Pistachio Nuts Reduce Triglycerides and Body Weight by Comparison to Refined Carbohydrate Snack in Obese Subjects on a 12-Week Weight Loss Program

Objective: There is a widely held view that, due to high fat content, snacking on nuts will lead to weight gain, ultimately causing unhealthy changes in lipid profiles. This study is designed to study the effects of pistachio snack consumption on body weight and lipid levels in obese participants under real-world conditions.

Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to consume 1 of 2 isocaloric weight reduction diets for 12 weeks, with each providing 500 cal per day less than resting metabolic rate. Each diet included an afternoon snack of either 53 g (240 cal) of salted pistachios (n = 31) or 56 g of salted pretzels (220 cal; n = 28).

Results: Both groups lost weight during the 12-week study (time trend, p < 0.001), but there were significant differences in the changes in body mass index between the pretzel and pistachio groups (pistachio, 30.1 ± 0.4 to 28.8 ± 0.4 vs. pretzel, 30.9 ± 0.4 to 30.3 ± 0.5). At 6 and 12 weeks, triglycerides were significantly lower in the pistachio group compared with the pretzel group (88.04 ± 9.80 mg/dL vs. 144.56 ± 18.86 mg/dL, p = 0.01 at 6 weeks and 88.10 ± 6.78 mg/dL vs. 132.15 ± 16.76 mg/dL, p = 0.02 at 12 weeks), and there was a time trend difference between the 2 groups over the 12 weeks (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin, or glucose between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: Pistachios can be consumed as a portion-controlled snack for individuals restricting calories to lose weight without concern that pistachios will cause weight gain. By comparison to refined carbohydrate snacks such as pretzels, pistachios may have beneficial effects on triglycerides as well.     

Dietary Milled Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil Improve N-3 Fatty Acid Status and Do Not Affect Glycemic Control in Individuals with Well-Controlled Type 2 Diabetes

Objective: To determine the effects of dietary consumption of milled flaxseed or flaxseed oil on glycemic control, n-3 fatty acid status, anthropometrics, and adipokines in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Design: Thirty-four participants were randomized into a parallel, controlled trial.

Subjects: The participants were adults with type 2 diabetes (age 52.4 ± 1.5 years, body mass index 32.4 ± 1.0 kg/m², n = 17 men and 17 women).

Interventions: Participants consumed a selection of bakery products containing no flax (control group [CTL], n = 9), milled flaxseed (FXS, n = 13; 32 g/d), or flaxseed oil (FXO, n = 12; 13 g/d) daily for 12 weeks. The FXS and FXO groups received equivalent amounts of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA; 7.4 g/day).

Measures of Outcome: The primary outcome measures were fasting plasma hemoglobin A_1c, glucose, insulin, and phospholipid fatty acid composition. The secondary outcome measures were fasting circulating leptin and adiponectin, as well as body weight, body mass index, and waist circumference. Dietary intake assessment and calculations for homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance and quantified insulin sensitivity check were also completed.

Results: The FXS and FXO groups had increases in plasma phospholipid n-3 fatty acids (ALA, eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA], or decosapentaenoic acid [DPA], but not docosahexaenoic acid), and the FXO group had more EPA and DPA in plasma phospholipids compared to the FXS group. All groups had similar caloric intakes; however, the CTL group experienced a 4% weight gain compared to baseline (p < 0.05), while both flax groups had constant body weights during the study period. All other parameters, including glycemic control, were unchanged by dietary treatment.

Conclusions: Milled FXS and FXO intake does not affect glycemic control in adults with well-controlled type 2 diabetes. Possible prevention of weight gain by flax consumption warrants further investigation.     

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.     

Effect of Midmorning Puree Snacks on Subjective Appetite,Food Intake,and Glycemic and Insulin Responses in Healthy Adults

ABSTRACT

Objective: Dietary pattern changes, as a part of a healthy lifestyle, may improve weight management. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of midmorning puree snacks varying in macronutrient composition and energy content on subjective appetite, food intake, and glycemic and insulin responses in healthy adults.

