Lower dairy products and calcium intake is associated with adverse retinal vascular changes in older adults

Dietary macrominerals: Updated review of their role and orchestration in human nutrition throughout the life cycle with sex differences

Macrominerals play vital roles in a multitude of physiologic systems. A myriad of biochemical reactions are dependent on or affected by these electrolytes. The current review attempts to identify the role of macrominerals as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium and sulfur in human health, in addition to their absorption and homeostasis inside the body. We also focused on their amount in major food sources and the recommended daily intake of each macromineral. In addition, a deep insight into the orchestration of the 6 different macrominerals' requirements is presented across the human life cycle, beginning from fertility and pregnancy, and reaching adulthood and senility, with insight on interactions among them and underlying action mechanisms. The effect of sex is also presented for each mineral at each life stage to highlight the different daily requirements and/ or effects. The current review identified the role of macrominerals in human health, in addition to their absorption and homeostasis in the body. Based on the in-depth understanding of the factors influencing the metabolism of macrominerals, we could better explore their safety and possible therapeutic potential in specific disorders. There is still a need to precisely demonstrate the bioavailability of macrominerals from various types of functional food.

The ALGOVUE Clinical Trial: Effects of the Daily Consumption of Eggs Enriched with Lutein and Docosahexaenoic Acid on Plasma Composition and Macular Pigment Optical Density

Background. Carotenoids and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were identified as essential components for eye health and are both naturally present in eggs. Objective. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the daily consumption of two eggs enriched with lutein/zeaxanthin and DHA on macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and on circulating xanthophyll and fatty acid concentrations in healthy participants. Methods. Ninety-nine healthy volunteers consumed either two standard eggs or two enriched eggs per day for 4 months. MPOD was measured at baseline (V0) and at follow-up (V4) using a modified confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (primary outcome). Blood samples were collected to determine total plasma and lipoprotein fatty acids and lutein/zeaxanthin compositions at V0 and V4 (secondary outcomes). Results. A slight but significant increase in MPOD was observed for all study participants consuming two eggs per day for 4 months at all eccentricities (0.5°, 1°, 2°, and 4°). Plasma and lipoprotein lutein, zeaxanthin, and DHA concentrations significantly increased in both groups but were greater in the enriched group (for the enriched group (V0 vs. V4): lutein, 167 vs. 369 ng/mL; zeaxanthin, 17.7 vs. 29.2 ng/mL; DHA, 1.89 vs. 2.56% of total fatty acids). Interestingly, lutein from high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was strongly correlated with MPOD at 0.5 and 1° eccentricities (rho = 0.385, p = 0.008, and rho = 0.461, p = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions. MPOD was slightly increased in both groups. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and DHA plasma concentrations were strongly enhanced in the enriched group compared with the standard group. A significant correlation was found between MPOD level and lutein concentration in HDL.

Dietary associations with diabetic retinopathy-A cohort study

Purpose

To assess the role of dietary factors in the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in diabetics.

Methods

This prospective study was carried out on patients attending the outpatient department of ophthalmology for a period of 1 year. An interview-based 24-hour diet recall was used to document average daily dietary nutrient intakes. Each patient was subjected to a comprehensive ocular examination to look for DR.

Results

A total of 261 patients attending the outpatient department of ophthalmology were the participants for this study. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 57.73 ± 11.29 years, and 67% were men. One hundred and six participants had DR. Univariate analysis revealed sex, duration, fish (times/week), egg (yes/no), rice lunch (yes/no), rice dinner, rice (boiled/white), and total calorie intake to be associated with DR (P < 0.05). Logistic regression multivariable analysis revealed males (OR: 3.20, 95% CI: 1.65-6.19), longer duration of diabetes (OR:1.05,95% CI:1.01-1.11), antioxidant intake (OR: 3.42, 95% CI: 1.65-7.05), and consumption of rice (OR: 3.19, 95% CI: 1.17-8.69) to have significant association with DR (P < 0.05), with the odds of developing DR increasing three times in these patients. The odds of developing DR were lesser with more frequent (>2 times/week) fish consumption (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.18-0.94) and in patients on pharmacological treatment for diabetes mellitus (OR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.04-0.58). Binary logistic regression revealed chapathi consumption (OR: 9.37, 95% CI: 1.64-53.68) to be associated with severe forms and fish consumption (OR: 0.06, 95% CI: 0.01-1.06) (P < 0.05) to be associated with less severe forms of DR.

