Consumption of Branched-Chain Amino Acids Is Inversely Associated with Central Obesity and Cardiometabolic Features in a Population of Brazilian Middle-Aged Men: Potential Role of Leucine Intake

Dietary intake of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), serum BCAAs, and cardiometabolic risk markers among community-dwelling adults

PURPOSE

To investigate the associations between dietary/serum branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and cardiometabolic risk markers.

METHODS

In a cohort of 2791 participants, diet and cardiometabolic risk markers were measured twice at baseline in overall participants and after 1-year in a subset of 423 participants. We assessed serum BCAAs at baseline and arterial stiffness after 1-year. The cross-sectional associations between dietary/serum BCAAs and cardiometabolic risk markers were analyzed using baseline measurements by linear regression, while the 1-year longitudinal association were analyzed using repeated measurements by linear mixed-effects regression.

RESULTS

Higher BCAA intake from poultry was associated with lower triglycerides (β=-0.028, P = 0.027) and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, β = 0.013, P = 0.006), while BCAAs in red and processed meat or fish were inversely associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (β = 0.025, P = 0.001) and total cholesterol (β = 0.012, P = 0.033), respectively. BCAAs in whole grains and nuts were associated with higher HDL-C (β = 0.011, P = 0.016), and lower TG (β=-0.021, P = 0.041) and diastolic blood pressure (β=-0.003, P = 0.027). Also, BCAAs from soy or vegetables and fruits were inversely associated with arterial stiffness (β=-0.018, P = 0.047) and systolic blood pressure (β=-0.011, P = 0.003), respectively. However, BCAAs in refined grains were positively associated with triglycerides (β = 0.037, P = 0.014). Total serum BCAAs were unfavorably associated with multiple cardiometabolic risk markers (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Dietary BCAAs in poultry, whole grains and nuts, soy, and vegetables and fruits may be favorably, while BCAAs in red and processed meat, fish, and refined grains were unfavorably associated with cardiometabolic health. Serum BCAAs showed a detrimental association with cardiometabolic risk markers.

Nutrition as the foundation for successful aging: a focus on dietary protein and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Skeletal muscle plays a critical role throughout the aging process. People living with sarcopenia, a progressive and generalized loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, often experience diminished quality of life, which can be attributed to a long period of decline and disability. Therefore, it is important to identify modifiable factors that preserve skeletal muscle and promote successful aging (SA). In this review, SA was defined as (1) low cardiometabolic risk, (2) preservation of physical function, and (3) positive state of wellbeing, with nutrition as an integral component. Several studies identify nutrition, specifically high-quality protein (eg, containing all essential amino acids), and long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), as positive regulators of SA. Recently, an additive anabolic effect of protein and n-3 PUFAs has been identified in skeletal muscle of older adults. Evidence further suggests that the additive effect of protein and n-3 PUFAs may project beyond skeletal muscle anabolism and promote SA. The key mechanism(s) behind the enhanced effects of intake of protein and n-3 PUFAs needs to be defined. The first objective of this review is to evaluate skeletal muscle as a driver of cardiometabolic health, physical function, and wellbeing to promote SA. The second objective is to examine observational and interventional evidence of protein and n-3 PUFAs on skeletal muscle to promote SA. The final objective is to propose mechanisms by which combined optimal intake of high-quality protein and n-3 PUFAs likely play a key role in SA. Current evidence suggests that increased intake of protein above the Recommended Dietary Allowance and n-3 PUFAs above the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations for late middle-aged and older adults is required to maintain skeletal muscle mass and to promote SA, potentially through the mechanistical target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1).

