Dietary modeling shows that the substitution of canola oil for fats commonly used in the United States would increase compliance with dietary recommendations for fatty acids

The effects of replacing ghee with rapeseed oil on liver steatosis and enzymes, lipid profile, insulin resistance and anthropometric measurements in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomised controlled clinical trial

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is a prevalent hepatic condition worldwide, is expected to develop into the leading reason for end-stage fatty liver in the forthcoming decades. Incorporating rapeseed oil into a balanced diet may be beneficial in improving NAFLD. The goal of this trial was to evaluate the impact of substituting ghee with rapeseed oil on primary outcomes such as fatty liver and liver enzymes, as well as on secondary outcomes including glycaemic variables, lipid profile and anthropometric measurements in individuals with NAFLD. Over 12 weeks, 110 patients (seventy men and forty women; BMI (mean) 28·2 (sd 1·6 kg/m2); mean age 42 (sd 9·6) years), who daily consumed ghee, were assigned to the intervention or control group through random allocation. The intervention group was advised to substitute ghee with rapeseed oil in the same amount. The control group continued the consumption of ghee and was instructed to adhere to a healthy diet. Results showed a significant reduction in the steatosis in the intervention group in comparison with the control group (P < 0·001). However, a significant change in the levels of alanine aminotransferase (–14·4 μg/l), γ-glutamyl transferase (–1·8 μg/l), TAG (–39·7 mg/dl), total cholesterol (–17·2 mg/dl), LDL (–7·5 mg/dl), fasting blood glucose (–7·5 mg/dl), insulin (–3·05 mU/l), Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (–0·9), Quantitative Insulin-Sensitivity Check Index (+0·01), weight (–4·3 kg), BMI (–0·04 kg/m2), waist (–5·6 cm) and waist:height ratio (–0·04) was seen in the intervention group. The consumption of rapeseed oil instead of ghee caused improvements in liver steatosis and enzymes, glycaemic variables and anthropometric measurements among individuals with NAFLD.

Factors Affecting the Quality of Canola Grains and Their Implications for Grain-Based Foods

Canola, Brassica napus L., is a major oilseed crop that has various uses in the food, feed, and industrial sectors. It is one of the most widely produced and consumed oilseeds in the world because of its high oil content and favorable fatty acid composition. Canola grains and their derived products, such as canola oil, meal, flour, and bakery products, have a high potential for food applications as they offer various nutritional and functional benefits. However, they are affected by various factors during the production cycle, post-harvest processing, and storage. These factors may compromise their quality and quantity by affecting their chemical composition, physical properties, functional characteristics, and sensory attributes. Therefore, it is important to optimize the production and processing methods of canola grains and their derived products to ensure their safety, stability, and suitability for different food applications. This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of how these factors affect the quality of canola grains and their derived products. The review also suggests future research needs and challenges for enhancing canola quality and its utilization in food.

The effects of sesame, canola, and sesame-canola oils on cardiometabolic markers in patients with type 2 diabetes: a triple-blind three-way randomized crossover clinical trial

AIMS

To compare the effects of replacing regular dietary oils intake with sesame (SO), canola (CO), and sesame-canola (SCO) oils (a novel blend), on cardiometabolic markers in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), in a triple-blind, three-way, randomized, crossover clinical trial.

METHODS

Participants were assigned to receive SO, CO, and SCO in three 9-week phases (4 weeks apart). Cardiometabolic makers (serum lipids, Apolipoprotein, cardiovascular risk scores, kidney markers, and blood pressure) were considered at the beginning and the end of intervention phases.

RESULTS

Ninety-two, ninety-five, and ninety-five participants completed the SO, SCO, and CO periods, respectively. After CO consumption, serum Apo A-1 concentrations were significantly higher compared with the SCO period in the whole population (p < 0.05). A considerable reduction in visceral adiposity index values was seen in the CO compared with the SO period in males (p < 0.05). Serum high-density lipoprotein concentration was also significantly higher after the SO intake compared with SCO in females (p < 0.05). The between-period analysis showed a substantial reduction in diastolic blood pressure in the SCO period compared with the CO and SO periods and lower systolic blood pressure after SCO versus CO intake in males (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Canola oil might protect CVD through improving Apo A-1 levels in patients with T2DM (particularly in females) and visceral adiposity index in male patients. However, the blend oil might beneficially affect blood pressure in men. Future sex-specific studies might warrant the current findings.

