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Tag: Vegetables

  • Healthy eating social media accounts influence diet choices

    Healthy eating social media accounts influence diet choices

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    Researchers from Aston University have found that people following healthy eating accounts on social media for as little as two weeks ate more fruit and vegetables and less junk food.

    Previous research has shown that positive social norms about fruit and vegetables increases individuals’ consumption. The research team sought to investigate whether positive representation of healthier food on social media would have the same effect. The research was led by Dr Lily Hawkins, whose PhD study it was, supervised by Dr. Jason Thomas and Professor Claire Farrow in the School of Psychology.

    The researchers recruited 52 volunteers, all social media users, with a mean age of 22, and split them into two groups. Volunteers in the first group, known as the intervention group, were asked to follow healthy eating Instagram accounts in addition to their usual accounts. Volunteers in the second group, known as the control group, were asked to follow interior design accounts. The experiment lasted two weeks, and the volunteers recorded what they ate and drank during the time period.

    Overall, participants following the healthy eating accounts ate an extra 1.4 portions of fruit and vegetables per day and 0.8 fewer energy dense items, such as high-calorie snacks and sugar-sweetened drinks, per day. This is a substantial improvement compared to previous educational and social media-based interventions attempting to improve diets.

    Dr Thomas and the team believe affiliation is a key component of the change in eating behavior. For example, the effect was more pronounced amongst participants who felt affiliated with other Instagram users.

    The 2018 NHS Health Survey for England study showed that only 28% of the UK population consumed the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables per day. Low consumption of such food is linked to heart disease, cancer and stroke, so identifying ways to encourage higher consumption is vital. Exposing people to positive social norms, using posters in canteens encouraging vegetable consumption, or in bars to discourage dangerous levels of drinking, have been shown to work. Social media is so prevalent now that the researchers believe it could be an ideal way to spread positive social norms around high fruit and vegetable consumption, particularly amongst younger people.

    This is only a pilot intervention study at the moment, but it’s quite an exciting suite of findings, as it suggests that even some minor tweaks to our social media accounts might lead to substantial improvements in diet, at zero cost! Our future work will examine whether such interventions actually do change our perceptions of what others are consuming, and also, whether these interventions produce effects that are sustained over time.”


    Dr. Jason Thomas, School of Psychology

    Dr Hawkins, who is now at the University of Exeter, said:

    “Our previous research has demonstrated that social norms on social media may nudge food consumption, but this pilot demonstrates that this translates to the real world. Of course, we would like to now understand whether this can be replicated in a larger, community sample.”

    Source:

    Journal reference:

    Hawkins, L., et al. (2024) Can social media be used to increase fruit and vegetable consumption? A pilot intervention study. Digital Health. doi.org/10.1177/20552076241241262.

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  • Cruciferous vegetables may offer new hope for inflammatory bowel disease management

    Cruciferous vegetables may offer new hope for inflammatory bowel disease management

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    In a recent review published in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition, researchers assessed the therapeutic potential of cruciferous vegetables and their bioactive compounds in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using in vitro, in vivo, and clinical models. 

    Review: Current knowledge on the preparation and benefits of cruciferous vegetables as relates to in vitro, in vivo, and clinical models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Image Credit: SewCreamStudio / ShutterstockReview: Current knowledge on the preparation and benefits of cruciferous vegetables as relates to in vitro, in vivo, and clinical models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Image Credit: SewCreamStudio / Shutterstock

    Background 

    IBD, including Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Crohn’s Disease (CD), is a chronic condition characterized by persistent inflammation, gastrointestinal distress, and severe tissue damage. UC affects the colon and rectum, while CD involves the distal gut, both resulting in painful symptoms and the need for frequent surgical interventions. IBD’s prevalence, particularly in Europe and North America, poses significant economic and social challenges, aggravated by links to modern lifestyle factors such as dietary changes to ultra-processed foods, urbanization, and stress. Current treatments, focusing on inflammation and microbial imbalances, often diminish in efficacy, highlighting the need for cost-effective management strategies and further research into personalized dietary interventions using bioactive compounds from cruciferous vegetables for improved therapeutic outcomes.

    Introduction to cruciferous vegetables and bioactive compounds

    Cruciferous vegetables belonging to the Brassicaceae family include a variety of nutrient-rich plants such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale. These vegetables are distinguished by their high content of glucosinolates (GSLs), which are sulfur-containing compounds known to influence human health positively. When consumed, GSLs are converted by the enzyme myrosinase into isothiocyanates (ITCs) such as sulforaphane (SFN), compounds that have been extensively studied for their potential to modulate oxidative stress and inflammation- two key pathological aspects of IBD.

    These vegetables also contain other significant bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and polyphenols. Flavonoids, like quercetin and kaempferol, possess potent antioxidant properties that help scavenge harmful free radicals in the body. Polyphenols, including ferulic acid and sinapic acid, contribute further antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that are crucial for managing chronic diseases like IBD. The combined action of these compounds not only helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation but also aids in strengthening the gut barrier and modulating the gut microbiome, thereby potentially alleviating symptoms of IBD.

    In vitro evidence of cruciferous vegetable efficacy

    Extensive in vitro research has underscored the therapeutic potential of cruciferous vegetables in the context of IBD. Studies using cell cultures have demonstrated that extracts from these vegetables can significantly inhibit the activation of key inflammatory pathways in immune cells. For instance, broccoli-derived nanoparticles have been shown to prevent the activation of dendritic cells and reduce the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings suggest that cruciferous vegetables can modulate immune responses, potentially lowering the incidence or severity of inflammatory processes within the gut.

