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Fernandes S, Oliveira L, Pereira A, Costa MDC, Raposo A, Saraiva A, Magalhães B. Exploring Vitamin B12 Supplementation in the Vegan Population: A Scoping Review of the Evidence. Nutrients 2024; 16:1442. [PMID: 38794680 PMCID: PMC11124153 DOI: 10.3390/nu16101442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
With a significant portion of the population adopting veganism and conflicting views among nutrition professionals regarding the necessity of vitamin B12 supplementation, this review aims to explore existing studies evaluating interventions through food supplementation. It focuses on the impact of vitamin B12 deficiency across different demographics. The present study seeks to understand how research has addressed the relationship between the rise in veganism and vitamin B12 deficiency over the past decade. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA flow diagram. Studies from 2010 to 2023 were identified using Boolean operators and key terms in electronic databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and EBSCO (Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts, and Academic Search Complete). Out of 217 articles identified, 70 studies were included. The topical analysis categorized the studies into three groups: those associating vitamin B12 deficiency with diseases (n = 14), those analyzing the dietary habits of vegetarian individuals (vegan or not) without a specific focus on vitamin B12 (n = 49), and those addressing food guides and nutrition institution positions (n = 7). The authors concluded that vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent among vegans due to limited consumption of animal products. For vegetarians, supplementation is an efficient means of treating and preventing deficiency; a daily dose of 50 to 100 micrograms is advised. There are still significant gaps in the research, nevertheless, such as the absence of randomized controlled trials evaluating various forms or dosages of vitamin B12 among vegetarians and the requirement for more information and awareness of the vitamin's significance in vegan diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sávio Fernandes
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal; (S.F.); (L.O.)
| | - Leandro Oliveira
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal; (S.F.); (L.O.)
- Coimbra Health School, Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Rua 5 de Outubro—S. Martinho do Bispo, Apartado 7006, 3046-854 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Alda Pereira
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal;
- University Clinic of General and Family Medicine, Ecogenetics and Human Health Unity, Institute for Environmental Health, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental (ISAMB), 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria do Céu Costa
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal; (S.F.); (L.O.)
- Núcleo de Investigação em Ciências e Tecnologias da Saúde (NICiTeS), Polytechnic Institute of Lusophony, ERISA—Escola Superior de Saúde Ribeiro Sanches, 1900-693 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Raposo
- CBIOS (Research Center for Biosciences and Health Technologies), Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande 376, 1749-024 Lisboa, Portugal; (S.F.); (L.O.)
| | - Ariana Saraiva
- Department of Animal Pathology and Production, Bromatology and Food Technology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Trasmontaña s/n, 35413 Arucas, Spain;
| | - Bruno Magalhães
- School of Health, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- RISE—Health Research Network, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Centre of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CACTMAD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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Storz MA, Müller A, Niederreiter L, Zimmermann-Klemd AM, Suarez-Alvarez M, Kowarschik S, Strittmatter M, Schlachter E, Pasluosta C, Huber R, Hannibal L. A cross-sectional study of nutritional status in healthy, young, physically-active German omnivores, vegetarians and vegans reveals adequate vitamin B 12 status in supplemented vegans. Ann Med 2023; 55:2269969. [PMID: 37851870 PMCID: PMC10586079 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2269969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Plant-based diets reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease but also increase the risk of certain micronutrient deficiencies, particularly, of vitamin B12 (B12). The extent to which the unsupervised use of oral nutrient supplements is sufficient to prevent these deficiencies is not well established. We analyzed nutrient intake, laboratory biomarkers, supplementation behavior, and B12 status adequacy amongst young, healthy, physically active omnivores, lacto-ovo-vegetarians and vegans from Germany. METHODS We recruited 115 participants (n = 40 omnivores; n = 37 lacto-ovo-vegetarians, and n = 38 vegans) with comparable age, sex, marital status, physical activity and educational levels through online advertisements and local newspapers in Freiburg, Germany. RESULTS Energy intake and macronutrient distribution were comparable across diets. Major differences included intake of fiber, cholesterol, and several vitamins. Vegans had the lowest intake of B12 from foods (0.43 (0.58) µg/d), compared to omnivores (2.14 (2.29) µg/d) and lacto-ovo-vegetarians (0.98 (1.34) µg/day). Multivariate analysis of 36 blood biomarkers revealed that three major classes of biomarkers contributed the most to the clustering of individuals by dietary group, namely, biomarkers of B12 status (B12, holoTC, Hcy), iron (iron, ferritin, transferrin) and lipid metabolism (vitamin A, HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, TAG). This suggests that nutrients that modify the metabolic pathways represented by these biomarkers have the most penetrating effect on health status across diets. Analysis of B12 status (including 4cB12) revealed adequacy in omnivores and vegans, and a poorer B12 status amongst lacto-ovo-vegetarians. Fewer lacto-ovo-vegetarians used B12 supplements compared to vegans (51% versus 90%). CONCLUSIONS Even amongst homogeneously healthy Germans, each diet manifested with measurable differences in dietary intakes and biomarkers of health. Plant-based diets, in particular the vegan diet, exhibited the most favorable patterns of lipid metabolism and glycemic control, but the lowest food intake of B12. Supplementation of healthy vegans with B12 (median 250 µg B12/day, over 2 years) secured an adequate B12 status that was comparable to that of healthy omnivores.Clinical Trial Registry: German Clinical Trial register number: DRKS00027425.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Andreas Storz
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Müller
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Niederreiter
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Amy M. Zimmermann-Klemd
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Translational Complementary Medicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Martin Suarez-Alvarez
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center, Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolism, Department of General Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine and Neonatology, University of Freiburg, , Freiburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Kowarschik
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Monique Strittmatter
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Evelyn Schlachter
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Cristian Pasluosta
- Laboratory for Biomedical Microtechnology, Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Roman Huber
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Luciana Hannibal
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center, Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry and Metabolism, Department of General Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine and Neonatology, University of Freiburg, , Freiburg, Germany
