The importance of a balanced ω-6 to ω-3 ratio in the prevention and management of obesity

The impact of dietary interventions on cardiometabolic health

Obesity and cardiometabolic diseases are leading causes of morbidity and mortality among adults worldwide. These conditions significantly contribute to and exacerbate other major causes of illness and death, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and chronic kidney disease. The growing burden of these diseases has increased the interest of modern medicine in understanding metabolic processes and health, with diet emerging as a pivotal modifiable factor, alongside physical inactivity and smoking. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiological and evolutionary foundations of metabolic processes that may link "unhealthy" nutrition to obesity and cardiometabolic diseases and review the current literature to assess the effects of various diet interventions and patterns on cardiometabolic parameters. Special emphasis is placed on summarizing the latest, albeit partially contradictory, evidence to offer balanced dietary recommendations with the ultimate aim to improve cardiometabolic health.

Biochemical Composition and Alkaline Extraction Optimization of Soluble Bioactive Compounds from the Green Algae Caulerpa cylindraceae

There is a growing interest in studying the bioactive compounds of invasive green macroalga Caulerpa cylindracea due to their potential biotechnological applications. Algal samples were collected from two sites and seasons. Elemental analysis showed the abundance of carbon in the raw material as a source of carbohydrates. The total protein content in different samples ranged from 8.17 to 9.98%. Total lipids in different samples were around 2%. Fatty acid (FA) results revealed the presence of various types, including omega-3 and omega-6 PUFA. Furthermore, an alkaline hydrolysis optimization using response surface methodology was investigated to extract soluble compounds. It showed that the best combination for polyphenols and ABTS was 12.5% sodium carbonate (SC) at 100 °C for 8 h; however, the best combination for proteins and carbohydrates was 7.5% SC at 100 °C for 5 h. A combination of ultrasound pretreatments was carried out to assess the enhancement of the contents. Thus, an increasing amount was recorded for polyphenols and antioxidant capacity. Ultrasound pretreatment results in decreasing extraction time for all compounds. Results showed that the invasive seaweeds, causing environmental impacts in the Mediterranean Sea, represent an interesting source of bioactive compounds.

Potential of flaxseed oil blends to modulate tissue fatty acid composition and determination of safety parameters in Wistar rats

Non-communicable diseases (NCD) are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress which is further associated with omega-6 (ω6) and omega-3 (ω3) fatty acid (FA) imbalance favoring ω6 FA. By improving ω3 FA consumption, this imbalance can be altered to control NCD. Previously we have reported blends of flaxseed oil (FSO, ω3 FA) with palm olein (PO) or coconut oil (CO) were thermo-oxidatively stable with good storage stability and could improve ω6:ω3 ratio in cell lines. In the present study safety of these blends along with their efficacy to improve tissue FA composition particularly ω6:ω3 ratio was evaluated in Wistar rats. Institutional ethics committee approval was obtained initially. Wistar rats were supplemented with individual oils or blends (FSO with PO or CO, 20:80 by volume, 1.0 mL/day/200 gm body weight) for 3 months. Throughout the study period, there were no adverse effect of blends on feed intake and body weight gain. After 3 months, blood and serum were subjected for hematological, biochemical assessment. Vital organs were harvested for histopathological and FA composition investigations. Hematological, biochemical, and tissue histopathological parameters were comparable with Control (group receiving only normal diet). Interestingly serum lipid profile was improved by the blend supplementation. Except brain, FA composition was altered in liver, heart, adipose tissue, and RBC with lowering of ω6:ω3 ratio but there was no favorable effect on inflammatory markers and adipokines in the blend supplemented groups. Thus, to conclude, FSO blends with PO or CO were able to lower tissue ω6:ω3 ratio without adverse effects.

Anthropometric Trajectories and Dietary Compliance During a Personalized Ketogenic Program

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Ketogenic diets (KDs) have gained attention for their potential to promote weight loss and metabolic improvements. However, data on long-term body composition changes and adherence rates in real-world settings remain limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the effects of a personalized ketogenic dietary program on anthropometric parameters over a 9-month period and to evaluate adherence across time.

METHODS

A total of 491 adults participated in a longitudinal intervention involving a structured ketogenic nutrition plan with follow-up at 3, 6, and 9 months. Body weight, fat mass (FM), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), and other composition metrics were measured at each visit.

RESULTS

Significant reductions in body weight (-12.6 kg) and fat mass (-10.3 kg) were observed after 3 months (p < 0.001), with minimal changes at 6 months and partial regain by Month 9. SMM remained relatively stable throughout the study. Retention dropped substantially after 3 months, dropping from 487 to 115 participants at Month 6 and 41 at Month 9. Despite this, participants who completed the program maintained significant anthropometric improvements.

CONCLUSIONS

A well-formulated ketogenic diet may promote rapid fat loss while preserving lean mass in the short term. However, long-term adherence poses significant challenges. Strategies to enhance dietary sustainability and retention are essential for maximizing the benefits of KDs in clinical practice.

Global Analysis of Nutritional Factors and Cardiovascular Risk: Insights from Worldwide Data and a Case Study in Mexican Children

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with growing concerns about the impact of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-6 PUFAs) on cardiovascular health. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between serum linoleic acid (LA) levels and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), a recognized cardiovascular risk marker, in children. The research was conducted in two parts. First, a global analysis of publicly available data (2019-2021) explored the association between nutritional factors and CVD prevalence across 183 countries. Second, a cross-sectional study involving 67 children (33 with obesity and 34 with healthy weight, classified using BMI Z-scores) examined the correlation between serum LA levels and WHtR. Global analysis revealed a moderate correlation between low seafood omega-3 fatty acid intake and CVD incidence (rho = 0.341), while low polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption showed a weak correlation (rho = 0.228). In children, a significant positive correlation was observed between serum LA levels and WHtR (rho = 0.716, p < 0.001), with similar correlations found when stratified by sex (girls: rho = 0.690; boys: rho = 0.709). Serum LA levels also correlated positively with weight (rho = 0.684). These findings are consistent with the existing literature, that high serum LA levels may contribute to early cardiometabolic risk in children, emphasizing the need for dietary interventions to mitigate cardiovascular risks in early life.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Furan Fatty Acids, and Hydroxy Fatty Acid Esters: Dietary Bioactive Lipids with Potential Benefits for MAFLD and Liver Health

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the most common form of chronic liver disease, for which only resmetirom has recently received FDA approval. Prevention is crucial, as it can help manage and potentially reverse the progression of MAFLD to more severe stages. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), have numerous beneficial effects in health and disease, including liver disease. Other bioactive lipids, such as furanic fatty acids (FuFA) and hydroxy fatty acid esters (FAHFA), have also demonstrated several benefits on relevant markers of liver dysfunction in animal and cell models. However, the effects of FAHFAs on hepatic steatosis are inconsistent, and studies on the impact of FuFAs in MAFLD are scarce. Further and more extensive research is required to better understand their role in liver health. The aim of this narrative review is to provide a brief overview of the potential effects of omega-3 fatty acids and other bioactive lipids, such as FuFAs and FAHFAs, on liver disease, with a focus on MAFLD.