Branched-chain amino acids prevent obesity by inhibiting the cell cycle in an NADPH-FTO-m6A coordinated manner

Obesity has become a major health crisis in the past decades. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), a class of essential amino acids, exerted beneficial health effects with regard to obesity and its related metabolic dysfunction, although the underlying reason is unknown. Here, we show that BCAA supplementation alleviates high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice and inhibits adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. Further, we find that BCAA prevent the mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) of preadipocytes by reducing cyclin A2 (CCNA2) and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) expression. Mechanistically, BCAA decrease the concentration of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in adipose tissue and 3T3-L1 cells by reducing glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) expression. The reduced NADPH attenuates the expression of fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) protein, a well-known m6A demethylase, to increase the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) levels of Ccna2 and Cdk2 mRNA. Meanwhile, the high m6A levels of Ccna2 and Cdk2 mRNA are recognized by YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA binding protein 2 (YTHDF2), which results in mRNA decay and reduction of their protein expressions. Overall, our data demonstrate that BCAA inhibit obesity and adipogenesis by reducing CDK2 and CCNA2 expression via an NADPH-FTO-m6A coordinated manner in vivo and in vitro, which raises a new perspective on the role of m6A in the BCAA regulation of obesity and adipogenesis.

Dietary intakes of branched-chain amino acids and plasma lipid profiles among filipino women in Korea: the Filipino Women's Diet and Health Study (FiLWHEL)

BACKGROUND

The potential role of dietary branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) in metabolic health, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, is evolving, and it is yet to be understood if dietary BCAA intakes are associated with plasma lipid profiles or dyslipidaemia. This study tested the association of dietary BCAA intakes with plasma lipid profiles and dyslipidaemia among Filipino women in Korea.

METHODS

Energy-adjusted dietary BCAA intakes (isoleucine, leucine, valine, and total BCAA) and fasting blood profiles of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) were determined in a sample of 423 women enrolled in the Filipino Women's Diet and Health Study (FiLWHEL). The generalized linear model was applied to estimate least-square (LS) means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and compare plasma TG, TC, HDL-C, and LDL-C across tertile distribution of energy-adjusted dietary BCAA intakes at P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Mean of energy-adjusted dietary total BCAA intake was 8.3 ± 3.9 g/d. Average plasma lipid profiles were 88.5 ± 47.4 mg/dl for TG, 179.7 ± 34.5 mg/dl for TC, 58.0 ± 13.7 mg/dl for HDL-C, and 104.0 ± 30.5 mg/dl for LDL-C. LS means, and 95% CIs across tertiles of energy-adjusted total BCAA intakes were 89.9 mg/dl, 88.8 mg/dl and 85.8 mg/dl (P-trend = 0.45) for TG, 179.1 mg/dl, 183.6 mg/dl and 176.5 mg/dl (P-trend = 0.48) for TC, 57.5 mg/dl, 59.6 mg/dl and 57.1 mg/dl (P-trend = 0.75) for HDL-C and 103.6 mg/dl, 106.2 mg/dl and 102.3 mg/dl (P-trend = 0.68) for LDL-C. Furthermore, the multivariable-adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals for dyslipidaemia across increasing tertile distribution of energy-adjusted total BCAA intake were; 1.00, 0.67 (0.40, 1.13) and 0.45 (0.16, 1.27; P-trend = 0.03) for the first, second and third tertile, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher dietary intakes of BCAA presented a statistically significant inverse trend with the prevalence of dyslipidaemia among Filipino women in this study and testing these associations in longitudinal studies may be necessary to confirm these findings.

Dietary amino acids and anthropometric indices: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

Objective

Recent studies investigated the role of amino acids (AAs) in weight management. We aimed to determine the association between AAs and three-year change of anthropometric indices and incident obesity.

Materials and methods

Height, weight, hip, and waist circumference (WC) were collected at baseline and follow up. Three-year changes in anthropometric indices and obesity incident according to body mass index (BMI) (overweight & obesity) and WC cutoffs (obesity-WC) were ascertained. Dietary intakes of AAs were collected at baseline, using a food frequency questionnaire. Data analyses were conducted on 4976 adult participants and two subsamples, including 1,570 and 2,918 subjects, for assessing the AAs relationship with 3-year changes on anthropometric indices and obesity incident.