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Gomes Soares M, Bevilaqua GC, Marcondes Tassi ÉM, Reolon Schmidt VC. Fermented foods and beverages: a potential in situ vitamin B12 biofortification - a literature review. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2023; 74:655-667. [PMID: 37612883 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2023.2248422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Millions of dollars have been increasingly spent on plant-based diets. Considering that vitamin B12 is obtained from the consumption of animal-derived foods, new sources of vitamin B12 and methods of food fortification are being eagerly sought. Therefore, this work aims to evaluate advances in situ fermentation processes of food and beverages produced on a large scale and industrial applications for obtaining cobalamin-rich products. Bibliometric analysis was performed and revealed that several studies report a great capacity for in situ biofortification of B12 in foods, mostly on the use of propionic (PB) and lactic (LAB) bacteria. In this context, market potentials for such products, the main microorganisms, including simultaneous cultures, and their respective applications have been presented herein. Although knowledge on potential applications is still limited, field research has been increasingly conducted, thus revealing scientific and technological opportunities, both for the production and the stability of B12 found in plant-based foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Gomes Soares
- Department of Food Engineering, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Bärebring L, Lamberg-Allardt C, Thorisdottir B, Ramel A, Söderlund F, Arnesen EK, Nwaru BI, Dierkes J, Åkesson A. Intake of vitamin B12 in relation to vitamin B12 status in groups susceptible to deficiency: a systematic review. Food Nutr Res 2023; 67:8626. [PMID: 37441514 PMCID: PMC10335093 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v67.8626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To systematically review the evidence for whether habitual or different levels of experimental intake of vitamin B12 from diet and supplements is sufficient to ensure adequate B12 status in groups most susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiency. Methods We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Scopus up to 21 May 2021, for intervention studies, prospective cohort studies and case-control studies assessing B12 intake from diet and/or supplements in relation to B12 status (s/p-B12, holotranscobalamin, methylmalonic acid, homocysteine or breastmilk B12). Cross-sectional studies were eligible for studies conducted during pregnancy and lactation. Included populations were children (0-18 years), young adults (18-35 years), pregnant or lactating women, older adults (≥65 years) and vegans or vegetarians. Study selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were conducted by two assessors independently. The evidence was synthesized qualitatively and classified according to the World Cancer Research Fund. Results The searches yielded 4855 articles of which 89 were assessed in full text and 18 included. Three studies were conducted during pregnancy and three during lactation or infancy - all observational. Eight studies were conducted among older adults; most were interventions among B12-deficient participants. Four studies were eligible for vegetarian and vegans, all interventions. The strength of evidence that habitual B12 intake or an intake in line with the current Nordic recommended intake (RI) is sufficient to ensure adequate status was considered Limited - no conclusion for all included populations. Conclusion Evidence is insufficient to assess if or which level of B12 intake is sufficient to maintain adequate status for all included populations. Population-based cohort studies and low-to-moderate dose interventions that address this question are highly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linnea Bärebring
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Birna Thorisdottir
- Faculty of Sociology, Anthropology and Folkloristics and Health Science Institute, University of Iceland, Iceland
| | - Alfons Ramel
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, Iceland
| | - Fredrik Söderlund
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, the Karolinska Institute, Sweden
| | | | - Bright I. Nwaru
- Krefting Research Centre, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jutta Dierkes
- Centre for Nutrition, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Norway
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Norway
| | - Agneta Åkesson
- Unit of Cardiovascular and Nutritional Epidemiology, Institute of Environmental Medicine, the Karolinska Institute, Sweden
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Viana A, Ethur EM, de Freitas EM, Hoehne L. Chicken Eggs Substitute Using Vegetable Origin − A Review. FOOD BIOPROCESS TECH 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11947-023-02999-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Temova Rakuša Ž, Roškar R, Hickey N, Geremia S. Vitamin B 12 in Foods, Food Supplements, and Medicines-A Review of Its Role and Properties with a Focus on Its Stability. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 28:molecules28010240. [PMID: 36615431 PMCID: PMC9822362 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin B12, also known as the anti-pernicious anemia factor, is an essential micronutrient totally dependent on dietary sources that is commonly integrated with food supplements. Four vitamin B12 forms-cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, 5'-deoxyadenosylcobalamin, and methylcobalamin-are currently used for supplementation and, here, we provide an overview of their biochemical role, bioavailability, and efficacy in different dosage forms. Since the effective quantity of vitamin B12 depends on the stability of the different forms, we further provide a review of their main reactivity and stability under exposure to various environmental factors (e.g., temperature, pH, light) and the presence of some typical interacting compounds (oxidants, reductants, and other water-soluble vitamins). Further, we explore how the manufacturing process and storage affect B12 stability in foods, food supplements, and medicines and provide a summary of the data published to date on the content-related quality of vitamin B12 products on the market. We also provide an overview of the approaches toward their stabilization, including minimization of the destabilizing factors, addition of proper stabilizers, or application of some (innovative) technological processes that could be implemented and contribute to the production of high-quality vitamin B12 products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert Roškar
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Neal Hickey
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Centre of Excellence in Biocrystallography, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Silvano Geremia
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Centre of Excellence in Biocrystallography, University of Trieste, Via L. Giorgieri 1, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Vitamin B12 Supplementation Adequacy in Australian Vegan Study Participants. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14224781. [PMID: 36432466 PMCID: PMC9695216 DOI: 10.3390/nu14224781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In our initial analysis of the Australian Vegan Study we estimated the mean daily intake of vitamin B12 of each participant and compared this to the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI). However, the proportion of vitamin B12 that can be absorbed from large doses typically contained in oral supplements is considerably lower than the amount absorbed from food. In this analysis we took into account the estimated absorption from supplements in order to compare adequacy of vitamin B12 intake to the RDI. A cross-sectional online survey was used to obtain information from women (N = 1530) of reproductive age on a vegan diet in Australia. Vitamin B12 intake from food was estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire and detailed questioning was used to estimate supplemental intake. We used published data on dose-dependent absorption rates to estimate amount of the vitamin absorbed to enable comparison to the RDI. Supplementation practices varied widely. Based on estimated amount absorbed, 39% of participants had an estimated total intake of vitamin B12 below RDI equivalency, compared to 26% based on mean daily intake. The potential absorption of vitamin B12 needs to be considered when estimating adequacy of intake and recommending supplementation.