Nannochloropsis Lipids and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Potential Applications and Strain Improvement

The genus Nannochloropsis comprises a group of oleaginous microalgae that accumulate polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These molecules are essential for the correct development and health of humans and animals. Thanks to their attractive lipid profile, Nannochloropsis is mainly marketed as a feed ingredient in aquaculture. In microalgae of this genus, contents and cellular location of PUFAs are affected by the growth conditions and gene expression. Strain improvement through non-recombinant approaches can generate more productive strains and efficient bioprocesses for PUFA production. Nevertheless, the lack of specific markers, detection methods, and selective pressure for isolating such mutants remains a bottleneck in classical mutagenesis approaches or lipid quality assessment during cultivation. This review encompasses the importance of PUFAs and lipid classes from Nannochloropsis species and their potential applications. Additionally, a revision of the different ways to increase PUFA content in Nannochloropsis sp. by using classical mutagenesis and adaptive laboratory evolution is also presented, as well as various methods to label and quantify lipids and PUFAs from Nannochloropsis microalgae.

A New, Validated GC-PICI-MS Method for the Quantification of 32 Lipid Fatty Acids via Base-Catalyzed Transmethylation and the Isotope-Coded Derivatization of Internal Standards

Background: Fatty acids (FAs) represent a ubiquitous class of nonpolar alkyl carboxylate metabolites with diverse biological functions. Nutrition, metabolism, and endogenous and exogenous stress influence the overall FA metabolic status and transport via the bloodstream. FAs esterified in lipids are of particular interest, as they represent promising biomarkers of pathological diseases and nutritional status. Methods: Here, we report a validated gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) method for the quantitative analysis of 32 FAs exclusively bound in esterified lipids. The developed sample preparation protocol comprises three steps using only 5 µL of human serum for Folch extraction, sodium methoxide-catalyzed transesterification in tert-butyl methyl ether, and re-extraction in isooctane prior to a quantitative GC-MS analysis with positive ion chemical ionization (PICI) and selected ion monitoring (SIM). Results: The base-catalyzed transmethylation step was studied for 14 lipid classes and was found to be efficient under mild conditions for all major esterified lipids but not for free FAs, lipid amides, or sphingolipids. To minimize matrix effects and instrument bias, internal fatty acid trideuteromethyl esters (D3-FAME) standards were prepared through isotope-coded derivatization with D3-labeled methylchloroformate/methanol medium mixed with each transmethylated serum extract for the assay. The method was validated according to FDA guidelines and evaluated by analyzing NIST SRM 2378 Serum 1 and sera from three healthy donors. Conclusions: The measured quantitative FA values are consistent with the reference data of SRM 2378, and they demonstrate the application potential of the described method for general FA analysis in esterified lipids as a novel complementary tool for lipidomics, as well as for the analysis of membrane FAs in dry blood spots and red blood cells.

Effect of a Diet Supplemented with Marine Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Inflammatory Markers in Subjects with Obesity: A Randomized Active Placebo-Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade inflammation. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as omega-3 (n-3), are essential in anti-inflammatory processes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a dietary intervention along with supplementation of 1.8 g of marine n-3 PUFAs on anthropometric, biochemical, and inflammatory markers in adults.

METHODS

An 8-week double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted with a diet (200 kcal/day reduction each 4 weeks based on the estimated basal caloric expenditure) containing a n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio ≤ 5:1, along with daily 1.8 g of marine n-3 supplementation (EPA and DHA) vs. active placebo 1.6 g (ALA). A total of 40 subjects were included in the study, 21 in the marine omega-3 group and 19 in the active placebo group. Inclusion criteria included subjects aged 25 to 50 years with obesity as determined by body mass index (BMI) and/or abdominal obesity according to ATP III criteria.

RESULTS

The marine omega-3 supplemented group had a better effect compared to the active placebo group, increasing Resolvin D1 [129.3 (-90.1-193.5) vs. -16.8 (-237.8-92.5) pg/mL, p = 0.041], IL-10 [1.4 (-0.7-4.6) vs. -2.0 (-5-0.05) pg/mL, p = 0.001], and decreasing IL-6 [-0.67 (2.72--0.59) vs. 0.03 (-0.59-1.84) pg/mL, p = 0.015], and MCP-1 [-29.6 (-94.9-5.50) vs. 18.3 (-97.3-66.35) pg/mL, p = 0.040].

CONCLUSIONS

A diet supplemented with marine n-3 improves inflammatory markers by increasing systemic levels of Resolvin D1 and IL-10 and decreasing IL-6 and MCP-1.

Associations between maternal fish intake and polyunsaturated fatty acid status with childhood asthma in a high fish-eating population

BACKGROUND

Studies investigating associations between prenatal polyunsaturated fatty acid status (PUFAs), in particular the anti-inflammatory n-3 PUFAs, and the development of childhood asthma have yielded conflicting results.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the associations between maternal fish intake (a rich source of the n-3 PUFAs), maternal or cord PUFAs with the prevalence of childhood asthma in a high fish-eating population.

METHODS

We examined these associations between fish intake and PUFA concentrations with childhood asthma prevalence in the Seychelles Child Development Study Nutrition Cohort 2, a large observational study in a high fish-eating population. Maternal fish intake during pregnancy and child's fish intake at 7 years were assessed by questionnaire, with frequency reported as meals/week. Serum concentrations of PUFAs were quantified in maternal blood collected at 28 weeks' gestation (n = 1448) and in cord blood (n = 1088). Asthma in children at 7 years was assessed using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire (n = 1098).

RESULTS

A total of 97 children (10.5%) were reported to have asthma. In regression analysis, the odds of childhood asthma were not associated with maternal fish intake or maternal PUFA status. Cord DHA concentrations were associated with increased asthma prevalence when the highest quartile (≥0.123 mg/mL) was compared with the lowest (<0.061 mg/mL).

CONCLUSION

The results from this current study add to the growing body of evidence that fish consumption during pregnancy is not associated with asthma development in offspring. The associations between cord blood DHA and asthma prevalence are unexpected and warrant further investigation.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in the brain and visual system: Focus on invertebrates

A critical role of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), mainly docosahexaenoic acid 22:6ω3 (DHA), in the development and function of the brain and visual system is well established. DHA, the most abundant omega-3 PUFA in the vertebrate brain, contributes to neuro- and synaptogenesis, neuronal differentiation, synaptic transmission and plasticity, neuronal network formation, memory and behaviour formation. Based on these data, the unique importance of DHA and its irreplaceability in neural and retinal tissues has been postulated. In this review, we consider omega-3 PUFA composition in the brain and retina of various invertebrates, and show that DHA has only been found in marine mollusks and crustaceans. A gradual decrease in the DHA content until its disappearance can be observed in the brain lipids of the series marine-freshwater-terrestrial crustaceans and marine-terrestrial mollusks, suggesting that the transition to the land lifestyle in the evolution of invertebrates, but not vertebrates, was accompanied by a loss of DHA. As with terrestrial crustaceans and mollusks, DHA was not found in insects, either terrestrial or aquatic, or in nematodes. We show that the nervous and visual systems of various DHA-free invertebrates can be highly enriched in alpha-linolenic acid 18:3ω3 or eicosapentaenoic acid 20:5ω3, which affect neurological and visual function, stimulating synaptogenesis, synaptic transmission, visual processing, learning and even cognition. The review data show that, in animals at different levels of organization, omega-3 PUFA are required for the functioning of the nervous and visual systems and that their specific needs can be met by various omega-3 PUFA.

Life's Essential 8, genetic susceptibility and the risk of psoriatic disease: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Psoriatic disease (PsD) is closely associated with cardiovascular (CV) disease. The Life's Essential 8 (LE8) score is a new metric to assess CV health (CVH), where a higher score indicates better CVH. However, the longitudinal association between LE8 score and the risk of PsD remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate, in a cohort study, the association between LE8 score, genetic susceptibility and the risk of PsD.