Method: In a randomized, repeated measures crossover design, 6 treatments (snack skipping and purees: control [186 kcal], maltodextrin [272 kcal], whey protein [201 kcal], oat [276 kcal], and coconut oil [276 kcal]) were administered to 23 normal weight adults (n = 14 males, n = 9 females). Subjective appetite, blood glucose, and insulin responses were measured at regular intervals for 2 hours immediately followed by an ad libitum pizza lunch. In vitro digestion experiments were conducted to corroborate results of the human trial.

Results: Compared to snack skipping, all snack treatments similarly reduced subjective average appetite (net area under the curve), but only oat (p < 0.032) and coconut oil (p < 0.031) purees significantly decreased test meal food intake. However, caloric compensation did not differ among snack treatments (p < 0.73). Both blood glucose (incremental area under the curve [iAUC]; p < 0.0001) and serum insulin (iAUC; p < 0.0001) were affected by treatment. A positive correlation was found between blood glucose iAUC and in vitro glucose release (r = 0.993, p < 0.0001). The release of free fatty acids (FFAs) was sustained, and oats were difficult to disintegrate during in vitro digestion.

Conclusions: Compared with snack skipping, coconut oil and oat puree snacks suppressed short-term food intake, which was likely due to the sustained release of FFA and slowly digestible oats, respectively. Our in vitro digestion model predicted the relative differences in the glycemic response in vivo.     

No Change in 24-Hour Hydration Status Following a Moderate Increase in Fluid Consumption

Purpose: To investigate changes in 24-hour hydration status when increasing fluid intake.

Methods: Thirty-five healthy males (age 23.8 ± 4.7 years; mass 74.0 ± 9.4 kg) were divided into 4 treatment groups for 2 weeks of testing. Volumes of 24-hour fluid ingestion (including water from food) for weeks 1 and 2 was 35 and 40 ml/kg body mass, respectively. Each treatment group was given the same proportion of beverages in each week of testing: water only (n = 10), water + caloric cola (n = 7), water + noncaloric cola (n = 10), or water + caloric cola + noncaloric cola + orange juice (n = 8). Serum osmolality (S_osm), total body water (TBW) via bioelectrical impedance, 24-hour urine osmolality (U_osm), and volume (U_vol) were analyzed at the end of each 24-hour intervention.

Results: Independent of treatment, total beverage consumption increased 22% from week 1 to 2 (1685 ± 320 to 2054 ± 363 ml; p < 0.001). Independent of beverage assignment, the increase in fluid consumption between weeks 1 and 2 did not change TBW (43.4 ± 5.2 vs 43.0 ± 4.8 kg), S_osm (292 ± 5 vs 292 ± 5 mOsm/kg), 24-hour U_osm (600 ± 224 vs 571 ± 212 mOsm/kg), or 24-hour U_vol (1569 ± 607 vs 1580 ± 554 ml; all p > 0.05).

Conclusions: Regardless of fluid volume or beverage type consumed, measures of 24-hour hydration status did not differ, suggesting that standard measures of hydration status are not sensitive enough to detect a 22% increase in beverage consumption.     

Influence of the C677T Polymorphism of the MTHFR Gene on Oxidative Stress in Women With Overweight or Obesity: Response to a Dietary Folate Intervention

ABSTRACT

The C677T polymorphism of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR) is related to folate metabolism and can alter the levels of biochemical markers.

Objective: Investigate the influence of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism on the effects of a dietary folate intervention on oxidative stress in women with overweight or obesity.

Methods: Forty-eight adult women with overweight or obesity were subjected to a 24-hour dietary recall, anthropometric measurements, biochemical analysis, and genotyping of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism. They were allocated by convenience sampling to 2 groups, which received 300 g of folate-rich vegetables containing 191 µg/d (Group 1) (n = 24) or 95 µg/d (Group 2) (n = 24) of folate for 8 weeks.

Results: The dietary intervention increased the serum folic acid levels in the 2 analyzed groups. The intervention with 191 µg/d of folate led to relevant results in terms of homocysteine levels (p = 0.0005) and total antioxidant capacity (p = 0.0261); the effect was larger among carriers of the TT genotype.

Conclusions: The study demonstrated the beneficial effect of folate intake in terms of a TAC elevation for the CC and TT genotypes of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism, an increase in folic acid levels for all genotypes, and a reduction in the Hcy levels for the TT genotype in response to an intervention consisting of an intake of 191 µg/d of folate supplied by vegetables.     

