Nutrition
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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.
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The cerebellum is the part of the brain most involved in controlling motor and cognitive function. The surface becomes convoluted, forming folia that have a characteristic internal structure of three layers including molecular, Purkinje cell, and granular layer. This complex neural network gives rise to a massive signal-processing capability. ⋯ Treatment with natural products has been found to support improved brain function and reduce low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol level. Fish oil is one such product; among the many plant products are: Morus alba leaves, fruit, and bark; pomegranate fruit and peel; Barley β - glucans; date palm; and Allium sativum. The therapeutic potential was discussed in relation with the antilipidemic drugs, statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors).
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effect of pistachio nut consumption on endothelial function and arterial stiffness.
Previous studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of regular consumption of pistachio nuts on glycemic, lipid, and oxidative stress parameters. The aim of this study was to determine its effect on vascular health, which has not been adequately studied so far. ⋯ The present study demonstrates that regular consumption of pistachio nuts not only improves glycemic and lipid parameters, but also results in improvements in vascular stiffness and endothelial function. Importantly, these improvements were seen in apparently healthy individuals and with a diet (including pistachios) and exercise regimen that every adult individual is expected to follow.
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High dietary glycemic load (GL) has been associated with an increased risk for chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and selected cancers. The aim of this study was to identify the main food and food group contributors to dietary GL in a representative sample of US adults to inform future interventions. ⋯ In this US cohort of white and black adults, sweetened beverages were major contributors to GL overall, especially in black participants. This information may help to inform future interventions targeting reduction in dietary GL.
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It has been suggested that a greater dairy consumption is a contributing factor to a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) as a result of the possible actions of some milk nutrients. However, results remain controversial. The aim of this study was to examine the association between dairy consumption and MetS and its components. ⋯ A greater dairy consumption is associated with a lower prevalence of MetS, with calcium probably being the nutrient responsible for this association.