Effect of proteins from different sources on body composition

Antioxidant bioactivity of sunflower protein hydrolysates in Caco-2 cells and in silico structural properties

Sunflower protein hydrolysate (SPH), with 95 % reduced phenolic content, was studied for its protective effects against oxidative stress in intestinal cells (Caco-2). Produced via alcalase hydrolysis, SPH's molecular weight, amino acid composition, and hydrophobicity were characterized. The antioxidant activity of SPH, tested by ABTS, was maintained in Caco-2 cells under oxidative stress, modulating glutathione and catalase enzymes. LC/MS/MS identified 196 peptides, which were cross-referenced with a bioactive database and found to contain several di- and tripeptides with antioxidant activity. Higher hydrophobicity and molecular weight correlated with predicted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity scores, provided by tools that use machine learning methods. The study shows that SPH exhibits antioxidant properties in enterocyte cell models, even with reduced phenolic content, suggesting its potential use in functional foods.

The correlation between different lifestyles and body composition focuses on eating habits, nutritional status, and physical exercise components

When it comes to nutritional status and physical performance, body composition is significant. Previous research has shown the correlation between body composition and the mismatch between nutrient intake and requirements. However, this paper aims to evaluate the crucial role of lifestyle factors, such as eating behavior and meal timing, in influencing body composition. Lifestyle variables are important because they affect hormone and growth factor imbalances, which can cause changes in protein synthesis or breakdown, insulin resistance, and overeating. These factors collectively affect muscle mass and fat mass, their influence being consistent across juvenile and adult groups, between men and women. Regarding food preferences, sexual dimorphism of adiposity between men and women seems to be a critical determinant. Additionally, chronic stress leads to emotional eating, while enough sleep plays a big role in affecting growth factors and hormone balances, although the research on this subject is as yet scant. Therefore, understanding and modifying lifestyle habits are essential for the improvement of body composition, irrespective of an individual's gender or age.

Anserine, Balenine, and Ergothioneine: Impact of Histidine-Containing Compounds on Exercise Performance-A Narrative Review

Histidine is an amino acid which plays a critical role in protein synthesis, muscle buffering during anaerobic exercise, and antioxidation. It also acts as a precursor to carnosine, a dipeptide that enhances physical performance by being present in fast-contracting muscle fibers and contributing to buffering capacity. Recent studies have examined other histidine-containing compounds, such as anserine, balenine, and ergothioneine, to assess their potential benefits for physical activity. This narrative review focuses on the literature about the effects of dietary supplementation with these histidine-containing compounds on exercise capacity in animals and humans. The findings indicate that anserine may improve physical performance and reduce fatigue, particularly in quick, repetitive activities. Although balenine has been less extensively studied, it has shown promise in enhancing muscle regeneration and antioxidative defense in animal models. Ergothioneine, a sulfur-containing histidine derivative, displayed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in both animal and human studies, suggesting its potential role in reducing exercise-induced oxidative stress and aiding recovery. The diversity of the presented studies and their limitations do not provide an opportunity to confirm the ergogenic properties of the histidine-containing compounds studied. Nevertheless, supplementation with anserine and ergothioneine shows promise for enhancing physical performance and recovery, though further research is required to better understand their mechanisms and optimize their use in sports and exercise.

Roles of vitamins and nutrition in obstructive sleep apnea

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder, with a prevalence that rises alongside with the increasing prevalence of obesity. OSA is characterized by a low-inflammatory state and is followed by cardiovascular and metabolic sequelae. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) represents the cornerstone of treatment for severe OSA. However, poor compliance with CPAP treatment renders OSA treatment a challenging venture. Weight loss and exercise are recommended as adjunctive treatment options for OSA. Several diets have proven to facilitate weight loss, and to alleviate the inflammatory status in patients with OSA. Moreover, several vitamins exhibit antioxidant properties that beneficially affect OSA pathology and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

AREA COVERED

This narrative review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the effect of nutrition and vitamin deficiencies on OSA. Included were publications, relevant to the topic, with different types of design (i.e. cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, etc.) and indexed in PubMed database until 31 March 2024.

EXPERT OPINION

In addition to weight loss, other food components, such as proteins, carbohydrates, anti-inflammatory agents, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and sodium, may play a beneficial role in the incidence and severity of OSA.

Plant-based dietary patterns, nutrient intake, growth, and body composition in childhood: Results from a prospective population-based study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Transitioning to more plant-based diets promotes environmental sustainability and has health benefits for adults. However, associations with nutrient intake adequacy and growth in children remain unknown. This study aimed to examine associations of plant-based diets with nutrient intake levels among children, and with longitudinal growth and body composition up to adolescence.

METHOD

We included 3340 children in the Generation R Study, a population-based cohort. Food and nutrient intake were assessed at the age of 8 years, and anthropometrics and body composition (using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were measured at the ages of 10 and 13 years. Plant-based diets were quantified using three plant-based diet indices (PDIs): overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthful PDI (hPDI), and unhealthful PDI (uPDI). Modified Poisson regression and linear mixed models were used to estimate the associations of PDIs with nutrient intake levels, and with sex- and age-standardized measures of anthropometrics and body composition.

RESULTS

Higher scores on each of the three PDIs were associated with lower intake of vitamin B2, B12, and calcium, while higher hPDI score was associated with higher intake levels of fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, and copper. Higher hPDI score was also associated with higher fat-free mass index (FFMI) z-score (0.05 per 10-hPDI score increment, 95 % CI: 0.01, 0.10), and with lower body fat percentage z-score (-0.05, 95 % CI: -0.09, -0.01), while higher uPDI score was associated with lower height, weight, and FFMI z-score (FFMI: -0.08, 95 % CI: -0.12, -0.03) up to age of 13 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort study, higher adherence to healthful plant-based diets, rather than unhealthful ones, was associated with better nutrient intakes, and subsequent healthy body composition throughout childhood to adolescence. Our findings suggest that consuming healthful plant-based foods may contribute to children's diets' nutrient quality and subsequent body composition. Still, attention should be given to ensuring balanced and adequate nutrient intake for optimal plant-based eating.

Effects of a paternal diet high in animal protein (casein) versus plant protein (pea protein with added methionine) on offspring metabolic and gut microbiota outcomes in rats

Evidence suggests that paternal diet can influence offspring metabolic health intergenerationally but whether dietary animal and plant proteins differ in their impact on fathers and their offspring is not known. Our objective was to examine the effects of a paternal diet high in casein versus pea protein on fathers and their offspring. Five-week-old male rats were fed: (1) control, (2) high animal protein (AP, 36.1% of energy as casein), or (3) high plant protein (PP, 36.1% of energy as pea protein with added methionine) diets for 8-11 weeks before being mated. Offspring were challenged with a high fat/sucrose diet (HFD) from 10 to 16 weeks of age. Metabolic and microbial outcomes were assessed in both generations. In fathers fed PP diet, enhanced insulin sensitivity and lower liver triglycerides were seen alongside altered hepatic microRNA expression and gut microbial profiles. Few changes were seen in their offspring. In contrast, the paternal AP diet influenced adult offspring hepatic microRNA expression and programmed a latent increase in adiposity, dysregulated satiety hormones, and modified gut microbial composition in their adult offspring that occurred following the HFD. Overall, a diet high in pea protein with added methionine demonstrated protective effects on biomarkers of metabolic health in the fathers but led to minimal effects on the offspring while a paternal diet high in casein led to evidence of an increase in characteristics of metabolic dysfunction in their adult offspring when unmasked by exposure to a HFD for 6 weeks.

Unveiling the microbiota-mediated impact of different dietary proteins on post-digestive processes: A simulated in vitro approach

Protein digestion and microbial metabolism play crucial roles in overall health. However, the mechanisms that differentiate the digestion and metabolism of dietary proteins from different sources in the organism remain poorly understood. This study investigated the digestive properties and microbial fermentation of various animal proteins (chicken, pork, beef, and casein) and plant proteins (soy bean, mung bean, kidney bean, rice, and wheat) in an in vitro simulation. The results indicated that animal-derived proteins had higher essential amino acid content (33.97-37.12 g/100 g) and digestibility levels (49.15-60.94 %), and provided more small molecule peptides upon digestion. Nevertheless, soy bean and wheat proteins also exhibited higher digestibility (54.70 % and 60.94 %), probably due to the extraction process. The fermentation results showed that distinct metabolic profiles that emerged for different protein sources. Plant-derived proteins (especially kidney bean, rice and wheat) promoted the proliferation of beneficial bacteria and microbial diversification and stimulated short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) production. Conversely, meat proteins (pork, chicken, beef) had significantly lower microbial diversity and SCFA than these plant proteins. These findings provide valuable insights into the effects of dietary protein sources on digestion and gut microbiome, and offer scientific guidance for optimizing dietary choices to improve health.