Results

Lysine and aspartic acid were positively associated with higher weight change, whereas acidic AAs, cysteine, and glutamic acid showed a negative correlation with weight change. Furthermore, a weak positive correlation was shown for alkaline AAs, lysine, and valine with WC; however, acidic AAs, tryptophan, cysteine, and glutamic acid were negatively associated with WC. Aromatic and acidic AAs also demonstrated a weak negative relation with changes in BAI. Phenylalanine and Aromatic AAs showed a negative association with overweight &obesity incidence adjusting for potential confounders. Each quartile increases the dietary lysine, arginine, alanine, methionine, aspartic acid, and alkaline AAs related to a greater risk of obesity-WC, while tryptophan, glutamic acid, proline, and acidic AAs associated with lower obesity-WC risk.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that certain dietary AAs may potentially change anthropometric indices and risk of obesity incident.

The association between dietary amino acids and the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among Tehranian adults: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Amino acids (AAs) are important bioactive components in the diet that can be involved in various underlying biological processes that contribute to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The present study investigates the association between dietary intake of amino acids and NAFLD in Iranian adults.

METHODS

This study was conducted among 225 newly diagnosed cases of NAFLD and 450 controls. A valid and reliable 168-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to collect participants' dietary intakes. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between tertiles of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), aromatic amino acids (AAAs), and sulfuric amino acids (SAAs) intake with the odds of NAFLD among the study participants.

RESULTS

The mean ± standard deviation of age and BMI of participants (53% male) were 38.1 ± 8.8 years and 26.8 ± 4.3 kg/m2, respectively. In the final models, the OR and 95% CI of NAFLD among participants in the highest tertiles of BCAAs, AAAs, and SAAs intake compared with those in the lowest tertiles were (OR = 2.82; 95% CI: 1.50-5.30), (OR = 2.82; 95% CI: 1.50-5.30), (OR = 2.86; 95% CI: 1.49-5.48), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicated a direct association between the intake of AAs groups, including BCAAs, AAAs, SAAs, and the odds of NAFLD. We suggest that other researchers examine the association between AAs groups and NAFLD in large cohort studies.

Association Between the Risk of Hyperuricemia and Changes in Branched-Chain Amino Acids Intake Over Twelve Years: A Latent Class Trajectory Analysis From the China Health and Nutrition Survey, 1997-2009

Objective

This study aims to identify dietary branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) consumption trajectories in Chinese adults and to evaluate their association with the risk of hyperuricemia (HU).

Methods

Cohort data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey 1997–2009 were adopted in this research. A total of 6,810 participants aged ≥18 years were included in this study. Participants were designated into four subgroups on basis of the trajectories of dietary BCAA consumption. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to discuss the relationships between varied trajectories and the risk of HU after adjusting potential confounders. The intermediary effect of differential blood indexes between the trajectories and the risk of HU was explored with mediation analysis.

Results

Four distinct trajectory groups of dietary BCAA consumption were identified. Compared with the low stable trajectory group, high to low trajectory group was greatly related to an increased risk of HU (HR 1.35 (95% CI 1.03 to 1.79)) with modification for covariates. Total cholesterol (TC), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and triglyceride (TG) partially regulated trajectories and HU.

Conclusion

Gradually decreasing dietary BCAA intake increased the risk of HU, which is, at least, partially mediated by TC, HbA1c, FBG, and TG levels.

Dietary branched-chain amino acids and odds of obesity among immigrant Filipino women: the Filipino women's diet and health study (FiLWHEL)

Background

The dietary environment promoting adiposity keeps evolving and of interest is the significance of dietary branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). This study assessed the association between dietary BCAA intakes and odds of obesity among immigrant Filipino women in Korea.

Method

We included 423 immigrant Filipino women enrolled in the Filipino Women’s diet and health study in the Republic of Korea. Dietary BCAA intakes were estimated from 24 hour recalls and adjusted for energy intake using the residual method. General obesity was derived from direct anthropometric measurements (height, weight and waist circumference – WC) and defined as body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m² and abdominal obesity as WC ≥80 cm. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) by tertile distribution of energy-adjusted BCAA intakes were estimated using multivariable logistic regression with a two-sided P < 0.05.