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Ma Y, Lin W, Ruan Y, Lu H, Fan S, Chen D, Huang Y, Zhang T, Pi J, Xu JF. Advances of Cobalt Nanomaterials as Anti-Infection Agents, Drug Carriers, and Immunomodulators for Potential Infectious Disease Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112351. [PMID: 36365168 PMCID: PMC9696703 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases remain the most serious public health issue, which requires the development of more effective strategies for infectious control. As a kind of ultra-trace element, cobalt is essential to the metabolism of different organisms. In recent decades, nanotechnology has attracted increasing attention worldwide due to its wide application in different areas, including medicine. Based on the important biological roles of cobalt, cobalt nanomaterials have recently been widely developed for their attractive biomedical applications. With advantages such as low costs in preparation, hypotoxicity, photothermal conversion abilities, and high drug loading ability, cobalt nanomaterials have been proven to show promising potential in anticancer and anti-infection treatment. In this review, we summarize the characters of cobalt nanomaterials, followed by the advances in their biological functions and mechanisms. More importantly, we emphatically discuss the potential of cobalt nanomaterials as anti-infectious agents, drug carriers, and immunomodulators for anti-infection treatments, which might be helpful to facilitate progress in future research of anti-infection therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhe Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Wensen Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yongdui Ruan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Hongmei Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Shuhao Fan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Dongsheng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Yuhe Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Tangxin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine, School of Public Health, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
| | - Jiang Pi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Correspondence: (J.P.); (J.-F.X.)
| | - Jun-Fa Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523808, China
- Correspondence: (J.P.); (J.-F.X.)
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Elangovan R, Baruteau J. Inherited and acquired vitamin B12 deficiencies: Which administration route to choose for supplementation? Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:972468. [PMID: 36249776 PMCID: PMC9559827 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.972468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B12 or cobalamin deficiency is a commonly encountered clinical scenario and most clinicians will have familiarity prescribing Vitamin B12 to treat their patients. Despite the high prevalence of this condition, there is widespread heterogeneity regarding routes, schedules and dosages of vitamin B12 administration. In this review, we summarise the complex metabolic pathway of Vitamin B12, the inherited and acquired causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency and subsequently highlight the disparate international practice of prescribing Vitamin B12 replacement therapy. We describe the evidence base underpinning the novel sublingual, intranasal and subcutaneous modes of B12 replacement in comparison to intramuscular and oral routes, with their respective benefits for patient compliance and cost-saving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramyia Elangovan
- Metabolic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julien Baruteau
- Metabolic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Genetics and Genomic Medicine Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute of Health Research Great Ormond Street Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Julien Baruteau,
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Koeder C, Perez-Cueto FJA. Vegan nutrition: a preliminary guide for health professionals. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:670-707. [PMID: 35959711 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2107997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Since the beginning of the 21st century, interest in vegan diets has been rapidly increasing in most countries. Misconceptions about vegan diets are widespread among the general population and health professionals. Vegan diets can be health-promoting and may offer certain important advantages compared to typical Western (and other mainstream) eating patterns. However, adequate dietary sources/supplements of nutrients of focus specific to vegan diets should be identified and communicated. Without supplements/fortified foods, severe vitamin B12 deficiency may occur. Other potential nutrients of focus are calcium, vitamin D, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, and protein. Ensuring adequate nutrient status is particularly important during pregnancy, lactation, infancy, and childhood. Health professionals are often expected to be able to provide advice on the topic of vegan nutrition, but a precise and practical vegan nutrition guide for health professionals is lacking. Consequently, it is important and urgent to provide such a set of dietary recommendations. It is the aim of this article to provide vegan nutrition guidelines, based on current evidence, which can easily be communicated to vegan patients/clients, with the goal of ensuring adequate nutrient status in vegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Koeder
- Institute of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Leibniz University Hanover, Hanover, Germany
- Department of Nutrition, University of Applied Sciences Münster, Münster, Germany
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Susanti D, Ruslan FS, Shukor MI, Nor NM, Aminudin NI, Taher M, Khotib J. Optimisation of Vitamin B12 Extraction from Green Edible Seaweed (Ulva lactuca) by Applying the Central Composite Design. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27144459. [PMID: 35889331 PMCID: PMC9319212 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27144459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitamin B12, only found naturally in animal-based foods, is essential for brain functions and various chemical reactions in the human body. Insufficient vitamin B12 leads to vitamin B12 deficiency, common among strict vegetarians due to their limited intake of animal-based foods. Nevertheless, extensive studies have demonstrated that macroalgae, specifically the Ulva lactuca species, are rich in vitamin B12 and could be further exploited in future dietary applications. In the current study, the ideal extraction method of vitamin B12 from dried U. lactuca was developed and optimised to achieve the maximum vitamin B12 yield. The effects of several extraction parameters, including the solvent-to-solvent, methanol:water (MeOH:H2O), and solute-to-solvent ratios, and pH on the total vitamin B12 content were analysed through a two-level factorial and central composite design. The highest vitamin B12 content, particularly cyanocobalamin (CN-Cbl), was recovered through the ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) of oven-dried U. lactuca at 3 g:60 mL of solute-to-solvent and 25:75% of MeOH to H2O ratios at pH 4. The extraction of CN-Cbl from oven-dried U. lactuca that employed the UAE method has elevated CN-Cbl content recovery compared to other extraction methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deny Susanti
- Department of Chemistry, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (F.S.R.); (M.I.S.); (N.I.A.)