Diet and physical exercise in elderly people with obesity: The state of the art

Obesity is a disease that is assuming pandemic proportions in recent decades. With the advancement of medicine and increased access to care, average survival has increased, resulting in a larger number of elderly people. As a result, the amount of elderly people living with obesity is increasing, and the morbidity and impact of obesity on ageing implies severe limitations for these people. The link between obesity and ageing is not only epidemiological, but also strictly pathophysiological. Obesity accelerates the ageing process and ageing is characterised by pathophysiological mechanisms shared by obesity itself. Some examples of alterations shared by ageing and obesity are metabolic changes, sarcopenia and reduced functional capacity related to both loss of muscle strength and reduced cardiorespiratory fitness, as well as a general reduction in the perception of quality of life. The specific ability to antagonize these mechanisms through non-pharmacological treatment based on nutrition and exercise has always been one of the focal points of the international literature. Therefore, this review provides the state of the art on scientific knowledge regarding the main effects of an adequate nutritional plan and an individualised exercise prescription on the general health of elderly with obesity. In particular, this paper addresses the effect of nutrition and physical exercise on pathophysiological changes peculiar of ageing and obesity, providing also the scientific rational for nutritional and exercise prescription in the population.

Interactions of the Biphenylene Network with α-Helical and β-Sheet Proteins: Molecular Dynamics Simulations

In recent years, nanomaterials have been widely used in the biomedical field. The biphenylene network is a highly promising planar carbon nanomaterial. To better explore its biomedical applications, we need to understand the biological effects of the biphenylene network. To investigate the biological effects of the novel nanomaterial biphenylene network, we used molecular dynamics simulations to study the interactions of the novel planar carbon nanomaterial biphenylene network with α-helical and β-sheet proteins. We found that both types of proteins adsorb flatly on the surface of the biphenylene network; the strong van der Waals interaction is the main adsorption force, while π-π stacking also provides an auxiliary force for the adsorption. When the HP35 protein whose secondary structure is an α-helix was adsorbed on biphenylene network, the entire structure of α-helix 2 was disrupted and α-helix 3 partly recovered its helical structure after being disrupted. In contrast to the β-sheet YAP65 protein, only part of the structure of β-sheet 1 was disrupted. Therefore, the biocompatibility of the biphenylene network with the β-sheet YAP65 protein is better than that of the α-helical HP35 protein, which may be due to the different surface curvature of the protein's secondary structure. Our research promotes the application of the biphenylene network in biomedicine and provides a theoretical basis and experimental direction for practical experiments.

Do high-protein diets have the potential to reduce gut barrier function in a sex-dependent manner?

PURPOSE

Impaired gut barrier function is associated with systemic inflammation and many chronic diseases. Undigested dietary proteins are fermented in the colon by the gut microbiota which produces nitrogenous metabolites shown to reduce barrier function in vitro. With growing evidence of sex-based differences in gut microbiotas, we determined whether there were sex by dietary protein interactions which could differentially impact barrier function via microbiota modification.

METHODS

Fermentation systems were inoculated with faeces from healthy males (n = 5) and females (n = 5) and supplemented with 0.9 g of non-hydrolysed proteins sourced from whey, fish, milk, soya, egg, pea, or mycoprotein. Microbial populations were quantified using fluorescence in situ hybridisation with flow cytometry. Metabolite concentrations were analysed using gas chromatography, solid phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and ELISA.

RESULTS

Increased protein availability resulted in increased proteolytic Bacteroides spp (p < 0.01) and Clostridium coccoides (p < 0.01), along with increased phenol (p < 0.01), p-cresol (p < 0.01), indole (p = 0.018) and ammonia (p < 0.01), varying by protein type. Counts of Clostridium cluster IX (p = 0.03) and concentration of p-cresol (p = 0.025) increased in males, while females produced more ammonia (p = 0.02), irrespective of protein type. Further, we observed significant sex-protein interactions affecting bacterial populations and metabolites (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that protein fermentation by the gut microbiota in vitro is influenced by both protein source and the donor's sex. Should these results be confirmed through human studies, they could have major implications for developing dietary recommendations tailored by sex to prevent chronic illnesses.

Blended-protein changes body weight gain and intestinal tissue morphology in rats by regulating arachidonic acid metabolism and secondary bile acid biosynthesis induced by gut microbiota

PURPOSE

The impact of dietary nutrients on body growth performance and the composition of gut microbes and metabolites is well-established. In this study, we aimed to determine whether dietary protein can regulate the physiological indexes and changes the intestinal tissue morphology in rats, and if dietary protein was a crucial regulatory factor for the composition, function, and metabolic pathways of the gut microbiota.

METHOD

A total of thirty male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (inbred strain, weighted 110 ± 10 g) were randomly assigned to receive diets containing animal-based protein (whey protein, WP), plant-based protein (soybean protein, SP), or a blended protein (soybean-whey proteins, S-WP) for a duration of 8 weeks. To investigate the effects of various protein supplement sources on gut microbiota and metabolites, we performed a high throughput 16S rDNA sequencing association study and fecal metabolomics profiling on the SD rats. Additionally, we performed analyses of growth indexes, serum biochemical indexes, and intestinal morphology.

RESULTS

The rats in S-WP and WP group exhibited a significantly higher body weight and digestibility of dietary protein compared to the SP group (P < 0.05). The serum total protein content of rats in the WP and S-WP groups was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that in SP group, and the SP group exhibited significantly lower (P < 0.05) serum blood glucose levels compared to the other two groups. The morphological data showed the rats in the S-WP group exhibited significantly longer villus height and shallower crypt depth (P < 0.05) than the SP group. The gut microbial diversity of the SP and S-WP groups exhibited a higher level than that of the WP group, and the microbiomes of the WP and S-WP groups are more similar compared to those of the SP group. The Arachidonic acid metabolism pathway is the most significant KEGG pathway when comparing the WP group and the SP group, as well as when comparing the SP group and the S-WP group.

CONCLUSION

The type of dietary proteins exerted a significant impact on the physiological indices of SD rats. Intake of S-WP diet can enhance energy provision, improve the body's digestion and absorption of nutrients, as well as promote intestinal tissue morphology. In addition, dietary protein plays a crucial role in modulating fecal metabolites by regulating the composition of the gut microbiota. Metabolomics analysis revealed that the changes in the levels of arachidonic acid metabolites and secondary bile acid metabolite induced by Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 and [Eubacterium]_coprostanoligenes_group maybe the primarily causes of intestinal morphological differences.

Milk protein concentrate supplementation improved appetite, metabolic parameters, adipocytokines, and body composition in dieting women with obesity: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Dairy consumption is associated with many health benefits. However, to our knowledge, no clinical trials examined the effects of milk protein concentrate (MPC) on metabolic health in overweight and obese adults. This study investigated the effect of supplementation with MPC on glycaemic status, lipid profile, biomarkers of inflammation, and anthropometric measurements in women with obesity under a weight loss diet.

METHODS

This is a single-blind, open-labelled, parallel-group, randomized trial. Forty-four healthy women with obesity were randomized into a control (n = 22) or MPC (n = 22) group. Participants in the MPC group were supplemented with 30 g of MPC per day for 8 weeks. Both groups were on a calorie-restricted diet plan with 800 Kcal lower intakes than their needs. Blood samples, dietary intake, and body composition were assessed before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

MPC group had a significantly lower body mass index (P = 0.009), waist circumference (P = 0.013), fat mass (P = 0.021), appetite score (P = 0.002), fasting blood sugar (P < 0.001), insulin (P = 0.027), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.025), and leptin (P = 0.014) levels and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0.001) and adiponectin (P = 0.032) compared to the control group after supplementation. Lean body mass, total cholesterol, and triglyceride did not differ significantly (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Daily intake of 30 g of MPC for 8 weeks may improve several anthropometric and metabolic markers in women with obesity under a hypocaloric diet.