Conclusion

Males, longer duration of diabetes, antioxidant intake, fish consumption, and consumption of rice were associated with the occurrence of DR. Participants with diabetes who consumed fish more frequently and those who were on pharmacological treatment for diabetes mellitus had a significantly lower risk of DR and frequent fish consumption could reduce the risk of DR progression.

Food cultures and aging: a qualitative study of grandparents' food perceptions and influence of food choice on younger generations

OBJECTIVE

To explore food perceptions among grandparents and understand the influence of these perceptions on food choice for the younger generations in their family.

DESIGN

Qualitative methodology, thematic analysis of the transcripts from fourteen focus groups.

SETTING

Grandparents in the southern region of the United States.

SUBJECTS

Participants were fifty-eight Black, Hispanic, and White grandparents, predominantly women (72%), ranging in age from 44-86 years (mean age = 65·4 (sd 9·97) years).

RESULTS

Grandparents' perceptions related to personal food choice were related to health issues and the media. Grandparents' perceived influence on their children's and grandchildren's food choices was described through the themes of proximity and power (level of influence based on an interaction of geographic proximity to grandchildren and the power given to them by their children and grandchildren to make food decisions), healthy v. unhealthy spoiling, cultural food tradition, and reciprocal exchange of knowledge.

CONCLUSION

Our results highlight areas for future research including nutrition interventions for older adults as well as factors that may be helpful to consider when engaging grandparents concerning food decisions for younger generations to promote health. Specifically, power should be assessed as part of a holistic approach to addressing dietary influence, the term 'healthy spoiling' can be used to reframe notions of traditional spoiling, and the role of cultural food tradition should be adapted differently by race.

Pattern of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake and fish consumption and retinal vascular caliber in children and adolescents: A cohort study

We aimed to investigate whether fish and long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCn-3 PUFA) consumption changed appreciably during adolescence. We also assessed whether these dietary variables are associated with retinal microvascular signs (possible markers of future cardiovascular disease risk). 633 children had dietary data at ages 12 and 17. Fish and LCn-3 PUFA [eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)] intake was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. Retinal vessel caliber was quantified from digital photographs using computer software. Mean energy-adjusted intakes (mg/day) of total LCn-3 PUFA, EPA, and DHA at age 12 were 297.1±261.1; 102.5±106.9; and 129.7±137.7, respectively; and this increased significantly at age 17 to: 347.0±324.0 (p<0.0001); 122.5±132.7 (p = 0.0001); and 160.3±171.4 (p <0.0001), respectively. Increasing quartiles of LCn-3PUFA intake were associated with widening of mean retinal arteriolar caliber among 17-year old girls ~3.9 μm (multivariable-adjusted P-trend = 0.001). Girls who consumed ≥2 serves of fish/week versus those who did not had ~2.1 μm wider retinal arterioles (p = 0.03). No associations were observed among boys or with retinal venules. Mean dietary intakes of LCn-3 PUFA increased during adolescence, but are still below recommended levels of consumption. These results suggest that LCn-3 PUFA and fish intake might have a beneficial influence.

Associations between dairy food consumption and chronic kidney disease in older adults

We aimed to assess the association between dairy product consumption and calcium intake with the prevalence and 10-year incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). 1185 participants aged ≥50 years at baseline were examined between 1992–4 and 2002–4. Dietary data were collected using a food frequency questionnaire, and servings of dairy food consumption were calculated. Baseline biochemistry including serum creatinine was measured. CKD was defined as Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL·min^−1.1.73 m⁻². Cross-sectional analysis showed that older adults in the highest quintile compared to the lowest quintile (reference group) of low/reduced fat dairy food consumption had reduced odds of CKD, multivariable-adjusted odds ratio, OR, 0.64 (95% confidence intervals, CI, 0.43–0.96). Increasing total intake of dietary calcium was associated with reduced odds of CKD (P-trend = 0.02); comparing highest versus lowest quintile: OR 0.62 (95% CI 0.42–0.92). Participants in the second versus first quintile of low/reduced fat dairy food consumption at baseline had 49% reduced risk of CKD 10 years later, OR 0.51 (95% CI 0.29–0.89). Higher consumption of low/reduced fat dairy foods was independently associated with lower risk of CKD. Additional population-based studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Association of consumption of dairy products and meat with retinal vessel calibers in subjects at increased cardiovascular risk

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Association of dairy products and meat consumption with macrocirculation is previously described, but such association with microcirculation is poorly investigated. We aimed to test the hypothesis that the consumption of high- and low-fat dairy products as well as red, white, and processed meat is associated with retinal vessel calibers in adults at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