Results

Median (interquartile range) for BCAA intakes in g/day were; 7.9 (5.8, 10.3) g/day for total BCAA; 2.0 (1.5, 2.6) g/day for isoleucine, 3.5(2.5, 4.6) g/day for leucine and 2.4 (1.8, 3.1) g/day for valine. Mean BMI and WC were 23.6 ± 3.8 kg/m² and 79.8 ± 9.3 cm, respectively. Also, 30.2% (128) had BMI ≥25 kg/m² and 42.0% (178) had WC ≥80 cm. ORs (95%CIs) of general obesity across tertile distribution of energy-adjusted total BCAA intakes were 1.00, 0.81 (0.47, 1.37) and 0.62 (0.36, 1.07; P for trend = 0.08). A similar trend was observed across tertile distribution of energy-adjusted isoleucine, leucine and valine intakes. However, there was a statistically significant inverse association between total BCAA intake and odds of general obesity in a subset of non-smokers; 1.00, 0.68 (0.39, 1.20) and 0.55 (0.31, 0.98; P for trend = 0.04).

Conclusion

We found a suggestive inverse association between higher dietary BCAA intake and odds of obesity in this sample of immigrant Filipino women, particularly among non-smokers. Prospective cohort studies among the immigrant population will be necessary to verity these findings.

Effect of a Food for Special Medical Purposes for Muscle Recovery, Consisting of Arginine, Glutamine and Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methylbutyrate on Body Composition and Skin Health in Overweight and Obese Class I Sedentary Postmenopausal Women

The consumption of dietary amino acids has been evaluated for therapeutic and safety intervention in obesity. In particular, three molecules have been shown to be effective: arginine, glutamine and leucine (and its metabolite beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate, HMB). This randomized, double-blinded pilot study in obese postmenopausal patients aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the administration of a specific food for special medical purposes (FSMP) consisting of arginine, glutamine and HMB on body composition, in particular, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), as the primary endpoint. The secondary endpoint was to evaluate the effects on skin health through a validated self-reported questionnaire. A significant improvement on VAT of Δ = -153.600, p = 0.01 was recorded in the intervention group. Skin health showed a significant improvement in the treatment group for the following: bright Δ = 1.400 (0.758; 2.042), elasticity Δ = 0.900 (0.239; 1.561), wrinkles Δ = 0.800 (0.276; 1.324), and on total score, Δ = 3.000 (1.871; 4.129). In the intervention group, the improvement in VAT was associated with an improvement in the bright score (r = -0.58; p = 0.01). In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the intake for 4-weeks of arginine, glutamine and HMB effects a significant reduction in VAT and improves skin condition, while fat free mass (FFM) is maintained, thus achieving "high-quality" weight loss.

Branched chain amino acids, aging and age-related health

Branched chain amino acids (BCAA: leucine, valine, isoleucine) have key physiological roles in the regulation of protein synthesis, metabolism, food intake and aging. Many studies report apparently inconsistent conclusions about the relationships between blood levels of BCAAs or dietary manipulation of BCAAs with age-related changes in body composition, sarcopenia, obesity, insulin and glucose metabolism, and aging biology itself. These divergent results can be resolved by consideration of the role of BCAAs as signalling molecules and the bidirectional mechanistic relationship between BCAAs and some aging phenotypes. The effects of BCAAs are also influenced by the background nutritional composition such as macronutrient ratios and imbalance with other amino acids. Understanding the interaction between BCAAs and other components of the diet may provide new opportunities for influencing age-related outcomes through manipulation of dietary BCAAs together with titration of macronutrient ratios and other amino acids.

Weight gain, but not macronutrient intake, modifies the effect of dietary branch chain amino acids on the risk of metabolic syndrome

AIMS

The aim of this study was to investigate whether both weight change and the background intakes of macronutrient modulate the association between dietary branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS).

METHODS

This prospective study was conducted within the framework of theTehranLipidand Glucose Study. BCAA intakes were collected using a valid and reliable semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. MetS components were defined according to the modified national Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. Weight change was categorized as weight gain (≥ or <7% over 8.9 year follow-up). Dietary fat and carbohydrate intake were categorized as above/below the median intake.