    Moreover, the anti-inflammatory effects are complemented by the vegetables’ antioxidant properties. For example, studies on broccoli sprouts have highlighted their ability to increase the activity of phase II detoxifying enzymes, enhancing cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative damage. This is particularly important in IBD, where oxidative stress plays a critical role in aggravating intestinal inflammation and damage.

    In vivo studies supporting cruciferous benefits

    Animal studies have provided compelling evidence supporting the beneficial effects of cruciferous vegetables on IBD. Research utilizing different animal models of colitis has shown that diets enriched with cruciferous vegetables can reduce pathological scores and improve symptoms associated with IBD. These dietary interventions have been observed to modify gut microbiota composition favorably, increase the production of short-chain fatty acids, and enhance the intestinal barrier’s integrity.

    For instance, studies involving mice fed with SFN-rich broccoli extracts have reported reduced expression of inflammatory markers like Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-alpha and Interleukin (IL)-6, along with an increase in the protective proteins of the gut barrier such as zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1). These findings indicate not only a reduction in inflammation but also an improvement in the structural components of the gut lining, which are often compromised in IBD patients.

    Clinical insights and future research directions

    Despite robust in vitro and in vivo evidence, clinical studies exploring the effects of cruciferous vegetables on human subjects with IBD are relatively limited. The existing studies highlight the critical role of vegetable preparation and the bioavailability of active compounds in determining their health benefits. For example, the effectiveness of SFN is influenced significantly by how broccoli is prepared and consumed, as cooking can destroy the enzyme myrosinase necessary for SFN’s release.

    Therefore, more clinical trials are needed to assess the impact of these vegetables on IBD comprehensively and to explore how these effects translate from laboratory and animal models to human health. Such studies should focus on various preparation methods, dosages, and consumption patterns to identify the most beneficial approaches for the dietary management of IBD.

    Additionally, future research should aim to understand the individualized responses to cruciferous vegetable intake in different subpopulations of IBD patients. This could help tailor dietary recommendations to enhance individual patient outcomes and develop personalized nutritional therapies that are both effective and manageable over the long term.

    Journal reference:

    • TE Alaba, J.M. Holman, S.L. Ishaq, et al, Current knowledge on the preparation and benefits of cruciferous vegetables as relates to in vitro, in vivo, and clinical models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease., Current Developments in Nutrition, DOI –  10.1016/ j.cdnut.2024.102160, https://cdn.nutrition.org/article/S2475-2991(24)00094-5/fulltext 

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  • Moderate vitamin E, C, and β-carotene intake reduces type 2 diabetes risk

    Moderate vitamin E, C, and β-carotene intake reduces type 2 diabetes risk

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    In a recent study published in Advances in Nutrition, researchers review the effect of vitamins C and E, as well as β-carotene, on the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D).

    Study: Vitamins C, E, and β-Carotene and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Image Credit: Suriyawut Suriya / Shutterstock.com

    About the study

    Previously published meta-analyses have discussed the protective effect of β-carotene and vitamin E, not vitamin C, against T2D incidence. Furthermore, these analyses did not focus on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or dose-response relationships.

    In the current review, all relevant information was obtained from Embase, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library databases. To investigate the relationships between dietary intake, circulating levels of vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene, and T2D incidence, case-cohort, cohort, nested case-control, and RCT studies were considered. Any study written in languages other than English was not included in the review.

    A total of 6,190 articles were obtained in the initial search, 40 of which fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were considered. Both observational and RCT studies indicated low, moderate, or serious risk of bias. 

    Diet and T2D

    T2Dis associated with β-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance and is one of the most common and globally prevalent metabolic diseases. Several strategies associated with weight loss, diet, and physical activities have been designed to alleviate the risks of T2D.

    Adherence to specific dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, positively reduces the risk of T2D. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and fish, as well as minimal intake of highly processed food and meat-based products. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and β-carotene, which has many positive biological effects. 

    Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin found in vegetables and fruits and regenerates vitamin E from its oxidized form. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in seeds, nuts, and vegetable oils, which protects cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. Moreover, β-carotene is a provitamin A carotenoid that is often found in fruits and vegetables. 

    Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress that arises due to the release of free radicals. Oxidative stress increases insulin resistance by inducing inflammatory processes and suppressing insulin signaling.

    Several studies have indicated that a high level of dietary antioxidants could alleviate insulin resistance and T2D. Thus, it is important to understand the mechanisms that contribute to the antioxidant properties of each vitamin. 

    How do β-carotene, and vitamins C and E affect T2D risk?

    Dietary intake of vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene has been found to reduce the risk of T2D; however, this association is non-linear and plateaus at moderate intakes.

    Vitamin C is inversely associated with insulin resistance. To date, few studies have determined the effect of vitamin C on β-cell function.

    Among the reviewed RCT studies, there was not sufficient data indicating that supplementation of these vitamins reduces the risk of T2D. In contrast to vitamin C and β-carotene, vitamin E supplementation exhibited insulin resistance. 

    Nevertheless, a nonlinear dose-response gradient, which indicated that the lowest risk of diabetes was associated with moderate intake of dietary vitamins, was observed. According to Nordic guidelines, the dietary allowance of vitamin C for men and women is 75 mg/day and 90 mg/day, respectively. The recommendation for vitamin E intake is 8-15 mg/day for both men and women. 