METHODS

This cohort study included 261 642 participants in the UK Biobank without PsD at baseline. LE8 comprises eight indicators: diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, sleep health, body mass index, blood lipids, blood glucose and blood pressure. Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association between participants' LE8 scores, genetic risk of PsD and the risk of PsD. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

During an average follow-up of 12.3 years, 1501 participants developed PsD. Compared with participants with low LE8 scores, the HRs of developing PsD for those with moderate and high LE8 scores were 0.51 (95% CI 0.43-0.59) and 0.34 (95% CI 0.27-0.42) after adjustments, respectively. Dose-response analysis revealed a linear negative association between continuous LE8 score and the risk of developing PsD (P < 0.001), with no evidence of nonlinear association detected. Genetic susceptibility to PsD did not modify this association (P-interaction = 0.63). Subgroup analyses revealed that women had a more pronounced beneficial association between LE8 scores and PsD risk (P-interaction = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that a higher LE8 score, regardless of genetic risk, is associated with a lower risk of PsD, particularly in women. Consequently, maintaining good CVH status is recommended to prevent PsD and assess associated risks.

Unveiling the Lipid Features and Valorization Potential of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Heads

The sustainable utilization of co-products derived from the salmon processing industry is crucial for enhancing the viability and decreasing the environmental footprint of both capture and aquaculture operations. Salmon (Salmo salar) is one of the most consumed fish worldwide and a major species produced in aquaculture. As such, significant quantities of salmon co-products are produced in pre-commercialization processing/steaking procedures. The present study characterized a specific co-product derived from the processing of salmon: minced salmon heads. More specifically, this work aimed to reveal the nutritional profile of this co-product, with a special focus on its lipid content, including thoroughly profiling fatty acids and fully appraising the composition in complex lipids (polar lipids and triglycerides) for the first time. The antioxidant potential of lipid extracts from this salmon co-product was also studied in order to bioprospect lipid functional properties and possibly unveil new pathways for added-value applications. Our analysis indicated that these minced salmon heads are exceptionally rich in lipids. Oleic acid is the most prevalent fatty acid in this co-product, followed by palmitic acid, stearic acid, and linoleic acid. Moreover, relevant lipid indexes inferred from the fatty acid composition of this co-product revealed good nutritional traits. Lipidome analysis revealed that triglycerides were clearly the predominant lipid class present in this co-product while phospholipids, as well as ceramides, were also present, although in minimal quantities. The bioprospecting of antioxidant activity in the lipid extracts of the minced salmon heads revealed limited results. Given the high concentration of triglycerides, minced salmon heads can constitute a valuable resource for industrial applications from the production of fish oil to biodiesel (as triglycerides can be easily converted into fatty acid methyl esters), as well as possible ingredients for cosmetics, capitalizing on their alluring emollient properties. Overall, the valorization of minced salmon heads, major co-products derived from the processing of one of the most intensively farmed fish in the world, not only offers economic benefits but also contributes to the sustainability of the salmon processing industry by reducing waste and promoting a more efficient use of marine bioresources.

Yeast β-glucan supplementation lowers insulin resistance without altering microbiota composition compared with placebo in subjects with type II diabetes: a phase I exploratory study

The increased global prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with consumption of low fibre 'Western diets'. Characteristic metabolic parameters of these individuals include insulin resistance, high fasting and postprandial glucose, as well as low-grade systemic inflammation. Gut microbiota composition is altered significantly in these cohorts suggesting a causative link between diet, microbiota and disease. Dietary fibre consumption has been shown to alleviate these changes and improve glucose parameters in individuals with metabolic disease. We previously reported that yeast β-glucan (yeast beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucan; Wellmune) supplementation ameliorated hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance in a murine model. Here, we conducted a randomised, placebo-controlled, two-armed dietary fibre phase I exploratory intervention study in patients with T2DM. The primary outcome measure was alteration to microbiota composition, while the secondary outcome measures included markers of glycaemic control, inflammation as well as metabolomics. Patients were supplemented with 2·5g/day of maltodextrin (placebo) or yeast β-1,3/1,6-D-glucan (treatment). Yeast β-glucan (Wellmune) lowered insulin resistance compared with the placebo maltodextrin after 8 weeks of consumption. TNFα was significantly lower after 4 weeks of β-glucan supplementation. Significantly higher fecal concentrations of several bile acids were detected in the treatment group when compared with the placebo after 8 weeks. These included tauroursodeoxycholic acid, which was previously shown to improve glucose control and lower insulin resistance. Interestingly, the hypoglycaemic and anti-inflammatory effect of yeast β-glucan was independent of any changes in fecal microbiota composition or short-chain fatty acid levels. Our findings highlight the potential of yeast β-glucan to lower insulin resistance in patients with T2DM.

Exploring the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in acne patients: A prospective intervention study

BACKGROUND

Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3 FA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential nutrients known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which involve reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, eicosanoids, and insulin-like growth factor-1. This suggests their potential to alleviate acne severity, especially when deficits are present.

AIMS

To elevate EPA/DHA levels in acne patients through dietary intervention and supplementation, observing subsequent clinical effects.

METHODS

Over 16 weeks, 60 patients without prescription medication (n = 23 acne comedonica [AC], n = 37 acne papulopustulosa [AP]) adhered to a Mediterranean diet, incorporating oral algae-derived ω-3 FA supplementation (600 mg DHA/300 mg EPA week 1-8, 800 mg DHA/400 mg EPA week 8-16). At four visits (V1-V4), blood EPA/DHA levels were tracked using the HS-omega 3 index® (EPA/DHA (%) of total identified fatty acids in erythrocytes; target 8%-11%, deficit <8%, severe deficit <4%), alongside clinical assessments and standardized questionnaires.

RESULTS

At baseline, 98.3% of patients had an EPA/DHA deficit, with the mean HS-omega 3 index® rising from 4.9% at V1 to 8.3% at V4 (p < 0.001). AC showed significantly higher indices than AP at V4 (p = 0.035). Objective improvements in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions were observed (p < 0.001). While self-reported appearance worsened in four patients, overall quality of life improved (p < 0.001), particularly in AP. Dietary triggers were more clearly defined than beneficial foods. Intake of cow's milk and dairy products reduced (p < 0.001). Compliance was good; no adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION

Many acne patients have a ω-3 FA deficit. The HS-omega 3 index® can be increased by a Mediterranean diet and oral supplementation with algae-derived ω-3 FA. Acne severity improved significantly in patients with target ω-3 FA levels.

The Effects of High-Fat Diet and Flaxseed Oil-Enriched Diet on the Lung Parenchyma of Obese Mice

Omega-3 (ω3) fatty acids are widely investigated for their anti-inflammatory potential, however, there is little evidence regarding their action in the lung parenchyma in the context of obesity. The objective is to investigate the effects of flaxseed oil (FS), rich in α-linolenic (C18:3 - ω3), on the lungs of obese mice. Mice were fed a high-fat diet (HF) for 8 weeks to induce obesity. Subsequently, a part of these animals received HF containing FS oil for another 8 weeks. The HF consumption induced weight gain and hyperglycemia. The lung parenchyma shows a complete fatty acids profile, compared to the control group (CT). In the lung parenchyma, FS increases the ω3 content and, notwithstanding a reduction in the interleukins (IL) IL1β and IL18 contents compared to HF. However, FS promoted increased alveolar spaces, followed by MCP1 (Monocytes Chemoattractant Protein-1) positive cell infiltration and a dramatic reduction in the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL10. Despite reducing the pulmonary inflammatory response, the consumption of a food source of ω3 was associated with alterations in the lipid profile and histoarchitecture of the lung parenchyma, which can lead to the development of pulmonary complications. This study brings an alert against the indiscriminate use of ω3 supplements, warranting caution.