RESULTS

Among participants with weight gain ≥ 7% during follow-up, intakes of both dietary BCAAs and its various sources (below or above the median intake) were associated with higher risk of MetS, compared with subjects with lower intakes of BCAAs and weight change ≤ 7%. Background dietary fat and carbohydrate did not modify the association of dietary BCAAs and its various sources with the risk of MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight change, but not dietary macronutrient intake, modulates the association between dietary BCAAs and risk of MetS among adults.

Effect of branched-chain amino acid supplementation, dietary intake and circulating levels in cardiometabolic diseases: an updated review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are essential amino acids derived from diet. BCAA supplementation has been recommended in elderly and athletes, but recent studies suggest an association between high dietary BCAAs and blood levels of BCAAs with greater risk of cardiometabolic diseases (CMD). This review aims to integrate current epidemiological evidence analyzing the association between BCAAs and related-CMD risk factors.

RECENT FINDINGS

Most epidemiological studies consistently show that dietary BCAAs are associated with higher risk of type-2 diabetes (T2D) whereas there is limited evidence related with other cardiovascular risk factors. Evidence also exists showing an association between higher circulating BCAA levels and risk of T2D and cardiovascular disease, and also probably with metabolic syndrome and overweight/obesity. Several clinical trials suggest beneficial cardiometabolic effect of BCAAs supplementation, although with a small sample size and short follow-up. Studies show a weak correlation between dietary BCAAs and circulating BCAA levels. Protein quality sources and whole dietary pattern are key aspects to improve our understanding of the effect of BCAAs as well as factors associated with higher protein needs, such as age or frailty.

SUMMARY

Dietary and circulating BCAAs exhibit possible detrimental cardiometabolic effects, but BCAA supplementation may have some positive influence on target groups with nutritional deficiencies.

Branched-Chain amino acids intake is negatively related to body adiposity in individuals at cardiometabolic risk

ABSTRACT Objective To assess the relationship between branched-chain amino acids intake in the current diet and the metabolic and body adiposity markers in a population at cardiovascular risk. Methods This is a cross-sectional study with 282 adults and elderly people from the Cardiovascular Health Care Program of the Universidade Federal de Viçosa. Sociodemographic, anthropometric and body composition data, as well as metabolic biomarkers were collected using standardized protocols. Dietary intake of branched amino acids was assessed using a 24-hour recall. Results Individuals with a higher branched-chain amino acids intake (≥2.6g/day, median value) had lower body fat (29.6 vs 32.2%; p=0.019), and higher serum ferritin (113.2 vs. 60.1mg/dL; p=0.006) and uric acid concentrations (4.4 vs. 4.0; p=0.023). In addition, a lower prevalence of overweight and excessive abdominal fat (p<0.05) was found in the individuals with higher branched-chain amino acids intake. They also had a higher daily intake of fiber, copper, zinc, magnesium, and iron, as well as a lower intake of total lipids. Conclusion In the present study, the intake of branched amino acids is negatively related to total and central adiposity, but more studies are needed to fully elucidate this possible relationship. (Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials, code RBR-5n4y2g).

Are dietary amino acids prospectively predicts changes in serum lipid profile?

BACKGROUND

Besides of dietary fat and carbohydrate, amino acids(AAs), as constituent components of dietary protein have been related with serum lipid levels. This study aims to examine the association between dietary AAs and prospective changes in serum lipid profile in adults.

METHODS

Analyses were conducted on 3881 participants aged, 18-75 years of Tehran lipid and Glucose study, at baseline (2008-2011) and were followed for 3 years (2011-2014) to ascertain serum lipid profile changes. Dietary intakes of AAs were collected at baseline using food frequency questionnaire. Multiple linear regression adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, physical activity, smoking and daily intakes of energy, total fat, and fiber were used.