    These recommendations can be reached through the consumption of half of a red pepper and half of a cup of almonds for vitamins C and E, respectively. Although no reference value has been established for β-carotene, an intake of 3-6 mg/day could reduce the risk of chronic disease.

    Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses did not indicate the causal relationship between genetically predicted circulating vitamin E, vitamin C, or β-carotene and T2D manifestation. This finding was also supported by RCT data revealing that supplementation of the these antioxidants did not confer additional benefits in reducing the risks of T2D in healthy adults. 

    It is possible that vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene function synergistically to inhibit oxidative stress and, therefore, do not exhibit beneficial effects when consumed individually. Individuals who adhere to the Mediterranean diet consume an adequate amount of antioxidants, which act synergistically to reduce the risk of T2D. 

    Conclusions

    Sufficient, rather than high, intake of vitamin C, vitamin E, and β-carotene prevents the risk of T2D in healthy adults. Therefore, these vitamin supplements should not be used as a preventive strategy to reduce T2D in healthy individuals.

    However, future studies are needed to identify threshold antioxidant levels for smokers and those with genetic susceptibility to diabetes to obtain optimal benefits.

    Journal reference:

    • Lampousi, A., Lundberg, T., Löfvenborg, J. E., and Carlsson, S. (2024) Vitamins C, E, and β-Carotene and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Advances in Nutrition 15(5); 100211. doi:10.1016/j.advnut.2024.100211

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  • Exploring and acknowledging the benefits of diverse cultural and nutritional heritages

    Exploring and acknowledging the benefits of diverse cultural and nutritional heritages

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    In a recent article published in Advances in Nutrition, researchers explored how traditional diets followed by African, Asian, and Latin American communities are associated with diet quality and health markers.

    Their conclusions suggest that while flavors and ingredients differ among diets considered ‘healthy,’ the contribution of healthful plant foods and high dietary quality is key to reducing the risk of disability and death from various causes.

    Study: Perspective: Beyond the Mediterranean Diet -- Exploring Latin American, Asian, and African Heritage Diets as Cultural Models of Healthy Eating. Image Credit: Nungning20/Shutterstock.comStudy: Perspective: Beyond the Mediterranean Diet — Exploring Latin American, Asian, and African Heritage Diets as Cultural Models of Healthy Eating. Image Credit: Nungning20/Shutterstock.com

    Background

    The Mediterranean diet, extensively researched for its health benefits, is widely recognized as being healthy. However, there is limited research on traditional diets followed by non-European communities, defined as those consumed over multiple generations, aligned with environmental availability, and religious and/or cultural preferences and environmental availability, emphasizing home-cooked meals with biodiverse foods.

    As highly processed foods supplant traditional food systems, diet-related illnesses increase; concurrently, health disparities stem from structural racism and other social determinations, which include economic instability, cultural factors, and unequal access to nutritious food, healthcare, and education.

    Recognizing the value of traditional diets and food systems could inform dietary guidance and research directions, alleviating the disproportionate effect of chronic disease on certain ethnic and racial groups. 

    This indicates a need to broaden research on diet and health beyond Europe and North America, focusing on Latin American, Asian, and African heritage diets for their relevance to diverse populations in the United States.

    Evolution of Latin American diets

    Latin American heritage diets blend indigenous, colonial, and African influences, featuring staples like maize, beans, and abundant fruits and vegetables, often with seafood. The Oldways Latin American Heritage Pyramid illustrates this diversity.

    Despite risk factors, Hispanic Americans often show lower heart disease rates and longer lifespans, possibly due to their traditional diets and social support.

    In Costa Rica’s Nicoyan peninsula, adherence to traditional diets correlates with lower blood pressure and reduced heart disease risk. Similarly, in Mexico and other regions, traditional diets are linked to lower inflammation and type 2 diabetes risk.

    In the US, interventions based on Latin American heritage diets improve diabetes management among Hispanics. However, diverse Hispanic subgroups have varied diets and health outcomes, with some adopting Western habits, leading to decreased dietary quality, especially in first-generation American children.

    Understanding these shifts and promoting culturally tailored programs are vital for addressing health disparities within Hispanic communities.

    Traditional and diaspora Asian diets

    The diverse Asian food traditions defy a singular representation due to variations within and between countries, cities, and households.

    Instead, the broader pattern of Asian heritage diets emphasizes common elements like vegetables, vegetarian protein sources, whole grains, and fermented foods prevalent across East, Southeast, and South Asia.

    In Okinawa, Japan, where longevity is notable, the traditional diet focuses on root vegetables, soy-based foods, and marine products. While some liken traditional Japanese diets to Mediterranean patterns, high salt intake remains a concern.

    Despite this, Japanese diets correlate with better health outcomes, with recent shifts resembling a fusion of traditional and Western elements.

    Across Asia, healthy, predominantly plant-based diets are prevalent, though specific foods vary regionally. Studies highlight associations between traditional Asian diets and reduced risks of chronic diseases, although sodium intake poses concerns.

    Asian-descendant populations in the US and Canada face challenges such as high sodium intake and the displacement of traditionally consumed whole grains by refined alternatives, reflecting the ongoing nutrition transition towards processed foods.

    Patterns among people of African descent

    African diasporic cuisine encompasses many cultural dishes, spanning regions from continental Africa to the Americas. Rather than prescribing a single diet, this perspective recognizes the diverse culinary traditions shaped by slavery and migration.

    African American, Afro-Caribbean, and Afro-South American diets blend indigenous African staples and local influences. Foods like okra, collard greens, and black-eyed peas trace their roots to West and Central Africa.