REGISTRY OF CLINICAL TRIALS

This trial was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT, registration ID: IRCT2016091312571N6).

The effects of Canola oil on cardiovascular risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis with dose-response analysis of controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Canola oil (CO) is a plant-based oil with the potential to improve several cardiometabolic risk factors. We systematically reviewed controlled clinical trials investigating the effects of CO on lipid profiles, apo-lipoproteins, glycemic indices, inflammation, and blood pressure compared to other edible oils in adults.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Online databases were searched for articles up to January 2020. Forty-two articles met the inclusion criteria. CO significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC, -0.27 mmol/l, n = 37), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, -0.23 mmol/l, n = 35), LDL-C to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (LDL/HDL, -0.21, n = 10), TC/HDL (-0.13, n = 15), apolipoprotein B (Apo B, -0.03 g/l, n = 14), and Apo B/Apo A-1 (-0.02, n = 6) compared to other edible oils (P < 0.05). Compared to olive oil, CO decreased TC (-0.23 mmol/l, n = 9), LDL-C (-0.17 mmol/l, n = 9), LDL/HDL (-0.39, n = 2), and triglycerides in VLDL (VLDL-TG, -0.10 mmol/l, n = 2) (P < 0.05). Compared to sunflower oil, CO improved LDL-C (-0.14 mmol/l, n = 11), and LDL/HDL (-0.30, n = 3) (P < 0.05). In comparison with saturated fats, CO improved TC (-0.59 mmol/l, n = 11), TG (-0.08 mmol/l, n = 11), LDL-C (-0.49 mmol/l, n = 10), TC/HDL (-0.29, n = 5), and Apo B (-0.09 g/l, n = 4) (P < 0.05). Based on the nonlinear dose-response curve, replacing CO with ~15% of total caloric intake provided the greatest benefits.

CONCLUSION

CO significantly improved different cardiometabolic risk factors compared to other edible oils. Further well-designed clinical trials are warranted to confirm the dose-response associations.

Effects of canola or olive oil on plasma lipids, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 and inflammatory cytokines in patients referred for coronary angiography

BACKGROUND

The potential cardioprotective benefits of olive oil (OO) and canola oil (CO) consumption have been shown in some studies. The present study compared the effects of CO and OO on plasma lipids, some inflammatory cytokines, and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A₂ (Lp-PLA₂) mass and activity in patients undergoing coronary angiography.

METHODS

The current randomized, controlled, parallel-arm, clinical trial involved 48 patients (44 men and 4 women, aged 57.63 ± 6.34 years) with at least one classic cardiovascular risk factor (hypertension, dyslipidemia, or diabetes) who referred for coronary angiography. Patients were randomly divided into two groups and received 25 mL/day refined olive oil (n = 24) or canola oil (n = 24) for 6 weeks. Plasma lipids, some selected inflammatory markers, and Lp-PLA₂ levels were measured at baseline and after the intervention.

RESULTS

CO consumption produced a significant reduction in plasma Lp-PLA₂ mass (- 0.97 ± 1.84 vs. 0.34 ± 1.57 ng/mL, p = 0.008 for CO and OO, respectively), whereas the mean changes in interleukine-6 concentration were significantly lower after OO consumption compared with CO (- 9.46 ± 9.46 vs. -0.90 ± 6.80 pg/mL, p = 0.008 for OO and CO, respectively). After 6 weeks of intervention, no significant changes were observed in plasma Lp-PLA₂ activity, complement C3, C4, or lipid profiles in the two intervention groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Comparing the two vegetable oils in subjects with cardiovascular risk factors showed that the consumption of olive oil is more effective in reducing the level of inflammatory cytokine interleukine-6, whereas canola oil was more effective in lowering Lp-PLA₂ levels; however, this finding should be interpreted with caution, because Lp-PLA₂ activity did not change significantly.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

IRCT20160702028742N5 at www.irct.ir (04/19/2019).