- Sustainable Chemistry Research Group (SusChemRG), Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (M.T.); (J.K.)
| | - Fatin Shazwani Ruslan
- Department of Chemistry, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (F.S.R.); (M.I.S.); (N.I.A.)
| | - Muhammad Idham Shukor
- Department of Chemistry, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (F.S.R.); (M.I.S.); (N.I.A.)
| | - Normawaty Mohammad Nor
- Department of Marine Science, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia;
| | - Nurul Iman Aminudin
- Department of Chemistry, Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (F.S.R.); (M.I.S.); (N.I.A.)
- Sustainable Chemistry Research Group (SusChemRG), Kulliyyah of Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia
| | - Muhamad Taher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia
- Pharmaceutics and Drug Translational Research Group, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (M.T.); (J.K.)
| | - Junaidi Khotib
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Airlangga University, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
- Correspondence: (D.S.); (M.T.); (J.K.)
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Marino M, Martini D, Ciappellano S, Brusamolino A, Gardana C, Battezzati A, Riso P, Porrini M, Bo CD. Cobalamin status is negatively correlated with vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin in vegetarian and vegan women with a vitamin B12 deficiency. Nutr Res 2022; 105:126-137. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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13
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Mechanistic Link between Vitamin B12 and Alzheimer’s Disease. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12010129. [PMID: 35053277 PMCID: PMC8774227 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly population, affecting over 55 million people worldwide. Histopathological hallmarks of this multifactorial disease are an increased plaque burden and tangles in the brains of affected individuals. Several lines of evidence indicate that B12 hypovitaminosis is linked to AD. In this review, the biochemical pathways involved in AD that are affected by vitamin B12, focusing on APP processing, Aβ fibrillization, Aβ-induced oxidative damage as well as tau hyperphosphorylation and tau aggregation, are summarized. Besides the mechanistic link, an overview of clinical studies utilizing vitamin B supplementation are given, and a potential link between diseases and medication resulting in a reduced vitamin B12 level and AD are discussed. Besides the disease-mediated B12 hypovitaminosis, the reduction in vitamin B12 levels caused by an increasing change in dietary preferences has been gaining in relevance. In particular, vegetarian and vegan diets are associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, and therefore might have potential implications for AD. In conclusion, our review emphasizes the important role of vitamin B12 in AD, which is particularly important, as even in industrialized countries a large proportion of the population might not be sufficiently supplied with vitamin B12.
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14
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Moore S. Accelerated Recovery After Renal Cell Carcinoma and Partial Nephrectomy With Lifestyle Modifications. Am J Lifestyle Med 2021; 15:605-611. [PMID: 34916880 DOI: 10.1177/15598276211015138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective and subjective recovery times following a partial nephrectomy may exceed 1 year if patients adhere to the current Western lifestyle. This case demonstrates the rapid recovery of a 59-year-old female who underwent a robotic partial nephrectomy and utilized lifestyle modifications as an adjunct to the treatment of a Stage T1a clear cell renal cell carcinoma. All 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine are incorporated into this patient's recovery plan, which successfully reduced her time to recovery after a partial nephrectomy. This case illustrates how modifications in diet, activity, sleep, stress management, social connectedness, and avoidance of risky substances may shorten recovery time after a partial nephrectomy and may serve as an example that providers can prescribe for patients recovering from other surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Moore
- Dr Ezekiel R Dumke College of Health Professions, Weber State University, Ogden, Utah
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15
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Varkal MA, Karabocuoglu M. Efficiency of the sublingual route in treating B12 deficiency in infants. INT J VITAM NUTR RES 2021. [PMID: 34428928 DOI: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the efficiency of the sublingual route for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency in infants. Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in children. In breastfed infants, the main reason is maternal B12 deficiency. Parenteral administration is commonly prescribed. However, patient compliance is not satisfactory due to repeated painful parenteral applications. It is also known that the oral route is efficient in high doses. In recent years, the sublingual route has been tried. This route stands out due to its easy applicability and low cost. However, there are few efficacy studies in infants for the sublingual route. Materials and methods: The study included 49 infants aged 6-12 months. All infants with marginal or deficient B12 levels (<300 pg/mL) were incidentally detected and treated with sublingual methylcobalamin. Each dose was 1000 μg and administered once a day in the first week, every other day in the second week, twice a week in the third week, and once a week in the last week. Serum vitamin B12 levels were measured before and after the treatment. Paired Sample T-Test was used to compare variables. Results: All infants had normal physical development and had no hematological or neurological issues. It was learned from the parents that the infants tolerated treatment well, and no side effects related to the treatment, such as vomiting or rash, were observed. Before and after the treatment, the mean vitamin B12 levels were 199±57 pg/mL and 684±336 pg/ml, respectively. The difference between the means was statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: According to the study, it seems possible to treat vitamin B12 deficiency via a sublingual route in infants. In addition, methylcobalamin can be an alternative to the commonly used cyanocobalamin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammet Ali Varkal
- Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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16