    African staples meld with tropical flavors and seafood in the Caribbean and South America, while Afro-South American dietary patterns incorporate European and indigenous influences.

    Studies have found that African heritage dietary patterns offer health benefits, with high dietary quality and associations with lower risks of chronic diseases.

    Despite challenges posed by the nutrition transition to processed foods, many healthful dietary habits persist, such as high fruit intake in the Caribbean and substantial whole-grain and vegetable consumption in the Sub-Saharan African region.

    Intervention studies demonstrate promising outcomes, with traditional African heritage diets linked to reduced inflammation and improved gut health.

    However, socioeconomic factors and food access disparities continue to shape dietary choices within African-descendant communities, highlighting the need for further research and culturally tailored interventions to promote health and equity.

    Conclusions

    Populations globally are shifting from traditional to processed diets, raising public health concerns.

    Traditional Asian, Latin American, and African diets emphasize beans, grains, fruits, and vegetables, aligning with dietary guidelines and may offer benefits comparable to those associated with Mediterranean diets.

    These dietary patterns, less animal-centric than US guidelines, offer culturally appropriate paths to health and warrant further research and policy support.

    Journal reference:

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  • Addressing public health challenges through behavioral interventions

    Addressing public health challenges through behavioral interventions

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    The concept of “One Health” – which emphasizes the relationship between human, animal, plant and environmental health – has been gaining ground in scientific discussions in recent years. Brazilian and North American researchers developing research using this approach presented their work on Tuesday (April 9th), in Chicago (United States), during FAPESP Week Illinois.

    One of the panelists was Eduardo Esteban Bustamante, a professor at the University of Illinois in Chicago. He talked about behavioral interventions that have been tested to promote physical activity and healthy eating – practices that, according to the researcher, Americans still do not adhere to, despite the obvious benefits.

    The percentage of Americans meeting nutritional and physical activity recommendations is still very low. Among children aged six to 11, the percentage is 49% for boys and 35% for girls. But as they grow up, these rates get much worse, dropping to 7% and 4%, respectively, in the 16-19 age group, and stagnating at 3% and 2% from the age of 60 onwards.”


    Eduardo Esteban Bustamante, Professor, University of Illinois in Chicago

    “When it comes to diet, the reality isn’t much better. Just over 10% of American adults over the age of 18 routinely eat fruits and vegetables,” the researcher said.

    In an attempt to change this reality, behavioral health intervention programs have been developed and tested across the country. In the last few years alone, more than 3,000 evidence-based physical activity and nutrition interventions have been created in the United States. Of these, around 200 are available in public repositories for use by the public, according to a survey conducted by the researcher.

    “These practices are made available on public websites. That way, people can get access to them and follow the instructions correctly to become more active and eat more fruits and vegetables, for example,” Bustamante said.

    The problem, however, is that 90% of these scientifically tested physical activity intervention programs in the United States face barriers to dissemination and implementation that limit their potential impact on public health. One of the contributing factors is a lack of alignment with people’s expectations and with the places where they should be implemented, the researcher said.

    “I’ve worked with a number of intervention programs, and one of the problems I’ve identified is that we didn’t think about the target audience before we started, and we saw that people weren’t engaged with them. We need to think about how to engage the target audience so that, from the beginning, our interventions fit in and are aligned with their goals,” he said.

    “We also need to stop thinking of nutrition and physical activity as medicines that can only benefit health. They’re activities that take place in a context and we can use them to achieve the goals we want, whether they’re health-related or not,” said Esteban.

    Based on this finding, the researcher and his collaborators have begun developing and testing new physical activity intervention programs in schools and communities.

    For example, one project carried out in collaboration with the University of California Irvine has been using physical activity in schools as a way of learning mathematics. To this end, the basketball court at an educational institution was redesigned to teach children about fractions and decimals.

    “The result is that the kids, in addition to getting all the health benefits of doing a physical activity, are learning math in a much more engaging way,” he said.

    Another project, implemented in the Chicago Park District, one of the largest and oldest park districts in the United States, has been using sports and recreation to develop communication, emotional and conflict resolution skills in at-risk youths.

    “The program works with young people who are in high school. We try to get them jobs during the summer so they can stay in the parks and work during that time, and we encourage them to develop behavioral skills through physical activity,” explained Bustamante.

    Multifactorial causes

    New approaches to behavioral health interventions are also vital to addressing the diabetes epidemic in the United States, said Marck Rosenblatt, dean of the University of Illinois College of Medicine.

    “One in ten people in the United States has diabetes. The causes of this disease are multifactorial. It’s not just because people aren’t taking insulin and medications for hyperglycemia, but also because their diet is inadequate and they don’t exercise,” he said.

    “It’ll take a multifaceted approach to address this problem, such as interventions in schools. We’re trying to work with local organizations to try to improve diet quality and encourage physical activity, while at the same time studying the molecular underpinnings of diabetes itself,” said Rosenblatt.

    According to the researcher, the social determinants of health are an issue that the Chicago institution and health system have been working hard to understand and intervene in.

    “It’s humbling to realize that only around 15% to 20% of a person’s health is related to the solutions we develop in our hospitals and clinics. People’s health is more related to their zip code, which correlates with a number of other factors, such as socioeconomic level, social and community context,” he said.

    Environmental risks play a fundamental role in the emergence of degenerative diseases and cancer, emphasized Leandro Colli, professor at the Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo (FMRP-USP), supported by FAPESP.

    “We know that the cause of cancer is not only genetic. There are also very strong environmental factors. We can intervene in the genetic risk factors, but we also have to look at the environment,” he emphasized.