RESULTS

The median(IQR) changes in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were 6.0(-19.0, -35.5), 9.0(7.0, -24.0), 1.0(-3.0, -6.0), and 5.2(-8.0, -18.6) mg/dl, respectively. Higher intakes of isoleucine, lysine, tyrosine, alanine, threonine, methionine, valine, histidine, aspartic acid, and branched chain, alkaline, and alcoholic AAs were positively associated with TGs-changes in the final adjusted model, whereas tryptophan, glutamic acid, and acidic AAs were negatively related to TG-changes. Alanine and tryptophan were associated with higher and lower LDL-C-changes, respectively. Lysine, alanine, methionine, aspartic acid, and alkaline AAs showed positive association with changes in TC, whereas tryptophan and glutamic acid had a negative association with TC-changes.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that some dietary amino acids have the potential to increase or decrease serum lipid profile.

Dietary branched-chain amino acids intake exhibited a different relationship with type 2 diabetes and obesity risk: a meta-analysis

AIM

To assess whether oral branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) supplementation exerts influence on circulating BCAA and the significance of dietary BCAA in type 2 diabetes and obesity risk.

METHOD

We searched PUBMED, EMBASE and Cochrane library through June 2018 to retrieve and screen published reports for inclusion in the meta-analysis after methodological assessment. Heterogeneity of studies was evaluated using I² statistics, while sensitivity analysis and funnel plot were used to evaluate the potential effect of individual studies on the overall estimates and publication bias, respectively, using RevMan 5.3.

RESULT

Eight articles on randomized clinical trial of oral BCAA supplementation, and seven articles on dietary BCAA intake and type 2 diabetes/obesity risks were eligible for inclusion in our meta-analyses. Mean difference and 95% confidence interval (CI) of circulating leucine was 39.65 (3.54, 75.76) µmol/L, P = 0.03 post-BCAA supplementation. Also, OR and 95% CI for higher total BCAA intake and metabolic disorder risks were, 1.32 (1.14, 1.53), P = 0.0003-type 2 diabetes and 0.62 (0.47, 0.82), P = 0.0008-obesity.

CONCLUSION

Oral BCAA supplementation exerts modest influence on circulating leucine profile and higher total BCAA intake is positively and contra-positively associated with type 2 diabetes and obesity risk, respectively.

"Traditional" and "Healthy" Dietary Patterns Are Associated with Low Cardiometabolic Risk in Brazilian Subjects

This study aimed at determining the dietary patterns and investigating their association with cardiometabolic risk markers in a brazilian population at risk. This transversal study was carried out with data of 265 patients (n = 123 M/172 W, age 42 ± 16 years) of the Cardiovascular Health Care Program-PROCARDIO-UFV, Brazil-who had their first appointment between 2012 and 2017. A 24-hour recall was applied. The dietary patterns were determined by Principal Component Analysis. Anthropometric, clinical-metabolic, sociodemographic, and lifestyle data were collected through medical record analysis. Five patterns were identified: "Traditional", "Caloric", "Unhealthy", "Healthy," and "Healthy Snacks". In bivariate analysis, the "Healthy" pattern was negatively associated with WC (waist circunference), BMI (body mass index), WHR (waist-to-hip ratio), SBP (systolic blood pressure), fasting glucose, TG/HDL, LDL/HDL, and TG/HDL values and positively to HDL. The "Traditional" pattern was positively associated with adiposity indicators (WC, BMI, and WHR) and negatively associated with body fat, TyG (triglyceride-glucose index), HDL, and LDL (P < 0.05). However, in adjusted models of Poisson regression, individuals with positive factor score (higher adherence) in the "Traditional" and "Healthy" patterns had less occurrence of abdominal obesity (PR 0.85; 95% CI 0.74-0.99/PR 0.88; 95% CI 0.02-0.76), as well as dyslipidemia (PR 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.51/PR 0.03; 95% CI 0.01-0.27), diabetes (PR 0.05; 95% CI 0.01-0.45/PR 0.02; 95% CI 0.01-021), and hypertension (PR 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.50/PR 0.02; 95% CI 0.01-0.21). A greater adherence to the "Healthy" pattern was associated with lower values to cardiometabolic risk markers and less occurrence of chronic diseases, while the "Traditional" pattern presented contradictory results.

