Smart Combinations of Bioactive Compounds in Fruits and Vegetables May Guide New Strategies for Personalized Prevention of Chronic Diseases

Effect of the Drying Method and Storage Conditions on the Quality and Content of Selected Bioactive Compounds of Green Legume Vegetables

This study aimed to determine the effect of the drying method (freeze-drying, air-drying), storage period (12 months), and storage conditions (2-4 °C, 18-22 °C) applied to two legume species: green beans and green peas. The raw and dried materials were determined for selected physical parameters typical of dried vegetables, contents of bioactive components (vitamin C and E, total chlorophyll, total carotenoids, β-carotene, and total polyphenols), antioxidative activity against the DPPH radical, and sensory attributes (overall quality and profiles of color, texture, and palatability). Green beans had a significantly higher content of bioactive components compared to peas. Freeze-drying and cold storage conditions facilitated better retention of these compounds, i.e., by 9-39% and 3-11%, respectively. After 12 months of storage, higher retention of bioactive components, except for total chlorophyll, was determined in peas regardless of the drying method, i.e., by 38-75% in the freeze-dried product and 30-77% in the air-dried product, compared to the raw material.

Designing Nutrition for Health-Incorporating Dietary By-Products into Poultry Feeds to Create Functional Foods with Insights into Health Benefits, Risks, Bioactive Compounds, Food Component Functionality and Safety Regulations

This review delves into the concept of nutrition by design, exploring the relationship between poultry production, the utilization of dietary by-products to create functional foods, and their impact on human health. Functional foods are defined as products that extend beyond their basic nutritional value, offering potential benefits in disease prevention and management. Various methods, including extraction, fermentation, enrichment, biotechnology, and nanotechnology, are employed to obtain bioactive compounds for these functional foods. This review also examines the innovative approach of enhancing livestock diets to create functional foods through animal-based methods. Bioactive compounds found in these functional foods, such as essential fatty acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive peptides, are highlighted for their potential in promoting well-being and mitigating chronic diseases. Additionally, the review explores the functionality of food components within these products, emphasizing the critical roles of bioaccessibility, bioactivity, and bioavailability in promoting health. The importance of considering key aspects in the design of enhanced poultry diets for functional food production is thoroughly reviewed. The safety of these foods through the establishment of regulations and guidelines was reviewed. It is concluded that the integration of nutrition by design principles empowers individuals to make informed choices that can prioritize their health and well-being. By incorporating functional foods rich in bioactive compounds, consumers can proactively take steps to prevent and manage health issues, ultimately contributing to a healthier society and lifestyle.

Compositional profiling and sensory analysis of cauliflower by-products-enriched muffins

Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) by-products (leaves, stems, stalks) (CBP) were successfully utilized in muffins as a model system and their feasibility of incorporation was investigated. CBP powder-based muffin formulations were made by the progressive replacement of wheat flour (WF) with 10%, 20%, and 30% of CBP. The physicochemical, pasting properties, antioxidant potential, textural characteristics, and sensorial attributes were analyzed. Substitution of CBP significantly (p < .05) resulted in an upsurge in crude protein, crude fiber, minerals, total phenolics, and total flavonoid contents, as well as total antioxidant activity values of muffins. The pasting properties were influenced by monitoring an increase in peak, breakdown, final, and setback viscosities. Although the addition of an increasing amount of CBP improved the nutritional characteristics, however, the increased level of replacement (>10%) had significant adverse effects on baking and physical characteristics. The specific loaf volume of the developed muffins decreased the crumb color which became darker, and enriched muffins were hardened in texture. Furthermore, sensory evaluation confirmed the positive effects of CBP incorporation only up to 10%. Overall, present results highlighted that supplementation of wheat muffins with 10% CBP is a beneficial approach to enrich them with nutrients and intensify their antioxidant potential.

Gingerols synergize with anthocyanins to induce antioxidant activity in vitro

Oxidative stress caused by free radicals contributes to the pathogenesis of multiple chronic health conditions. Phytochemicals protect against oxidative stress; however, low bioavailability from dietary sources limits their health benefits. This study aimed to assess the effects of anthocyanins and gingerols' combination on the cellular antioxidant response of Caco-2 cells against oxidative stress. A strong synergism was observed for anthocyanin-gingerol (Ac-G) w/w combined ratios of 8:1 and 2:1 (dosages of (1 + 0.125) and (1 + 0.5) μg/mL) in the cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) and cytoprotective effects, with synergistic effect indicator (SE) values of 1.41 and 1.61, respectively. The synergism of Ac-G combinations promoted cellular antioxidant defense systems and cytoprotective effects by reducing the induced GPx enzyme activity, protecting SOD enzyme activity, reducing cellular ROS generation, increasing glutathione content, and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Thus, Ac-G combinations showed potential in supporting the endogenous antioxidant systems to protect cells from oxidation and restore physiological redox status. The Ac-G formulation is a promising healthy option that can be developed into functional foods or nutraceutical products. Furthermore, it could help address the low bioavailability of these phenolics, as higher effects were achieved when combining the same doses.

Encapsulating vitamins C and E using food-grade soy protein isolate and pectin particles as carrier: Insights on the vitamin additive antioxidant effects

Functional factors show additive effects in the same nutraceutical food. In this study, a core-shell structure based on soy protein isolate (SPI) and pectin was constructed as a delivery system for vitamins C and E under neutral (pH 7.0) and acidic environment (pH 4.0). The SPI-vitamin-pectin complex formed at pH 4.0 showed larger particle size, higher turbidity, lower fluorescence intensity, and higher vitamin E encapsulation efficiency than those formed at pH 7.0. Also, the addition of vitamin C significantly enhanced the vitamin E encapsulation efficiency in the particles. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radicals were increased by the addition of vitamin C, maximum values of 77%, 82%, and 65%, suggesting that vitamins C and E have additive antioxidant effects. These findings proposed a simple, structured protein-polysaccharide-based food-grade delivery system, which could serve as the basis for the design of products having multiple functional factors.

