Nutrition
-
Among the 10 leading causes of death in developed countries are chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The effect of these multifactorial diseases on public health has stimulated considerable research aimed at investigating their primary risk factors (genetic factors, stress, food intake, and amount of physical exercise). ⋯ Among their components are non-caloric substances identified as non-nutrients (polyphenols, phytosterols, saponins, and phytates), which have been found to have a role in modulating metabolic pathways, maintaining health, and preventing NCDs. The aim of this study is to demonstrate and review the performance of some non-nutrients, such as their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, modulation of the antiatherogenic lipid profile (higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, lower oxidized low-density lipoprotein, and triacylglycerols), reduction of glucose and fat intestinal absorption, increase in insulin sensitivity, and stimulation of nitic oxide synthesis.
-
Studies have shown that anthocyanins attenuate obesity. In this review, we confirm these effects and explain the possible mechanisms underlying them. A systematic search was conducted in electronic databases using obesity as the main term along with anthocyanins and the main anthocyanidins, including articles in Portuguese, English, and Spanish without any restriction as to year. ⋯ Anthocyanins can improve the metabolic control involved in obesity by reducing lipogenesis, oxidative stress, and inflammation. This can boost the speed of lipolysis and thermogenesis, regulate satiety, and reduce body fat accumulation. In addition, anthocyanins have shown promising effects on controlling obesity compared with the standard of care.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Simulated amniotic fluid-like solution given enterally to neonates after obstructive bowel surgeries: A randomized controlled trial.
Withholding postoperative feeding is common in neonates recovering from surgeries for congenital abnormalities of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which leads to prolonged exposure to total parenteral nutrition, intestinal atrophy, and feeding intolerance. Because amniotic fluid plays a significant role in fetal gut maturation and development, the aim of this study was to test a hypothesis suggesting that feeding tolerance could be improved in neonates recovering from surgeries for congenital obstructive bowel abnormalities by enteral administration of simulated amniotic fluid-like solution given enterally (SAFE) containing recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and erythropoietin. ⋯ Enteral administration of SAFE may improve postoperative feeding tolerance, enteral caloric intake, and weight gain.
-
Observational Study
Energy balance in obese, mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients.
The aims of this study were, first, to compare the predicted (calculated) energy requirements based on standard equations with target energy requirement based on indirect calorimetry (IC) in critically ill, obese mechanically ventilated patients; and second, to compare actual energy intake to target energy requirements. ⋯ Predictive equations underestimated target energy needs in this population. Further, we found that feeding to goal was often delayed resulting in failure to meet both protein and energy intake goals.
-
Comparative Study
A comparison of L-carnitine and several cardiovascular-related biomarkers between healthy vegetarians and omnivores.
A plant-based diet has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular (CV) diseases. This study aimed to determine the levels and correlations of CV-related biomarkers and the beneficial role of dietary habits. ⋯ Our results suggest that vegetarians have an elevated level of L-Car, which might be associated with endogenous biosynthesis and diet composition. Circulating L-Car might play an important role in CV protection, especially in vegetarians.