Identification of SIBO Subtypes along with Nutritional Status and Diet as Key Elements of SIBO Therapy

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a pathology of the small intestine and may predispose individuals to various nutritional deficiencies. Little is known about whether specific subtypes of SIBO, such as the hydrogen-dominant (H+), methane-dominant (M+), or hydrogen/methane-dominant (H+/M+), impact nutritional status and dietary intake in SIBO patients. The aim of this study was to investigate possible correlations between biochemical parameters, dietary nutrient intake, and distinct SIBO subtypes. This observational study included 67 patients who were newly diagnosed with SIBO. Biochemical parameters and diet were studied utilizing laboratory tests and food records, respectively. The H+/M+ group was associated with low serum vitamin D (p < 0.001), low serum ferritin (p = 0.001) and low fiber intake (p = 0.001). The M+ group was correlated with high serum folic acid (p = 0.002) and low intakes of fiber (p = 0.001) and lactose (p = 0.002). The H+ group was associated with low lactose intake (p = 0.027). These results suggest that the subtype of SIBO may have varying effects on dietary intake, leading to a range of biochemical deficiencies. Conversely, specific dietary patterns may predispose one to the development of a SIBO subtype. The assessment of nutritional status and diet, along with the diagnosis of SIBO subtypes, are believed to be key components of SIBO therapy.

The Lipid-Heart Hypothesis and the Keys Equation Defined the Dietary Guidelines but Ignored the Impact of Trans-Fat and High Linoleic Acid Consumption

In response to a perceived epidemic of coronary heart disease, Ancel Keys introduced the lipid-heart hypothesis in 1953 which asserted that high intakes of total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol lead to atherosclerosis and that consuming less fat and cholesterol, and replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat, would reduce serum cholesterol and consequently the risk of heart disease. Keys proposed an equation that would predict the concentration of serum cholesterol (ΔChol.) from the consumption of saturated fat (ΔS), polyunsaturated fat (ΔP), and cholesterol (ΔZ): ΔChol. = 1.2(2ΔS - ΔP) + 1.5ΔZ. However, the Keys equation conflated natural saturated fat and industrial trans-fat into a single parameter and considered only linoleic acid as the polyunsaturated fat. This ignored the widespread consumption of trans-fat and its effects on serum cholesterol and promoted an imbalance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. Numerous observational, epidemiological, interventional, and autopsy studies have failed to validate the Keys equation and the lipid-heart hypothesis. Nevertheless, these have been the cornerstone of national and international dietary guidelines which have focused disproportionately on heart disease and much less so on cancer and metabolic disorders, which have steadily increased since the adoption of this hypothesis.

Analyzing the Antioxidant Activity and Fatty Acid Composition of Monofloral Mullein (Verbascum sp.) Pollen Oil obtained via Various Extraction Techniques

This study focused on characterizing fatty acids and evaluating the antioxidant properties in oils extracted from mullein (Verbascum sp.) bee-collected pollen, utilizing soxhlet and ultrasound-assisted methods with acetone and hexane solvents. Soxhlet extraction demonstrated high efficiency in mullein bee pollen oil extraction. The highest levels of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), DPPH⋅, and ABTS⋅+ activities (41.07±1.43 mg GAE/g extract; 1.86±0.01 mg QE/g extract; 16.23±0.68 mg TE/g extract; 56.88±0.43 mg TE/g extract, respectively) were observed in oil extracted using the soxhlet method with acetone solvent. Conversely, ultrasound-assisted extraction with hexane yielded oils rich in saturated fatty acids, while acetone extraction contained higher monounsaturated fatty acids. Palmitic, linoleic, and oleic acids were predominant in the extracted oils. This study introduces, for the first time, the identification of fatty acids found in mullein bee pollen oil, along with an examination of their antioxidant properties. The choice of solvent was found to significantly influence compound extraction compared to the extraction method.

Marine Animal Co-Products-How Improving Their Use as Rich Sources of Health-Promoting Lipids Can Foster Sustainability

Marine lipids are recognized for their-health promoting features, mainly for being the primary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, and are therefore critical for human nutrition in an age when the global supply for these nutrients is experiencing an unprecedent pressure due to an ever-increasing demand. The seafood industry originates a considerable yield of co-products worldwide that, while already explored for other purposes, remain mostly undervalued as sustainable sources of healthy lipids, often being explored for low-value oil production. These co-products are especially appealing as lipid sources since, besides the well-known nutritional upside of marine animal fat, which is particularly rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, they also have interesting bioactive properties, which may garner them further interest, not only as food, but also for other high-end applications. Besides the added value that these co-products may represent as valuable lipid sources, there is also the obvious ecological upside of reducing seafood industry waste. In this sense, repurposing these bioresources will contribute to a more sustainable use of marine animal food, reducing the strain on already heavily depleted seafood stocks. Therefore, untapping the potential of marine animal co-products as valuable lipid sources aligns with both health and environmental goals by guaranteeing additional sources of healthy lipids and promoting more eco-conscious practices.

Association between body composition and cardiometabolic disease risk: role of dietary fat intake and APOLIPOPROTEIN E genotype on this relationship

Excess body weight is associated with increased mortality and risk of developing CVD. Body fat distribution is now considered a better indicator of disease risk than BMI, with central adiposity associated with dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance. Dietary modification is unquestionably important in the prevention of obesity and CVD, with the type but not the amount of dietary fat emerging as an important determinant of both diseases. Although reducing SFA intake via replacement with unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) is a key public health strategy for CVD prevention, variability in the lipid lowering response has been observed. This narrative review aims to investigate the link between adiposity and CVD risk, and the role of dietary fat composition and APOLIPOPROTEIN (APO)E genotype on this relationship. In the absence of weight loss, replacing dietary SFA with UFA reduces central adiposity and anthropometric measures, and is linked with lower total and LDL-cholesterol concentrations. However, differences in study populations and body composition techniques need to be taken into consideration. To date, only a limited number of studies have determined the role of APOE on body composition and CVD risk, but findings are inconsistent. Both APOE2 and APOE4 alleles have been correlated with adiposity related markers, and an APOE genotype-BMI interaction has been reported on fasting lipids. However, studies are often performed retrospectively leading to small sample sizes within the genotype groups. Further studies are needed to confirm the relationship between APOE genotype, adiposity and circulating CVD risk markers.

Understanding the Role of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Development and Prevention of Cancer

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), notably omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6), have received much attention owing to their multifaceted effects not only in the management of diverse pathological conditions but also in the maintenance of overall health of an individual. A disproportionately high n-6 to n-3 ratio contributes to the development of various disorders including cancer, which ranks as a leading cause of death worldwide with profound social and economic burden. Epidemiological studies and clinical trials combined with the animal and cell culture models have demonstrated the beneficial effects of n-3 PUFAs in reducing the risk of various cancer types including breast, prostate and colon cancer. The anti-cancer actions of n-3 PUFAs are mainly attributed to their role in the modulation of a wide array of cellular processes including membrane dynamics, apoptosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, gene expression and signal transduction pathways. On the contrary, n-6 PUFAs have been shown to exert pro-tumor actions; however, the inconsistent findings and controversial data emphasize upon the need to further investigation. Nevertheless, one of the biggest challenges in future is to optimize the n-6 to n-3 ratio despite the genetic predisposition, age, gender and disease severity. Moreover, a better understanding of the potential risks and benefits as well as the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the basic actions of these PUFAs is required to explore their role as adjuvants in cancer therapy. All these aspects will be reviewed in this chapter.