Biofunctionalization of natural extracts, trends in biological activity and kinetic release

The health benefits provided by plant matrices is due to the presence of certain compounds that, in studies carried out in vitro and in vivo, have shown to have biological activity in certain conditions, not only as a natural treatment against various conditions, but also for the quality of preventing chronic diseases, these compounds, already identified and studied, they can increase their biological function by undergoing structural chemical modifications or by being incorporated into polymer matrices that allow, in the first instance, to protect said compound and increase its bioaccessibility, as well as to preserve or increase the biological effects. Although the stabilization of compounds is an important aspect, it is also the study of the kinetic parameters of the system that contains them, since, due to these studies, the potential application to these systems can be designated. In this review we will address some of the work focused on obtaining compounds with biological activity from plant sources, the functionalization of extracts through double emulsions and nanoemulsions, as well as their toxicity and finally the pharmacokinetic aspects of entrapment systems.

Special issue: molecular nutrition and chronic diseases

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"-the ancient adage proposed by Greek philosopher Hippocrates of Kos thousands of years ago already acknowledged the importance of the beneficial and health-promoting effects of food nutrients on the body (Mafra et al., 2021). Recent epidemiological and large-scale community studies have also reported that unhealthy diets or eating habits may contribute heavily to the burden of chronic, non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, arthritis, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (Jayedi et al., 2020; Gao et al., 2022). Emerging evidence highlights that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can prevent various chronic diseases (Chen et al., 2022). Food bioactive compounds including vitamins, phytochemicals, and dietary fibers are responsible for these nutraceutical benefits (Boeing et al., 2012). Recently, phytochemicals such as polyphenols, phytosterols, and carotenoids have gained increasing attention due to their potential health benefits to alleviate chronic diseases (van Breda and de Kok, 2018). Understanding the role of phytochemicals in health promotion and preventing chronic diseases can inform dietary recommendations and the development of functional foods. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the health benefits of phytochemicals derived from commonly consumed foods for the prevention and management of chronic diseases.

Impact of Processing Method and Storage Time on Phytochemical Concentrations in an Antioxidant-Rich Food Mixture

Foods high in phytochemicals are known for their role in the prevention of chronic disease development, but after processing and storage, such food products may lose part of their functionality as these compounds are sensitive to the impact of processing temperature and the type of methods applied. Therefore, we measured the levels of vitamin C, anthocyanins, carotenoids, catechins, chlorogenic acid, and sulforaphane in a complex blend of fruits and vegetables, and when applied to a dry food product, after exposure to different processing methods. These levels were compared between pasteurized, pascalized (high-pressure processing), and untreated conditions. Furthermore, we established the effect of freezing and storage time on the stability of these compounds. The results showed that pascalization better preserved vitamin C and sulforaphane, whereas pasteurization resulted in higher concentrations of chlorogenic acid, carotenoids, and catechins. For samples which were frozen and thawed immediately after processing, pascalization was the optimal treatment for higher contents of lutein, cyanidin-3-glucoside, quercetin-3-glucoside, delphinidin-3-glucoside, peonidin-3-glucoside, and epicatechin gallate. Ultimately, the optimal processing method to preserve phytochemicals in fruit and vegetable products is as complex as the blend of compounds, and this decision-making would best be led by the prioritized nutrient aim of an antioxidant food product.

Increased Intake of Vegetables and Fruits Improves Cognitive Function among Chinese Oldest Old: 10-Year Follow-Up Study

BACKGROUND

In view of the rapidly accelerating aging process in China, this study looked at the associations between vegetables and fruits intake pattens and cognitive function among the oldest old in China using the genetic sub study from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS).

METHODS

This study screened respondents who participated in all four surveys of longitudinal data from the CLHLS, and a total of 2454 participants were ultimately included. The relationships of cognitive function with vegetables and fruits intake patterns were examined using Generalized-estimating equations.

RESULTS

The prevalence range of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) was 14.3% to 16.9% at T1 to T3 and 32.7% at T4. There was a significant increase in the prevalence of MCI from T1 to T4 (β = 0.054; 95% CI, 0.037 to 0.070; p < 0.001; adjusted). The V+/F+ pattern significantly improved cognitive function in Chinese older adults compared with the V-/F- pattern (OR, 1.026; 95% CI, 1.001-1.053; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Older adults who frequently consume both fruits and vegetables experience a reduction in MCI risk relative to those consuming these food groups infrequently-emphasizing the critical importance of the regular intake of both fruits and vegetables in maintaining cognitive function.

Combined Intake of Fish Oil and D-Fagomine Prevents High-Fat High-Sucrose Diet-Induced Prediabetes by Modulating Lipotoxicity and Protein Carbonylation in the Kidney

Obesity has been recognized as a major risk factor for chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance being an early common metabolic feature in patients suffering from this syndrome. This study aims to investigate the mechanism underlying the induction of kidney dysfunction and the concomitant onset of insulin resistance by long-term high-fat and sucrose diet feeding in Sprague Dawley rats. To achieve this goal, our study analyzed renal carbonylated protein patterns, ectopic lipid accumulation and fatty acid profiles and correlated them with biometrical and biochemical measurements and other body redox status parameters. Rats fed the obesogenic diet developed a prediabetic state and incipient kidney dysfunction manifested in increased plasma urea concentration and superior levels of renal fat deposition and protein carbonylation. An obesogenic diet increased renal fat by preferentially promoting the accumulation of saturated fat, arachidonic, and docosahexaenoic fatty acids while decreasing oleic acid. Renal lipotoxicity was accompanied by selectively higher carbonylation of proteins involved in the blood pH regulation, i.e., bicarbonate reclamation and synthesis, amino acid, and glucose metabolisms, directly related to the onset of insulin resistance. This study also tested the combination of antioxidant properties of fish oil with the anti-diabetic properties of buckwheat D-Fagomine to counteract diet-induced renal alterations. Results demonstrated that bioactive compounds combined attenuated lipotoxicity, induced more favorable lipid profiles and counteracted the excessive carbonylation of proteins associated with pH regulation in the kidneys, resulting in an inhibition of the progression of the prediabetes state and kidney disease.