    The researcher is working with collaborators on a project aimed at identifying mutational signatures in cancer patients – a concept that has emerged in recent years whereby it is possible to look at a cell mutation and try to recapitulate its origin and the agents that caused it.

    “We’re starting a project in which we’re following a series of patients to try to better understand the risk factors for mutations that lead to cancer, such as tobacco, exposure to solar radiation and the burning of sugar cane in the Ribeirão Preto region,” said Colli.

    Source:

    São Paulo Research Foundation (Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo)

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  • Eating Mediterranean-style during pregnancy linked to healthier moms and babies

    Eating Mediterranean-style during pregnancy linked to healthier moms and babies

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    The Mediterranean diet (MD) is universally recognized as a healthy and effective aid to managing body weight and overall health. A recent study published in Advances in Nutrition explores available evidence on how consuming the MD during pregnancy affects perinatal health.

    Study: Association between the maternal mediterranean diet and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Image Credit: NDAB Creativity / Shutterstock.com Study: Association between the maternal Mediterranean diet and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Image Credit: NDAB Creativity / Shutterstock.com

    The health benefits of MD

    The MD is associated with a high consumption of whole grains, vegetables, legumes, nuts, fish, olive oil, and fruits. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, the MD has been shown to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease (CVD), metabolic disease, autoimmune conditions, poor mental health, and cancers. The MD also reduces overall mortality rates and promotes a healthy aging pattern.

    The maternal diet can significantly impact the health of both the mother and fetus during pregnancy and thereafter. Thus, an adequate and high-quality maternal diet is essential for fetal growth and metabolic and physiological homeostasis.

    Many studies have investigated the importance of dietary and nutritional status during pregnancy, which can help prevent conditions like gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), preterm delivery, and perinatal illness.

    Previous studies have indicated an improvement in metabolic health when following the MD; however, there is a lack of meta-analyses on this topic. Additionally, not all available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been included.

    The combined use of interventional, observational, prospective, and cross-sectional studies has increased concerns regarding the potential impact of recall bias and reverse causality. As a result, there is limited evidence on the association of the MD with metabolic health in pregnancy, which motivated the current study.

    Study findings

    In the current study, researchers reviewed 23 articles, including five RCTs and 18 cohort studies, in their systematic meta-analysis. These studies comprised 107,355 individuals from 10 different countries, including the United Kingdom, Spain, China, the United States, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Australia, and the Netherlands. Notably, almost every study relied on the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) to obtain dietary intake information.

    The five RCTs reported a significantly reduced risk of GDM and small for gestational age (SGA) babies. Similar results were observed in the cohort studies, in which the MD was associated with a reduced risk of GDM, pregnancy-induced hypertension, pre-eclampsia, preterm delivery, low birth weight (LBW), and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) was observed, along with an increase in gestational age at delivery. A significant correlation was also observed between maternal MD and the incidence of preterm delivery.

    The greatest uniformity was observed for the association between MD adherence and pregnancy-linked hypertension, preterm delivery, and LBW. In two studies that accounted for confounding factors, the likelihood of pregnancy-linked hypertension was reduced by 30% among those on the MD. This was also observed in non-Mediterranean countries, but not when only Mediterranean countries were included.

    Similarly, the risk of preterm delivery among mothers who followed the MD was significantly reduced after considering potential confounding factors. However, the other parameters failed to show significant associations after such an adjustment.

    The pooled results demonstrate that following the MD during pregnancy reduces the risk of GDM and SGA in intervention studies. Cohort studies show that the MD produces positive effects in almost all outcomes, such as better metabolic health, reduced risk of pregnancy hypertension, increased birth weight, and higher gestational age at delivery.

    The underlying mechanisms responsible for the perinatal benefits of the MD may include the high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory content of this diet. Importantly, low-carbohydrate plant-based nutrition helps achieve satiety sooner, thereby supporting healthy weight management, particularly during pregnancy. By reducing systemic inflammation, this may help reduce the risk of preterm labor and high blood pressure during pregnancy, as well as of GDM.

    Conclusions

    Our meta-analysis solely focuses on robust evidence from RCTs and cohort studies, providing a comprehensive perspective on the potential associations between the maternal MD and both maternal and offspring outcomes.”

    Future studies need to include different types of evidence to determine the role of other confounding factors not considered in the studies included in the current meta-analysis. Larger study samples are also crucial to ensure the power to detect these effects and guide clinical recommendations for diet during pregnancy.

    Journal reference:

    • Xu, J., Wang, H., Bian, J., et al. (2024). Association between the maternal mediterranean diet and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Advances in Nutrition 15(2). doi:10.1016/j.advnut.2023.100159.

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  • A closer look at Cucumis and Momordica

    A closer look at Cucumis and Momordica

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    In a recent study published in the journal Foods, researchers review the biological activities of Cucumis and Momordica, two plant species belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family.

    Study: Importance of Certain Varieties of Cucurbits in Enhancing Health: A Review. Image Credit: Kotcha K / Shutterstock.com

    Background

    The Cucurbitaceae family comprises about 115 genera and 960 species of different fruits and vegetables, which are rich sources of proteins, vitamins, minerals, dietary fibers, and many bioactive compounds. Based on their morphological, cytological, and floral characteristics, these plants are classified into two primary subfamilies: Cucurbitoidea and Zanoniodeae.

    Cucumis L. is a genus of the Cucurbitaceae family. It is commonly consumed fresh or used in various foods and beverages. It is also used in various topical formulations and pharmaceutical vitamin A and C products.