Low Adherence to Dietary Guidelines in Spain,Especially in the Overweight/Obese Population: The ANIBES Study

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the dietary intake of the Spanish population according to ponderal status and body fat distribution.

Methods: Data were obtained from ANIBES (Anthropometry, Intake, and Energy Balance in Spain), a cross-sectional study of a nationally representative sample (1013 men, 996 women) of the Spanish population (18–64 years). The final fieldwork was carried out from mid-September to November (three months) 2013. A 3-day dietary record provided information about food and beverage consumption. Height, weight, and waist circumference were assessed, and body mass index (BMI) and waist–height ratio (WHtR) calculated.

Results: The Spanish population had a low consumption of fruits and vegetables, cereals, whole cereals, and dairy and high consumption of meat products. Individuals with overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) and abdominal adiposity (WHtR ≥ 0.5) showed lower compliance with dietary guidelines. In the male group, adjusting by age, inadequate consumption of cereals (<4 servings/day) and vegetables and fruit (<5 servings/day) was associated with higher risk of overweight (odds ratio [OR] = 1.704, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.187–2.447, p = 0.001, for cereals and OR = 3.816, 95% CI, 1.947–7.480, p = 0.001, for vegetables and fruits) and abdominal adiposity (OR = 2.081, 95% CI, 1.419–3.053, p = 0.000 and OR = 4.289, 95% CI, 2.108–8.726, p = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion: Nutritional campaigns should be conducted to improve the dietary habits of the Spanish population in general, especially men, who have poorer ponderal status and abdominal adiposity, due to their lower adherence to dietary guidelines.     

Effects of Egg Consumption and Choline Supplementation on Plasma Choline and Trimethylamine-N-Oxide in a Young Population

ABSTRACT

Background: Plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) concentrations have been associated with cardiovascular disease risk. Eggs are a rich source of choline, which is a precursor of TMAO.

Objective: The effects of egg intake versus daily choline supplementation were evaluated on plasma choline and TMAO in a young, healthy population.

Methods: Thirty participants (14 males, 16 females; 25.6 ± 2.3 years; body mass index = 24.3 ± 2.9 kg/m²) were enrolled in this 13-week crossover intervention. After a 2-week washout, participants were randomized to consume either 3 eggs/d or a choline bitartrate supplement (～ 400 mg choline total in eggs or supplement) for 4 weeks. Following a 3-week washout, participants were switched to the alternate treatment. Dietary records were measured at the end of each period. Plasma TMAO and choline were measured at baseline and at the end of each dietary intervention. Gene expression of scavenger receptors associated with plasma TMAO were quantified at the end of each intervention.

Results: Compared to the choline supplement, intake of total fat, cholesterol, selenium, and vitamin E were higher (p < 0.05), whereas carbohydrate intake was lower (p < 0.001) with consumption of 3 eggs/d. Fasting plasma choline increased 20% (p = 0.023) with egg intake, while no changes were observed with choline supplementation. Plasma TMAO levels were not different between dietary treatments or compared to baseline.

Conclusions: Dietary choline appears to be more bioavailable via egg consumption when compared to a choline supplement. Plasma TMAO concentrations were not affected in healthy participants after 4 weeks of taking ～400 mg/d choline either via eggs or choline supplementation.     

A Lean Pork-Containing Breakfast Reduces Hunger and Glycemic Response Compared to a Refined Carbohydrate-Containing Breakfast in Adults with Prediabetes

Objective: Replacing dietary refined carbohydrates (CHO) with protein may impact appetite and glucose and lipid metabolism in metabolically at-risk individuals. The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of consumption of a lean pork–containing, high-protein (pPro) breakfast versus a refined-CHO-rich breakfast for 2 weeks on appetite and cardiometabolic parameters in overweight or obese adults with prediabetes.

Methods: In this crossover study, overweight or obese men and women with prediabetes were provided with either a pPro breakfast meal or a refined-CHO breakfast meal to consume each day (2-week intervention, ≥ 2-week washout). On the last day of each period, fasting and postprandial glucose, insulin, and lipid values were assessed. Visual analog scales were used to evaluate appetite, mental energy, and focus; energy intake at a lunch meal was also evaluated.