METABOLITE PROFILING, HYPOLIPIDEMIC, and ANTI-ATHEROSCLEROSIS ACTIVITY of MIXED VEGETABLE FERMENTATION EXTRACT

Although positive association between fermented vegetables intake with the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) has increased attention nowadays, the metabolite profiling and the mechanism of action are still elusive. This study designed to investigate the secondary metabolites, hypolipidemic, and anti-atherogenic effect of mixed vegetable fermentation extract (MVFE). The metabolite screening of the MVFE was assessed using the Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrophotometer (LC-MS/MS) method. The result of LC-MS/MS was used as ligands to inhibit the binding of oxidized LDL (oxLDL) and Cluster Differentiation 36 (CD36), Scavenger Receptor A1 (SRA1), Lectin-type oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX1). This work was performed with molecular docking using Discovery Studio 2021, PyRx 0.9, and Autodock Vina 4.2 followed by analyzing Network Pharmacology, Protein Protein Interaction (PPI) using Cytoscape 3.9.1 and String 2.0.0. Finally, the clinical effect of MVFE was evaluated using in vivo study. Twenty rabbits were assigned to normal, negative control, and MVFE group that were fed with standard diet, high fat diet (HFD), HFD supplemented with MVFE 100, 200 mg/kg BW, respectively. The serum level of Total Cholesterol (TC) and Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL-c) were detected at the end of week 4. The LC-MS/MS analysis identified 17 compounds categorized as peptides, fatty acids, polysaccharides, nucleoside, flavonoids, flavanols, and phenolic compounds. Based on the docking study, more negative binding affinity was observed in the interaction between metabolites with the scavenger receptors (SR) than simvastatin. The number of nodes and edges based on Network Pharmacology analysis were 268 and 482, respectively. The PPI network showed that MVFE metabolites exerts its athero-protective effect by modulating various cellular processes including inflammation, improvement of endothelial function, and modulation of lipid metabolism. Blood TC and LDL-c concentrations in the negative control (458.82 ± 82.03; 191.87 ± 92.16 mg/dL) were higher significantly compared to the normal group (87.03 ± 29.27; 43.33 ± 5.75 mg/dL). The MVFE administration decreased the TC (100, 200 mg/kg BW MVFE: 269.96 ± 85.34; 130.17 ± 45.02 mg/dL) and LDL-c level (100, 200 mg/kg BW MVFE = 87.24 ± 22.85; 41.82 ± 11.08 mg/dL) dose-dependently (p < 0,001). The secondary metabolites derived from fermented mixed vegetables extract might be developed as a potential strategy to prevent CHD by targeting the multiple pathways in atherosclerosis.

Delphinidin-3-rutinoside from Blackcurrant Berries (Ribes nigrum): In Vitro Antiproliferative Activity and Interactions with Other Phenolic Compounds

Blackcurrant berries (Rigrum L.) are of great interest for food scientists/technologists as a source of delphinidin-3-rutinoside (D3R). This is an uncommon phenolic compound in diets that unveils potent antiproliferative activity besides its colour. Other phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid (CA) and epicatechin (EC), also known by their antiproliferative effects, are abundant in foods and beverages. To design smart food/supplements combinations containing blackcurrant and improved anticancer properties at the gastrointestinal level, there is the need for more data concerning the combined effects of those molecules. In this work, synergistic, additive, or antagonistic effects against gastric and intestinal cancers of D3R, CA, and EC were assessed in vitro. The antiproliferative activity of D3R, CA, and EC, alone and in binary combinations (D3R+CA, D3R+EC, and CA+EC) on NCI-N87 (gastric) and Caco-2 (intestinal) cells, was assessed following the Chou-Talalay theorem at equipotent contributions (i.e., (IC₅₀)₁/(IC₅₀)₂). D3R presented the strongest antiproliferative activity of the single molecules tested, with IC₅₀ values of 24.9 µM and 102.5 µM on NCI-N87 and Caco-2 cells, respectively. The combinations D3R+CA and CA+EC were synergic against NCI-N87 until IC₅₀ and IC₇₅, respectively, while D3R+EC shifted from slight antagonism to synergism at higher doses. On Caco-2 cells, antagonism at low doses and synergism at high doses was observed. Therefore, the synergisms observed on the gastric cancer model at low doses occurred on the colon model only at high doses. Data herein described is vital to the targeted smart design of foods and supplements, as it is foreseen that the same combination of phenolic compounds causes different interactions/effects depending on the dose and gastrointestinal compartment.

Combination of marine bioactive compounds and extracts for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases

Background

In recent years, marine-based functional foods and combination therapy are receiving greater recognition for their roles in healthy lifestyle applications and are being investigated as viable and effective strategies for disease treatment or prevention.

Aim of the review

This review article presents and discusses the relevant scientific publications that have studied the synergistic and additive effects of natural marine bioactive compounds and extract combinations with anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemopreventive activities in the last two decades. The paper presents the mechanism of action and health benefits of developed combinations and discusses the limitation of the studies. Furthermore, it recommends alternatives and directions for future studies. Finally, it highlights the factors for developing novel combinations of marine bioactive compounds.

Key scientific concepts of review

Combination of marine bioactive compounds or extracts affords synergistic or additive effects by multiple means, such as multi-target effects, enhancing the bioavailability, boosting the bioactivity, and neutralizing adverse effects of compounds in the mixture. For the development of marine-based combinations, there are key points for consideration and issues to address: knowledge of the mechanism of action of individual compounds and their combinations, optimum ratio and dosing of compounds, and experimental models must all be taken into account. Strategies to increase the number and diversity of marine combinations, and further development of marine-based functional foods, are available. However, only a small number of natural marine bioactive combinations have been assessed, and most research has been focused on fish oil and carotenoid synergy. Therefore, more research and resources should be spent on developing novel marine bioactive combinations as functional foods and nutraceuticals.