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van Rensburg SJ, Hattingh C, Johannes C, Moremi KE, Peeters AV, van Heerden CJ, Erasmus RT, Zemlin AE, Kemp MC, Jaftha M, Khine AA, Potocnik FCV, Whati L, Engel-Hills P, van Toorn R, Kotze MJ. Pathology-supported genetic testing as a method for disability prevention in multiple sclerosis (MS). Part II. Insights from two MS cases. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:1169-1181. [PMID: 33710528 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00712-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In Part I of this Review we evaluated the scientific evidence for a Metabolic Model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Part II outlines the implementation of an adaptive pathology-supported genetic testing (PSGT) algorithm aimed at preventing/reversing disability in two illustrative MS cases, starting with a questionnaire-based risk assessment, including family history and lifestyle factors. Measurement of iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, cholesterol and homocysteine levels identified biochemical deficits in both cases. Case 1, after following the PSGT program for 15 years, had an expanded disability status scale (EDSS) of 2.0 (no neurological sequelae) together with preserved brain volume on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A novel form of iron deficiency was identified in Case 1, as biochemical testing at each hospital submission due to MS symptoms showed low serum iron, ferritin and transferrin saturation, while hematological status and erythrocyte sedimentation rate measurement of systemic inflammation remained normal. Case 2 was unable to walk unaided until her EDSS improved from 6.5 to 4.0 over 12 months after implementation of the PSGT program, with amelioration of her suboptimal biochemical markers and changes to her diet and lifestyle, allowing her to regain independence. Genotype-phenotype correlation using a pathway panel of functional single nucleotide variants (SNVs) to facilitate clinical interpretation of whole exome sequencing (WES), elucidated the underlying metabolic pathways related to the biochemical deficits. A cure for MS will remain an elusive goal if separated from nutritional support required for production and maintenance of myelin, which can only be achieved by a lifelong investment in wellness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J van Rensburg
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Coenraad Hattingh
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Clint Johannes
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kelebogile E Moremi
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Armand V Peeters
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Carel J van Heerden
- Central Analytical Facility (CAF), DNA Sequencing Unit, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Rajiv T Erasmus
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Annalise E Zemlin
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Merlisa C Kemp
- Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mariaan Jaftha
- Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Aye Aye Khine
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Felix C V Potocnik
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lindiwe Whati
- Genetic Care Centre, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Penelope Engel-Hills
- Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ronald van Toorn
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Maritha J Kotze
- Division of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), Cape Town, South Africa
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17
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Infante M, Leoni M, Caprio M, Fabbri A. Long-term metformin therapy and vitamin B12 deficiency: An association to bear in mind. World J Diabetes 2021; 12:916-931. [PMID: 34326945 PMCID: PMC8311483 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v12.i7.916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, metformin remains the first-line oral glucose-lowering drug used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes thanks to its well-established long-term safety and efficacy profile. Indeed, metformin is the most widely used oral insulin-sensitizing agent, being prescribed to more than 100 million people worldwide, including patients with prediabetes, insulin resistance, and polycystic ovary syndrome. However, over the last decades several observational studies and meta-analyses have reported a significant association between long-term metformin therapy and an increased prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency. Of note, evidence suggests that long-term and high-dose metformin therapy impairs vitamin B12 status. Vitamin B12 (also referred to as cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin that is mainly obtained from animal-sourced foods. At the cellular level, vitamin B12 acts as a cofactor for enzymes that play a critical role in DNA synthesis and neuroprotection. Thus, vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a number of clinical consequences that include hematologic abnormalities (e.g., megaloblastic anemia and formation of hypersegmented neutrophils), progressive axonal demyelination and peripheral neuropathy. Nevertheless, no definite guidelines are currently available for vitamin B12 deficiency screening in patients on metformin therapy, and vitamin B12 deficiency remains frequently unrecognized in such individuals. Therefore, in this "field of vision" article we propose a list of criteria for a cost-effective vitamin B12 deficiency screening in metformin-treated patients, which could serve as a practical guide for identifying individuals at high risk for this condition. Moreover, we discuss additional relevant topics related to this field, including: (1) The lack of consensus about the exact definition of vitamin B12 deficiency; (2) The definition of reliable biomarkers of vitamin B12 status; (3) Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency other than metformin therapy that should be identified promptly in metformin-treated patients for a proper differential diagnosis; and (4) Potential pathophysiological mechanisms underlying metformin-induced vitamin B12 deficiency. Finally, we briefly review basic concepts related to vitamin B12 supplementation for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency, particularly when this condition is induced by metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Infante
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome 00131, Italy
- Diabetes Research Institute Federation (DRIF), Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, CTO Alesini Hospital, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00145, Italy
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Rome 00145, Italy
| | - Martina Leoni
- Diabetes Research Institute Federation (DRIF), Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, CTO Alesini Hospital, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00145, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome 00166, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome 00166, Italy
