Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism - Volume 3, issue 3

Authors: Testino, Gianni | Borro, Paolo

Article Type: Editorial

Abstract: Metabolic syndrome and allograft non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common occurrence after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). NAFLD and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are frequently associated. The association steatosis/HCV determines important implications for clinical practice: steatosis accelerates the progression of fibrosis and reduces the likelihood of obtaining a sustained virological response (SVR) with antiviral therapy. We have evidenced a strong correlation between body mass index (BMI), cholesterol, triglycerides (TGC) and hepatic percentage of steatosis. In subjects with BMI < 25 and TGC < 160 ng/ml, the chance of SVR was 48 times higher than that of non-response. The chances …of SVR for patients with percentage of steatosis <15 were 12 times higher than that with higher percentage of steatosis value. Detection, prevention and management of metabolic disorders and NAFLD should be one of the primary objectives of all transplant teams. Show more

Keywords: Hepatitis C virus, Metabolic syndrome, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Orthotopic liver transplantation

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0022-y

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 179-181, 2010

Authors: Satya, Santosh | Kaushik, Geetanjali | Naik, S.N.

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: Food legumes are widely consumed all over the world on account of their high nutritive value. These days legumes are greatly consumed on account of their therapeutic value in various lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and cancer. However, legumes contain several antinutritional factors in the raw seeds that need to be reduced by processing so as to enhance the digestibility and nutritive value. This review discusses the effect of common processing techniques viz ordinary cooking, pressure-cooking, microwave cooking, germination and soaking on the nutritional parameters and the antinutrients. A combination of the above techniques and also the effect of additives …(such as citric acid, sodium bicarbonate used during processing) on the nutritional quality of the legumes has also been done. A comparison of the various techniques hence allows for the selection of the best processing technique that enhances the nutritional value with minimum loss of nutrients and maximum reduction in antinutrients. Extensive literature review demonstrates that in most cases such processing methods lead to considerable enhancement in the nutritional status of the prepared food legume. It is concluded that amongst all the processing techniques germination is the best one as it significantly enhances the nutritional value of legumes. For example, increase in content and bioavailability of minerals, vitamins, digestibility and decrease in antinutrients during germination is well established. Similarly, cooking treatments (ordinary cooking, pressure-cooking and microwave cooking) in addition to improving the digestibility lead to a considerable decrease in the antinutrients. Microwave cooking could be recommended for legume preparation, not only for improving nutritional quality (better retention rates of both B-vitamins and minerals, reduction in the level of antinutritional factors as well as increase in vitro protein digestibility), but also for reducing the cooking time. With respect to the whole soaking and cooking processes, the best conditions, which result in minimum vitamin loss, are 9 h soaking in 0.1% citric acid solution or in water and subsequent microwave cooking of the seeds. These conditions are found to be optimal for best retention of other nutrients as well. Show more

Keywords: Processing, Review, Nutrients, Antinutrients, Quality

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0017-8

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 183-195, 2010

Authors: Ceccarelli, Nello | Curadi, Maurizio | Picciarelli, Piero | Martelloni, Luca | Sbrana, Cristiana | Giovannetti, Manuela

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus L. Fiori) is a traditional component of the Mediterranean diet. Artichoke edible parts are one of the richest dietary sources of polyphenols with high bioavailability, and contain also high-quality inulin, fibres and minerals. Moreover, pharmaceutical artichoke leaf extracts show hypocholesterolemic and choleretic properties. Several clinical studies have shown that the bioactive properties of globe artichoke are due to the high content of polyphenolic compounds in flower heads and leaves, in particular hydroxycinnamates and flavonoids. The total antioxidant capacity of artichoke flower heads is one of the highest reported for vegetables, and is strictly related …to their polyphenolic content. Different agronomic variables, such as mycorrhizal inoculation, may affect plant secondary metabolism, and in particular the production of metabolites with health-promoting activities. Our recent data showed large increases of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity in leaves and flower heads of mycorrhizal artichoke plants. Show more

Keywords: Artichoke, Functional foods, Polyphenols, Mycorrhizal symbiosis, Antioxidant activity

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0021-z

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 197-201, 2010

Authors: Visioli, Francesco | Poli, Andrea | Paoletti, Rodolfo

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: In this article, we critically address the contribution of dietary advice to the overall strategy of prevention and treatment of the metabolic syndrome. In particular, we underline how an appropriate choice of food items and nutrients should anticipate or accompany pharmacological therapy (often greatly limiting the use of drugs).