    Momordica species of the Cucurbitaceae family are cultivated in tropical regions and often have a bitter taste due to the presence of alkaloid phytochemicals. Bioactive compounds and trace elements found in these plants are useful for treating various health conditions, including asthma, fever, neuropsychological, dermatological, and digestive disorders.

    Physical description of the members of the Cucurbitaceous family discussed in this articlePhysical description of the members of the Cucurbitaceous family discussed in this article

    Health properties of Cucumis metuliferus

    Cucumis metuliferus, which is commonly known as Kiwano or horned melon, grows mostly in tropical regions, including Nigeria and South Africa. Polysaccharides present in the Cucumis metuliferus peel have immunomodulatory, ferrous ion-chelating, and prebiotic activities.

    The Cucumis metuliferus pulp contains high amounts of potassium salts and low amounts of sodium salts, as well as rutin and lutein, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and platelet aggregation-inhibiting activities.

    C. metuliferus extract can exert hypoglycemic effects by inhibiting the activities of key enzymes like β-glucosidase or α-amylase involved in glucose metabolism. The hydroethanolic extract of Cucumis metuliferus can exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects due to the presence of ursolic acid.

    The anti-inflammatory properties of C. metuliferus methanolic extracts primarily depend on the high phenol and flavonoid content of these fruits. These extracts may also reduce nephrotoxicity and increase total white blood cell (WBC) counts in animals.

    Health properties of Cucumis agrestis

    Cucumis agrestis is generally consumed as a vegetable and contains multiple phytoconstituents, including alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, proteins, glycosides, steroids, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids.

    The hydroalcoholic extract of Cucumis agrestis is associated with anti-diabetic and anti-hyperlipidemic properties. Comparatively, the methanolic fruit extract has shown strong antioxidant activity, which makes it a potential adjuvant candidate for the treatment of liver cancer.

    Health properties of Cucumis melo L.

    Cucumis melo is a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin E, polyphenols, carotenoids, and phytochemicals, all of which are associated with potential cardiovascular, diuretic, digestive, and antiparasitic benefits.

    Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis, commonly known as rock melon, exhibits high provitamin A activity and may, therefore, prevent chronic inflammation. Rock melon pulp and peel extracts have also shown efficacy in preventing edema formation.

    Cucurbitacin B from Cucumis melo var. Cantalupensis has demonstrated anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activities against lung cancer cells by inhibiting inflammatory processes.

    Cucumis melo var. reticulatus or Galia melon is a rich source of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and essential amino acids.

    Cucumis melo L. inodorus is a rich source of vital nutrients and minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, iron, vitamins C, A, and B6, calcium, pantothenic acid, omega-3, omega-6, and zinc. Some varieties of this melon have been shown to effectively manage insulin resistance and adipose tissue inflammation, as well as protect the cardiovascular system.

    Health properties of Momordica charantia

    Momordica charantia, which is a bitter melon, is a rich source of proteins, carbohydrates, dietary fibers, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds like gallic acid, tannic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, and benzoic acid.

    Glucan endo-1,3-beta-glucosidase (BG-4) extracted from Momordica charantia seeds is associated with strong trypsin-inhibiting and anti-inflammatory activities, particularly in the context of impaired glucose metabolism.   

    Phenolic compounds present in Momordica charantia can exert anti-diabetic effects by inhibiting intestinal carbohydrate absorption, stimulating insulin secretion, and protecting the islets of Langerhans from degradation. In fact, a novel insulin receptor-binding protein isolated from Momordica charantia exhibits gastric resistance and hypoglycemic activities.

    Momordica charantia extracts have shown antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae and B. licheniformis, with water extracts showing stronger activity than ethanolic extracts.

    Among variations of Momordica charantia, previous studies have reported the antibacterial activity of var. muricata against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Micrococcus luteus, and Staphylococcus aureus, whereas var. charantia has shown antibacterial activity against S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli.   

    Momordica charantia extracts have shown anticancer activity against breast, lung, and colon cancer cells. In ovarian cancer, Momordica charantia extracts elicit anti-proliferative, anti-metastatic, and pro-apoptotic effects through its protein kinase-activating activity.

    Momordica dioica is a rich source of many bioactive compounds, fats, carbohydrates, and dietary fibers. Previously, Momordica dioica has demonstrated anticancer activities against ovarian and cervical cancers. In fact, the purification and isolation Momordica dioica proteins have supported recent advancements in peptide-based drug delivery.

    Journal reference:

    • Romo-Tovar, J., Cerda, R. B., Chavez-Gonzalez, M. L., et al. (2024). Importance of Certain Varieties of Cucurbits in Enhancing Health: A Review. Foods. doi:10.3390/foods13081142 

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  • Mediterranean diet linked to lower stress in Korean baby boomers

    Mediterranean diet linked to lower stress in Korean baby boomers

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    Apr 10 2024

    In a recent cross-sectional study published in the journal Nutrition Research and Practice, researchers from Korea investigated the link between psychosocial stress levels and adherence to the Mediterranean diet among baby boomers in Korea. They found that higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a lower risk of high psychosocial stress in both men and women.