The effect of canola, sesame and sesame-canola oils on body fat and composition in adults: a triple-blind, three-way randomised cross-over clinical trial

The present study aimed to examine the effect of replacing edible oils with sesame oil (SO), canola oil (CO) and sesame-canola oil (SCO) on body weight and composition in adults. Adults without any chronic diseases (n = 77) were entered a 4-week run-in period and then were randomised to receive SO, CO and SCO for their household use in 9-week intervention periods (separated by 4-week washout intervals). Anthropometric measurements, as well as body composition markers, were assessed at baseline, middle and after each intervention period. In total, 73 participants completed the study. Although significant time effects were seen for waist and hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, central obesity index, body adiposity index, muscle mass and body fat percent (p_time<.05), the treatment and treatment × time effects were not significant (p>.05). The present clinical trial revealed that CO, SO and SCO might not differently affect body fat and composition. Trial registration code: IRCT2016091312571N6 (http://en.irct.ir/trial/12622).

Enrichment diets of pigs with oil blends and its effects on performance, carcass characteristics and fatty acid profile

ABSTRACT The addition of different oil blends in the feed of finishing pigs was evaluated. Twenty-four castrated male finishing pigs were used in a randomized block design containing four treatments and six replicates. The treatments consisted of: Reference ration (RR) - 100% soybean oil feed; and the combination of the different oils: Blend1 - 50.0% soybean oil (SO), 25.0% flaxseed oil (FO), 12.5% olive oil (OO) and 12.5% canola oil (CO); Blend2 - 25.0% SO, 50.0% FO, 12.5% OO and 12.5% CO; and Blend3 - 25.0% SO, 12.5% FO, 12.5% OO and 50.0% CO. The performance, quantitative and qualitative carcass parameters, fatty acids profile and economic feasibility of the diets were evaluated. The use of blends in the diets did not influence the performance or carcass quality, but increased marbling and carcass yield. The fatty acid profile of the loin presented greater amounts of stearic acid in Blend3 and higher percentage of unsaturated fatty acids in animals fed with Blend1. The fatty tissue presented greater amounts of myristic acid in Blend1 and oleic acid in Blend3. The reference ration was the most economic. The Blends did not affect performance or carcass characteristics and improved the fatty acid profile.

Phenotypic, biochemical and genomic variability in generations of the rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) mutant lines obtained via chemical mutagenesis

The phenotypic, biochemical and genetic variability was studied in M2-M5 generations of ethyl methansulfonat (EMS, 0.2%) mutagenized rapeseed lines generated from canola, '00', B. napus cv. Vikros. EMS mutagenesis induced extensive diversity in morphological and agronomic traits among mutant progeny resulted in selection of EMS populations of B. napus- and B. rapa-morphotypes. The seeds of the obtained mutant lines were high-protein, low in oil and stabilized in contents of main fatty acids which make them useful for feed production. Despite the increased level of various meiotic abnormalities revealed in EMS populations, comparative karyotype analysis and FISH-based visualization of 45S and 5S rDNA indicated a high level of karyotypic stability in M2-M5 plants, and therefore, the obtained mutant lines could be useful in further rapeseed improvement. The revealed structural chromosomal reorganizations in karyotypes of several plants of B. rapa-type indicate that rapeseed breeding by chemical mutagenesis can result in cytogenetic instability in the mutant progeny, and therefore, it should include the karyotype examination. Our findings demonstrate that EMS at low concentrations has great potential in rapeseed improvement.

Projected Long-Chain n-3 Fatty Acid Intake Post-Replacement of Vegetables Oils with Stearidonic Acid-Modified Varieties: Results from a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2008 Analysis

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake is well below the amount recommended by the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (0.25 g/day), supporting the need for alternative dietary sources. Stearidonic acid (SDA)-enriched soybeans were bioengineered to endogenously synthesize SDA, which can be readily metabolized to EPA in humans; thus, incorporating the derived SDA-enriched soybean oil into the food supply is a potential strategy to increase EPA. We performed a dietary modeling exercise using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2008 repeat 24-h dietary recall data (n = 24,621) to estimate the potential contribution of SDA-enriched oils to total long-chain n-3 fatty acid intake (defined as EPA + DHA + EPA-equivalents) following two hypothetical scenarios: (1) replacement of regular soybean oil with SDA soybean oil and (2) replacement of four common vegetable oils (corn, canola, cottonseed, and soybean) with respective SDA-modified varieties. Estimated median daily intakes increased from 0.11 to 0.16 g/day post-replacement of regular soybean oil with SDA-modified soybean oil, and to 0.21 g/day post-replacement of four oils with SDA-modified oil; the corresponding mean intakes were 0.17, 0.27, and 0.44 g/day, respectively. The percent of the population who met the 0.25 g/day recommendation increased from at least 10% to at least 30% and 40% in scenarios 1 and 2, respectively. Additional strategies are needed to ensure the majority of the US population achieve EPA and DHA recommendations, and should be assessed using methods designed to estimate the distribution of usual intake of these episodically consumed nutrients.