Keywords: Metabolic syndrome, Inflammation, Nutrition, Omega 3 fatty acids, Micronutrients

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0024-9

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 203-207, 2010

Authors: Macchi, A. | Franzoni, I. | Buzzetti, F. | Pedrigi, M.C. | Rosa, I. | Gaudio, G.V. | Margonato, A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Essential amino acid supplementation (EAS) may counteract hypercatabolic states, such as chronic heart failure (CHF). This pilot study investigated whether EAS could improve quality of life (QoL), cardiac function and exercise tolerance in patients (pts) with stable CHF on optimal medical treatment (OMT). We enrolled 27 pts (21 males) with ejection fraction (EF) <35% and on OMT with no changes within the previous 6 months. EAS, composed of leu (1,250 mg), lys (650 mg), ile (625 mg), val (625 mg), thr (350 mg), cys (150 mg), his (150 mg), phe (100 mg), met (50 mg), t4 (30 mg), trp (20 …mg), B1 (0.15 mg) and B6 (0.15 mg) vitamins, was given twice a day for 3 months. At baseline and after 3 months, we evaluated symptoms with NYHA classification, LVD36 questionnaire and QoL scale; cardiac function by echocardiography and exercise tolerance (modified Bruce protocol); pro-BNP, renal function, glucose and troponin. We observed a significant reduction of end-systolic and diastolic volumes (ESV 121.6 ± 63.08 vs. 106.82 ± 50.1 mL, p = 0.018; EDV 169.1 ± 75.3 vs. 150 ± 67.5 mL, p < 0.02), an increase of EF (29.8 ± 5.7 vs. 35.4 ± 5.8%, p < 0.001) and of cardiac output (5.58 ± 1.57 vs. 6.07 ± 1.66 L/min; p = 0.015). We assisted a no significant trend toward reduction in mitral regurgitation (p = 0.3). EAS improved QoL (NYHA p < 0.001; LVD36 14.1 ± 7.2 vs. 12.2 ± 6.9, p = 0.015; QoL scale 62.4 ± 12.5 vs. 74 ± 9.7%, p < 0.001); exercise tolerance (stage 3.24 ± 1.3 vs. 3.57 ± 1.3, p = 0.016; METS 6.6 ± 3.4 vs. 7.1 ± 3.3, p = 0.18; Minutes 8.1 ± 4.29 vs. 8.7 ± 3.94, p = 0.055). No changes in glucose, creatinine, cholesterol, troponin and a no significant trend toward reduction of pro-BNP was observed (1,077.4 ± 530.3 vs. 851.6 ± 315.1 ng/l, p = 0.3). No pts showed adverse effects. After 3 months, EAS significantly improves cardiac function, QoL and exercise tolerance in stable CHF pts. Show more

Keywords: Essential amino acids supplementation, Chronic heart failure, Hypercatabolism, Cachexia

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0010-2

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 209-214, 2010

Authors: Hadbaoui, Zineb | Djeridane, Amar | Yousfi, Mohamed | Saidi, Mokhtar | Nadjemi, Boubakeur

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the fatty acid and tocopherol composition and the antioxidant activity of the lipids fractions of two varieties of sorghum grains grown in Algeria. The results revealed that the total oil contents in the sorghum ranged from 11 to 13%. Gas chromatography analysis of the oils revealed that the dominant fatty acids found are palmitic, oleic and linoleic. The oils contain a significant amount of unsaturated fatty acids (>84%). Oils were also high in tocopherol, with a wide variation (between 174.82 and 325.33 mg/kg) but with δ-tocopherol predominating in the two oils. The …lipid extracts were subjected to screening for their possible antioxidant activity by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, phosphomolybdenum complex and FRAP assays. In the first case, IC50 values of the extracts were 15.4 and 22.6 mg/mL in the red and in the white sorghum, respectively. In the phosphomolybdenum complex and the FRAP assays the antioxidant capacity of the extracts ranged, respectively, between 0.21–0.13 μmol/g vitamin E equivalents and 0.030–0.027 mmol/g vitamin C equivalents. In the three systems, the antioxidant capacities of vitamin E and ascorbic acid were also determined in parallel experiments. Show more

Keywords: Sorghum, Oil, Fatty acids, Tocopherol, Antioxidant activity

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0018-7

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 215-220, 2010

Authors: Quiles, José L. | Sánchez-Rovira, Pedro | Ramirez-Tortosa, César L. | Granados-Principal, Sergio | Bertoli, Enrico | Battino, Maurizio | Ramirez-Tortosa, M. Carmen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: There is a need for the development of novel agents, which maintain the fundamental characteristics of cytoprotective drugs together with a low toxicity profile. The present study was designed to investigate the potential interest of squalene in the combinatory therapy of breast cancer with adriamycin in the breast cancer cell line MCF7. Results showed a dosage-response decrease of adriamycin on cell viability, and for all adriamycin dosages, squalene decreased or did not change viability. Squalene reduced or did not affect adriamycin apoptosis, and finally no effect of squalene was found on G0–G1 phase of the cell cycle. These results, together …with previous studies, suggest that as for other natural compounds, potential anticancer effects of squalene could depend on the phenotype. Thus, there is still a need for further investigations aimed at ascertaining the real potential of squalene, using in vitro, but more importantly in vivo models. Show more