The Prevalence and Risk Factors of Low Bone Mineral Density in the Population of the Abay Region of Kazakhstan

Osteoporosis is considered a serious public health problem that particularly affects the postmenopausal period. In 2018, in the Republic of Kazakhstan, the prevalence of osteoporosis was 10.0, and the incidence was 3.7 new cases, per 100,000 adults, respectively. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of osteoporosis and indicate the main factors affecting low bone mineral density by screening the adult population of the Abay region, Kazakhstan. The target group comprised 641 respondents aged between 18 and 65 years old, from a Kazakh population, who had been living in the Abay region since birth. All participants filled out a questionnaire and were subjected to a bone mineral density measurement by means of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) between 15 July 2023 and 29 February 2024. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the association between low bone mineral density and key demographic characteristics, such as lifestyle factors and nutritional habits. We identified the prevalence of low bone mass (osteopenia) and osteoporosis to be 34.1%, with the highest prevalence of 48.3% being found in the older population group (50+ years). The regression analysis revealed a number of indicators associated with the likelihood of bone sparing. However, only four of these showed significance in the final multivariate model (R2 = 22.4%). These were age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.05) and fracture history (AOR 1.64) directly associated with the likelihood of low bone density. Meanwhile, the body mass index (AOR 0.92) and the consumption of nuts and dried fruits (AOR 0.48) reduced the chance of bone tissue demineralization. Additional studies examining the prevalence and any emerging risk factors for osteoporosis are needed to advance clinical epidemiological knowledge and implement public health programs.

Body composition and body fat distribution in tissue-specific insulin resistance and in response to a 12-week isocaloric dietary macronutrient intervention

BACKGROUND

Body composition and body fat distribution are important predictors of cardiometabolic diseases. The etiology of cardiometabolic diseases is heterogenous, and partly driven by inter-individual differences in tissue-specific insulin sensitivity.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate (1) the associations between body composition and whole-body, liver and muscle insulin sensitivity, and (2) changes in body composition and insulin sensitivity and their relationship after a 12-week isocaloric diet high in mono-unsaturated fatty acids (HMUFA) or a low-fat, high-protein, high-fiber (LFHP) diet.

METHODS

This subcohort analysis of the PERSON study includes 93 individuals (53% women, BMI 25-40 kg/m2, 40-75 years) who participated in this randomized intervention study. At baseline and after 12 weeks of following the LFHP, or HMUFA diet, we performed a 7-point oral glucose tolerance test to assess whole-body, liver, and muscle insulin sensitivity, and whole-body magnetic resonance imaging to determine body composition and body fat distribution. Both diets are within the guidelines of healthy nutrition.

RESULTS

At baseline, liver fat content was associated with worse liver insulin sensitivity (β [95%CI]; 0.12 [0.01; 0.22]). Only in women, thigh muscle fat content was inversely related to muscle insulin sensitivity (-0.27 [-0.48; -0.05]). Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) was inversely associated with whole-body, liver, and muscle insulin sensitivity. Both diets decreased VAT, abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (aSAT), and liver fat, but not whole-body and tissue-specific insulin sensitivity with no differences between diets. Waist circumference, however, decreased more following the LFHP diet as compared to the HMUFA diet (-3.0 vs. -0.5 cm, respectively). After the LFHP but not HMUFA diet, improvements in body composition were positively associated with improvements in whole-body and liver insulin sensitivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver and muscle insulin sensitivity are distinctly associated with liver and muscle fat accumulation. Although both LFHP and HMUFA diets improved in body fat, VAT, aSAT, and liver fat, only LFHP-induced improvements in body composition are associated with improved insulin sensitivity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03708419 (clinicaltrials.gov).

Reducing meat and/or dairy consumption in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of effects on protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition

CONTEXT

Consumers are increasingly encouraged to reduce meat and dairy consumption. However, few meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of reducing meat and/or dairy on (absolute) protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition are available.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effect of reducing meat and/or dairy consumption on (absolute) protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition in adults aged ≥ 45 years.

DATA SOURCES

The MEDLINE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform databases were searched up to November 24, 2021.

DATA EXTRACTION

Randomized controlled trials reporting protein intake, anthropometric values, and body composition were included.

DATA ANALYSIS

Data were pooled using random-effects models and expressed as the mean difference (MD) with 95%CI. Heterogeneity was assessed and quantified using Cochran's Q and I2 statistics. In total, 19 RCTs with a median duration of 12 weeks (range, 4-24 weeks) and a total enrollment of 1475 participants were included. Participants who consumed meat- and/or dairy-reduced diets had a significantly lower protein intake than those who consumed control diets (9 RCTs; MD, -14 g/d; 95%CI, -20 to -8; I2 = 81%). Reducing meat and/or dairy consumption had no significant effect on body weight (14 RCTs; MD, -1.2 kg; 95%CI, -3 to 0.7; I2 = 12%), body mass index (13 RCTs; MD, -0.3 kg/m2; 95%CI, -1 to 0.4; I2 = 34%), waist circumference (9 RCTs; MD, -0.5 cm; 95%CI, -2.1 to 1.1; I2 = 26%), amount of body fat (8 RCTs; MD, -1.0 kg; 95%CI, -3.0 to 1.0; I2 = 48%), or lean body mass (9 RCTs; MD, -0.4 kg; 95%CI, -1.5 to 0.7; I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSION

Reduction of meat and/or dairy appears to reduce protein intake. There is no evidence of a significant impact on anthropometric values or body composition. More long-term intervention studies with defined amounts of meat and dairy are needed to investigate the long-term effects on nutrient intakes and health outcomes.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020207325.

Plant-based proteins: advances in their sources, digestive profiles in vitro and potential health benefits

Plant-based proteins (PBPs), which are environmentally friendly and sustainable sources of nutrition, can address the emerging challenges facing the global food supply due to the rapidly increasing population. PBPs have received much attention in recent decades as a result of high nutritional values, good functional properties, and potential health effects. This review aims to summarize the nutritional, functional and digestive profiles of PBPs, the health effects of their hydrolysates, as well as processing methods to improve the digestibility of PBPs. The diversity of plant protein sources plays an important role in improving the PBPs quality. Several types of models such as in vitro (the static and semi-dynamic INFOGEST) and in silico models have been proposed and used in simulating the digestion of PBPs. Processing methods including germination, fermentation, thermal and non-thermal treatment can be applied to improve the digestibility of PBPs. PBPs and their hydrolysates show potential health effects including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive and anti-cancer activities. Based on the literature, diverse PBPs are ideal protein sources, and exhibit favorable digestive properties and health benefits that could be further improved by different processing technologies. Future research should explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the bioactivity of PBPs and their hydrolysates.

Recent developments in nanoemulsions against spoilage in cold-stored fish: A review

Nanoemulsion-based technology is developing rapidly in the food industry, especially in the design of delivery systems for bioactive compounds. This review presents an in-depth understanding of the composition, function, antibacterial mechanism and successful application of nanoemulsions as preservative agents against fish spoilage. The results showed that the inclusion of bioactive substances in the food-grade nanoemulsions encapsulation system could improve its stability, control its release, inhibit the microbial growth and reproduction through a variety of targets. These nanoemulsions can inhibit fish spoilage via reducing microbial load and retarding the oxidation of proteins and lipids, thereby maintaining quality attributes of fish. In addition, nanoemulsions could be coupled with vacuum package for enhancing microbial destruction, retaining nutritional value and extending the shelf-life of fish. Accordingly, nanoemulsions are suggested as a promising strategy to inhibit fish spoilage.

Nutritional strategies to optimise musculoskeletal health for fall and fracture prevention: Looking beyond calcium, vitamin D and protein

Falls and osteoporotic fractures are a major public health problem, particularly among older adults. A third of individuals aged 65 years and over fall at least once each year, with up to 20 % of these resulting in serious injury, including fracture. In conjunction with regular exercise, the importance of diet for musculoskeletal health has largely focused upon calcium, vitamin D, and protein, particularly in the context of preventing falls and fractures. Whilst there is evidence for the benefits of these nutrients for musculoskeletal health, other aspects of the diet remain largely underexplored. For example, vegetables are rich sources of macro- and micronutrients that are essential for muscle function and bone health, which are key factors in the prevention of falls and fractures. Recent work has highlighted the importance of nutrients such as vegetable-derived nitrate and vitamin K1 in optimising muscle strength, physical function, and bone quality. In the context of dietary patterns, vegan/plant-based diets have recently gained popularity due to perceived health benefits, animal welfare, or to tackle climate change. The elimination and/or substitution of animal-based products for plant foods (without careful planning and/or expert dietary guidance) could, however, have long-term negative musculoskeletal consequences; a trend uncovered by recent evidence. Within the overarching theme of nutrition for fall and fracture prevention in older populations, the aim of this review is to (i) summarise the current evidence for calcium, vitamin D and protein; (ii) describe the importance of vegetables and selected nutrients, such as nitrate and vitamin K1, for muscle function and bone structural integrity; and (iii) highlight current evidence around different dietary patterns (e.g., plant-based, diet quality, data driven approaches) and their impact on musculoskeletal health.