Shelf life study of healthy pork liver pâté with added seaweed extracts from Ascophyllum nodosum, Fucus vesiculosus and Bifurcaria bifurcata

The effect of the addition of seaweed extracts from three brown algae species [Ascophyllum nodosum (AN), Fucus vesiculosus (FV) and Bifurcaria bifurcata (BB)], which are a great source of natural antioxidants, on the oxidative stability of refrigerated low-fat pork liver pâtés was studied. In the studied pâtés, half of pork fat was replaced with a mixture consisting of canola and high-oleic sunflower oil (75:25, v/v), thus improving their fatty acid profile in terms of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). In order to avoid the oxidation of PUFA in the new samples, seaweed extracts (500 ppm) were added. In addition, some samples were formulated with a synthetic antioxidant (BHT at 50 ppm) (BHT) and a control batch (CON) (without antioxidant) was also prepared, for comparison purposes. Thus, in total, five batches of liver pâté were prepared: CON, BHT, AN, FV and BB. Pâté samples were analyzed at 0, 45, 90, 135 and 180 days of refrigerated storage at 4 °C. The addition of seaweed extracts did not modify significantly (P > 0.05) the chemical composition or microbial characteristics of healthy pork liver pâté, except for the protein content, which resulted in a significant increase (≈2-3%) in the batches manufactured with addition of seaweed extracts compared to control samples. At the end of storage (180 days), L* values were significantly lower in the FV and BB batches than in the other batches. Moreover, the a* and b* values were also significantly lower in CON batches than in the samples with antioxidants added. Differences in oxidative parameters (conjugated dienes, TBARs and carbonyls) among batches were observed at the end of the storage time, showing samples with seaweed extracts a similar degree of protection against oxidation compared to BHT formulated samples. A decline of the volatile compounds was noted in all the batches during storage. The total volatile compounds at the end of the storage were significantly lower in BTH, AN, or BB batches than in control batches.

Development of nutritional risk assessment platform in Korea

Risk assessment has been used to prevent health problems associated with eating habits in response to increased interest in a balanced diet. For nutritional risk assessment (NRA), it is important to 1) consider personal nutrition status based on year-round dietary intake, 2) organize core datasets such as food composition, intake, and health based guidance value (HBGV) datasets with public confidence, and 3) assess and predict the effects by using the computerized NRA tool. Our research staff constructed an integrated database system by compiling and organizing core datasets produced sporadically by different organizations and with different formats and developed a nutritional exposure and risk assessment system called Nutri-Risk (NUTRItional RISK assessment platform), which contained the database. Nutri-Risk is not only capable of NRA, but also contains additional data service functions. Here, the compilations and organization of an integrated database are outlined. In addition, the overall architectures of Nutri-Risk and dietary modeling are described and predictive simulation functions to support the regulatory decisions related to nutritional fortification or reduction policy were demonstrated.

Impact of diet-derived signaling molecules on human cognition: exploring the food-brain axis

The processes that define mammalian physiology evolved millions of years ago in response to ancient signaling molecules, most of which were acquired by ingestion and digestion. In this way, evolution inextricably linked diet to all major physiological systems including the nervous system. The importance of diet in neurological development is well documented, although the mechanisms by which diet-derived signaling molecules (DSMs) affect cognition are poorly understood. Studies on the positive impact of nutritive and non-nutritive bioactive molecules on brain function are encouraging but lack the statistical power needed to demonstrate strong positive associations. Establishing associations between DSMs and cognitive functions like mood, memory and learning are made even more difficult by the lack of robust phenotypic markers that can be used to accurately and reproducibly measure the effects of DSMs. Lastly, it is now apparent that processes like neurogenesis and neuroplasticity are embedded within layers of interlocked signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks. Within these interdependent pathways and networks, the various transducers of DSMs are used combinatorially to produce those emergent adaptive gene expression responses needed for stimulus-induced neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Taken together, it appears that cognition is encoded genomically and modified by epigenetics and epitranscriptomics to produce complex transcriptional programs that are exquisitely sensitive to signaling molecules from the environment. Models for how DSMs mediate the interplay between the environment and various neuronal processes are discussed in the context of the food–brain axis.