Active Compounds in Fruits and Inflammation in the Body

Inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, diabetes, asthma, and cancer. An appropriate diet and the active compounds contained in it can affect various stages of the inflammatory process and significantly affect the course of inflammatory diseases. Recent reports indicate that polyphenolic acids, vitamins, minerals, and other components of fruits may exhibit activity stimulating an anti-inflammatory response, which may be of importance in maintaining health and reducing the risk of disease. The article presents the latest data on the chemical composition of fruits and the health benefits arising from their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The chemical composition of fruits determines their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but the mechanisms of action are not fully understood.

The influence of antioxidant dietary-derived polyphenolic combination on breast cancer: Molecular study

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of female mortality worldwide. Therefore, novel complementary treatments have been sought. Recently, there has been a growing interest in investigating the possible complementary effects of polyphenolic compounds against various malignancies. In the present study, using MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 human breast adenocarcinoma cells, the anticancer efficacy of a polyphenolic mixture (PFM) was investigated. PFM is composed of curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate, and quercetin. PFM treatment led to a dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation, with IC₅₀ values of 25.9 ± 3 µg/ml and 29.4 ± 0.9 µg/ml for MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, respectively. In addition, PFM induced apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells and cell cycle arrest at the S phase in MCF-7 cells. Using RT-qPCR, PFM treatment was observed to result in significant downregulation of the oncogenic miR-155 (P < 0.05), as well as significant downregulation of the rate-limiting glycolytic enzyme, hexokinase 2 (HK2) (P < 0.05), while upregulating the expression of the zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 2 gene (P < 0.01). PFM was also found to exert an anti-migration effect in breast cancer cells using the wound healing assay, as well as significantly (P < 0.05) increasing the median survival of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) tumor-bearing mice. These results suggest that PFM possesses potential antitumor effects against breast cancer. A possible mechanism of action could be due to PFM's effect in modulating the expression of the glycolytic enzyme HK2 through suppression of miR-155 in MCF-7 cells. Combining polyphenolic compounds that interact with one another could result in synergistic effects that potentially target various tumour hallmarks.

Something to chew on: technological aspects for novel snacks

Snacks have accompanied people for a long time, meeting our needs for something fast and filling between meals. Societies and technologies have changed, and so have snacks, adapting to people's daily lives, concerns, and demands. Although traditional snacks, such as potato chips, are still ubiquitous and popular worldwide, there is not unanimity around them anymore, since many people have been looking for healthier snacks. Studies have been carried out to propose healthier snack options by changing their composition and/or techniques to produce them, minimizing contents of energy-dense components and/or maximizing the retention or bioavailability of nutrients. This mini-review presents the main trends on development of snacks and future perspectives. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Synthesis and Investigation of Flavanone Derivatives as Potential New Anti-Inflammatory Agents

Flavonoids are polyphenols with broad known pharmacological properties. A series of 2,3-dihydroflavanone derivatives were thus synthesized and investigated for their anti-inflammatory activities. The target flavanones were prepared through cyclization of 2'-hydroxychalcone derivatives, the later obtained by Claisen-Schmidt condensation. Since nitric oxide (NO) represents an important inflammatory mediator, the effects of various flavanones on the NO production in the LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophage were assessed in vitro using the Griess test. The most active compounds were flavanone (4G), 2'-carboxy-5,7-dimethoxy-flavanone (4F), 4'-bromo-5,7-dimethoxy-flavanone (4D), and 2'-carboxyflavanone (4J), with IC50 values of 0.603, 0.906, 1.030, and 1.830 µg/mL, respectively. In comparison, pinocembrin achieved an IC₅₀ value of 203.60 µg/mL. Thus, the derivatives synthesized in this work had a higher NO inhibition capacity compared to pinocembrin, demonstrating the importance of pharmacomodulation to improve the biological potential of natural molecules. SARs suggested that the use of a carboxyl-group in the meta-position of the B-ring increases biological activity, whereas compounds carrying halogen substituents in the para-position were less active. The addition of methoxy-groups in the meta-position of the A-ring somewhat decreased the activity. This study successfully identified new bioactive flavanones as promising candidates for the development of new anti-inflammatory agents.

Endocrine Disruptors-'Food' for Thought

Green vegetables, fruits, cereals, and pulses are all rich sources of antioxidants. Retinoic acid, ascorbate, proanthocyanidins, tannins, saponins, melatonin, curcumin, allicin, and alpha-lipoic acid stand documented in plants as bioactive compounds. The international dietary committee advocates a specific quantum of these natural antioxidants through diet. Interestingly, environmental pollution has indeed affected most of these farm products. The use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and heavy metals in soil has a cumulative effect on human health. Enough evidence is available for the presence of phytoestrogen, xenoestrogen, and a host of other endocrine disruptors in the food. These plant-based nutrients can mimic or enhance the natural hormone's health effects. While endocrine disruptors are found in many everyday products, this review aims to address endocrine disruptors from food in the Asian subcontinent. 'Food for thought' justifies the paradigm shift towards good endocrine health by swaying away from the conventional daily dietary recommendations.

The inside story of fruits; exploring the truth behind conventional theories

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Consumption of fruits and vegetables are important to prevent several diet related diseases. Many dietary guidelines including world health organization (WHO) recommend at least two fruits per day. Our aim here is to highlight theoretical deficiencies in the field of nutritional science that would possibly cause misinterpretations to assess the fruit intake worldwide.

METHODS

Information regarding fruits and vegetables serving sizes were obtained from WHO, National Health Service UK, American Heart Association and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Nutritional compositions of fruits were collected from the USDA, FoodData Central database.