The effects of low calorie, high protein diet on body composition, duration and sleep quality on obese adults: A randomized clinical trial

Background and Aims

The effects of high-protein diets on regulating sleep have received research attention in recent decades. However, no studies have examined the effects of these diets in obese adults. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of low-calorie high protein diets on sleep quality in obese adults.

Methods

This study is a randomized clinical trial conducted on 60 obese adults (BMI > 29.9 kg/m2) diagnosed with low-quality sleep. All participants were given a diet with a 750-calorie energy deficit. While the control group was given a normal diet, the intervention group received a diet with 30% more protein.

Results

The results showed a significant difference between the control group and intervention group with respect to sleep apnea at 30-, 60-, and 90-day follow-up (p < 0.01). Sleep quality, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), sleep latency (SL), and polysomnography were significantly different between the two groups (p < 0.05), showing an improvement in sleep quality and obstructive sleep apnea in the intervention group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study shows that low-calorie high-protein diets can effectively improve apnea, sleep quality, and body composition indices in obese adults.

Effects of Plant-Based Protein Interventions, with and without an Exercise Component, on Body Composition, Strength and Physical Function in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Maintaining muscle mass, strength, and function is crucial for our aging population. Exercise and dietary protein intake are recommended strategies; however, animal proteins have been the most studied. Plant-based protein sources have lower digestibility and incomplete amino acid profiles. However new innovative plant-based proteins and products may have overcome these issues. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to synthesize the current research and evaluate the effects of plant-based protein interventions compared to placebo on body composition, strength, and physical function in older adults (≥60 years old). The secondary aim was whether exercise improved the effectiveness of plant-based protein on these outcomes. Randomized controlled trials up to January 2023 were identified through Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies contained a plant-protein intervention, and assessed body composition, strength, and/or physical function. Thirteen articles were included, all using soy protein (0.6-60 g daily), from 12 weeks to 1 year. Narrative summary reported positive effects on muscle mass over time, with no significant differences compared to controls (no intervention, exercise only, animal protein, or exercise + animal protein interventions). There was limited impact on strength and function. Meta-analysis showed that plant-protein interventions were comparable to controls, in all outcomes. In conclusion, plant-protein interventions improved muscle mass over time, and were comparable to other interventions, warranting further investigation as an anabolic stimulus in this vulnerable population.

Animal protein-soybean oil-based broiler diet optimizes net profit at the expense of desirable ω-6 fatty acids from the breast muscle of the broiler chicken

Total 288 Ross-308-day-old male broiler chicks were randomly distributed into six dietary treatment groups in a two-way ANOVA with 2 × 3 factorial arrangements (two factors, i.e., dietary protein and energy having two types of protein, e.g., plant, animal and three different sources of energy, e.g., soybean oil, rice bran oil and sunflower oil) to justify if animal protein-soybean oil based broiler diet optimizes net profit at the expense of desirable ω-6 fatty acids in the breast muscle of the broiler chicken. Average daily feed intake (ADFI), final live weight (FLW), average daily gain (ADG), feed efficiency (FE), carcass characteristics, cardio-pulmonary morphometry, fatty acid profile of the breast muscle and cost-benefit analysis were measured. Results indicated that animal protein significantly increased 4.27% FLW, 6.13% ADFI, 4.31% ADG and 2.93% wing weight. Accordingly, soybean oil increased 4.76% FLW, 3.80% ADG and 1.36% dressing percentage at the expense of 12.07% proventriculus weight compared with sunflower oil. The generalized linear model identified no interaction effects of the sources of protein and energy on overall performance of the birds. Replacement of vegetable protein by animal protein decreased 14.01% ∑ω-3, 12.16% ∑ω-6 and 12.21% sum of polyunsaturated fatty acids (∑PUFA) and concomitantly increased 10.82% sum of saturated fatty acids (∑SFAs) in the breast muscle (Pectoralis major). Accordingly, replacement of sunflower oil by soybean oil decreased 29.17% ∑ω-3, 6.71% ∑ω-6, 11.62% sum of monounsaturated fatty acids (∑MUFAs) and 7.33% ∑PUFAs and concurrently increased 18.36% ∑SFAs in the breast muscle of the broiler birds. It was concluded that animal protein-soybean oil-based broiler diet optimized net profit at the expense of desirable ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids in the breast muscle of the broiler chicken.

High Nutritional Quality of Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Generated Proteins through an Advanced Scalable Peptide Hydrogel 3D Suspension System

Cell-cultured protein technology has become increasingly attractive due to its sustainability and climate benefits. The aim of this study is to determine the nutritional quality of the human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-cultured proteins in an advanced 3D peptide hydrogel system for the highly efficient production of cell-cultured proteins. Our previous study demonstrated a PGmatrix peptide hydrogel for the 3D embedded culture of long-term hiPSC maintenance and expansion (PGmatrix-hiPSC (PG-3D)), which showed significantly superior pluripotency when compared with traditional 2D cell culture on Matrigel and/or Vitronectin and other existing 3D scaffolding systems such as Polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogels. In this study, we designed a PGmatrix 3D suspension (PG-3DSUSP) system from the PG-3D embedded system that allows scaling up a hiPSC 3D culture volume by 20 times (e.g., from 0.5 mL to 10 mL). The results indicated that the PG-3DSUSP was a competitive system compared to the well-established PG-3D embedded method in terms of cell growth performance and cell pluripotency. hiPSCs cultured in PG-3DSUSP consistently presented a 15-20-fold increase in growth and a 95-99% increase in viability across multiple passages with spheroids with a size range of 30-50 μm. The expression of pluripotency-related genes, including NANOG, OCT4, hTERT, REX1, and UTF1, in PG-3DSUSP-cultured hiPSCs was similar to or higher than that observed in a PG-3D system, suggesting continuous pluripotent maintenance. The nutritional value of the hiPSC-generated proteins from the PG-3DSUSP system was further evaluated for amino acid composition and in vitro protein digestibility. The amino acid composition of the hiPSC-generated proteins demonstrated a significantly higher essential amino acid content (39.0%) than human skeletal muscle protein (31.8%). In vitro protein digestibility of hiPSC-generated proteins was significantly higher (78.0 ± 0.7%) than that of the commercial beef protein isolate (75.7 ± 0.6%). Taken together, this is the first study to report an advanced PG-3DSUSP culture system to produce highly efficient hiPSC-generated proteins that possess more essential amino acids and better digestibility. The hiPSC-generated proteins with superior nutrition quality may be of particular significance as novel alternative proteins in food engineering and industries for future food, beverage, and supplement applications.

Postprandial effects of dietary protein source on metabolic responses, appetite, and arterial stiffness indices in overweight and obese men: the study protocol for a randomized crossover clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Different dietary protein sources are supposed to have various effects on metabolic responses and arterial stiffness in the postprandial period. This study aims to assess the postprandial effects of dietary protein sources, including animal-based protein (AP) and plant-based protein (PP), as part of a high-protein breakfast on appetite response, energy metabolism, and arterial stiffness in overweight and obese men.

METHODS

This acute randomized crossover clinical trial will be conducted at the Persian study research center at Imam Reza Hospital, affiliated with the Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, located in the northeast of Iran. Forty-six healthy overweight, and obese men aged 18-60 years will be enrolled based on the eligibility criteria. The subjects will complete two interventions (high-protein AP and PP meals) with 1 week washout period. The primary outcome will be the acute effect of the two test meals on appetite response, energy metabolism parameters, including resting metabolism rate (RMR), diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT), and substrate oxidation (SO), and arterial stiffness indices, including pulse wave velocity (PWV) and pulse wave analysis (PWA). The secondary outcomes include changes in lipemia, glycemia, and insulinemia.

DISCUSSION

The findings of this study will provide novel insight regarding the acute effects of different protein sources on energy metabolism, appetite, and arterial stiffness as a significant cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor. It will help dieticians develop effective and efficient meal plans to improve weight reduction and maintenance in overweight/obese individuals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; code: IRCT20211230053570N1; registered on February 10, 2022.