Comparative diet-gut microbiome analysis in Crohn's disease and Hidradenitis suppurativa

Introduction

The chronic inflammatory skin disease Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is strongly associated with Crohn's Disease (CD). HS and CD share clinical similarities and similar inflammatory pathways are upregulated in both conditions. Increased prevalence of inflammatory disease in industrialised nations has been linked to the Western diet. However, gut microbiota composition and diet interaction have not been compared in HS and CD.

Methods

Here we compared the fecal microbiota (16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) and habitual diet of previously reported subjects with HS (n = 55), patients with CD (n = 102) and controls (n = 95).

Results and discussion

Patients with HS consumed a Western diet similar to patients with CD. Meanwhile, habitual diet in HS and CD was significantly different to controls. Previously, we detected differences in microbiota composition among patients with HS from that of controls. We now show that 40% of patients with HS had a microbiota configuration similar to that of CD, characterised by the enrichment of pathogenic genera (Enterococcus, Veillonella and Escherichia_Shigella) and the depletion of putatively beneficial genera (Faecalibacterium). The remaining 60% of patients with HS harboured a normal microbiota similar to that of controls. Antibiotics, which are commonly used to treat HS, were identified as a co-varying with differences in microbiota composition. We examined the levels of several inflammatory markers highlighting that growth-arrest specific 6 (Gas6), which has anti-inflammatory potential, were significantly lower in the 40% of patients with HS who had a CD microbiota configuration. Levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-12, which is a modulator of intestinal inflammation in CD, were negatively correlated with the abundance of health-associated genera in patients with HS. In conclusion, the fecal microbiota may help identify patients with HS who are at greater risk for development of CD.

The Influence of Lifestyle on High-Density Lipoprotein Concentration among Mexican Emerging Adults

Previous studies have highlighted the role of lifestyle on HDL-C concentrations in adults. To our knowledge, the health and nutritional status of emerging adults have been understudied. The present study aimed to explore the most important lifestyle factors, including micronutrient intake adequacy and the percentage of energy from food processing, according to HDL-C concentrations in emerging adults. In this context, a cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 261 Mexican emerging adults who were apparently healthy. Lifestyle factors were collected through a structured survey and the prevalence of micronutrient intake inadequacy was estimated using the estimated average requirement cut-point method. The percentage of energy from ultra-processed foods was assessed using the NOVA system. HDL-C was determined using the enzymatic colorimetric method. Statistical analyses were conducted in SPSS. The results revealed that lifestyle factors do not differ according to HDL-C status. The participants showed a poor nutritional diet that was energy-dense and micronutrient-inadequate. Nearly half of their energy came from processed and ultra-processed foods. Most participants did not meet the recommendations for key nutrients (ϖ3 fatty acids and phytosterols) that promote a healthy lipid status. In conclusion, regardless of their HDL-C levels, emerging adults exhibited lifestyle-related risk factors. The persistence of these findings over time could contribute to the development of metabolic disorders in the future. It is crucial to increase understanding and to develop effective nutritional interventions during this critical phase of life.

The Effect of Plant-Derived Low-Ratio Linoleic Acid/α-Linolenic Acid on Markers of Glucose Controls: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The objective of this meta-analysis was to examine the impact of a low-ratio linoleic acid/α-linolenic acid (LA/ALA) diet on the glycemic profile of adults. A comprehensive search was performed across four databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and PubMed) to evaluate the influence of the low-ratio LA/ALA. Relevant references were screened up until February 2023. Intervention effects were analyzed by calculating change values as weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using fixed-effects models. Additionally, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were employed to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity. Twenty-one randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, and the low-ratio LA/ALA diet had no significant effect on fasting blood sugar (FBS, WMD: 0.00 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.06, 0.06, p = 0.989, I2 = 0.0%), insulin levels (WMD: 0.20 μIU/mL, 95% CI: -0.23, 0.63, p = 0.360, I2 = 3.2%), homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, WMD: 0.09, 95% CI: -0.06, 0.23, p = 0.243, I2 = 0.0%), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c, WMD: -0.01%, 95% CI: -0.07, 0.06, p = 0.836, I2 = 0.0%). Based on subgroup analyses, it was observed that the impact of a low-ratio LA/ALA diet on elevated plasma insulin (WMD: 1.31 μIU/mL, 95% CI: 0.08, 2.54, p = 0.037, I2 = 32.0%) and HOMA-IR (WMD: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.84, p = 0.012, I2 = 0.0%) levels exhibited greater prominence in North America compared to Asian and European countries. Publication bias was not detected for FBS, insulin, HOMA-IR, and HbA1c levels according to the Begg and Egger tests. Furthermore, the conducted sensitivity analyses indicated stability, as the effects of the low-ratio LA/ALA diet on various glycemic and related metrics remained unchanged even after removing individual studies. Overall, based on the available studies, it can be concluded that the low-ratio LA/ALA diet has limited impact on blood glucose-related biomarker levels.

A Balanced Dietary Ratio of n-6:n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Exerts an Effect on Total Fatty Acid Profile in RBCs and Inflammatory Markers in Subjects with Obesity

The n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can reduce inflammatory markers and may therefore be useful in obesity management. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of supplementation with n-3 PUFAs on total fatty acid profile in red blood cells (RBCs), as well as biochemical and inflammatory markers, in subjects with obesity. The study consisted in a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial involving 41 subjects with obesity during a 4-month follow-up. Individuals were randomly assigned to two groups: n-3 PUFA supplementation (1.5 g fish oil) and placebo (1.5 g sunflower oil). Anthropometric, biochemical, dietetic, cytokine and total fatty acid profiles in RBCs were measured. Both groups increased their PUFA intake and DHA incorporation in RBCs. However, the placebo group showed a reduction in serum IL-8 and MCP-1 at the end of the study. A multiple linear regression model adjusted by body fat mass and sex showed that an increase in DHA in RBCs decreased the serum IL-8 levels in both study groups at the end of the study. Our results highlight the role of dietary DHA and n-3 supplementation usefulness in exerting beneficial anti-inflammatory effects.

The Relationship between Whole-Milk Dairy Foods and Metabolic Health Highlights an Opportunity for Dietary Fat Recommendations to Evolve with the State of the Science

The science of dietary fats has evolved, and a body of evidence indicates they are complex bioactive nutrients that have different effects on health depending on their food source, chain length, degree of saturation, and other factors that can be affected by food processing, handling, and storage. As such, it is becoming increasingly clear that the effects of foods on obesity and metabolic health cannot be predicted simply with their fat content. The aim of this opinion article is to provide a brief overview of select recent research on the effects of whole-milk dairy foods on body composition and indicators of metabolic health across the lifespan to show the gap between current knowledge and dietary guidance. As the state of the science on dietary fats and human health evolves to consider the complexity of food matrices, the total nutrient package they deliver, and the health impacts associated with dietary patterns, so too must guidelines for dietary fat.

Camellia japonica Flowers as a Source of Nutritional and Bioactive Compounds

In recent decades, plants have strengthened their relevance as sources of molecules potentially beneficial for health. This underpinning effect also arises from the extensive research that has been conducted on plants that are typically undervalued, besides being scarcely used. This is the case with Camellia japonica in Galicia (NW Spain), where, despite its abundance, it is exclusively used for ornamental purposes and has been studied only for its proximate composition. Thus, the present study was conducted on several additional parameters in the flowers of eight C. japonica varieties. Our results show that camellia has a high nutritional value, with carbohydrates as the most abundant macronutrients followed by a moderate protein content (4.4-6.3 g/100 g dry weight) and high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially ω-3 fatty acids, which represent 12.9-22.7% of the total fatty acids), raising its potential for use for nutritional purposes. According to the thermochemical characterization and elemental composition of camellia, the raw material has poor mineralization and low nitrogen content, but high percentages of volatile matter and high carbon-fixation rates, making it a promising alternative for biofuel production. Furthermore, preliminary analysis reveals a high concentration of different bioactive compounds. As a result of these findings, camellias can be used as food or functional ingredients to improve the nutritional quality of food formulations.