RESULTS

Three main problems causing misinterpretations to the measurement of global fruit intake were identified. First, the absence of a clear definition to classify a fruit; second, lacking a scientific justification for the nutritional composition of servings of fruits; and thirdly, absence of a standard amount or size for a serving of fruits. Since the carbohydrates are the main nutrient in the fruits, it was suggested to determine the serving size according to the 15 g.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutrition experts and other reputed international organizations must focus their attention on scientifically backed definitions and serving size estimations of fruits.

Attenuating Effect of Chlorella Extract on NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation by Mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species

The NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome has been linked to the pathogenesis of a wide variety of human diseases. Although many drugs and inhibitors have been developed to treat NLRP3-associated diseases, only limited clinical data support their efficacy and safety. Chlorella, a unicellular green alga that is widely and safely used as a food supplement, contains various antioxidants. In this study, we obtained a fat-soluble extract from Chlorella (CE) and demonstrated that it reduced NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and caspase-1 activation. In addition, CE supplementation attenuated lipopolysaccharide-induced interleukin 1β transcription through activation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α in vitro and in vivo. As Chlorella is a safe and useful food supplement, it may be a practical pharmacological approach for treating NLRP3-driven diseases.

Dietary flavonoid patterns and prostate cancer: evidence from a Mexican population-based case-control study

Flavonoids are a broad group of bioactive compounds with anticarcinogenic effects on the prostate that have been scarcely evaluated in Latin American populations. Our objective was to evaluate the association between dietary patterns of flavonoid intake and prostate cancer (PC) in a population-based case-control study carried out in Mexico City. Based on a semi-quantitative FFQ with a frame reference of 3 years before diagnosis or interview, we used an updated database for estimating the daily intake (mg/d) of flavones, flavonols and flavanols for 395 confirmed incident PC cases and 797 population controls matched by age (± 5 years). Histological PC differentiation was evaluated using the Gleason score at diagnosis. Flavonoid dietary intake patterns (FDIP) were determined through principal component analysis, and their association with PC was estimated using logistic regression models. Three FDIP were identified: gallate pattern (GP) characterised by (-)-epicatechin-3-O-gallate, (-)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate and (+)-gallocatechin; luteolin pattern (LP) characterised by luteolin and (-)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate; and a mixed pattern (MP) that included (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin and quercetin. A higher GP (ORT3 v.T1 = 0·47; 95 % CI 0·33, 0·66) and LP intake (ORT3 v. T1 = 0·39; 95 % CI 0·27, 0·59) were associated with a decreased PC likelihood. In contrast, a higher MP intake (ORT3 v. T1 = 2·32; 95 % CI 1·67, 3·23) increased PC likelihood. The possible differential and synergistic anticarcinogenic role of flavonoid compounds in PC deserves further study.

Boosting nitric oxide in stress and respiratory infection: Potential relevance for asthma and COVID-19

Nitric oxide (NO) is a ubiquitous signaling molecule that is critical for supporting a plethora of processes in biological organisms. Among these, its role in the innate immune system as a first line of defense against pathogens has received less attention. In asthma, levels of exhaled NO have been utilized as a window into airway inflammation caused by allergic processes. However, respiratory infections count among the most important triggers of disease exacerbations. Among the multitude of factors that affect NO levels are psychological processes. In particular, longer lasting states of psychological stress and depression have been shown to attenuate NO production. The novel SARS-CoV-2 virus, which has caused a pandemic, and with that, sustained levels of psychological stress globally, also adversely affects NO signaling. We review evidence on the role of NO in respiratory infection, including COVID-19, and stress, and argue that boosting NO bioavailability may be beneficial in protection from infections, thus benefitting individuals who suffer from stress in asthma or SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Effects of processed meat and drinking water nitrate on oral and fecal microbial populations in a controlled feeding study

BACKGROUND

One mechanism that can explain the link between processed meat consumption and colorectal cancer (CRC) is the production of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds (NOCs) in the gastrointestinal tract. Oral and gut microbes metabolize ingested proteins (a source of secondary and tertiary amines and amides) and can reduce nitrate to nitrite, generating potentially carcinogenic NOCs.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated whether nitrate/nitrite in processed meat or water influences the fecal or salivary microbiota.

DESIGN

In this dietary intervention study, 63 volunteers consumed diets high in conventional processed meats for two weeks, switched to diets high in poultry for two weeks, and then consumed phytochemical-enriched conventional processed or low-nitrite processed meat diets for two weeks. During the intervention, they drank water with low nitrate concentrations and consumed a healthy diet with low antioxidants. Then the volunteers drank nitrate-enriched water for 1 week, in combination with one of the four different diets. We measured creatinine-adjusted urinary nitrate levels and characterized the oral and fecal microbiota using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing.

RESULTS

Using linear mixed models, we found that, compared to baseline, urinary nitrate levels were reduced during the phytochemical-enriched low-nitrite meat diet (p-value = 0.009) and modestly during the poultry diet (p-value = 0.048). In contrast, urinary nitrate increased after 1-week of drinking nitrate-enriched water (p-value<10^-5). Nitrate-enriched water, but not processed meats with or without phytochemicals, altered the saliva microbial population (p-value ≤0.001), and significantly increased abundance of 8 bacterial taxa, especially genus Neisseria and other nitrate-reducing taxa. Meats, phytochemicals and nitrate-enriched water had no significant effects on saliva alpha diversity or any diversity parameter measured for the fecal microbiota.

CONCLUSION

These findings support the hypothesis that drinking high nitrate water increases oral nitrate-reducing bacteria, which likely results in increased NOC. However, meat nitrate/nitrite at the levels tested had no effect on either the gut or oral bacteria. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT04138654.