In consecutive subjects (n = 181, age: 51.3 ± 12.4 years, 51.4% women) without CVD and diabetes mellitus but with increased CVD risk, we obtained digital left and right retinal images. These images were assessed with validated software to determine central retinal arteriolar and venular equivalents and the arteriolar to venular ratio (CRAE, CRVE, and AVR, respectively). The consumption of dairy products and meat was assessed through 24-h recalls in all volunteers. After adjustment for potential confounders, the following findings were obtained: (i) low-fat milk and yogurt were positively associated with CRAE (b=0.145, p=0.031 left; b=0.141, p=0.038 right) and inversely associated with CRVE (b=-0.155, p=0.026 left; b=-0.146, p=0.041 right); (ii) low-fat cheese was positively associated with CRAE (b=0.164, p=0.011 left and b=0.155, p=0.017 right); and (iii) red meat was inversely associated with CRAE (b=-0.143, p=0.032 left; b=-0.114, p=0.050 right). High-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese or white and processed meat were not found to be associated with retinal vessel calibers.

CONCLUSIONS

High consumption of low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese and low consumption of red meat could be beneficial for retinal microvascular health. Prospective studies are needed to verify these findings.

Effects of non-fat dairy products added to the routine diet on vascular function: a randomized controlled crossover trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

High consumption of low- and non-fat dairy products is associated with reduced risk of high blood pressure (BP) and central arterial stiffness. However, interventional studies to determine if the addition of non-fat dairy products to the diet is capable of reducing central BP and improving vascular function are lacking. The aim of this study was to determine if the solitary addition of non-fat dairy products to the normal routine diet would reduce central BP and improve vascular function in middle-aged and older adults with elevated BP.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using a randomized, crossover intervention study design, forty-nine adults (44% men, 53 ± 2 years, 170 ± 2 cm, 88 ± 3 kg; mean ± SEM) with elevated BP (134 ± 1/81 ± 1 mm Hg) underwent a High Dairy condition (+4 servings/day of conventional non-fat dairy products) and No Dairy condition (+4 servings/day fruit products) in which all dairy products were removed. Both dietary conditions lasted 4 weeks with a 2-week washout before crossing over into the alternate condition. The High Dairy condition produced reductions in central systolic BP (-3 ± 1 mm Hg) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (-0.5 ± 0.1 m/sec), with a concomitant increase in brachial flow-mediated dilation (+1.1 ± 0.4%) and cardiovagal baroreflex sensitivity (+5 ± 1 ms/mm Hg) (P < 0.05 for all vs. baseline). In the No Dairy condition, brachial flow-mediated dilation was reduced (-1.0 ± 0.1%, P < 0.05 vs. baseline).

CONCLUSIONS

The solitary manipulation of conventional dairy products in the normal routine diet modulates levels of central BP and vascular function in middle-aged and older adults with elevated BP.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01577030.

Dairy food consumption, blood pressure and retinal microcirculation in adolescents

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The relationship between dairy food consumption and dietary calcium intake, and vascular risk factors during adolescence remains unclear. We aimed to prospectively assess whether dairy food consumption (milk, cheese, yoghurt) is associated with blood pressure (BP) and retinal microvascular signs among adolescents.

METHODS AND RESULTS

As many as 2353 and 1216 participants aged 12 and 17, respectively, were examined. Longitudinal analyses involved 888 subjects with complete baseline and follow-up data. Dairy consumption was assessed from validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaires. BP information was collected and retinal vessel caliber was quantified from digital photographs using computer software. In girls, after multivariable adjustment, each serve/day increase in total dairy intake was concurrently associated with 1.04 (p = 0.03) and 1.10 mm Hg (p = 0.02) decreases in mean diastolic and arterial BP, respectively. Also in girls, each serve/day increase in cheese intake over 5 years was concurrently related to 7.18 (p = 0.001), 5.28 (p = 0.002) and 5.79 mm Hg (p = 0.001) decrease in mean systolic, diastolic and arterial BP, respectively. Among girls, each 100 mg/day increase in dietary calcium intake was associated with a concurrent 0.5 (p = 0.01) and 0.3 mm Hg (p = 0.02) decrease in mean systolic and arterial BP, respectively. Cross-sectionally, adolescents in the highest versus lowest tertile of yoghurt intake had ∼ 1.3 μm wider retinal arterioles (p = 0.05) and ∼ 2.0 μm narrower venules (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of dairy products, particularly cheese, could have a beneficial effect on BP, particularly among girls.