Results: Data from 21 participants (13 females and 8 males) were analyzed and participants had a mean (± standard error of the mean) age of 44.4 ± 3.1 years and body mass index of 30.4 ± 0.9 kg/m². Mean hunger net incremental area under the curve to 240 minutes postmeal (niAUC_0–240 min) and desire to eat niAUC_0–240 min were both significantly (p < 0.05) lower following the pPro breakfast intakes compared to the refined-CHO breakfast intakes. Mean incremental area under the curve to 240 minutes postmeal for glucose and insulin were significantly lower (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001, respectively) following the pPro breakfast versus refined-CHO breakfast, and mean percentage change from baseline for triglycerides (TG) at 120 minutes was also less pronounced, 10.0% ± 6.8% versus 32.3% ± 7.7%, respectively (p = 0.001). No other significant differences were observed for outcome variables.

Conclusions: Intake of a higher-protein, lean pork–containing breakfast may favorably impact appetite and lower postprandial glucose, insulin, and TG values, although longer-term studies are warranted.     

The Role of Children’s Dietary Pattern and Physical Activity in the Association Between Breastfeeding and BMI at Age 5: The GECKO Drenthe Cohort

Objectives

Breastfeeding is protective against childhood obesity, but the role of childhood lifestyle in this association is unclear. We investigated whether physical activity and dietary pattern at age 5 differed between breastfed and non-breastfed children, and how they relate to Body Mass Index (BMI) Z-scores.

Methods

1477 children of the Dutch GECKO Drenthe birth cohort were included. At one month, children were categorized as breastfed (receiving breast milk exclusively or in combination with formula milk) or non-breastfed (receiving formula milk exclusively). At age 5, height and weight were objectively measured, physical activity was measured by ActiGraph GT3x and dietary patterns were assessed with a parent-reported food pattern questionnaire, assessing the consumption frequency of selected food items at seven occasions over the day.

Results

Non-breastfed children had higher BMI Z-scores (0.36?±?0.90 vs. 0.20?±?0.80 SD, p?=?0.002), more frequently consumed sugar-sweetened beverages (25.0?±?10.5 vs. 22.5?±?9.71 times per week, p?<?0.001), and consumed relatively less whole-wheat or brown bread (p?=?0.007). Differences in sugar-sweetened beverage consumption were most pronounced during main meals. Total fruit consumption, sedentary time and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels did not differ between the groups. Multivariable adjusted linear regression analyses showed that the differences in BMI-z score between non-breastfed and breastfed children were not explained by the differences in sugar-sweetened beverages or type of bread consumed.

Conclusions

Infant breastfeeding itself is indicative of healthy dietary behaviors in early life, and is also more likely to be followed by a favorable dietary pattern at toddler age. However, the differences in dietary habits between breastfed and non-breastfed children did not explain the difference in BMI Z-score at the age of 5.

     

Associations Between Dietary Energy Density in Mothers and Growth of Breastfeeding Infants During the First 4 Months of Life

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Despite the overwhelming impact of dietary energy density on the quality of the entire diet, no research has investigated dietary energy density among lactating mothers. Hence, the present study was undertaken to assess the influence of maternal dietary energy density during lactation on infant growth.

Method: Three hundred healthy lactating mother–infant pairs were enrolled in the study. Detailed demographic information and dietary intake data were collected from the lactating mothers. Anthropometric features such as infant weight, height, and head circumference at birth and 2 and 4 months and mother's pregnancy and postpartum weight and height were derived from health center records. Data on physical activity were reported using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Results: After adjusting for confounding variables, infant weight, length, weight-for-height, and head circumference at birth, 2 months, and 4 months did not show significant differences among four dietary energy density categories (all p values > 0.01).

Conclusions: Our study showed no association among quartiles of dietary energy density among lactating mothers and infant weight, length, weight-for-height, and head circumference growth by 2 and 4 months of age.     

The Combined Effects of Exercise,Diet, and a Multi-Ingredient Dietary Supplement on Body Composition and Adipokine Changes in Overweight Adults

Background: Very few weight and fat loss supplements undergo finished-product research to examine efficacy. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an 8-week diet and exercise program on body composition, hip and waist girth, and adipokines and evaluate whether a dietary supplement containing raspberry ketone, capsaicin, caffeine, garlic, and Citrus aurantium enhanced outcomes.