Recent advances in enhancing the production of long chain omega-3 fatty acids in microalgae

Omega-3 fatty acids have gained attention due to numerous health benefits. Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are long chain omega-3 fatty acids produced from precursor ALA (α-linolenic acid) in humans but their rate of biosynthesis is low, therefore, these must be present in diet or should be taken as supplements. The commercial sources of omega-3 fatty acids are limited to vegetable oils and marine sources. The rising concern about vegan source, fish aquaculture conservation and heavy metal contamination in fish has led to the search for their alternative source. Microalgae have gained importance due to the production of high-value EPA and DHA and can thus serve as a sustainable and promising source of long chain omega-3 fatty acids. Although the bottleneck lies in the optimization for enhanced production that involves strategies viz. strain selection, optimization of cultivation conditions, media, metabolic and genetic engineering approaches; while co-cultivation, use of nanoparticles and strategic blending have emerged as innovative approaches that have made microalgae as potential candidates for EPA and DHA production. This review highlights the possible strategies for the enhancement of EPA and DHA production in microalgae. This will pave the way for their large-scale production for human health benefits.

Potential Modulation of Inflammation and Physical Function by Combined Probiotics, Omega-3 Supplementation and Vitamin D Supplementation in Overweight/Obese Patients with Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Obesity is characterized by low-grade inflammation and increased gut permeability. Here, we aim to evaluate the effect of a nutritional supplement on these parameters in subjects with overweight and obesity. A double-blinded, randomized clinical trial was conducted in 76 adults with overweight or obesity (BMI 28 to 40) and low-grade inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) between 2 and 10 mg/L). The intervention consisted of a daily intake of a multi-strain probiotic of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, 640 mg of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FAs), and 200 IU of vitamin D (n = 37) or placebo (n = 39), administered for 8 weeks. hs-CRP levels did not change post-intervention, other than an unexpected slight increase observed in the treatment group. Interleukin (IL)-6 levels decreased in the treatment group (p = 0.018). The plasma fatty acid (FA) levels of the arachidonic acid (AA)/eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) ratio and n-6/n-3 ratio (p < 0.001) decreased, and physical function and mobility improved in the treatment group (p = 0.006). The results suggest that hs-CRP may not be the most useful inflammatory marker, but probiotics, n-3 FAs, and vitamin D, as non-pharmaceutical supplements, may exert modest effects on inflammation, plasma FA levels, and physical function in patients with overweight and obesity and associated low-grade inflammation.

Peanut thresholds in peanut-allergic children are related to dietary composition

BACKGROUND

There is no clear explanation for the large variation in threshold levels among peanut-allergic children. We hypothesized that diet composition can partly explain this variation in thresholds, as nutrients and foods influence the intestinal barrier function and microbiota.

AIM

to explore the relationship between the threshold levels for peanut and nutritional intake and gut microbial composition in peanut-allergic children.

METHODS

In this explorative cross-sectional study the cumulative threshold levels for peanut were determined by oral food challenge tests. Data on nutrients and foods consumed were obtained from 3-day food diaries. Microbial composition of faeces and saliva were determined by molecular microbiota detection technique. Multivariable linear regression analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to explore the associations, adjusted for energy and senitization.

RESULTS

Sixty-five children were included, of whom 32 (49%) (median age 50 months, IQR 28.0-96.5) had a positive oral food challenge. Significant positive associations were found between the intake of total carbohydrates, vitamin A and cumulative threshold levels for peanut, while significant negative associations were found for long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids. No associations were found between threshold levels and microbial composition of faeces and saliva. However, a significant higher abundance of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes in saliva (p = 0.011 and 0.04, respectively) and of Proteobacteria in faeces (p = 0.003) were found in children with a positive peanut challenge compared to children with a negative peanut challenge.

CONCLUSION

As a novel concept, this study showed that dietary composition is related to threshold levels for peanut.

The Impact of Diet and Physical Activity on Psoriasis: A Narrative Review of the Current Evidence

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease with strong genetic links and numerous features of autoimmunity that are also influenced by environment and lifestyle, including nutritional factors and physical activity (PA), with regards to the condition of patients. Recent reports in the field of nutrigenomics indicate a significant impact of nutrients in modulating microRNAs. However, few studies have evaluated the effect of nutritional systems and PA on treating psoriasis. This narrative review updates information regarding the current dietary recommendations for individuals with psoriasis and discusses the role of diet and PA in psoriasis prevention and treatment. Application of nutrigenetics in psoriasis therapy is also discussed. The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched using the MeSH terms for "nutrigenomics", "dietetics", "diet therapy", "diet", "physical activity", and "exercise" in conjunction with the MeSH terms for "psoriasis" and "dermatology". Evidence has shown that patients with psoriasis should have a personalized anti-inflammatory diet. Psoriasis patients are less physically active; most performed exercises of low-to-moderate intensity and were less likely to undertake regular exercise. Identifying nutrigenomic discoveries and the current lifestyle interventions associated with psoriasis can help physicians and physical therapists develop educational programs to manage and protect against the disease.

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Their Immunomodulatory Actions in Periodontal Disease

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are a diverse set of molecules with remarkable contributions to human physiology. They not only serve as sources of fuel but also cellular structural components as well as substrates that provide bioactive metabolites. A growing body of evidence demonstrates their role in inflammation. Inflammation in the presence of a polymicrobial biofilm contributes to the pathology of periodontitis. The role PUFAs in modulating immuno-inflammatory reactions in periodontitis is only beginning to be uncovered as research continues to unravel their far-reaching immunologic implications.

Molecular Mechanism for Hepatic Glycerolipid Partitioning of n-6/n-3 Fatty Acid Ratio in an Obese Animal Biomodels

The n-6/n-3 metabolic pathway associated with hepatic glycerolipid portioning plays a key role in preventing obesity. In this nutrition metabolism study, we used in vivo monitoring techniques with 40 obese male Sprague-Dawley strain rats attached with jugular-vein cannula after obesity was induced by a high-fat diet to determine the molecular mechanism associated with hepatic glycerolipid partitioning involving the n-6/n-3 metabolic pathway. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups (10 animals per group), including one control group (CON, n-6/n-3 of 71:1) and three treatment groups (n-6/n-3 of 4:1, 15:1 and 30:1). They were fed with experimental diets for 60 days. Incorporation rates of [14C]-labeling lipid into glycerolipid in the liver were 28.87−37.03% in treatment groups fed with diets containing an n-6/n-3 ratio of 4:1, 15:1 and 30:1, which were significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that in the CON (40.01%). However, 14CO2 emission % of absorbed dose showed the opposite trend. It was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in a treatment groups (n-6/n-3 of 4:1, 15:1 and 30:1, 30.35−45.08%) than in CON (27.71%). Regarding the metabolic distribution of glycerolipid to blood from livers, phospholipid/total glycerolipid (%) was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in CON at 11.04% than in treatment groups at 18.15% to 25.15%. Moreover, 14CO2/[14C]-total glycerolipid (%) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in treatment groups at 44.16−78.50% than in CON at 39.50%. Metabolic distribution of fatty acyl moieties flux for oxidation and glycerolipid synthesis in the liver were significantly (p < 0.05) better in order of 4:1 > 15:1 > 30:1 than in the CON. Our data demonstrate that n-6/n-3 of 4:1 could help prevent obesity by controlling the mechanism of hepatic partitioning through oxidation and esterification of glycerolipid in an obese animal biomodel.