Keywords: Annexin V, Apoptosis, Cell cycle, Cell viability, MCF7

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0019-6

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 221-225, 2010

Authors: Hozyasz, Kamil Konrad | Radomyska, Barbara | Kot, Karolina

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The Mediterranean diet is well known for its health-promoting effects. Among its key ingredients, olive oil is the most characteristic. Processing industries have been successfully manufacturing and marketing jarred baby foods with the use of vegetable oils, including olive oil, as well as other sources of visible fat. We aimed to survey manufacturer claims concerning added fat in jarred infant foods supplied to the Polish market. A total of 124 kinds of infant foods from six suppliers were analyzed. Corn, canola, and soybean oil occupied the first three positions, respectively, in rank order of vegetable oils used in jarred baby …foods. In our sample, only one type of ready-to-eat jars with vegetables contained olive oil. 11% of products contained cow milk butter or cream. 61% of jarred “dinners” contained poultry or fish, which are typical sources of animal protein in the Mediterranean diet. Given that commercial baby foods currently available in the Polish market contain no olive oil, we advocate considering home preparation of infant foods with the use of visible fat. Medical professionals should encourage food manufacturers to return to the concepts of the Mediterranean diet for young consumers, aimed at long-term health. Show more

Keywords: Olive oil, Commercial baby food, Homemade food, Dietary patterns, Optimal feeding practices

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0025-8

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 227-232, 2010

Authors: Tura, Andrea | Conte, Barbara | Caparrotto, Carmen | Spinella, Paolo | Maestrelli, Pietro | Valerio, Anna | Pacini, Giovanni | Avogaro, Angelo

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: The Zone diet (ZD) is centreed primarily on protein intake. Previous findings have assessed the role of ZD on glucose metabolism, but the outcomes have been conflicting. So far, there is no clear evidence of the effects of ZD on insulin response. Furthermore, the effect of ZD on insulin sensitivity has never been clearly determined yet. Our aim was to evaluate in healthy subjects how ZD acts on body composition, lipid profile and overall on insulin sensitivity and secretion in dynamic conditions. We also compared ZD effects with those of the Mediterranean diet (MD). Twelve volunteers were studied. Subjects were …randomized either to MD or to ZD for 8 weeks. A wash-out period followed. Afterwards, subjects were crossed over to the other diet for other 8 weeks. At any end-point subjects underwent standard 75 g oral glucose tolerance test for measurements of glucose, insulin, C-peptide, proinsulin and glucagon. Lipids and free fatty acids were determined at fasting. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by the oral glucose insulin sensitivity index. Insulin secretion was determined by mathematical modelling of insulin and C-peptide data. No significant differences were observed following both diets in body weight, fat mass and plasma glucose, insulin, C-peptide, proinsulin and glucagon levels. Similarly, insulin sensitivity and secretion were not different in both absolute values and changes from baseline. Decrease in triglyceride and increase in HDL–cholesterol levels were observed after ZD compared with MD. Thus, it was determined that intake of high-protein diet for 2 months does not modify insulin action and secretion, but improves lipid profile. Show more

Keywords: Dietary carbohydrates, Dietary proteins, Insulin, Cholesterol, Humans

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0026-7

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 233-237, 2010

Authors: Cicero, A. F. G. | Benvenuti, C. | ARMoweb study Group

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: To verify the efficacy of a patented proprietary combination of nutraceuticals containing natural hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant agents as red yeast rice extract, policosanols, coenzyme Q10 , astaxanthin, and folic acid in the following subgroups of hyperlipidemic subjects: fertile (F) versus menopause (M) women, adults versus elderly (>65 years), lunch versus dinner administration time. A randomised, multicenter study in 411 Italians units compared Armolipid-Rottapharm|Madaus (ARM) one tablet/day plus diet versus diet alone (D) for 16 weeks in hyperlipidemic patients [serum total cholesterol (tot-C) >200 mg/dL or LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) >150 mg/dL at admission]. Efficacy parameters were measured at baseline and every 4 …weeks. In 2,408 eligible subjects, 1,665 adults and 743 elderly, total and LDL-cholesterol were likewise reduced by ARM + D in both age classes and significantly versus D. In 1,246 cases, 302 F and 946 M, tot-C gradually and significantly decreased up to 18.7 and 16.8% in F and M treated groups versus 9% in D group. Similar reduction was observed in LDL-C. In 907 cases, the time of administration of ARM was detailed: 733 received ARM + D at dinner and 174 at lunch. Cholesterolemia improved equally in the two groups. The association of ARM with an appropriate diet is more effective than diet alone in reducing abnormal cholesterolemia, independently from age classes and administration time during the day, supporting its positive use for controlling hypercholesterolemia with a positive impact on CHD prevention in all categories of subjects. Show more

Keywords: Lipid-lowering agents, Red yeast rice, Diet, Menopause, Elderly, Administration time

DOI: 10.3233/s12349-010-0028-5

Citation: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, vol. 3, no. 3, pp. 239-246, 2010