Methods: Overweight men and women completed this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Participants consumed 4 capsules/d of supplement (EXP; n = 18) or placebo (PLA; n = 18). Participants underwent 8 weeks of daily supplementation, calorie restriction (500 kcal < RMR [resting metabolic rate] × 1.2), and supervised progressive exercise training 3 times a week. Body composition, girth, and adipokines were assessed at baseline and postintervention (T1 and T2).

Results: Significant decreases in weight (?2.6 ± 0.57 kg, p < 0.001), fat mass (?1.8 ± 0.20 kg; p < 0.001), and percentage body fat (?3.7% ± 0.29%, p < 0.001) and a significant increase in lean body mass (LBM; 1.5 ± 0.26 kg; p < 0.001) were seen from T1 to T2 in both groups. For men, only those in the EXP group increased LBM from T1 to T2 (1.3 ± 0.38 kg; p < 0.05). Hip girth was also reduced, with the women in the EXP group (?10.7 ± 2.15 cm, p < 0.001) having a greater reduction. There was a time by group interaction, with significant decreases in leptin (p < 0.001) and significant increases in adiponectin (p < 0.05) in the EXP group.

Conclusions: Significant improvements in adipokines and leptin support the utility of exercise, diet, and fat loss for impacting inflammatory biomarkers. The improvement in adiponectin with EXP may suggest a unique health mechanism.     

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.     

Effect of Incorporating Bay Leaves in Cookies on Postprandial Glycemia,Appetite, Palatability,and Gastrointestinal Well-Being

Background: Previous studies of patients with type 2 diabetes showed that capsules containing 1, 2, and 3 g of bay leaves lower fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol concentrations after 30 days of treatment. However, the acute effect of bay leaves on postprandial glycemic and appetite responses has not yet been determined.

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of cookies containing different doses of bay leaves on postprandial glycemia, appetite, palatability, and gastrointestinal well-being in healthy subjects.

Methods: In a randomized crossover study, 20 subjects consumed 3 test foods each providing 50 g of available carbohydrates. The test foods were provided as breakfast, 1–2 weeks apart, and were control cookies (CC) made from 100% wheat flour, cookies containing 3% (w/w) bay leaf powder (B3), and cookies containing 6% (w/w) bay leaf powder (B6). Blood glucose, subjective appetite, and gastrointestinal well-being were assessed at fasting and postprandially for 2 hours. Palatability of the test cookies was measured using 9-point hedonic scale.

Results: There was a significant effect of time (p < 0.001), treatment (p = 0.033), and Time × Treatment interaction (p = 0.001) on postprandial blood glucose concentrations. Post hoc pairwise comparison showed that blood glucose concentration was significantly reduced by B6 compared to CC at 30 and 45 minutes (p = 0.014 and p = 0.010, respectively). However, there were no significant differences (p = 0.411) in blood glucose incremental areas under the curves (iAUCs) among the treatments. No significant effect on any of the appetite parameters was observed among the treatments. All of the cookies were rated as acceptable and subjects did not report any gastrointestinal discomfort.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the results indicate that cookies containing bay leaf powder at 6% (w/w) incorporation level provides a palatable product that induces a reduced glycemic response.     

Development of a brief questionnaire to assess habitual beverage intake (BEVQ-15): sugar-sweetened beverages and total beverage energy intake

