Nutrition
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We previously reported that refeeding after a 48-h fast, used as a study model of starvation and refeeding, promotes acute liver inflammatory gene expression, which is at least partly mediated by toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). We also previously demonstrated that dietary carbohydrates play critical roles in this process. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of refeeding with different carbohydrate sources. ⋯ Dietary glucose, rather than fructose, plays a critical role in refeeding-induced acute liver inflammatory gene expression and moderate hepatocyte destruction. Further studies are recommended regarding the role of these effects in liver inflammation and, consequently, liver dysfunction.
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Review Meta Analysis
The effect of cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) on body weight and cardiovascular risk factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Hundreds of dietary supplements are currently marketed as weight loss supplements. However, the advertised health claims of effectiveness for most of these have not been proven. The aim of this study was to critically appraise and evaluate the evidence for effectiveness of cactus pear, Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI), using data from published randomized clinical trials. ⋯ The evidence from randomized clinical trials does not indicate that supplementation with OFI generates statistically significant effects on body weight. Consumption of OFI can cause significant reductions in percentage body fat, blood pressure, and total cholesterol. Few clinical trials evaluating the effects of OFI have been published. They vary in design and methodology, and are characterized by inconsistent quality of reporting. Further clinical trials evaluating the effects of OFI on body composition and metabolic parameters are warranted.
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Review Meta Analysis
Effects of non-soy legume consumption on C-reactive protein: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Because of conflicting results of presented studies, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was to examine the effect of non-soy legume intake on inflammatory markers and C-reactive protein (CRP). ⋯ This review of RCTs showed that non-soy legume consumption may contribute to reductions in CRP and hs-CRP concentrations. However, further controlled clinical trials are needed to investigate the effect of non-soy legume intake on other inflammatory markers.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Switching to a 10-day Mediterranean-style diet improves mood and cardiovascular function in a controlled crossover study.
Even short-term adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet may benefit aspects of psychological functioning. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of switching to a 10-d Mediterranean-style diet on mood, cognition, and cardiovascular measures. ⋯ This Mediterranean-style diet has the potential to enhance aspects of mood, cognition, and cardiovascular function in a young, healthy adult sample.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effects of ginger on serum glucose, advanced glycation end products, and inflammation in peritoneal dialysis patients.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ginger supplementation on serum glucose, advanced glycation end products, oxidative stress, and systemic and vascular inflammatory markers in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). ⋯ This study indicated that daily administration of 1000 mg ginger reduces serum fasting glucose, which is a risk factor for hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, peritoneal membrane fibrosis, and cardiovascular disease, in patients on PD.