| | - Andrea Fabbri
- Diabetes Research Institute Federation (DRIF), Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, CTO Alesini Hospital, Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome 00145, Italy
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18
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Zugravu CA, Macri A, Belc N, Bohiltea R. Efficacy of supplementation with methylcobalamin and cyancobalamin in maintaining the level of serum holotranscobalamin in a group of plant-based diet (vegan) adults. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:993. [PMID: 34345275 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant-based nutrition has become extremely popular in the contemporary era. Its positive effects are sustained by many studies, but one of its risks is that it is almost completely devoid of vitamin B12. In the present study, we analyzed the effects of two types of vitamin B12 supplements, cyancobalamin and methylcobalamin on the level of active serum vitamin (holotranscobalamin) in a group of Romanian individuals (n=42) following a (vegan) plant-based diet. The results revealed that cyancobalamin gives better results in maintaining B12, as quantified by the holotranscobalamin value (median=150 pcg/l) when compared with methylcobalamin (median=78.5 pcg/l). The frequency of administration, regardless of the quantity in one dose, is another important factor in maintaining the holotranscobalamin level within suitable limits. More frequent intakes give more optimal results. Vegans trying to supplement with alternative products (algae, kombucha, other fermented products), had the lowest levels of holotranscobalamin, always bellow the recommended level of 35 pcg/l (median=29 pcg/l). Vegans must be educated on B12 supplementation, about the pharmaceutical forms on the market and their performances and on choosing the optimal plan in order to avoid the onset of B12 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina-Aurelia Zugravu
- Department of Hygiene and Ecology, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Adriana Macri
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Research and Development for Food Bioresources, 014192 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nastasia Belc
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Research and Development for Food Bioresources, 014192 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Roxana Bohiltea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
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19
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Miedziaszczyk M, Ciabach P, Grześkowiak E, Szałek E. The Safety of a Vegan Diet During Pregnancy. POSTEP HIG MED DOSW 2021. [DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0014.9343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing number of people who go vegetarian. Some young parents also switch
to this diet. The safety of vegetarian diets, especially vegan diets, is very important, especially
during pregnancy. Unfortunately, reference publications do not provide coherent data on the
safety of vegetarian diets during pregnancy. On the one hand, the vegan diet has advantages
because it reduces the risk of heart disease and gestational diabetes. On the other hand,
vegetarians/vegans should be aware of potential deficiencies of some nutrients (iron, zinc,
vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, iodine) and the clinical consequences
for the fetus. For example, iron deficiency may affect cognitive abilities, behavior, intelligence
and increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight of infants. Plant food contains
non-haem iron with variable absorption. Therefore, the vegan diet should include nutrients
increasing the bioavailability of iron, e.g. ascorbic acid, carotene and retinol. Due to the fact
that animal food is the main source of vitamin B12, vegans are at a very high risk of vitamin
B12 deficiency, which will affect the infant’s weight at birth. Low level of vitamin D, which is
prevalent in animal food, is the most common deficiency among vegans and lacto-ovo vegetarians.
This vitamin prevents gestational diabetes, reduces insulin resistance and guarantees
normal function of the musculoskeletal system. Zinc deficiency during pregnancy may lead to
preterm birth, neural tube defects or even miscarriage. In view of the clinical consequences
of potential deficiencies of nutrients, the vegetarian/vegan diet should be well balanced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miłosz Miedziaszczyk
- Student’s Scientific Circle of Clinical Pharmacy of Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Patrycja Ciabach
- Student’s Scientific Circle of Clinical Pharmacy of Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Edmund Grześkowiak
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Edyta Szałek
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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20
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Sublingual AKBA Exerts Antidepressant Effects in the Aβ-Treated Mouse Model. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11050686. [PMID: 34063630 PMCID: PMC8170916 DOI: 10.3390/biom11050686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is the most active compound of Boswellia serrata proposed for treating neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), characterized in its early phase by alteration in mood. Accordingly, we have previously demonstrated that an intracerebroventricular injection of soluble amyloid beta 1-42 (Aβ) peptide evokes a depressive-like phenotype in rats. We tested the protective effects of AKBA in the mouse model of an Aβ-induced depressive-like phenotype. We evaluated the depressive-like behavior by using the tail suspension test (TST) and the splash test (ST). Behavioral analyses were accompanied by neurochemical quantifications, such as glutamate (GLU), kynurenine (KYN) and monoamines, and by biochemical measurements, such as glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP), CD11b and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), in mice prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HIPP). AKBA prevented the depressive-like behaviors induced by Aβ administration, since we recorded a reduction in latency to initiate self-care and total time spent to perform self-care in the ST and reduced time of immobility in the TST. Likewise, the increase in GLU and KYN levels in PFC and HIPP induced by the peptide injection were reverted by AKBA administration, as well as the displayed increase in levels of GFAP and NF-kB in both PFC and HIPP, but not in CD11b. Therefore, AKBA might represent a food supplement suitable as an adjuvant for therapy of depression in early-stage AD.