IntroductionEnergy-containing beverages, specifically sugar-sweetened beverages, may contribute to weight gain and obesity development. Yet, no rapid assessment tools are available which quantify habitual beverage intake (grams, energy) in adults.ObjectiveDetermine the factorial validity of a newly developed beverage intake questionnaire (BEVQ) and identify potential to reduce items.MethodsParticipants from varying economic and educational backgrounds (n=1,596, age 43±12 years, body mass index [calculated as kg/m²] 31.5±0.2) completed a 19-item BEVQ (BEVQ-19). Beverages that contributed <10% to total beverage, or sugar-sweetened beverages, energy and grams were identified for potential removal. Factor analyses identified beverage categories that could potentially be combined. Regression analyses compared BEVQ-19 outcomes with the reduced version's (BEVQ-15) variables. Inter-item reliability was assessed using Cronbach's α. Following BEVQ-15 development, a subsequent study (n=70, age 37±2 years; body mass index 24.5±0.4) evaluated the relative validity of the BEVQ-15 through comparison of three 24-hour dietary recalls' beverage intake.ResultsThree beverage items were identified for elimination (vegetable juice, meal replacement drinks, and mixed alcoholic drinks); beer and light beer were combined into one category. Regression models using BEVQ-15 variables explained 91% to 99% of variance in the four major outcomes of the BEVQ-19 (all P<0.001). Cronbach's α ranged .97 to .99 for all outcomes. In the follow-up study, BEVQ-15 and three 24-hour dietary recalls' variables were significantly correlated with the exception of whole milk; BEVQ-15 sugar-sweetened beverages (R²=0.69), and total beverage energy (R²=0.59) were more highly correlated with three 24-hour dietary recalls' than previously reported for the BEVQ-19. The BEVQ-15 produced a lower readability score of 4.8, which is appropriate for individuals with a fourth-grade education or greater.ConclusionsThe BEVQ-19 can be reduced to a 15-item questionnaire. This brief dietary assessment tool will enable researchers and practitioners to rapidly (administration time of ～2 minutes) assess habitual beverage intake, and to determine possible associations of beverage consumption with health-related outcomes, such as weight status.     

Demographics,not beverage consumption,is associated with diet quality

Background Demographic characteristics and beverage choices may affect diet quality.

Objective To estimate the independent associations between consumption of food categories of the US Department of Agriculture Food Guide Pyramid, beverage consumption, gender, age, family income, and race/ethnicity with the Healthy Eating Index (HEI).

Methods Data from the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals 1994–96, 1998 were used to develop multiple regression models of demographics and food and beverage consumption regressed on the HEI.

Results After adolescence (13–19 years), males consistently had a lower diet quality than females. Young adults (20–29 years) had the poorest diet quality. Family income had a positive association with the HEI. Controlling for income, African-Americans had lower HEI scores than other race/ethnicity groups. Caucasians consumed significantly more milk products than did the other race/ethnicity groups. Consumption of beverages had a weak but positive association with the HEI.

Conclusions Family income and race/ethnicity have unique and independent associations with the HEI and dietary patterns.     

Occupational and leisure-time physical activity and workload among construction workers – a randomized control study

Background: There is a lack of quantification of occupational physical activity (OPA) and leisure time physical activity (LTPA) among construction workers.

Objectives: To describe physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE), physical workload, and the effect of a PA-intervention among construction workers.

Methods: Sixty-seven Construction workers self-reported their physical activity (PA), had PA assessed directly (PAEE), and observed OPA using the tool “Posture, Activity, Tools and Handling.” The PA-intervention (Intervention; n = 29, Controls; n = 24) included 3x20-min training/week for 12 weeks.

Results: Baseline median OPA was 5036 MET-min/week and LTPA 2842 MET-min/week, p < 0.01. OPA directly recorded was (mean ± SE): 56.6 ± 3.2 J/kg/min and LTPA was: 35.7 ± 2.2 J/kg/min (p < 0.001). Manual material handling was performed for ≥ 25% of working time by more than 50% of the participants. Post-intervention, the training group reduced overall PAEE compared to the control group but not specifically during work.

Conclusions: OPA was within the maximum recommended level of 1/3 proposed in consensus guidelines but did not decrease with PA-intervention.     

A Diet Enriched with Red Sorghum Flaked Biscuits,Compared to a Diet Containing White Wheat Flaked Biscuits,Does Not Enhance the Effectiveness of an Energy-Restricted Meal Plan in Overweight and Mildly Obese Adults

Objectives: Whole grain sorghum is a promising ingredient in foods, especially those targeting satiety and weight control. This study aimed to test weight loss effects of a whole grain red sorghum product incorporated into an energy-restricted diet.

Methods: Sixty subjects (46 females) were randomized to either a sorghum (intervention) or white wheat (control) group, receiving 45 g of flaked cereal biscuits to include daily in their prescribed diets for 12 weeks. Primary outcome was weight loss. Secondary outcomes included plasma glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), triacylglycerides (TAG), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC; measured at 0 and 12 weeks).