Higher intakes of energy-adjusted dietary amino acids are inversely associated with obesity risk

We assessed the relationship between energy-adjusted amino acids (EAA) intakes and obesity risk using data on nutrient intakes derived from the Chinese food composition tables to determine dietary intakes (DI) among 1109 obese and 3009 normal weight subjects. Dietary patterns (DP) were identified using principal component analysis, multivariable-adjusted odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of obesity risk by quartiles of EAA intakes was estimated using logistic regression with two-sided P < 0.05. Multivariable-adjusted OR and 95% CI for obesity risk were 1.00, 0.801 (0.573, 1.119), 0.718 (0.504, 1.024) and 0.532 (0.353, 0.803) P-trend = 0.003 across energy-adjusted quartiles of total AA intakes. Similarly, higher DI of 13 AA; isoleucine, leucine, valine, lysine, cysteine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, threonine, histidine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, proline, and serine were associated with lower risk of obesity. Furthermore, six DP; 'Wheaten food and Rice', 'Fruit, Vegetables and Milk', 'Snack, Beverage and Ice cream', 'Potatoes, Soybean & Egg', 'Livestock & Poultry meat' and 'Fish' were identified. Multivariable-adjusted OR and 95% CI across quartiles of DP adherence for obesity risk were 1.00, 0.737 (0.535, 1.017), 0.563 (0.406, 0.779), 0.724 (0.518, 1.011) P-trend = 0.018 for 'Fruit, Vegetables and Milk', 1.00, 0.734 (0.531, 1.013), 0.841(0.609, 1.161), 0.657 (0.478, 0.904) P-trend = 0.027 for 'Potatoes, Soybean & Egg' and 1.00, 1.106 (0.791, 1.548), 1.367(0.975, 1.917), 1.953 (1.399, 2.726) P-trend = 0.000 for 'Fish'. Additionally, lower adherence to 'Snack, Beverage and Ice cream' and 'Fish' patterns is associated with a protective higher AA intake-obesity risk relationship. Energy-adjusted AA intakes were inversely associated with obesity risk, but the associations appear modifiable by DP adherence of respondents.

Dietary Pattern and Macronutrients Profile on the Variation of Inflammatory Biomarkers: Scientific Update

It is known that the dietary pattern and macronutrients profile may influence the expression and secretion of inflammatory biomarkers, and the low-grade inflammation is associated with the manifestation of noncommunicable chronic diseases. Therefore, this review aimed to present and discuss the role of dietary patterns and macronutrients on the variation of inflammatory markers related to NCD risk. Scientific evidences within the last five years based on clinical trials, case-controls, cohorts, and cross-sectional studies indicate that normocaloric, carbohydrate-moderated, low-glycemic index, protein-moderated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich, omega-3, and low-saturated fat diets display positive effects on the inflammatory state, both in healthy individuals and in those with cardiovascular risk, although the second group seems to benefit more from changes in the dietary profile.

Dietary Intakes of Branched-Chained Amino Acid and Risk for Type 2 Diabetes in Adults: The Harbin Cohort Study on Diet, Nutrition and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases Study

OBJECTIVES

To assess the association between branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) intakes and risk for type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Dietary intakes were assessed in 1,804 people with type 2 diabetes and 7,020 controls with information on nutrient intakes, including BCAAs derived from Chinese food composition tables. Principal component analysis was used to identify dietary patterns (DPs) and multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of type 2 diabetes, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by quartiles of BCAAs were estimated using logistic regression with 2-sided p<0.05.