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21
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Sobczyńska-Malefora A, Delvin E, McCaddon A, Ahmadi KR, Harrington DJ. Vitamin B 12 status in health and disease: a critical review. Diagnosis of deficiency and insufficiency - clinical and laboratory pitfalls. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2021; 58:399-429. [PMID: 33881359 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2021.1885339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential cofactor for two metabolic pathways. It is obtained principally from food of animal origin. Cobalamin becomes bioavailable through a series of steps pertaining to its release from dietary protein, intrinsic factor-mediated absorption, haptocorrin or transcobalamin-mediated transport, cellular uptake, and two enzymatic conversions (via methionine synthase and methylmalonyl-CoA-mutase) into cofactor forms: methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Vitamin B12 deficiency can masquerade as a multitude of illnesses, presenting different perspectives from the point of view of the hematologist, neurologist, gastroenterologist, general physician, or dietician. Increased physician vigilance and heightened patient awareness often account for its early presentation, and testing sometimes occurs during a phase of vitamin B12 insufficiency before the main onset of the disease. The chosen test often depends on its availability rather than on the diagnostic performance and sensitivity to irrelevant factors interfering with vitamin B12 markers. Although serum B12 is still the most commonly used and widely available test, diagnostics by holotranscobalamin, serum methylmalonic acid, and plasma homocysteine measurements have grown in the last several years in routine practice. The lack of a robust absorption test, coupled with compromised sensitivity and specificity of other tests (intrinsic factor and gastric parietal cell antibodies), hinders determination of the cause for depleted B12 status. This can lead to incorrect supplementation regimes and uncertainty regarding later treatment. This review discusses currently available knowledge on vitamin B12, informs the reader about the pitfalls of tests for assessing its deficiency, reviews B12 status in various populations at different disease stages, and provides recommendations for interpretation, treatment, and associated risks. Future directions for diagnostics of B12 status and health interventions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Sobczyńska-Malefora
- The Nutristasis Unit, Viapath, St. Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Edgard Delvin
- Sainte-Justine UHC Research Centre, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Kourosh R Ahmadi
- Department of Nutrition & Metabolism, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Dominic J Harrington
- The Nutristasis Unit, Viapath, St. Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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22
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Current Nanocarrier Strategies Improve Vitamin B12 Pharmacokinetics, Ameliorate Patients' Lives, and Reduce Costs. NANOMATERIALS 2021; 11:nano11030743. [PMID: 33809596 PMCID: PMC8001893 DOI: 10.3390/nano11030743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin B12 (VitB12) is a naturally occurring compound produced by microorganisms and an essential nutrient for humans. Several papers highlight the role of VitB12 deficiency in bone and heart health, depression, memory performance, fertility, embryo development, and cancer, while VitB12 treatment is crucial for survival in inborn errors of VitB12 metabolism. VitB12 is administrated through intramuscular injection, thus impacting the patients’ lifestyle, although it is known that oral administration may meet the specific requirement even in the case of malabsorption. Furthermore, the high-dose injection of VitB12 does not ensure a constant dosage, while the oral route allows only 1.2% of the vitamin to be absorbed in human beings. Nanocarriers are promising nanotechnology that can enable therapies to be improved, reducing side effects. Today, nanocarrier strategies applied at VitB12 delivery are at the initial phase and aim to simplify administration, reduce costs, improve pharmacokinetics, and ameliorate the quality of patients’ lives. The safety of nanotechnologies is still under investigation and few treatments involving nanocarriers have been approved, so far. Here, we highlight the role of VitB12 in human metabolism and diseases, and the issues linked to its molecule properties, and discuss how nanocarriers can improve the therapy and supplementation of the vitamin and reduce possible side effects and limits.
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23
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Haddad EH, Jaceldo-Siegl K, Oda K, Fraser GE. Associations of Circulating Methylmalonic Acid and Vitamin B-12 Biomarkers Are Modified by Vegan Dietary Pattern in Adult and Elderly Participants of the Adventist Health Study 2 Calibration Study. Curr Dev Nutr 2020; 4:nzaa008. [PMID: 32064447 PMCID: PMC7010841 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated plasma methylmalonic acid (MMA) is a functional biomarker of vitamin B-12 status but limited information is available on its prevalence in US vegetarians. OBJECTIVES The study examines the prevalence of plasma MMA ≥0.27 µmol/L in those consuming vegetarian diets, its associations with vitamin B-12 intake and biomarkers, and the modifying effect of vegetarian patterns on these associations. METHODS In this cross-sectional study (n = 785), concentrations of MMA, vitamin B-12, holotranscobalamin (holoTC), and homocysteine (Hcy) were determined in participants of the calibration substudy of the Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2). Vitamin B-12 intake from food, fortified food, and supplements was assessed by six 24-h recalls. Regression models were used to estimate ORs of having high MMA as related to vitamin B-12 status biomarkers, vitamin B-12 intake, and dietary pattern. RESULTS The prevalence of low vitamin B-12 status defined by serum vitamin B-12 <148 pmol/L, holoTC <35 pmol/L, MMA ≥0.27 and ≥0.37 μmol/L, or Hcy ≥15 μmol/L, and the OR of having high MMA did not differ by dietary pattern, possibly due to intake from fortified food and supplements. Total daily vitamin B-12 intake in the second tertile range of 4.4-14.5 μg/d reduced the likelihood of elevated MMA by 69%; and a doubling of vitamin B-12 intake was associated with a 4.3% decrease in plasma MMA. The association between log plasma MMA and biomarkers was modified by diet, with the vegan pattern showing an ∼3-fold stronger association with log serum vitamin B-12 and Hcy than did the nonvegetarian pattern. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of vitamin B-12 intake <2.0 μg/d was 15.2% in vegans, 10.6% in lacto-ovo-vegetarians, and 6.5% in nonvegetarians. Given the irreversible neurological consequences of vitamin B-12 inadequacy, the importance of regular supplemental vitamin B-12 intake in adult and elderly individuals is stressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella H Haddad
- Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Karen Jaceldo-Siegl
- Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Keiji Oda
- Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Gary E Fraser
- Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
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24
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Mahalle N, Bhide V, Greibe E, Heegaard CW, Nexo E, Fedosov SN, Naik S. Comparative Bioavailability of Synthetic B12 and Dietary Vitamin B12 Present in Cow and Buffalo Milk: A Prospective Study in Lactovegetarian Indians. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11020304. [PMID: 30717112 PMCID: PMC6412291 DOI: 10.3390/nu11020304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed improvements in the vitamin B12 status of Indian lactovegetarians receiving four weeks supplementation with natural B12 in milk versus cyano-B12 in capsules. Three groups (n = 22, 23, 22) received daily oral doses of cyano-B12 (2 × 0.76 µg) or milk (2 × 200 mL) from a cow or buffalo (amounting to B12 ≈ 2 × 0.76 µg). Their blood was examined at baseline and each following week. The baselines (median (min/max)) indicated a low B12 status: plasma B12 (116(51/314)) pmol/L, holotranscobalamin (holoTC) (30(7/119)) pmol/L, total homocysteine (Hcy) (24(10/118)) µmol/L, methylmalonic acid (MMA) (0.58(0.15/2.2)) µmol/L and combined B12 index (cB12) (-1.32 - (-3.12/+0.29)). Shifts from the baselines (B12, holoTC, cB12) and ratios to the baselines (Hcy, MMA) were analyzed over time. The cyano-B12 treatment gave more total B12 in plasma at week one (+29 pmol/L, p = 0.004) but showed no further increase. Other biomarkers changed more comparably between the three groups (p ≥ 0.05): holoTC showed a transient spike that leveled off, Hcy finally decreased to 0.8 × baseline, while MMA showed marginal changes. The combined indexes improved comparably (p = 0.6) in all groups (+0.2(-0.3/+0.9), p ≤ 0.002). In conclusion, the tested formulations similarly improved B12 status, but did not normalize it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namita Mahalle
- Department of Pathology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune 411004, India.