Synergistic potential of nutraceuticals: mechanisms and prospects for futuristic medicine

Nutraceuticals are valued for their therapeutic effects and numerous health benefits. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated their superior performances when co-delivered; the concept of synergism has been established for various bioactives. Apart from improvements in the bioavailability of partnering compounds, this approach can protect the radical scavenging potential and biological effects of individual compounds. In this review, the intricate mechanisms that promote synergistic effects when bioactive compounds are co-delivered are detailed. Importantly, a range of potential medical applications that have been established through such synergistic effects is presented, emphasizing recent developments in this field. Also, a section has been devoted to highlighting perspectives on co-encapsulation at the nanoscale for improved synergistic benefits. While prospects for the treatment of chronic diseases are well-demonstrated, several challenges and safety concerns remain, and these have been discussed, providing recommendations for future research.

Phytochemicals as Regulators of Genes Involved in Synucleinopathies

Synucleinopathies are a group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of α-synuclein aggregates in neurons, nerve fibers or glial cells. Three main types of diseases belong to the synucleinopathies: Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and multiple system atrophy. All of them develop as a result of an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms play an essential role in the development of synucleinopathies. Since there is no disease-modifying treatment for these disorders at this time, interest is growing in plant-derived chemicals as a potential treatment option. Phytochemicals are substances of plant origin that possess biological activity, which might have effects on human health. Phytochemicals with neuroprotective activity target different elements in pathogenic pathways due to their antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties, and ability to reduce cellular stress. Multiple recent studies demonstrate that the beneficial effects of phytochemicals may be explained by their ability to modulate the expression of genes implicated in synucleinopathies and other diseases. These substances may regulate transcription directly via transcription factors (TFs) or play the role of epigenetic regulators through their effect on histone modification, DNA methylation, and RNA-based mechanisms. Here, we summarize new data about the impact of phytochemicals on the pathogenesis of synucleinopathies through regulation of gene expression.

A Narrative Review on Dietary Strategies to Provide Nitric Oxide as a Non-Drug Cardiovascular Disease Therapy: Beetroot Formulations-A Smart Nutritional Intervention

Beetroot is a remarkable vegetable, as its rich nitrate and bioactive compound contents ameliorate cardiovascular and metabolic functions by boosting nitric oxide synthesis and regulating gene expressions or modulating proteins and enzyme activities involved in these cellular processes. Dietary nitrate provides a physiological substrate for nitric oxide production, which promotes vasodilatation, increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure. A brief narrative and critical review on dietary nitrate intake effects are addressed herein by considering vegetable sources, dosage, intervention regimen and cardioprotective effects achieved in both healthy and cardiovascular-susceptible individuals. Compared to other nitrate-rich vegetables, beets were proven to be the best choice for non-drug therapy because of their sensorial characteristics and easy formulations that facilitate patient adherence for long periods, allied to bioaccessibility and consequent effectiveness. Beets were shown to be effective in raising nitrate and nitrite in biological fluids at levels capable of promoting sustained improvement in primary and advanced hemodynamic parameters.

Is urban growing of fruit and vegetables associated with better diet quality and what mediates this relationship? Evidence from a cross-sectional survey

Urban agriculture (UA), the growing of fruits and vegetables in urban and peri-urban areas, may improve food security and access, public health and dietary quality on both a broad and personal scale. However, there is little research on the relationship between UA and diet, and potential mediating factors are also unclear. This study aimed to investigate if proximity to and engagement with UA is associated with better diet quality, and what accounts for this relationship. UK-based adults (N = 583, 69% Female) completed measures of proximity to and engagement with UA, perceived access to fruits and vegetables, health and ethical food choice motivations, connection with nature, psychological distress and dietary quality in an online survey. Participants were recruited from UA-related groups and the general public. Proposed relationships were analysed using a structural equation model. Greater proximity to and engagement with UA was associated with greater perceived access to fruits and vegetables, more health-related food choice motivations, more ethical-related food choice, feeling more connected with nature, and, surprisingly greater psychological distress. Furthermore, proximity to and engagement with UA was indirectly associated with better diet quality via health-, and ethical-related, food choice motivations. While the direct pathway between proximity to and engagement with UA and diet quality was not significant, UA is associated with better diet quality, partly via healthier and ethical food choice motivations. Upscaling UA may have benefits for dietary quality via these factors, and more research is needed to test causal relationships and understand these complex interactions.

Medicinal Prospects of Antioxidants From Algal Sources in Cancer Therapy

Though cancer therapeutics can successfully eradicate cancerous cells, the effectiveness of these medications is mostly restricted to several deleterious side effects. Therefore, to alleviate these side effects, antioxidant supplementation is often warranted, reducing reactive species levels and mitigating persistent oxidative damage. Thus, it can impede the growth of cancer cells while protecting the normal cells simultaneously. Moreover, antioxidant supplementation alone or in combination with chemotherapeutics hinders further tumor development, prevents chemoresistance by improving the response to chemotherapy drugs, and enhances cancer patients' quality of life by alleviating side effects. Preclinical and clinical studies have been revealed the efficacy of using phytochemical and dietary antioxidants from different sources in treating chemo and radiation therapy-induced toxicities and enhancing treatment effectiveness. In this context, algae, both micro and macro, can be considered as alternative natural sources of antioxidants. Algae possess antioxidants from diverse groups, which can be exploited in the pharmaceutical industry. Despite having nutritional benefits, investigation and utilization of algal antioxidants are still in their infancy. This review article summarizes the prospective anticancer effect of twenty-three antioxidants from microalgae and their potential mechanism of action in cancer cells, as well as usage in cancer therapy. In addition, antioxidants from seaweeds, especially from edible species, are outlined, as well.

Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy as a Valuable Tool to Tackle Food Analysis: A Literature Review on Coffee, Dairies, Honey, Olive Oil and Wine

Nowadays, food adulteration and authentication are topics of utmost importance for consumers, food producers, business operators and regulatory agencies. Therefore, there is an increasing search for rapid, robust and accurate analytical techniques to determine the authenticity and to detect adulteration and misrepresentation. Mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR), often associated with chemometric techniques, offers a fast and accurate method to detect and predict food adulteration based on the fingerprint characteristics of the food matrix. In the first part of this review the basic concepts of infrared spectroscopy, sampling techniques, as well as an overview of chemometric tools are summarized. In the second part, recent applications of MIR spectroscopy to the analysis of foods such as coffee, dairy products, honey, olive oil and wine are discussed, covering a timespan from 2010 to mid-2020. The literature gathered in this article clearly reveals that the MIR spectroscopy associated with attenuated total reflection acquisition mode and different chemometric tools have been broadly applied to address quality, authenticity and adulteration issues. This technique has the advantages of being simple, fast and easy to use, non-destructive, environmentally friendly and, in the future, it can be applied in routine analyses and official food control.

Inhibition of growth and lung metastasis of breast cancer by tumor-homing triple-bioresponsive nanotherapeutics

Lung metastasis of breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Herein, we attempted to simultaneously inhibit the growth and lung metastasis of breast cancer by delivering quercetin (QU) using LyP-1-functionalized regenerated silk fibroin-based nanoparticles (NPs). The generated LyP-1-QU-NPs had a desirable diameter (203.2 nm) and a negatively charged surface (-12.7 mV). Interestingly, these NPs exhibited intrinsic responsibilities when triggered by various stimulating factors in the tumor microenvironment (acidic pH, reactive oxygen species, and glutathione). In vitro experiments revealed that the introduction of LyP-1 to the NP surface could significantly increase their cellular uptake efficiencies by 4 T1 cells, and facilitate their accumulation in mitochondria. Moreover, LyP-1-QU-NPs showed the strongest mitochondrial damage effect among all the treatment groups. We also found that LyP-1-QU-NPs not only exhibited excellent pro-apoptotic activities but also presented strong inhibitory effects on cell mobility (migration and invasion) through anti-glycolysis and pro-autophagy. Mice experiments confirmed that LyP-1-QU-NPs could efficiently inhibit the in situ growth of breast tumors and further restrict their lung metastasis. Collectively, our results demonstrate that LyP-1-QU-NPs, which integrates the functions of tumor cell targeting, mitochondria targeting, bioresponsive drug release, pro-apoptosis, and anti-mobility, can be developed as a promising nanotherapeutic for the effective treatment of breast cancer and its lung metastasis.

Tailoring functional beverages from fruits and vegetables for specific disease conditions-are we there yet?

On-the-go beverages that may deliver health, increase stamina, reduce stress and provide longevity have captivated consumers and catapulted the food industry into the era of functional food and beverages. The industry initially responded with rapid growth. However, with time product diversification has become somewhat compromised, since most products contain the same bioactive components. Advancement in product technology has to be backed with research. Mere fortification of tea, juices and water, without any scientific evaluation of their functionality, has to be discouraged. Fruits and vegetable juices are excellent matrices for delivery of physiologically active component. Science backed designing will get us closer to tailoring fruits and vegetable juices into 'smart' beverages. As a case study two fruit-based products, probiotic and fruit wines (non-grape) have been considered here. This review explores the possibility of what more may be done to take the fruit and vegetable beverages to next step.

Antioxidant Potential Overviews of Secondary Metabolites (Polyphenols) in Fruits

The rise in consumption of energy-dense foods has resulted in the displacement of several essential dietary gaps, causing numerous long-lasting diseases, including obesity, stroke, hypertension, and several forms of cancer. Epidemiological studies encourage more fruit consumption to prevent these diseases. The defensive mechanisms provided by these fruits against illness are due to the existence of several antioxidants. Recent studies proved that (poly) phenolic compounds are ideally the core phytochemicals with both functional and health-promoting properties found in the plant's kingdom, and low intake could result in the risk of certain diseases. Phytonutrients are powerful antioxidants that can modify metabolic activation and detoxification of carcinogens. The ideal motive of this review is to provide an overview as well as illuminate the polyphenolic merits of fruits in general. Fruits have several merits, including weight maintenance, proper health development, and satiety. There are many analytical methods for determining and measuring the phenolic content of different products. Phenolic compounds are of nutritional interest since they aid in the retardation and inhibition of lipids by acting as scavengers that prevent and protect the proliferation of oxidative chains. Future studies are required to help identify the physiological metabolic activities as well as to improve human health.

The benefits and risks of beetroot juice consumption: a systematic review

Beetroot juice (BRJ) has become increasingly popular amongst athletes aiming to improve sport performances. BRJ contains high concentrations of nitrate, which can be converted into nitric oxide (NO) after consumption. NO has various functions in the human body, including a vasodilatory effect, which reduces blood pressure and increases oxygen- and nutrient delivery to various organs. These effects indicate that BRJ may have relevant applications in prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, the consumption of BRJ also has an impact on oxygen delivery to skeletal muscles, muscle efficiency, tolerance and endurance and may thus have a positive impact on sports performances. Aside from the beneficial aspects of BRJ consumption, there may also be potential health risks. Drinking BRJ may easily increase nitrate intake above the acceptable daily intake, which is known to stimulate the endogenous formation of N-nitroso compounds (NOC's), a class of compounds that is known to be carcinogenic and that may also induce several other adverse effects. Compared to studies on the beneficial effects, the amount of data and literature on the negative effects of BRJ is rather limited, and should be increased in order to perform a balanced risk assessment.

Fruits By-Products - A Source of Valuable Active Principles. A Short Review

The growing demand for more sustainable, alternative processes leading to production of plant-derived preparations imposes the use of plants waste generated mainly by agri-food and pharmaceutical industries. These mostly unexploited but large quantities of plants waste also increase the interest in developing alternative approaches for sustainable production of therapeutic molecules. In order to reduce the amount of plant waste by further processing, different novel extraction techniques can be applied. Fruits and their industrial by-products are rich sources of different classes of compounds with therapeutic properties. The processed fruits waste can be reused and lead to novel pharmaceuticals, food supplements or functional foods. This review intends to briefly summarize recent aspects regarding the production of different active compounds from fruit by-products, and their therapeutic properties. The potential use of fruits by-products in different industries will be also discussed.