Dietary Patterns, Gut Microbiota Remodeling, and Cardiometabolic Disease

The cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, collectively known as cardiometabolic disease (CMD), are high morbidity and mortality pathologies associated with lower quality of life and increasing health-care costs. The influence of the gut microbiota (GM) in dictating the interpersonal variability in CMD susceptibility, progression and treatment response is beginning to be deciphered, as is the mutualistic relation established between the GM and diet. In particular, dietary factors emerge as pivotal determinants shaping the architecture and function of resident microorganisms in the human gut. In turn, intestinal microbes influence the absorption, metabolism, and storage of ingested nutrients, with potentially profound effects on host physiology. Herein, we present an updated overview on major effects of dietary components on the GM, highlighting the beneficial and detrimental consequences of diet-microbiota crosstalk in the setting of CMD. We also discuss the promises and challenges of integrating microbiome data in dietary planning aimed at restraining CMD onset and progression with a more personalized nutritional approach.

Soy protein increases cognitive level in mice by modifying hippocampal nerve growth, oxidative stress, and intestinal microbiota

BACKGROUND

Three kinds of diet containing chicken protein isolate (CPI), bovine milk protein isolate (BMPI), and soy protein isolate (SPI), respectively, were designed to investigate the influences of proteins on cognitive levels and related mechanisms in mice.

RESULTS

A Morris water maze (MWM) test showed that the SPI group had a higher cognitive level than the BMPI group. Immunohistochemical staining and chemical analysis of the hippocampus showed that the SPI group had higher synaptophysin expression, doublecortin-positive cell proportion, superoxide dismutase activity, and lower malondialdehyde content compared with the BMPI group. The same parameters in the CPI group were between those of the BMPI and SPI groups. Microbiome sequencing indicated that the three groups differed significantly at the phylum, genus, and species levels, with higher microbial alpha diversity in the CPI and SPI groups. The association of intestinal microbiota with cognitive improvement was also assessed. The present study suggests that soy protein may increase cognitive function by the gut-brain axis.

CONCLUSION

In contrast with CPI and BMPI, SPI had a better effect on improving the cognitive level in mice, which was achieved through the regulation of hippocampal neural growth, oxidative stress, and intestinal microbiota. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Animal Protein Intake Is Associated with Obesity Remission After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: an Isocaloric Replacement Analysis

PURPOSE

Some patients do not have the expected weight loss, and the post-surgical diet may partially explain these differences.

OBJECTIVES

To estimate the impact of macronutrient substitution on obesity remission after RYGB, considering the protein source.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 58 patients undergoing RYGB. Data collection was performed preoperatively, 3 and 12 months after surgery. Eight participants dropped out of the study at 3 months, and the others remained for 12 months. The foods consumed were registered using a 24-h, 3-day food recall. For the isocaloric substitution analysis, foods were classified according to the protein source. The groups were compared using hypothesis tests, and Cox proportional hazard ratio regression was used to analyze isocaloric substitution.

RESULTS

At three months after surgery, every 5% energy from plant protein replaced by animal protein increased by 3.50 [CI 1.204 - 10.205; p = 0.021] the probability of obesity remission. Stratified analysis by protein groups indicated that replacing vegetable protein with white meat was positively associated with remission of obesity. Every 5% vegetable protein replaced with white meat increased by 3.20 [CI 1.026 - 9.981; p = 0.045] the probability of obesity remission. Both results were independent of age, body mass index (BMI), and the presence of comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the consumption of animal proteins after RYGB, mainly white meat, favors weight loss.

Turning Food Protein Waste into Sustainable Technologies

For each kilogram of food protein wasted, between 15 and 750 kg of CO2 end up in the atmosphere. With this alarming carbon footprint, food protein waste not only contributes to climate change but also significantly impacts other environmental boundaries, such as nitrogen and phosphorus cycles, global freshwater use, change in land composition, chemical pollution, and biodiversity loss. This contrasts sharply with both the high nutritional value of proteins, as well as their unique chemical and physical versatility, which enable their use in new materials and innovative technologies. In this review, we discuss how food protein waste can be efficiently valorized not only by reintroduction into the food chain supply but also as a template for the development of sustainable technologies by allowing it to exit the food-value chain, thus alleviating some of the most urgent global challenges. We showcase three technologies of immediate significance and environmental impact: biodegradable plastics, water purification, and renewable energy. We discuss, by carefully reviewing the current state of the art, how proteins extracted from food waste can be valorized into key players to facilitate these technologies. We furthermore support analysis of the extant literature by original life cycle assessment (LCA) examples run ad hoc on both plant and animal waste proteins in the context of the technologies considered, and against realistic benchmarks, to quantitatively demonstrate their efficacy and potential. We finally conclude the review with an outlook on how such a comprehensive management of food protein waste is anticipated to transform its carbon footprint from positive to negative and, more generally, have a favorable impact on several other important planetary boundaries.

[Whey protein and caseinate supplementation in oncological patients undergoing elective surgery for the modification of functional capacity]

INTRODUCTION

the nutritional intervention has become a critical point to achieve the reduction of perioperative morbidity and mortality in cancer patients. There are different factors that will play a fundamental role in the evolution and prognosis of this pathology, being the state of nutrition and diet a cornerstone in these aspects.

OBJECTIVE

to evaluate the perioperative effect of whey protein isolate (WPI) and calcium caseinate (CaCNT) in cancer patients undergoing elective surgery.

METHODS

randomized controlled clinical trial with three groups: the control group (n = 15), consisting in conventional management by the oncology surgery services, and two intervention groups, one with calcium caseinate supplementation (n = 15) and another one with whey protein isolate supplementation (n = 15) for six weeks perioperatively. Handgrip strength, six-minute walk, and body composition were assessed pre and postoperatively.

RESULTS

those who were supplemented with WPI maintained their handgrip strength and showed less extracellular water (p < 0.02); also an increase in visceral mass was shown (p < 0.02). Finally, a correlation was found with variables associated with body composition and patient evolution when compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

nutritional supplementation needs to be approached from the functional and metabolic point of view to identify factors that have a favorable impact, as well as the distinction between carcinoma and the type of supplementation to be implemented.

Chronic Intake of a Meal Including Alaska Pollack Protein Increases Skeletal Muscle Mass and Strength in Healthy Older Women: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

In animal studies, a meal containing Alaska pollack protein (APP) induces fast-twitch muscle hypertrophy. To our knowledge, no interventional studies have examined the benefits of APP intake on muscle mass and muscle weakness and the prevention of sarcopenia in older individuals.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the effects of APP intake on skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance among healthy community-dwelling older Japanese women.

METHODS

In this double-blind randomized controlled trial, healthy women ≥ 65 y old were allocated to an APP or whey protein control (CON) group. Participants ingested test protein meals (5.0-5.1 g protein/serving) daily for 24 wk. Between-group differences in the change of skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) as the primary outcome and muscle strength as a secondary outcome were tested using multifrequency BIA and a handheld dynamometer, respectively, at baseline, and 4, 12, and 24 wk. The mean changes in the measured primary and secondary outcome variables from baseline to 4, 12, and 24 wk were compared using unpaired t tests.

RESULTS

There were no between-group differences in nutritional status, food intake, or total energy and protein intakes at baseline, 12 wk, or 24 wk. The change in SMI was 0.12 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.23 kg/m2) and 0.11 kg/m2 (95% CI: 0.03, 0.19 kg/m2) greater in the APP group than in the CON group at 12 wk and 24 wk (P ≤ 0.03) and knee extension strength was 0.07 Nm/kg BW (95% CI: 0.02, 0.12 Nm/kg BW) and 0.05 Nm/kg BW (95% CI: 0.00, 0.09 Nm/kg BW) higher in the APP group than in the CON group at these times (P ≤ 0.015), respectively. The groups did not differ at 4 wk.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily intake of a meal containing APP compared with whey protein increases skeletal muscle mass and lower-extremity muscle strength in healthy older women, suggesting that an APP-containing meal may be useful in the prevention of sarcopenia in this group.This trial was registered at as UMIN000035718.