| | - Vijayshri Bhide
- Department of Pathology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune 411004, India.
| | - Eva Greibe
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Christian W Heegaard
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Ebba Nexo
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Institute of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Sergey N Fedosov
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Sadanand Naik
- Department of Pathology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Center, Pune 411004, India.
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Systematic Review and Pragmatic Clinical Approach to Oral and Nasal Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Treatment in Patients with Vitamin B12 Deficiency Related to Gastrointestinal Disorders. J Clin Med 2018; 7:jcm7100304. [PMID: 30261596 PMCID: PMC6210286 DOI: 10.3390/jcm7100304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this review is to provide an update on the effectiveness of oral and nasal vitamin B12 (cobalamin) treatment in gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Relevant articles were identified by PubMed and Google Scholar systematic search, from January 2010 and June 2018, and through hand search of relevant reference articles. Additional studies were obtained from references of identified studies, the Cochrane Library and the ISI Web of Knowledge. Data gleaned from reference textbooks and international meetings were also used, as was information gleaned from commercial sites on the web and data from CARE B12 research group. For oral vitamin B12 treatment, 4 randomized controlled trials (vs. intramuscular), 4 narrative and 4 systematic reviews, and 13 prospective studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria. These studies concerned patients with vitamin B12 deficiency related to: food-cobalamin malabsorption (n = 6), Biermer’s disease (n = 3), veganism or vegetarianism (n = 1), total gastrectomy after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 2) and Crohn’s disease (n = 1). Four prospective studies include patients with vitamin B12 deficiency related to the aforementioned etiologies, except veganism or vegetarianism. The systematic present review documents that oral vitamin B12 replacement, at a daily dose of 1000 μg (1 mg), was adequate to normalize serum vitamin B12 levels and cure main clinical manifestations related to vitamin B12 deficiency, in GI disorders, and thus, with safety profile. For nasal vitamin B12 treatment, only one preliminary study was available. We conclude that oral vitamin B12 is an effective alternative to intramuscular vitamin B12 (except in patients presenting with severe neurological manifestations). Oral vitamin B12 treatment avoids the discomfort, contraindication (in patients with anticoagulation), and cost of monthly injections.
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Gallego-Narbón A, Zapatera B, Álvarez I, Vaquero MP. Methylmalonic Acid Levels and their Relation with Cobalamin Supplementation in Spanish Vegetarians. PLANT FOODS FOR HUMAN NUTRITION (DORDRECHT, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 73:166-171. [PMID: 29971679 DOI: 10.1007/s11130-018-0677-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Cobalamin deficiency represents a health issue for vegetarians, especially vegans, if supplements are not consumed. Vitamin B12 serum levels, traditionally used to assess the vitamin B12 status, can be normal under functional deficiency conditions. In this regard, methylmalonic acid (MMA) has proven to be a more specific marker to detect subclinical vitamin B12 deficiency. In this study, we present for the first time the cobalamin status of Spanish vegetarians using both vitamin B12 and MMA markers, and the effects of the plant-based diet and the intake of vitamin B12 supplements. Healthy adults were recruited (n = 103, 52% vegans). Dietary preferences and use of supplements were assessed by questionnaires and serum samples were collected and stored. Vitamin B12 was measured by chemiluminiscence and MMA by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) using solid phase extraction for sample preparation. Obtained values, median (IQR), were: vitamin B12, 278.9 (160.2) pmol/l and MMA, 140.2 (78.9) nmol/l. No significant differences between lacto-ovo vegetarians and vegans were observed. Considering these two markers, 10% of the participants were mild vitamin B12 deficient. Supplementation (75% of the participants) was associated with higher vitamin B12 (p < 0.001) and lower MMA (p = 0.012). In conclusion, Spanish vegetarians have low risk of vitamin B12 deficiency due to vitamin B12 supplementation and the MMA determination is useful to detect mild deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica Gallego-Narbón
- Department of Metabolism and Nutrition, Institute of Food Science, Technology and Nutrition (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Zapatera
- Department of Metabolism and Nutrition, Institute of Food Science, Technology and Nutrition (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Álvarez
- Unit Service of Analytical Techniques, Instrumentation and Microbiology, Institute of Food Science, Technology and Nutrition (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Pilar Vaquero
- Department of Metabolism and Nutrition, Institute of Food Science, Technology and Nutrition (ICTAN-CSIC), 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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