% for trunk, and 92.4% and 64.1% for leg, respectively.

Conclusions: The three-dimensional (3D) SBI produces reliable parameters that can predict android and gynoid as well as total and regional (trunk, leg) fat mass.     

No association of defined variability in leptin,leptin receptor,adiponectin, proopiomelanocortin and ghrelin gene with food preferences in the Czech population

Abstract

Background: Previously, it has been reported that mutations in the genes encoding for adipokines may be associated with impaired food intake and may serve as potential obesity biomarkers. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible associations of defined variability in leptin, leptin receptor, adiponectin, proopiomelanocortin and ghrelin genes with food preferences in the obese and non-obese Czech population and evaluate their potential as the obesity susceptibility genes.

Patients and Methods: Using PCR followed by restriction analysis, we studied 185 volunteers. Basic anthropometrical characteristics associated to obesity were measured and the food intake was monitored using a 7-day record method. In the group of obese individuals, a subset of 34 morbidly obese patients was studied for plasma leptin and soluble leptin receptor levels.

Results: None of the examined polymorphisms was associated to anthropometrical or demographic characteristics of the study subjects. The Gln223Arg polymorphism within the leptin receptor gene was significantly associated with lower plasma leptin levels (the RR genotype being more frequent in patients with lower plasma leptin levels; P = 0.001). No associations of the examined polymorphisms with food preferences was observed.

Conclusions: Based on our results, the examined polymorphisms in the adipokine genes do not seem to be the major risk factor for obesity development in the Czech population nor significantly affect food preferences.