The Potential Role of Iceland in Northern Europe's Protein Self-Sufficiency: Feasibility Study of Large-Scale Production of Spirulina in a Novel Energy-Food System

Europe is dependent on protein-rich crop imports to meet domestic food demand. This has moved the topic of sustainable protein self-sufficiency up the policy agenda. The current study assesses the feasibility of protein self-sufficiency in Iceland, and its capacity to meet Northern Europe's demand, based on industrial-scale cultivation of Spirulina in novel production units. Production units currently operating in Iceland, and laboratory-derived nutritional profile for the Spirulina cultivated, provide the basis for a theoretical protein self-sufficiency model. Integrating installed and potentially installed energy generation data, the model elaborates six production scale-up scenarios. Annual biomass produced is compared with recommended dietary allowance figures for protein and essential amino acids to determine whether Northern Europe's population demands can be met in 2030. Results show that Iceland could be protein self-sufficient under the most conservative scenario, with 20,925 tonnes of Spirulina produced using 15% of currently installed capacity. In a greater allocation of energy capacity used by heavy industry, Iceland could additionally meet the needs of Lithuania, or Latvia, Estonia, Jersey, Isle of Man, Guernsey, and Faroe Islands. Under the most ambitious scenario utilizing planned energy projects, Iceland could support itself plus Denmark, or Finland, or Norway, or Ireland with up to 242,366 tonnes of biomass. On a protein-per-protein basis, each kilogram of Spirulina consumed instead of beef could save 0.315 tonnes CO2-eq. Under the most ambitious scenario, this yields annual savings of 75.1 million tonnes CO2-eq or 7.3% of quarterly European greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, practicalities of production scale-up are discussed.

Associations between Changes in Fat-Free Mass, Fecal Microbe Diversity, and Mood Disturbance in Young Adults after 10-Weeks of Resistance Training

BACKGROUND

The gut microbiome contributes to numerous physiological processes in humans, and diet and exercise are known to alter both microbial composition and mood. We sought to explore the effect of a 10-week resistance training (RT) regimen with or without peanut protein supplementation (PPS) in untrained young adults on fecal microbiota and mood disturbance (MD).

METHODS

Participants were randomized into PPS (n = 25) and control (CTL [no supplement]; n = 24) groups and engaged in supervised, full-body RT twice a week. Measures included body composition, fecal microbe relative abundance, alpha- and beta-diversity from 16 s rRNA gene sequencing with QIIME2 processing, dietary intake at baseline and following the 10-week intervention, and post-intervention MD via the profile of mood states (POMS) questionnaire. Independent samples t-tests were used to determine differences between PPS and CTL groups. Paired samples t-tests investigated differences within groups.

RESULTS

Our sample was mostly female (69.4%), white (87.8%), normal weight (body mass index 24.6 ± 4.2 kg/m²), and 21 ± 2.0 years old. Shannon index significantly increased from baseline in all participants (p = 0.040), with no between-group differences or pre-post beta-diversity dissimilarities. Changes in Blautia abundance were associated with the positive POMS subscales, Vigor and self-esteem-related-affect (SERA) (rho = -0.451, p = 0.04; rho = -0.487, p = 0.025, respectively). Whole tree phylogeny changes were negatively correlated with SERA and Vigor (rho = -0.475, p = 0.046; rho = -0.582, p = 0.011, respectively) as well as change in bodyfat percentage (rho = -0.608, p = 0.007). Mediation analysis results indicate changes in PD Whole Tree Phylogeny was not a significant mediator of the relationship between change in fat-free mass and total MD.

CONCLUSIONS

Mood state subscales are associated with changes in microbial taxa and body composition. PD Whole Tree Phylogeny increased following the 10-week RT regimen; further research is warranted to explore how RT-induced changes in microbial diversity are related to changes in body composition and mood disturbance.

Escalate protein plates from legumes for sustainable human nutrition

Protein is one of the most important, foremost, and versatile nutrients in food. The quantity and quality of protein are determinants of its nutritional values. Therefore, adequate consumption of high-quality protein is essential for optimal growth, development, and health of humans. Based on short-term nitrogen balance studies, the Recommended Dietary Allowance of protein for the healthy adult with minimal physical activity is 0.8 g protein/kg body weight (BW) per day. Proteins are present in good quantities in not only animals but also in plants, especially in legumes. With the growing demand for protein, interest in plant proteins is also rising due to their comparative low cost as well as the increase in consumers' demand originating from health and environmental concerns. Legumes are nutrient-dense foods, comprising components identified as "antinutritional factors" that can reduce the bioavailability of macro and micronutrients. Other than nutritive value, the physiochemical and behavioral properties of proteins during processing plays a significant role in determining the end quality of food. The term "complete protein" refers to when all nine essential amino acids are present in the correct proportion in our bodies. To have a balanced diet, the right percentage of protein is required for our body. The consumption of these high protein-containing foods will lead to protein sustainability and eradicate malnutrition. Here, we shed light on major opportunities to strengthen the contribution of diversity in legume crops products to sustainable diets. This review will boost awareness and knowledge on underutilized proteinous foods into national nutritional security programs.

Alterations in Fecal Short-Chain Fatty Acids after Bariatric Surgery: Relationship with Dietary Intake and Weight Loss

Bariatric surgery is associated with weight loss attributed to reduced caloric intake, mechanical changes, and alterations in gut hormones. However, some studies have suggested a heightened incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been associated with bariatric surgery, emphasizing the importance of identifying mechanisms of risk. The objective of this study was to determine if bariatric surgery is associated with decreases in fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), a group of bacterial metabolites of fiber. Fecal samples (n = 22) were collected pre- (~6 weeks) and post-bariatric surgery (~4 months) in patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. SCFA levels were quantified using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Dietary intake was quantified using 24-h dietary recalls. Using an aggregate variable, straight SCFAs significantly decreased by 27% from pre- to post-surgery, specifically acetate, propionate, butyrate, and valerate. Pre-surgery weight was inversely associated with butyrate, with no association remaining post-surgery. Multiple food groups were positively (sugars, milk, and red and orange vegetables) and inversely (animal protein) associated with SCFA levels. Our results suggest a potential mechanism linking dietary intake and SCFA levels with CRC risk post-bariatric surgery with implications for interventions to increase SCFA levels.

Functionality of Pea-Grass Carp Co-Precipitated Dual-Protein as Affected by Extraction pH

Isoelectric solubilisation/co-precipitation (ISP) has been proven to be a better method than blending for preparing plant-animal dual-proteins, which can achieve synergies in the functional properties of heterologous proteins. This paper aims to investigate the effect of extraction pH on the functional properties of co-precipitated dual-protein. The basic composition, subunit composition, solubility, surface hydrophobicity, emulsification and gel properties of co-precipitated dual-protein (Co) prepared from pea and grass carp with pH (2.0, 3.0, 9.0, 10.0 and 11.0) were analysed in this study using ISP. The results showed that the functional properties of Co (Co9, Co10, Co11) prepared by alkali extraction were generally better than those prepared by acid extraction (Co2, Co3). Among them, Co10 has the highest vicilin/legumin α + β value and solubility, while having the lowest surface hydrophobicity, making its emulsification and gel properties superior to other extraction pH values. This study provides an important method reference for preparing plant-animal Co with exceptional functional properties.

Casein and red meat proteins differentially affect the composition of the gut microbiota in weaning rats

Casein and meat are food sources providing high-quality animal proteins for human consumption. However, little is known concerning potentially different effects of these animal protein sources during early stages of life. In the present study, casein and red meat proteins (beef and pork) were fed to young postweaning rats for 14 days based on the AIN-93G diet formula. Casein and red meat protein-based diets did not differentially affect the overall growth performance. However, they discriminately modulated the abundances of different potentially beneficial bacteria belonging to genus Lactobacillus. Intake of the casein-based diet increased the intestinal abundance of Lactococcus lactis with a pronounced potential for galactose utilization via the Tag6P pathway, and it also resulted in lower amounts of toxic ammonia in the rat cecum compared to red meat protein-based diets. We observed no adverse effects on colonic tissue in response to any of the protein-based diets based on histological observations.

Role of Microbial Metabolites of Histidine in the Development of Colitis

SCOPE

Colitis is a chronic relapsing inflammatory disease of colon. Clinical studies show that meat-rich diet plays a critical role in the relapse of colitis. However, it is unclear whether the microbial metabolites of histidine, which is an amino acid widely found in meat, have an impact on the health of the intestine.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Six metabolites of histidine are given to IEC-6 cells. The cell activity measurement shows that imidazole propionate (IMP) is the most detrimental metabolite. Then, IMP is injected to mice by rectal administration, with blood and colon tissues collected for the measurement of colitis related parameters. The results show that treatment with IMP significantly increased NF-κB, iNOS, and IL-6, decreased number of goblet cell, and inhibited expressions of miR-146b. However, overexpression of miR-146b in mice rescues the decline of the physical condition. Additionally, Notch receptor 1 (Notch1) is identified as a target gene of miR-146b. Further analysis shows that miR-146b restored the abundance of goblet cells by regulating Notch1 signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

IMP is able to induce intestinal inflammation, impairs the intestinal barrier, and affects the proliferation of goblet cells. The underlined mechanism may partially contribute to the dysregulation of miR-146b/Notch1 axis.