Fatty Acid Profile and Biological Activities of Linseed and Rapeseed Oils

It has been postulated that fatty acids found in edible oils may exert beneficial health effects by the modulation of signaling pathways regulating cell differentiation and proliferation, especially in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, the biological effects of selected edible oils—linseed (LO) and rapeseed (RO) oils—were tested in vitro on fibroblast cells. The fatty acid profile of the oils was determined using gas chromatography and FTIR spectroscopy. LO was found to be rich in α-linolenic acid (ALA), whereas oleic acid was the most abundant species in RO. Fatty acids were taken up by the cells and promoted cell proliferation. No oxidative stress-mediated cytotoxic or genotoxic effects were observed after oil stimulation. Oils ameliorated the process of wound healing as judged by improved migration of fibroblasts to the wounding area. As ALA-rich LO exhibited the most potent wound healing activity, ALA may be considered a candidate for promoting the observed effect.

Effect of consuming novel foods consisting high oleic canola oil, barley β-glucan, and DHA on cardiovascular disease risk in humans: the CONFIDENCE (Canola Oil and Fibre with DHA Enhanced) study - protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been identified as a major contributor to the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Current recommendations for dietary management of people with MetS involve quantitative and qualitative modifications of food intake, such as high consumption of vegetables, fruits, and whole grain foods. The results from our previous human trials revealed the potential of the dietary components high-oleic acid canola oil (HOCO)-docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and high molecular weight barley β-glucan individually in managing CVD risk factors. Foods with a combination of HOCO-DHA and barley β-glucan have never been tested for their effects on CVD risk. The objective is to determine the effects of consuming novel foods HOCO-DHA, and barley β-glucan on managing CVD risk factors in people with MetS.

Methods/Design

We are conducting a randomized, single-blind crossover trial with four treatment phases of 28 days each separated by a 4-week washout interval. Participants (n=35) will be provided with weight-maintaining, healthy balanced diet recommendations according to their energy requirements during the intervention periods. Participants will receive muffins and cookies as treatment foods in a random order and will consume at least one meal per day at the research center under supervision. The four treatments include muffins and cookies consisting of (1) all-purpose flour and HOCO-DHA (50 g/day); (2) barley flour (4.36 g/day of β-glucan) and a blend of sunflower oil, safflower oil, and butter as control oil (50 g/day); (3) barley flour (4.36 g/day of β-glucan) and HOCO-DHA (50 g/day; dosage of DHA would be 3 g/day); and (4) all-purpose flour and control oil (50 g/day). At the beginning and end of each phase, we will evaluate anthropometrics; systolic and diastolic blood pressure; blood lipid profile; low-density lipoprotein subfractions and particle size; 10-year Framingham CVD risk score; inflammatory status; and plasma and red blood cell fatty acid profiles, fecal microbiome, and body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Conclusion

Cholesterol synthesis will also be studied, using a stable isotope approach. The proposed study will lead to innovation of novel food products, which may result in improvement in the overall cardiovascular health of humans.

Trial registration

Clinical trials.gov identifier: NCT02091583. Date of registration: 12 March 2014.

Optimized rapeseed oils rich in endogenous micronutrients ameliorate risk factors of atherosclerosis in high fat diet fed rats

BACKGROUND

Micronutrients in rapeseed such as polyphenols, tocopherols, phytosterols and phospholipids in rapeseed exert potential benefit to atherosclerosis. Some part of these healthy components substantially lost during the conventional refining processing. Thus some new processing technologies have been developed to produce various endogenous micronutrient-enriched optimized rapeseed oils. The aim of this study is to assess whether optimized rapeseed oils have positive effects on the atherosclerosis risk factors in rats fed a high-fat diet.