RESULTS

Multivariable-adjusted ORs and 95% CI were 1.00, 1.297 (1.087 to 1.548), 1.380 (1.153 to 1.652) and 1.561 (1.291 to 1.888), p<0.0001, across energy-adjusted quartiles of total BCAA intakes. We identified 6 DPs: wheaten foods; vegetables, fruit and milk; beverages and snacks; potatoes, soybean and egg; meat; and fish. Multivariable-adjusted ORs and 95% CI across quartiles of total BCAA intakes for people with type 2 diabetes within the 4th quartile of DPs were 1.00, 1.337 (0.940 to 1.903); 1.579 (1.065 to 2.343); 2.412 (1.474 to 3.947); P_{for trend}=0.001 for vegetables, fruit and milk, 1.00, 1.309 (0.930 to 1.842), 1.328 (0.888 to 1.985), 2.044 (1.179 to 3.544); P_{for trend}=0.028 for meat and 1.00, 1.043 (0.720 to 1.509), 1.497 (0.969 to 2.312), 1.896 (1.067 to 3.367); P_{for trend}=0.017 for fish.

CONCLUSIONS

BCAA intakes and type 2 diabetes risk depend on the context of DPs, not exclusively on BCAA intake.

Branched-chain amino acid catabolism rather than amino acids plasma concentrations is associated with diet-induced changes in insulin resistance in overweight to obese individuals

BACKGROUND & AIMS

3-Hydroxyisobutyrate (3-HIB), a catabolic intermediate of the BCAA valine, which stimulates muscle fatty acid uptake, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. We tested the hypothesis that circulating 3-HIB herald insulin resistance and that metabolic improvement with weight loss are related to changes in BCAAs and 3-HIB.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analyzed plasma and urine in 109 overweight to obese individuals before and after six months on hypocaloric diets reduced in either carbohydrates or fat. We calculated the homeostasis model assessment index (HOMA-IR) and whole body insulin sensitivity from oral glucose tolerance tests and measured intramyocellular fat by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. BCAAs and 3-HIB plasma concentrations were inversely related to insulin sensitivity but not to intramyocellular fat content at baseline. With 7.4 ± 4.5% weight loss mean BCAA and 3-HIB plasma concentrations did not change, irrespective of dietary macronutrient content. Individual changes in 3-HIB with 6-month diet but not BCAAs were correlated to the change in whole body insulin sensitivity and HOMA-IR independently of BMI changes.

CONCLUSIONS

3-HIB relates to insulin sensitivity but is not associated with intramyocellular fat content in overweight to obese individuals. Moreover, changes in 3-HIB rather than changes in BCAAs are associated with metabolic improvements with weight loss. Registration number for clinical trials: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00956566.

Associations between branched chain amino acid intake and biomarkers of adiposity and cardiometabolic health independent of genetic factors: A twin study

Background

Conflicting data exist on the impact of dietary and circulating levels of branched chain amino acids (BCAA) on cardiometabolic health and it is unclear to what extent these relations are mediated by genetics.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study of 1997 female twins we examined associations between BCAA intake, measured using food frequency-questionnaires, and a range of markers of cardiometabolic health, including DXA-measured body fat, blood pressure, HOMA-IR, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and lipids. We also measured plasma concentrations of BCAA and known metabolites of amino acid metabolism using untargeted mass spectrometry. Using a within-twin design, multivariable analyses were used to compare the associations between BCAA intake and endpoints of cardiometabolic health, independently of genetic confounding.

Results

Higher BCAA intake was significantly associated with lower HOMA-IR (− 0.1, P-trend 0.02), insulin (− 0.5 μU/mL, P-trend 0.03), hs-CRP − 0.3 mg/L, P-trend 0.01), systolic blood pressure (− 2.3 mmHg, P-trend 0.01) and waist-to-height ratio (− 0.01, P-trend 0.04), comparing extreme quintiles of intake. These associations persisted in within-pair analysis for monozygotic twins for insulin resistance (P < 0.01), inflammation (P = 0.03), and blood pressure (P = 0.04) suggesting independence from genetic confounding. There was no association between BCAA intake and plasma concentrations, although two metabolites previously associated with obesity were inversely associated with BCAA intake (alpha-hydroxyisovalerate and trans-4-hydroxyproline).

Conclusions

Higher intakes of BCAA were associated, independently of genetics, with lower insulin resistance, inflammation, blood pressure and adiposity-related metabolites. The BCAA intake associated with our findings is easily achievable in the habitual diet.