A Comparison Study on the Therapeutic Effect of High Protein Diets Based on Pork Protein versus Soybean Protein on Obese Mice

In this study, an obese C57BL/6J mice model was induced to compare the effect of different high protein diets (soybean protein and pork protein) on obesity. The obese mice were randomly divided into four groups: natural recovery (NR), high-fat diet (HF), high soybean protein diet (HSP), and high pork protein diet (HPP) groups. After 12 weeks of dietary intervention, the obesity-related indexes of mice were measured, such as body weight, fat coefficients, blood lipid indexes and so on. Results showed that HSP and HPP decreased the weight and fat coefficients of mice, the levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and leptin (p < 0.05). Soybean protein was shown to be more effective in reducing the weight and fat mass of obese mice, although pork protein seemed to have a better effect on regulating serum triglyceride (TG). In addition, the two high protein diets both alleviated hepatic fat deposition effectively. Furthermore, HPP and HSP decreased the expression of hepatic peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) and increased the protein expression of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK), phosphorylated acetyl CoA carboxylase (pACC), and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the study shows that high protein diets based on both pork protein and soybean protein alleviated abdominal obesity in mice effectively by regulating lipid metabolism, probably via the UCP2-AMPK-ACC signaling pathway.

Plant- and Animal-Based Protein-Rich Foods and Cardiovascular Health

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To summarize recent evidence from randomized controlled feeding trials (RCTs) on the effects of consuming plant- and animal-based protein-rich foods on cardiovascular health of adults.

RECENT FINDINGS

Results from meta-analyses of RCTs exemplify the importance of considering relative effects of protein-rich foods, i.e., when intake of one food increases, intake of another food likely decreases. Results from short-term RCTs showed that overall diet quality is more influential for improving cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors than intake of a single protein-rich food, e.g., red meat. Yet, assessing long-term CVD risk associated with intake of a single protein-rich food as part of a dietary pattern is methodologically challenging. While accumulating evidence suggests gut microbiota as a potential mediator for such effects, current knowledge is preliminary and restricts causal or functional inferences. A variety of protein-rich foods, both plant- and animal-based, should be consumed as part of nutrient-dense dietary patterns to meet nutrient needs and improve cardiovascular health for adults.

Effect of Dietary Protein and Processing on Gut Microbiota-A Systematic Review

The effect of diet on the composition of gut microbiota and the consequent impact on disease risk have been of expanding interest. The present review focuses on current insights of changes associated with dietary protein-induced gut microbial populations and examines their potential roles in the metabolism, health, and disease of animals. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol was used, and 29 highly relevant articles were obtained, which included 6 mouse studies, 7 pig studies, 15 rat studies, and 1 in vitro study. Analysis of these studies indicated that several factors, such as protein source, protein content, dietary composition (such as carbohydrate content), glycation of protein, processing factors, and protein oxidation, affect the digestibility and bioavailability of dietary proteins. These factors can influence protein fermentation, absorption, and functional properties in the gut and, consequently, impact the composition of gut microbiota and affect human health. While gut microbiota can release metabolites that can affect host physiology either positively or negatively, the selection of quality of protein and suitable food processing conditions are important to have a positive effect of dietary protein on gut microbiota and human health.

Effects of acute and chronic nuts consumption on energy metabolism: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials

Nuts are high-energy density foods and are associated with beneficial effects on health, including weight control. Effects on resting energy expenditure, respiratory quotient, and diet-induced thermogenesis are suggested mechanisms behind the effects of nuts consumption on weight control. Thus, we revised the randomised clinical trials that assessed acute and chronic nuts consumption effects on energy metabolism. Walnuts (22.1 g to 56 g) consumption appears to modulate energy metabolism markers differently depending on the dose and profile of the evaluated subject. In its turn, 56 g of high-oleic peanuts increased postprandial energy expenditure and thermic effect of food after three hours postprandial compared to consumption of conventional peanuts. Almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, and a mix of nuts were the nuts studies in the chronic studies, which does not seem to influence energy metabolism markers. Further studies are needed to elucidate the effects of other types of nuts consumption on energy metabolism.

Dietary whey and egg proteins interact with inulin fiber to modulate energy balance and gut microbiota in obese rats

Diets supplemented with protein and fiber are well known to reduce food intake and weight gain; however, less is known about the combined effects of protein and prebiotic fiber on energy balance and gut microbiota composition. We compared effects of diets containing high egg or whey protein with cellulose or prebiotic (inulin) fiber on energy balance, gut microbiota, hormones, and metabolites. Male obese rats (n=8/group) were allocated to four diets: Egg albumen+Cellulose (EC), Egg albumen+Inulin (EI), Whey protein+Cellulose (WC), and Whey protein+Inulin (WI). Results revealed that diet-induced hypophagia was transient with EC and prolonged with EI and WI, compared to WC. Importantly, CCK-1 receptor antagonist (Devazepide) attenuated the hypophagic effects of EC, EI, and WI. Further, EC, EI and WI decreased respiratory quotient, energy expenditure, weight and adiposity gains, and improved glycemia, relative to WC. Propranolol (β₁-β₂-receptor blocker) attenuated diet-induced changes in energy expenditure. Transcript abundance of thermogenic markers in brown adipose tissue, plasma hormones, and metabolites especially acyl-carnitines and glycerophospholipids, were differentially altered by diets. Diet explained 25% of compositional differences in cecal microbiomes, but diets with same fiber type did not differ. Microbiota differing between groups also strongly correlated with gut hormones and metabolites. Species most strongly correlated to a marker for butyrate production were in highest abundance in inulin diets. Together, these findings indicate that inulin enriched diets containing egg or whey protein improved energy balance, decreased adiposity, and modulated gut microbiota and metabolites, with CCK signaling partly mediating the satiety effects of diets.

High-Protein Energy-Restriction: Effects on Body Composition, Contractile Properties, Mood, and Sleep in Active Young College Students

Background: It is often advised to ensure a high-protein intake during energy-restricted diets. However, it is unclear whether a high-protein intake is able to maintain muscle mass and contractility in the absence of resistance training. Materials and Methods: After 1 week of body mass maintenance (45 kcal/kg), 28 male college students not performing resistance training were randomized to either the energy-restricted (ER, 30 kcal/kg, n = 14) or the eucaloric control group (CG, 45 kcal/kg, n = 14) for 6 weeks. Both groups had their protein intake matched at 2.8 g/kg fat-free-mass and continued their habitual training throughout the study. Body composition was assessed weekly using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis. Contractile properties of the m. rectus femoris were examined with Tensiomyography and MyotonPRO at weeks 1, 3, and 5 along with sleep (PSQI) and mood (POMS). Results: The ER group revealed greater reductions in body mass (Δ -3.22 kg vs. Δ 1.90 kg, p < 0.001, partial η ² = 0.360), lean body mass (Δ -1.49 kg vs. Δ 0.68 kg, p < 0.001, partial η ² = 0.152), body cell mass (Δ -0.85 kg vs. Δ 0.59 kg, p < 0.001, partial η ² = 0.181), intracellular water (Δ -0.58 l vs. Δ 0.55 l, p < 0.001, partial η ² = 0.445) and body fat percentage (Δ -1.74% vs. Δ 1.22%, p < 0.001, partial η ² = 433) compared to the CG. Contractile properties, sleep onset, sleep duration as well as depression, fatigue and hostility did not change (p > 0.05). The PSQI score (Δ -1.43 vs. Δ -0.64, p = 0.006, partial η ² = 0.176) and vigor (Δ -2.79 vs. Δ -4.71, p = 0.040, partial η ² = 0.116) decreased significantly in the ER group and the CG, respectively. Discussion: The present data show that a high-protein intake alone was not able to prevent lean mass loss associated with a 6-week moderate energy restriction in college students. Notably, it is unknown whether protein intake at 2.8 g/kg fat-free-mass prevented larger decreases in lean body mass. Muscle contractility was not negatively altered by this form of energy restriction. Sleep quality improved in both groups. Whether these advantages are due to the high-protein intake cannot be clarified and warrants further study. Although vigor was negatively affected in both groups, other mood parameters did not change.