Maternal Plasma Glycerophospholipids LC-PUFA Levels Have a Sex-Specific Association with the Offspring's Cord Plasma Glycerophospholipids-Fatty Acid Desaturation Indices at Birth

Fatty acid desaturases, the enzymes responsible for the production of unsaturated fatty acids (FA) in fetal tissues, are known to be influenced by maternal-placental supply of nutrients and hormones for their function. We hypothesize that there could be a gender-specific regulation of unsaturated FA metabolism at birth, dependent on the maternal fatty acid levels. In this study, 153 mother-newborn pairs of uncomplicated and 'full-term' pregnancies were selected and the FA composition of plasma glycerophospholipids (GP) was quantified by gas chromatography. The FA composition of mother blood plasma (MB) was compared with the respective cord blood plasma (CB) of male newborns or female newborns. Product to substrate ratios were estimated to calculate delta 5 desaturase (D5D), delta 6 desaturase (D6D) and delta 9 stearoyl-CoA-desaturase (D9D/SCD) indices. Pearson correlations and linear regression analyses were employed to determine the associations between MB and CB pairs. In the results, the male infant's MB-CB association was positively correlated with the SCD index of carbon-16 FA, while no correlation was seen for the SCD index of carbon-18 FA. Unlike for males, the CB-D5D index of female neonates presented a strong positive association with the maternal n-6 long chain-polyunsaturated FA (LC-PUFA), arachidonic acid. In addition, the lipogenic desaturation index of SCD18 in the CB of female new-borns was negatively correlated with their MB n-3 DHA. In conclusion, sex-related differences in new-borns' CB desaturation indices are associated with maternal LC-PUFA status at the time of the birth. This examined relationship appears to predict the origin of sex-specific unsaturated FA metabolism seen in later life.

Dietary Omega-6/Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid (PUFA) and Omega-3 Are Associated With General and Abdominal Obesity in Adults: UK National Diet and Nutritional Survey

Introduction

The link between dietary fats and obesity is still controversial, as in Western diets the percentage of energy from total fat has decreased while the intake of omega-6 has increased, and omega-3 decreased. These changes have corresponded with a significant increase in the prevalence of obesity.

Objective

This study aims to examine the association of percentages of energy intake (EI) from omega-3 and omega-6 and Σω-6/Σω-3 ratio with BMI and two proxy indicators of central obesity (waist circumference [WC], waist-to-height ratio [WHtR]) and relative fat mass (RFM) estimator of whole-body fat.

Design

A representative sample of 3,733 adults was used from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme (2008/09-2018/19). An estimated four-day food record was used to calculate dietary intake. Regression models were used to verify the association of omega-3 and omega-6 and quintiles of Σω-6/ Σω-3 ratio with general and abdominal obesity with adjustment for important confounders. A p-value of <0.05 represented statistical significance.

Results

The findings of this study show that the average ratio of Σω-6/Σω-3 was 5.5:1 ± 2. There was a significant association between the ratio of Σω-6/Σω-3 and BMI, WC, WHtR and RFM. However, the percentage of total EI from total fat was only significant with BMI, while the percentage of EI from omega-3 was negatively associated with WC, WHtR and RFM. No association was found between the percentage of EI from omega-6 and general or abdominal obesity.

Conclusion

The effect of Σω-6/Σω-3 may be largely driven by a deficiency in the intake of omega-3. Omega-6 and omega-3 should be listed as such in national surveys instead of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA). Meeting recommended levels of omega-3 and lowering Σω-6/Σω-3 are imperative to establish healthier dietary patterns and prevent obesity.

Ratio of Omega-6/Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Associated With Somatic and Depressive Symptoms in People With Painful Temporomandibular Disorder and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Somatic symptom disturbance is among the strongest predictors of painful temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Related psychological constructs, such as anxiety and depression, respond therapeutically to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in clinical trials. This cross-sectional study investigated associations between the omega-6/omega-3 PUFA ratio and somatic symptom disturbance and depressive symptoms in a community-based sample of 501 adults and determined whether these associations differed between adults with and without TMD or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry quantified PUFAs in circulating erythrocytes. Somatic symptoms and depression were quantified using Symptom Checklist-90-Revised subscales. Presence or absence of TMD and IBS, respectively, were determined by clinical examination and Rome III screening questions. The standardized beta coefficient for the omega-6/omega-3 long-chain PUFA ratio was 0.26 (95% confidence limits (CL): 0.08, 0.43) in a multivariable linear regression model in which somatic symptom disturbance was the dependent variable. When modelling depressive symptoms as the dependent variable, the standardized beta coefficient was 0.17 (95% CL:0.01, 0.34). Both associations were stronger among TMD cases and IBS cases than among non-cases. Future randomized control trials that lower the omega-6/omega-3 PUFA ratio could consider somatic or depressive symptoms as a therapeutic target for TMD or IBS pain. PERSPECTIVE: In people with TMD or IBS, a high n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio was positively associated with somatic symptom disturbance and depressive symptoms. Both measures of psychological distress were elevated in people with painful TMD and IBS. Future randomized clinical trials will determine whether lowering the n-6/n-3 ratio is therapeutic for pain.

Emerging prospects of microbial production of omega fatty acids: Recent updates

Healthy foods containing omega-3/omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been in great demand because of their unique dietary and health properties. Reduction in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases has shown their therapeutic and health-promoting effects when consumed under recommended ratio 1:1-1:4, however imbalanced ratios (>1:4, high omega-6) enhance these risks. The importance of omega-6 is apparent however microbial production favors larger production of omega-3. Current research focus is prerequisite to designing omega-6 production strategies for better application prospects, for which thraustochytrids could be promising due to higher lipid productivity. This review provides recent updates on essential fatty acids production from potential microbes and their application, especially major insights on omega research, also discussed the novel possible strategies to promote omega-3 and omega-6 accumulation via engineering and omics approaches. It covers strategies to block the conversion of omega-6 into omega-3 by enzyme inhibition, nanoparticle-mediated regulation and/or metabolic flux regulation, etc.

A Review of Oxylipins in Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD): Potential Therapeutic Targets for the Modulation of Vascular Tone and Inflammation

There is now a convincing body of evidence from observational studies that the majority of modifiable Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) risk factors are vascular in nature. In addition, the co-existence of cerebrovascular disease with AD is more common than AD alone, and conditions resulting in brain ischemia likely promote detrimental effects of AD pathology. Oxylipins are a class of bioactive lipid mediators derived from the oxidation of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) which act as modulators of both vascular tone and inflammation. In vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), there is emerging evidence that oxylipins may have both protective and detrimental effects on brain structure, cognitive performance, and disease progression. In this review, we focus on oxylipin relationships with vascular and inflammatory risk factors in human studies and animal models pertinent to ADRD. In addition, we discuss future research directions with the potential to impact the trajectory of ADRD risk and disease progression.

The health effects of soy: A reference guide for health professionals

Soy is a hotly debated and widely discussed topic in the field of nutrition. However, health practitioners may be ill-equipped to counsel clients and patients about the use of soyfoods because of the enormous, and often contradictory, amount of research that has been published over the past 30 years. As interest in plant-based diets increases, there will be increased pressure for practitioners to gain a working knowledge of this area. The purpose of this review is to provide concise literature summaries (400-500 words) along with a short perspective on the current state of knowledge of a wide range of topics related to soy, from the cholesterol-lowering effects of soy protein to the impact of isoflavones on breast cancer risk. In addition to the literature summaries, general background information on soyfoods, soy protein, and isoflavones is provided. This analysis can serve as a tool for health professionals to be used when discussing soyfoods with their clients and patients.