    Study: Higher adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet is associated with reduced psychosocial stress levels in baby boomers: a cross-sectional study. Image Credit: Luigi Giordano / ShutterstockStudy: Higher adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet is associated with reduced psychosocial stress levels in baby boomers: a cross-sectional study. Image Credit: Luigi Giordano / Shutterstock

    Background

    The aging baby boomer population in Korea, comprising around 15% of those born between 1955 and 1963, is transitioning into old age, posing challenges due to declining healthy life expectancy despite increasing overall life expectancy. As middle-aged health behaviors significantly impact later quality of life, there is a need to promote healthier lifestyles among baby boomers for their well-being in old age. Mental health in older adults is particularly crucial, as perceived stress levels have been linked to cognitive decline, cognitive impairment, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies indicate that perceived psychosocial stress is independently associated with a higher risk of stroke in adults.

    Diet and mental health are bidirectionally related. The Mediterranean diet, high in legumes, nuts, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, moderate in alcohol, and low in red meat and high-fat dairy, is shown to be associated with several potential health benefits. Adopting this diet around retirement age may promote healthy aging, potentially preventing and alleviating depression and enhancing cognitive abilities. Studies suggest this diet may effectively mitigate psychosocial stress and buffer against its negative impact on executive function, though further research is needed. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the potential relationship between Mediterranean diet adherence among Korean baby boomers and their psychosocial stress levels to inform mental health management strategies in later life.

    About the study

    In the present cross-sectional study, data was obtained from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES), involving adults aged 42 to 50 years from urban and rural regions of South Korea. A total of 1,656 participants (889 men) were included. Individuals with extreme daily energy intake and non-respondents to the questionnaires were excluded.

    A revised version of the Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQFFQ) and MTDS (based on the Mediterranean diet score) were used to assess participants’ usual dietary intake. The MTDS comprised 11 components: fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fish, dairy products, alcohol, red meat, poultry, and olive oil. Participants were assigned points based on their weekly consumption frequency of these food groups, with higher scores indicating better adherence to the diet. Alcohol consumption and olive oil use were assessed separately. Notably, kimchi and pickles were excluded from specific food groups, while mushrooms and seaweed were included.

    The participants’ socioeconomic status, demographics, and lifestyle factors were comprehensively assessed, including age, body mass index, monthly household income, education level, smoking status, and physical activity level. The Perceived Stress Scale (PWI-SF) for Koreans, consisting of 18 questions on recent physical and psychosocial experiences, was rated on a 4-point scale. A higher score indicated higher levels of stress. Statistical methods included chi-square test, analysis of variance, Duncan’s post-hoc test, and logistic regression.

    Results and discussion

    When MTDS adherence groups (tertiles) were compared, no significant differences were found in most characteristics between these groups. However, among women, those in the highest adherence group tended to have higher levels of education. Additionally, in men, those with the highest adherence to the Mediterranean diet had lower scores of psychosocial stress.

    Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet was found to be associated with increased consumption of vegetables, whole grains, potatoes, fruits, legumes, and fish, while red meat and dairy product consumption decreased. Moreover, in men, poultry and alcohol consumption decreased with decreasing MTDS. This trend was not observed in women due to similar intake levels across groups. With higher MTDS, energy and nutrient intakes increased, except for nutrients like protein, calcium, phosphorus, and riboflavin in men and fat and retinol in women (P < 0.05).

    Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet was linked to a reduced risk of high psychosocial stress, with a noticeable decrease trend (P = 0.026 for women and 0.016 for men). Men and women with the highest MTDS had 41% and 39% lower odds, respectively, of experiencing high psychosocial stress compared to those with the lowest adherence.

    The study is limited by its cross-sectional design, potential recall and social desirability biases in dietary assessments, and reliance on self-administered questionnaires for estimating psychosocial stress, which may introduce measurement errors and residual confounding.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, emphasizing adherence to a Mediterranean diet in baby boomers could potentially enhance healthy aging and improve health outcomes. In the future, studies could focus on developing effective interventions to promote adopting and adhering to this diet among baby boomers.

    Journal reference:

    • Higher adherence to a Mediterranean-type diet is associated with reduced psychosocial stress levels in baby boomers: a cross-sectional study. Jang EH et al., Nutrition Research and Practice, 18(2):257-268 (2024), DOI: 10.4162/nrp.2024.18.2.257, https://e-nrp.org/DOIx.php?id=10.4162/nrp.2024.18.2.257

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  • Dietary choices are linked to higher rates of preeclampsia among Latinas

    Dietary choices are linked to higher rates of preeclampsia among Latinas

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    For pregnant Latinas, food choices could reduce the risk of preeclampsia, a dangerous type of high blood pressure, and a diet based on cultural food preferences, rather than on U.S. government benchmarks, is more likely to help ward off the illness, a new study shows.

    Researchers at the USC Keck School of Medicine found that a combination of solid fats, refined grains, and cheese was linked to higher rates of preeclampsia among a group of low-income Latinas in Los Angeles. By contrast, women who ate vegetables, fruits, and meals made with healthy oils were less likely to develop the illness.

    The combination of vegetables, fruits, and healthy oils, such as olive oil, showed a stronger correlation with lower rates of preeclampsia than did the Healthy Eating Index-2015, a list of dietary recommendations designed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services.

    The study, published in February by the Journal of the American Heart Association, yielded important information on which food combinations affect pregnant Latinas, said Luis Maldonado, the lead investigator and a postdoctoral scholar at the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences at USC Keck. It suggests that dietary recommendations for pregnant Latinas should incorporate more foods from their culture, he said.

    “A lot of studies that have been done among pregnant women in general have been predominantly white, and diet is very much tied to culture,” Maldonado said. “Your culture can facilitate how you eat because you know what your favorite food is.”

    Preeclampsia is estimated to occur in about 5% of pregnancies in the U.S. and is among the leading causes of maternal morbidity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It typically occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy and is associated with obesity, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease, among other conditions.