Almond consumption decreases android fat mass percentage in adults with high android subcutaneous adiposity but does not change HbA1c in a randomised controlled trial

The purpose of this study was to determine if the mixed evidence of almond consumption on HbA1c stems from testing people with different body fat distributions (BFD) associated with different risks of glucose intolerance. A 6-month randomised controlled trial in 134 adults was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to the almond (A) or control (C) group based on their BFD. Those in the almond group consumed 1·5 oz of almonds with their breakfast and as their afternoon snack daily. Those in the control group continued their habitual breakfast and afternoon snack routines. Body weight and composition were measured and blood samples were collected for determination of HbA1c, glycaemia and lipaemia at 0 and 6 months. Appetite ratings, energy intake and diet quality were collected at 0, 2, 4 and 6 months. Participants consuming almonds ingested 816 (sem 364) kJ/d more than participants in the control group (P = 0·03), but this did not result in any differences in body weight (A: –0·3 (sem 0·4), C: –0·4 (sem 0·4); P > 0·3). Participants in the almond, high android subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) group had a greater reduction in android fat mass percentage (A: –1·0 (sem 0·6), C: 1·1 (sem 0·6); P = 0·04), preserved android lean mass percentage (A: 0·9 (sem 0·6), C: –1 (sem 0·6); P = 0·04) and tended to decrease android visceral adipose tissue mass (A: –13 (sem 53) g, C: 127 (sem 53) g; P = 0·08) compared with those in the control, high SAT group. There were no differences in HbA1c between groups (A: 5·4 (sem 0·04), C: 5·5 (sem 0·04); P > 0·05). Thus, BFD may not explain the mixed evidence on almond consumption and HbA1c. Long-term almond consumption has limited ability to improve cardiometabolic health in those who are overweight and obese but otherwise healthy.

Non-thermal processing has an impact on the digestibility of the muscle proteins

Muscle proteins undergo several processes before being ready in a final consumable form. All these processes affect the digestibility of muscle proteins and subsequent release of amino acids and peptides during digestion in the human gut. The present review examines the effects of different processing techniques, such as curing, drying, ripening, comminution, aging, and marination on the digestibility of muscle proteins. The review also examines how the source of muscle proteins alters the gastrointestinal protein digestion. Processing techniques affect the structural and functional properties of muscle proteins and can affect their digestibility negatively or positively depending on the processing conditions. Some of these techniques, such as aging and mincing, can induce favorable changes in muscle proteins, such as partial unfolding or exposure of cleavage sites, and increase susceptibility to hydrolysis by digestive enzymes whereas others, such as drying and marination, can induce unfavorable changes, such as severe cross-linking, protein aggregation, oxidation induced changes or increased disulfide (S-S) bond content, thereby decreasing proteolysis. The underlying mechanisms have been discussed in detail and the conclusions drawn in the light of existing knowledge provide information with potential industrial importance.

Measures Derived from Panoramic Ultrasonography and Animal-Based Protein Intake Are Related to Muscular Performance in Middle-Aged Adults

Ultrasonography advantageously measures skeletal muscle size and quality, but some muscles may be too large to capture with standardized brightness mode (B-mode) imaging. Panoramic ultrasonography can capture more complete images and may more accurately measure muscle size. We investigated measurements made using panoramic compared to B-mode ultrasonography images of the rectus femoris with muscular performance. Concurrently, protein intake plays an important role in preventing sarcopenia; therefore, we also sought to investigate the association between animal-based protein intake (ABPI) and muscular performance. Ninety-one middle-aged adults were recruited. Muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and thickness were obtained using B-mode and panoramic ultrasound and analyzed with Image J software. Muscular performance was assessed using isokinetic dynamometry, a 30-s chair test, and handgrip strength. Three-day food diaries estimated dietary intakes. Linear regression models determined relationships between measures from ultrasonography and muscular performance. Mixed linear models were used to evaluate the association between ABPI and muscular performance. Muscle CSA from panoramic ultrasonography and ABPI were positively associated with lower-body strength (β ± S.E.; CSA, 42.622 ± 20.024, p = 0.005; ABPI, 65.874 ± 19.855, p = 0.001), lower-body endurance (β ± S.E.; CSA, 595 ± 200.221, p = 0.001; ABPI, 549.944 ± 232.478, p = 0.020), and handgrip strength (β ± S.E.; CSA, 6.966 ± 3.328, p = 0.004; ABPI, 0.349 ± 0.171, p = 0.045). Panoramic ultrasound shows promise as a method for assessing sarcopenia. ABPI is related to better muscular performance.

Energy and macronutrient intakes at breakfast and cognitive declines in community-dwelling older adults: a 9-year follow-up cohort study

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether breakfast consumption and breakfast composition are independently associated with changes in cognition over a long-term period in older adults.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to examine the associations between energy and macronutrient intakes at breakfast and cognitive declines.

METHODS

We included 2935 participants aged 55-93 y at baseline from the China Health and Nutrition Survey in our analysis. Cognition was assessed in 1997, 2000, 2004, 2006, and 2015. Dietary intake was assessed using weighing methods in combination with 24-h food records.

RESULTS

Breakfast contributed to 25.9% of total energy intake of the day and percentages of breakfast energy intake from protein, fat, and carbohydrates were 12.8%, 11.5%, and 75.7%, respectively. During a median follow-up of 9 y, the β values for changes in global cognitive z-scores for Quintile 5 of protein and fat intakes at breakfast, with Quintile 1 as the reference, were 0.13 (95% CI: 0.01-0.25) and 0.17 (95% CI: 0.04-0.30), respectively. Substitution of 5% energy from carbohydrates with equivalent energy from protein (β, 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01-0.11) or fat (β, 0.05; 95% CI: 0.02-0.08) at breakfast was positively associated with the change in the global cognitive z-score. Energy intake at breakfast was not significantly associated with the global cognitive z-score. Similar results were found for the verbal memory z-score. The positive association of breakfast fat intake and the inverse association of breakfast carbohydrate intake with cognitive declines were stronger in urban residents.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher intakes of protein and fat and lower intake of carbohydrates at breakfast were associated with a lower rate of cognitive decline in older adults. Substitution of carbohydrates with protein or fat intake at breakfast may help to delay or prevent cognitive declines.

Animal Protein versus Plant Protein in Supporting Lean Mass and Muscle Strength: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Although animal protein is usually considered to be a more potent stimulator of muscle protein synthesis than plant protein, the effect of protein source on lean mass and muscle strength needs to be systematically reviewed. This study aimed to examine potential differences in the effect of animal vs. plant protein on lean mass and muscle strength, and the possible influence of resistance exercise training (RET) and age. The following databases were searched: PubMed, Embase, Scopus and CINAHL Plus with Full Text, and 3081 articles were screened. A total of 18 articles were selected for systematic review, of which, 16 were used for meta-analysis. Total protein intakes were generally above the recommended dietary allowance at the baseline and end of intervention. Results from the meta-analyses demonstrated that protein source did not affect changes in absolute lean mass or muscle strength. However, there was a favoring effect of animal protein on percent lean mass. RET had no influence on the results, while younger adults (<50 years) were found to gain absolute and percent lean mass with animal protein intake (weighted mean difference (WMD), 0.41 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08 to 0.74; WMD 0.50%; 95% CI 0.00 to 1.01). Collectively, animal protein tends to be more beneficial for lean mass than plant protein, especially in younger adults.

A comparison study of the influence of milk protein versus whey protein in high-protein diets on adiposity in rats

High-protein diets are known to reduce weight and fat deposition. However, there have been only a few studies on the efficacy of different types of high-protein diets in preventing obesity. Therefore, the emphasis of this study lies in comparing the efficacy of two high-protein diets (milk protein and whey protein) in preventing obesity and exploring specific mechanisms. Eighty Sprague Dawley rats were divided into two groups and fed with milk protein concentrate (MPC) and whey protein concentrate (WPC) for 12 weeks. Each group was divided into four levels: two low-fat regimens with either low or high protein content (L-14%, L-40%) and two high-fat regimens with either low or high protein content (H-14%, H-40%). The studies we have performed showed that rats treated with MPC at the 40% protein level had significantly reduced body weight, fat weight and fat ratio gain induced by a high-fat diet, while the protein level in the WPC group had no effect on body weight or body fat in rats fed with a high-fat diet. What is more, rats fed with MPC at the H-40% energy level showed a significant decrease in plasma triglyceride, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and a significant increase in plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels compared with the H-14% energy level group. In contrast, in the WPC groups, increasing the protein content in high-fat diets had no significant influence on plasma lipid levels. The results of the amino acid composition of the two proteins and plasma showed that the MPC diet of 40% protein level increased the transsulfuration pathway in rats, thereby increasing the level of H₂S. This research work has shown that not all types of high-protein diets can effectively prevent obesity induced by high-fat diets, as effectiveness depends on the amino acid composition of the protein.