METHODS

Rats received experiment diets containing 20% fat and refined rapeseed oil or optimized rapeseed oils obtained with various processing technologies as lipid source. After 10 weeks of treatment, plasma was assayed for oxidative stress, lipid profiles and imflammation.

RESULTS

Micronutrients enhancement in optimized rapeseed oils significantly reduced plasma oxidative stress, as evaluated by the significant elevation in the activities of CAT and GPx as well as the level of GSH, and the significant decline in lipid peroxidation. Optimized rapeseed oil with the highest micronutrient contents obtained by microwave pretreatment-cold pressing reduced the levels of TG, TC and LDL-C as well as IL-6 and CRP in plasma.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that optimized rapeseed oils may contribute to prevent atherogenesis and make them very promising functional food in cardiovascular health promotion.

Simple changes within dietary subgroups can rapidly improve the nutrient adequacy of the diet of French adults

Identifying the dietary changes with the greatest potential for improving diet quality is critical to designing efficient nutrition communication campaigns. Our objective was to simulate the effects of different types of dietary substitutions to improve diet quality at the individual level. Starting from the observed diets of 1330 adults participating in the national French Nutrition and Health Survey (Etude Nationale Nutrition Santé), we simulated the effects of 3 different types of food and beverage substitutions with graded implementation difficulty for the consumer in a stepwise dietary counseling model based on the improvement in the PANDiet index, which measures diet quality in terms of nutrient adequacy. In scenario 1, substitutions of a food or beverage for its "lighter" version resulted in a modest improvement in the PANDiet score (Δ = +3.3 ± 0.1) and a decrease in energy intake (Δ = -114 ± 2 kcal/d). In scenario 2, substitutions of a food or beverage within the same food subgroup resulted in a marked improvement in the PANDiet score (Δ = +26.4 ± 0.2) with no significant change in energy intake. In this second scenario, the improvement in nutrient adequacy was due to substitutions in many subgroups, with no single subgroup contributing >8% to the increase in the PANDiet score. In scenario 3, substitutions of a food or beverage within the same food group resulted in the greatest improvement in the PANDiet score (Δ = +31.8 ± 0.2) but with an increase in energy intake (Δ = +204 ± 9 kcal/d). In this third scenario, the improvement in nutrient adequacy was largely due to substitutions of fish for meat and processed meat (∼30% of the increase in the PANDiet score). This study shows that a strategy based on simple substitutions within food subgroups is effective in rapidly improving the nutritional adequacy of the diet of French adults and could be used in public health nutrition actions.

A mutant Brassica napus (canola) population for the identification of new genetic diversity via TILLING and next generation sequencing

We have generated a Brassica napus (canola) population of 3,158 EMS-mutagenised lines and used TILLING to demonstrate that the population has a high enough mutation density that it will be useful for identification of mutations in genes of interest in this important crop species. TILLING is a reverse genetics technique that has been successfully used in many plant and animal species. Classical TILLING involves the generation of a mutagenised population, followed by screening of DNA samples using a mismatch-specific endonuclease that cleaves only those PCR products that carry a mutation. Polyacrylamide gel detection is then used to visualise the mutations in any gene of interest. We have used this TILLING technique to identify 432 unique mutations in 26 different genes in B. napus (canola cv. DH12075). This reflects a mutation density ranging from 1/56 kb to 1/308 kb (depending on the locus) with an average of 1/109 kb. We have also successfully verified the utility of next generation sequencing technology as a powerful approach for the identification of rare mutations in a population of plants, even in polyploid species such as B. napus. Most of the mutants we have identified are publically available.

Evidence of health benefits of canola oil

Canola oil-based diets have been shown to reduce plasma cholesterol levels in comparison with diets containing higher levels of saturated fatty acids. Consumption of canola oil also influences biological functions that affect various other biomarkers of disease risk. Previous reviews have focused on the health effects of individual components of canola oil. Here, the objective is to address the health effects of intact canola oil, as this has immediate practical implications for consumers, nutritionists, and others deciding which oil to consume or recommend. A literature search was conducted to examine the effects of canola oil consumption on coronary heart disease, insulin sensitivity, lipid peroxidation, inflammation, energy metabolism, and cancer cell growth. Data reveal substantial reductions in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as well as other positive actions, including increased tocopherol levels and improved insulin sensitivity, compared with consumption of other dietary fat sources. In summary, growing scientific evidence supports the use of canola oil, beyond its beneficial actions on circulating lipid levels, as a health-promoting component of the diet.