    There isn’t a way to cure or predict preeclampsia. The disease can damage the heart and liver and lead to other complications for both the mother and the baby, including preterm birth and even death.

    Rates of preeclampsia have increased in the past two decades nationally. In California, rates of preeclampsia increased by 83% and hypertension by 78% from 2016 to 2022, according to the most recent data available, and the conditions are highest among Black residents and Pacific Islanders.

    Maldonado said 12% of the 451 Latina women who participated in the study developed preeclampsia, a number almost twice the national average. More than half of the participants, who averaged 28 years old, had pre-pregnancy risks, such as diabetes and high body mass index.

    Maldonado and his team used data from the Maternal and Developmental Risks from Environmental and Social Stressors Center, a USC research group that studies the effects of environmental exposures and social stressors on the health of mothers and their children.

    The subjects, who were predominantly low-income Latinas in Los Angeles, completed two questionnaires about their diet during the third trimester of their pregnancy. The researchers identified two significant patterns of eating: one in which the most consumed foods were vegetables, oils, fruits, whole grains, and yogurt; and a second in which the women’s diet consisted primarily of solid fats, refined grains, cheese, added sugar, and processed meat.

    Women who followed the first eating pattern had a lower rate of preeclampsia than those who followed the second.

    When Maldonado and his team tested for a correlation between lower rates of preeclampsia and the Healthy Eating Index-2015, they found it was not statistically significant except for women who were overweight before pregnancy.

    The Healthy Eating Index includes combinations of nutrients and foods, like dairy and fatty acids. Maldonado said more research is needed to determine the exact profile of fruits, vegetables, and oils that could benefit Latina women.

    When it comes to diet, the right messaging and recommendations are vital to helping pregnant Latinas make informed decisions, said A. Susana Ramírez, an associate professor of public health communication at the University of California-Merced.

    Ramírez has conducted studies on why healthy-eating messages, while well intended, have not been successful in Hispanic communities. She found that the messaging has led some Latinos to believe that Mexican food is unhealthier than American food.

    Ramírez said we need to think about promoting diets that are relevant for a particular population. “We understand now that diet is enormously important for health, and so to the extent that any nutrition counseling is culturally consonant, that will improve health overall,” Ramírez said.

    This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. 




    Kaiser Health NewsThis article was reprinted from khn.org, a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF – the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism.

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  • Better diet can help prevent the development of dementia as people age

    Better diet can help prevent the development of dementia as people age

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    “Insights & Implications in Gerontology: The Vital Role of Nutrition in Brain Health,” a new publication from the Gerontological Society of America, explores nutritional choices that have been shown to improve cognition and decrease the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults.

    Consumption of a healthful diet is a behavioral strategy that can help to prevent the development of dementia as people age, the publication says. It also reports on the roles of vitamins and minerals in nutrition and brain function and focuses on how to implement person-centered conversations about the impact of diet and nutrition on overall wellness, including brain health.

    Using a person-centered approach that ties conversations about nutrition to patient goals is an effective strategy for starting conversations about diet and health, according to Kathryn Porter Starr, PhD, RDN from Duke University School of Medicine and Durham VA Medical Center, who served as one of the faculty who oversaw the publication’s development.

    Broaching the topic of diet and nutrition can be challenging. I start by asking patients what their goals are. These goals could include physical goals such as maintaining muscle mass, cognitive goals such as preserving memory, as well as functional goals such as being able to travel or play with grandchildren. Linking information about nutrition to helping adults achieve their goals is an effective strategy for stimulating motivation to implement healthy changes.”


    Kathryn Porter Starr, PhD, RDN from Duke University School of Medicine and Durham VA Medical Center

    The Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, or MIND diet, is an example of a dietary pattern that is associated with improved cognition. This dietary pattern focuses on the consumption of vegetables (especially green leafy vegetables), nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, and extra virgin olive oil while limiting red meat, processed meats, butter and margarine, regular cheese, pastries and sweets, and fried foods. People who consume this dietary pattern have been found to be the equivalent of 7.5 years younger in terms of cognitive abilities. The publication includes more details about the MIND diet and other dietary patterns that support healthy nutrition.

    Ideally, individuals are able to obtain all necessary nutrients from their diet. However, the risk for inadequate vitamin and mineral intake increases as people age, and some people may benefit from consumption of fortified foods and or dietary supplements to enhance their nutritional status.

    “I would love for everybody to get all of their micronutrients from food,” Starr said. Unfortunately, for most older adults, it’s really challenging to do that due to physiological changes that occur with aging and certain disease states that affect absorption, so we often recommend a multivitamin.”

    Other publication faculty include Rose Ann DiMaria-Ghalili, PhD, RN, FASPEN, FAAN, FGSA from Drexel University; Sareen S. Gropper, PhD, RDN, LDN from Florida Atlantic University; and Roger A. Fielding, PhD from Tufts University School of Medicine. Support for “Insights & Implications in Gerontology: The Vital Role of Nutrition in Brain Health” was provided by Haleon.

    The Gerontological Society of America (GSA) is the nation’s oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. The principal mission of the Society -; and its 5,500+ members -; is to advance the study of aging and disseminate information among scientists, decision makers, and the general public. GSA’s structure includes a nonpartisan public policy institute, the National Academy on an Aging Society, and GSA is also home to the National Center to Reframe Aging and the National Coordinating Center for the Resource Centers for Minority Aging Research.

    Source:

    The Gerontological Society of America

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