Results: After 12 weeks, there were no significant differences in weight loss or any clinical variables between a wheat control and sorghum cereal group in an energy-restricted diet. Equivalent amounts of weight were lost (p = 0.369) in both groups, and the majority of clinical indices such as fasting glucose, insulin, cholesterol, and key inflammatory biomarkers showed significant beneficial changes over time (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Although both groups experienced significant weight loss and general improvement in a number of clinical measures, no effects appeared specifically related to sorghum consumption. Further clinical trials are necessary to establish an evidence base for weight loss effects from chronic sorghum intake. Sorghum represents a viable, gluten-free grain alternative in the formulation of novel food products.     

Abstracts of Articles on Nutrition and Cancer

Background: Overall diet quality measurements have been suggested as a useful tool to assess diet-disease relationships. Oxidative stress has been related to the development of obesity and other chronic diseases. Furthermore, antioxidant intake is being considered as protective against cell oxidative damage and related metabolic complications.

Objective: To evaluate potential associations between the dietary total antioxidant capacity of foods (TAC), the energy density of the diet, and other relevant nutritional quality indexes in healthy young adults.

Methods: Several anthropometric variables from 153 healthy participants (20.8 ± 2.7 years) included in this study were measured. Dietary intake was assessed by a validated food-frequency questionnaire, which was also used to calculate the dietary TAC and for daily energy intake adjustment.

Results: Positive significant associations were found between dietary TAC and Mediterranean energy density hypothesis–oriented dietary scores (Mediterranean Diet Score, Alternate Mediterranean Diet Score, Modified Mediterranean Diet Score), non-Mediterranean hypothesis–oriented dietary scores (Healthy Eating Index, Alternate Healthy Eating Index, Diet Quality Index-International, Diet Quality Index-Revised), and diversity of food intake indicators (Recommended Food Score, Quantitative Index for Dietary Diversity in terms of total energy intake). The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index and Diet Quality Index scores (a Mediterranean and a non–Mediterranean hypothesis–oriented dietary score, respectively), whose lower values refer to a higher diet quality, decreased with higher values of dietary TAC. Energy density was also inversely associated with dietary TAC.

Conclusion: These data suggest that dietary TAC, as a measure of antioxidant intake, may also be a potential marker of diet quality in healthy subjects, providing a novel approach to assess the role of antioxidant intake on health promotion and diet-based therapies.     

A Randomized Double-Blind,Placebo Controlled,Four-Arm Parallel Study Investigating the Effect of a Broad-Spectrum Wellness Beverage on Mood State in Healthy,Moderately Stressed Adults

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of a broad-spectrum wellness beverage (Zeal Wellness [ZW]) on standardized measures of mood states, including overall feelings of vitality, in healthy, moderately stressed adults.

Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted among 99 eligible participants prescreened for moderate stress. Participants were randomized to one of four groups and received ZW once daily (1-dose-ZW; 14 g), ZW twice daily (2-dose-ZW; 28 g), placebo once daily (1-dose-placebo), or placebo twice daily (2-dose-placebo) for 4 weeks. A stress/vitality questionnaire assessed stress and the Profile of Moods (POMS) Questionnaire assessed vigor via mental/physical energy and global mood state. Safety was assessed by clinical chemistry, liver, kidney function, and anthropometric measures and adverse event reporting.

Results: Participants receiving 2-dose-ZW reported a 6.6% decrease in scores on POMS-Total Mood Disturbance (TMD; p < 0.05) and a 6.8% decrease in the anger-hostility mood state (p < 0.022) compared to the combined placebo group at day 29. The 2-dose-ZW provided a 12.8% greater improvement in POMS-TMD scores when compared to participants receiving 1-dose-ZW after 28 days of supplementation (p = 0.014). Within groups, there was a 22.4% and a 9.6% decrease in POMS-TMD scores in participants with 2-dose-ZW and 1-dose-ZW, respectively. In addition, participants receiving 2-dose-ZW showed significant improvements (p = 0.001) in the POMS t-score iceberg profile, which represented a shift to a more healthy profile.

Conclusion: These data show that daily supplementation with 2-dose-ZW significantly decreased POMS-TMD scores and anger-hostility mood state and shifted the POMS iceberg profile to a healthy profile compared to the combined placebo, reflecting the functional benefit of rice-bran-fruit-vegetable extracts based beverage on health.