Nutraceutical Boom in Cancer: Inside the Labyrinth of Reactive Oxygen Species

In recent years, epidemiological studies have shown that food is a very powerful means for maintaining a state of well-being and for health prevention. Many degenerative, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases are related to nutrition and the nutrient-organism interaction could define the balance between health and disease. Nutrients and dietary components influence epigenetic phenomena and modify drugs response; therefore, these food-host interactions can influence the individual predisposition to disease and its potential therapeutic response. Do nutraceuticals have positive or negative effects during chemotherapy? The use of nutraceutical supplements in cancer patients is a controversial debate without a definitive conclusion to date. During cancer treatment, patients take nutraceuticals to alleviate drug toxicity and improve long-term results. Some nutraceuticals may potentiate the effect of cytotoxic chemotherapy by inducing cell growth arrest, cell differentiation, and alteration of the redox state of cells, but in some cases, high levels of them may interfere with the effectiveness of chemotherapy, making cancer cells less reactive to chemotherapy. In this review, we highlighted the emerging opinions and data on the pros and cons on the use of nutraceutical supplements during chemotherapy.

Epigenetic Gene Regulation by Dietary Compounds in Cancer Prevention

Traditionally, cancer has been viewed as a set of diseases that are driven by the accumulation of genetic mutations, but we now understand that disruptions in epigenetic regulatory mechanisms are prevalent in cancer as well. Unlike genetic mutations, however, epigenetic alterations are reversible, making them desirable therapeutic targets. The potential for diet, and bioactive dietary components, to target epigenetic pathways in cancer is now widely appreciated, but our understanding of how to utilize these compounds for effective chemopreventive strategies in humans is in its infancy. This review provides a brief overview of epigenetic regulation and the clinical applications of epigenetics in cancer. It then describes the capacity for dietary components to contribute to epigenetic regulation, with a focus on the efficacy of dietary epigenetic regulators as secondary cancer prevention strategies in humans. Lastly, it discusses the necessary precautions and challenges that will need to be overcome before the chemopreventive power of dietary-based intervention strategies can be fully harnessed.

A Review of the Potential of Chilean Native Berries in the Treatment of Obesity and its Related Features

Obesity is a major worldwide health threat. It is characterized by an abnormal adipose tissue overgrowth together with increased monocytes infiltration, causing inflammation and oxidative stress, events associated with several illnesses. Investigations have focused on the benefits of native fruit consumption, claiming these to be natural sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. It has been widely stated that berries are a source of the most antioxidant compounds, and, thus, seem highly promising to endure research efforts on these vegetal matrices. The present article describes botanical, chemical and biomedical features of the Chilean native berries, Aristotelia chilensis, Ugni molinae, and Berberis microphylla. This work aims to potentiate incoming research focused on the search for novel treatments for first-order diseases with these particular plant sources.

The Protective Effect of Dietary Phytosterols on Cancer Risk: A Systematic Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUNDS/AIMS

Many studies have explored the association between dietary phytosterols and cancer risk, but the results have been inconsistent. We aimed to provide a synopsis of the current understanding of phytosterol intake for cancer risk through a systematic evaluation of the results from previous studies.

METHODS

We performed a literature search of PUBMED, EMBASE, CNKI, and Wanfang, and studies published before May 2019 focusing on dietary total phytosterols, β-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol, β-sitostanol, and campestanol, as well as their relationships with cancer risk, were included in this meta-analysis. Summaries of the relative risks from 11 case-control and case-cohort studies were eventually estimated by randomized or fixed effects models.

RESULTS

The summary relative risk for the highest versus the lowest intake was 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.49-0.81) for total phytosterols, 0.74 (95% CI = 0.54-1.02) for β-sitosterol, 0.72 (95% CI = 0.51-1.00) for campesterol, 0.83 (95% CI = 0.60-1.16) for stigmasterol, 1.12 (95% CI = 0.96-1.32) for β-sitostanol, and 0.77 (95% CI = 0.65-0.90) for campestanol. In a dose-response analysis, the results suggested a linear association for campesterol and a nonlinear association for total phytosterol intake.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the hypothesis that high phytosterol intake is inversely related to risk of cancer. Further studies with prospective designs that control for vital confounders and investigate the important anticancer effects of dietary phytosterols are warranted.

Influence of Green Leafy Vegetables in Diets with an Elevated ω-6:ω-3 Fatty Acid Ratio on Rat Blood Pressure, Plasma Lipids, Antioxidant Status and Markers of Inflammation

The typical Western dietary pattern has an elevated ω-6:ω-3 fatty acid ratio (FAR), which may exacerbate the risk of chronic disease. Conversely, the consumption of diets containing green leafy vegetables (GLVs) have been demonstrated to attenuate disease risk. This study investigated the effects of collard greens (CG), purslane (PL) and orange flesh sweetpotato greens (SPG) on measures of disease risk in rats fed diets with a 25:1 ω-6:ω-3 FAR. Male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) were randomly assigned to four dietary groups (n = 10/group) with a 25:1 ω-6:ω-3 FAR. Experimental diets contained 4% (dried weight) CG, PL or SPG. Dietary intake, body weight, blood pressure, plasma adiponectin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity and lipid profile were determined using standardized procedures. Following a 6-week consumption period, systolic blood pressure, plasma adiponectin, total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol decreased following the consumption of diets containing GLVs. While hsCRP increased in SHRs fed diets containing CG and PL, plasma antioxidant capacity was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) with the consumption of diets containing the GLVs. These findings suggest that CG, PL and SPG have the potential to decrease risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with the consumption of diets with an elevated ω-6:ω-3 FAR.