A simulation study of the potential effects of healthy food and beverage substitutions on diet quality and total energy intake in Lower Mississippi Delta adults

The majority of adult diets in the United States, particularly the South, are of poor quality, putting these individuals at increased risk for chronic diseases. In this study, simulation modeling was used to determine the effects of substituting familiar, more healthful foods and beverages for less healthy ones on diet quality and total energy intake in Lower Mississippi Delta (LMD) adults. Dietary data collected in 2000 for 1689 LMD adults who participated in the Foods of Our Delta Study were analyzed. The Healthy Eating Index-2005 (HEI-2005) was used to measure diet quality. The effects of substituting targeted foods and beverages with more healthful items on diet quality were simulated by replacing the targeted items' nutrient profile with their replacements' profile. For the single food and beverage groups, 100% replacement of grain desserts with juice-packed fruit cocktail and sugar-sweetened beverages with water resulted in the largest improvements in diet quality (4.0 and 3.8 points, respectively) and greatest decreases in total energy intake (98 and 215 kcal/d, respectively). The 100% substitution of all food and beverage groups combined resulted in a 12.0-point increase in HEI-2005 score and a decrease of 785 kcal/d in total energy intake. Community interventions designed to improve the diet of LMD adults through the use of familiar, healthy food and beverage substitutions have the potential to improve diet quality and decrease energy intake of this health disparate population.

Dietary walnut suppressed mammary gland tumorigenesis in the C(3)1 TAg mouse

Walnuts contain multiple ingredients that, individually, have been shown to slow cancer growth, including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytosterols. In previous research, consumption of walnuts has slowed the growth of implanted breast cancers. We wanted to determine whether regular walnut consumption might reduce the risk for developing cancer. Homozygous male C(3)1 TAg mice were bred with female SV129 mice consuming either the control AIN-76 diet or the walnut-containing diet. At weaning, the female hemizygous pups were randomized to control or walnut-containing diets and followed for tumor development. Compared to a diet without walnuts, consumption of walnuts significantly reduced tumor incidence (fraction of mice with at least one tumor), multiplicity (number of glands with tumor/mouse), and size. Gene expression analyses indicated that consumption of the walnut diet altered expression of multiple genes associated with proliferation and differentiation of mammary epithelial cells. A comparison with another dietary intervention indicated that the omega 3 content alone did not account for the extent of tumor suppression due to the walnut. The results of this study indicate that walnut consumption could contribute to a healthy diet to reduce risk for breast cancer.

Rapeseed oil fortified with micronutrients reduces atherosclerosis risk factors in rats fed a high-fat diet

Background

Micronutrients polyphenols, tocopherols and phytosterols in rapeseed exert potential benefit to cardiovascular system, but most of these micronutrients are removed by the refining process. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of rapeseed oil fortified with these micronutrients on the atherosclerosis risk factors in rats fed a high-fat diet.

Methods

The rodent diet contained 20% fat whose source was refined rapeseed oil (RRO) or fortified refined rapeseed oil with low, middle and high quantities of these micronutrients (L-, M- and H-FRRO). Forty male SD rats were divided into four groups. One group received RRO diet and other groups received L-, M- and H-FRRO diet for 10 weeks.

Results

Micronutrients supplementation significantly increased plasma antioxidant defense capacities, as evaluated by the significant elevation in the activities of GPx, CAT and SOD as well as the level of GSH, and the significant decline in lipid peroxidation. These micronutrients also reduced the plasma contents of TG, TC and LDL-C and increased the ratio of HDL-C/LDL-C. In addition, in parallel with the enhancement of these micronutrients, plasma levels of IL-6 and CRP declined remarkably.

Conclusion

Rapeseed oil fortified with micronutrients polyphenols, tocopherols and phytosterols may contribute to prevent atherogenesis by ameliorating plasma oxidative stress, lipid profile and inflammation.

Dietary monounsaturated fatty acids are protective against metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease risk factors

Over 50 years of research has sought to define the role dietary fat plays in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Although optimal dietary fat quantity has been keenly pursued over past decades, attention has recently centered on the value of dietary fat quality. The purpose of the present review is to provide a critical assessment of the current body of evidence surrounding efficacy of dietary monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) for reduction of traditional risk factors defining metabolic syndrome (MetS) and CVD. Due to existing and emerging research on health attributes of MUFA rich diets, and to the low prevalence of chronic disease in populations consuming MUFA rich Mediterranean diets, national dietary guidelines are increasingly recommending dietary MUFA, primarily at the expense of saturated fatty acids (SFA). Consumption of dietary MUFA promotes healthy blood lipid profiles, mediates blood pressure, improves insulin sensitivity and regulates glucose levels. Moreover, provocative newer data suggest a role for preferential oxidation and metabolism of dietary MUFA, influencing body composition and ameliorating the risk of obesity. Mounting epidemiological and human clinical trial data continue to demonstrate the cardioprotective activity of the MUFA content of dietary fat. As the debate on the optimal fatty acid composition of the diet continues, the benefit of increasing MUFA intakes, particularly as a substitute for dietary SFA, deserves considerable attention.

Elevated plasma fibrinogen caused by inadequate alpha-linolenic acid intake can be reduced by replacing fat with canola-type rapeseed oil

The effects of canola-type rapeseed oil (RSO) on serum lipids, plasma fibrinogen, lipid oxidation and fatty acids were studied in three groups of subjects, two of which had not been consuming fish in their habitual diets. Forty-two volunteers (35 women, 7 men, 16-62 years) replaced fat with RSO for 6 weeks in a parallel design. The average cholesterol and fibrinogen concentrations were 5.0 mmol/l and 2.6 g/l, respectively. The intake of alpha-linolenic acid (alpha-LLA) was doubled. Efficient competitive inhibition by alpha-LLA was seen as a decrease in long-chain (LC) n-6 PUFA at 3 weeks. Elevated fibrinogen (2.6-3.9 g/l) decreased by 0.95 g/l at 6 weeks. Docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3) in plasma phospholipids increased at low fibrinogen levels only. The associations and changes in plasma C18 and LC PUFA followed the competitive and metabolic principles of the body, and especially in the case of n-3 PUFA according to the recycling pathway.

Maternal consumption of canola oil suppressed mammary gland tumorigenesis in C3(1) TAg mice offspring

BACKGROUND

Maternal consumption of a diet high in omega 6 polyunsaturated fats (n-6 PUFA) has been shown to increase risk whereas a diet high in omega 3 polyunsaturated fats (n-3 PUFA) from fish oil has been shown to decrease risk for mammary gland cancer in female offspring of rats. The aim of this study was to determine whether increasing n-3 PUFA and reducing n-6 PUFA by using canola oil instead of corn oil in the maternal diet might reduce the risk for breast cancer in female offspring.

METHODS

Female SV 129 mice were divided into two groups and placed on diets containing either 10% w/w corn oil (which is 50% n-6 PUFA, control diet) or 10% w/w canola oil (which is 20% n-6 PUFA, 10% n-3 PUFA, test diet). After two weeks on the diets the females were bred with homozygous C3(1) TAg transgenic mice. Mother mice consumed the assigned diet throughout gestation and nursing of the offspring. After weaning, all female offspring were maintained on the control diet.

RESULTS

Compared to offspring of mothers fed the corn oil diet (CO/CO group), offspring of mothers fed the canola oil diet (CA/CO group) had significantly fewer mammary glands with tumors throughout the experiment. At 130 days of age, the CA/CO group had significantly fewer tumors per mouse (multiplicity); the tumor incidence (fraction of mice with any tumor) and the total tumor weight (per mouse that developed tumor) was less than one half that of the CO/CO group. At 170 days of age, the total tumor weight per mouse was significantly less in the CA/CO group and if a tumor developed the rate of tumor growth rate was half that of CO/CO group. These results indicate that maternal consumption of canola oil was associated with delayed appearance of mammary gland tumors and slowed growth of the tumors that developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Substituting canola oil for corn oil is an easy dietary change for people to make; such a change to the maternal diet may decrease risk for breast cancer in the daughter.