Efficacy of the omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers: An umbrella meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Existing meta-analyses on omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their anti-inflammatory effects have reported uncertain findings. The current umbrella meta-analysis aimed to assess the findings of multiple meta-analyses on the efficacy of n-3 PUFAs on inflammatory biomarkers in adults with different health conditions.

METHODS

Using suitable keywords, articles published until December 2021 were searched in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. Meta-analyses investigating the impact of supplementation of n-3 PUFAs on inflammatory biomarkers in adults were included. We performed this meta-analysis using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Overall, 32 meta-analyses were qualified in this umbrella meta-analysis. Our findings demonstrated that the n-3 PUFA supplementation significantly reduced serum C-reactive protein (CRP) (ES = -0.40; 95 % CI: -0.56, -0.24, p < 0.001; I² = 89.5 %, p < 0.001), Tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) (ES = -0.23; 95 % CI: -0.37, -0.08, p = 0.002; I² = 60.1 %, p < 0.001), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) concentrations (ES = -0.22; 95 % CI: -0.39, -0.05, p = 0.010; I² = 66.2 %, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The current umbrella meta-analysis found that supplementation of n-3 PUFAs in adults can improve CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations under various health conditions. n-3 PUFAs can be recommended as adjuvant anti-inflammatory agents.

Regulation of Adipose Tissue Biology by Long-Chain Fatty Acids: Metabolic Effects and Molecular Mechanisms

Long-chain fatty acids (LCFA) modulate metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory responses, and the physiological effects of LCFA are determined by chain length and the degree of saturation. Adipose tissues comprise multiple cell types, and play a significant role in energy storage and expenditure. Fatty acid uptake and oxidation are the pathways through which fatty acids participate in the regulation of energy homeostasis, and their dysregulation can lead to the development of obesity and chronic obesity-related disorders, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancer. Numerous studies have reported that many aspects of adipose tissue biology are influenced by the number and position of double bonds in LCFA, and these effects are mediated by various signaling pathways, including those regulating adipocyte differentiation (adipogenesis), thermogenesis, and inflammation in adipose tissue. This review aims to describe the underlying molecular mechanisms by which different types of LCFA influence adipose tissue metabolism, and to further clarify their relevance to metabolic dysregulation associated with obesity. A better understanding of the effects of LCFA on adipose tissue metabolism may lead to improved nutraceutical strategies to address obesity and obesity-associated diseases.

Flesh quality of hybrid grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂) fed with hydrolyzed porcine mucosa-supplemented low fishmeal diet

Iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic diets containing 0%, 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% hydrolyzed porcine mucosa (namely, HPM0, HPM3, HPM6, HPM9, and HPM12) were prepared to evaluate their effects on the growth performance, muscle nutrition composition, texture property, and gene expression related to muscle growth of hybrid groupers (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus ♀ × Epinephelus lanceolatus ♂). Groupers were fed to apparent satiation at 08:00 and 16:00 every day for a total of 56 days. It was found that the weight gain percentage in the HPM0, HPM3, and HPM6 groups did not differ (P > 0.05). The cooking loss and drip loss of the dorsal muscle in the HPM3 group were lower than those in the HPM6 and HPM9 groups (P < 0.05). The hardness and chewiness of the dorsal muscle in the HPM3 group were higher than those in the HPM0, HPM9, and HPM12 groups (P < 0.05). The gumminess in the HPM3 group was higher than that in the HPM9 and HPM12 groups (P < 0.05). The total essential amino acid content of the dorsal muscle in the HPM12 group was higher than that in the HPM0 group (P < 0.05). The contents of total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and total n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acid, as well as the ratio of n-3/n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid in the dorsal muscle was higher in the HPM0 group than in all other groups (P < 0.05). The relative expressions of gene myogenic factor 5, myocyte enhancer factor 2c, myocyte enhancer factor 2a, myosin heavy chain, transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), and follistatin (FST) were the highest in the dorsal muscle of the HPM3 group. The results indicated that the growth performance of hybrid grouper fed a diet with 6% HPM and 27% fish meal was as good as that of the HPM0 group. When fish ingested a diet containing 3% HPM, the expression of genes TGF-β1 and FST involved in muscle growth were upregulated, and then the muscle quality related to hardness and chewiness were improved. An appropriate amount of HPM could be better used in grouper feed.

Eating Behavior of Older Adults with and Without Diabetes: The Vigitel Survey, Brazil, 2016

BACKGROUND

A healthy diet is a protection factor against type 2 diabetes and plays an important role in the treatment of the disease, as well as associated comorbidities.

OBJECTIVE

Characterize the eating habits of older adults (≥ 65 years) with and without diabetes residing in capital cities and the Federal District of Brazil.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Surveillance of Risk and Protection Factors for Chronic Diseases Through a Telephone Survey (Vigitel, 2016). The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was estimated according to sociodemographic variables, physical inactivity level, self-rated health status and body mass index. Dietary habits were assessed based on the frequency (weekly and daily) of consumption of healthy and unhealthy foods and the replacement of food by snacks. Differences were determined using Pearson's chi-square test (Rao-Scott), with the significance level set at 5%.

RESULTS

A total of 13,649 older adults were interviewed. The prevalence of self-reported diabetes was 27.2% (95% CI: 25.5; 29.0). Compared to non-diabetics, diabetic individuals had a higher consumption of raw vegetables (32.1% vs. 26.5%/3-4 days/week) and lower consumption of chicken (3.8% vs. 6.4%/hardly ever/never), fruit juice (24.0% vs. 29.6%) and sweets (6.8% vs. 16.2%) ≥ 5 days/week. Compared to non-diabetics, diabetic individuals consumed more skim milk (51.5% vs. 44.6%) and diet soda (60.0% vs. 17.3%) ≥ 5 days/week, raw vegetables (9.1% vs. 2.5%/at dinner) and sweets (37.7% vs. 20.5%/twice/day) 3-4 days/week.

CONCLUSION

The observed differences emphasize the need for healthy eating interventions for all older adults, as well as specific counseling for those with diabetes.

Growth Performance, Biochemical Composition and Nutrient Recovery Ability of Twelve Microalgae Consortia Isolated from Various Local Organic Wastes Grown on Nano-Filtered Pig Slurry

This paper demonstrated the growth ability of twelve algae-microbial consortia (AC) isolated from organic wastes when a pig slurry-derived wastewater (NFP) was used as growth substrate in autotrophic cultivation. Nutrient recovery, biochemical composition, fatty acid and amino acid profiles of algae consortia were evaluated and compared. Three algae-microbial consortia, i.e., a Chlorella-dominated consortium (AC_1), a Tetradesmus and Synechocystis co-dominated consortium (AC_10), and a Chlorella and Tetradesmus co-dominated consortium (AC_12) were found to have the best growth rates (µ of 0.55 ± 0.04, 0.52 ± 0.06, and 0.58 ± 0.03 d⁻¹, respectively), which made them good candidates for further applications. The ACs showed high carbohydrates and lipid contents but low contents of both proteins and essential amino acids, probably because of the low N concentration of NFP. AC_1 and AC_12 showed optimal ω6:ω3 ratios of 3.1 and 3.6, which make them interesting from a nutritional point of view.

Supplementation of EPA and DHA in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Lower proportions of n-3 PUFAs have been observed in neonates born to diabetic mothers. We aimed to investigate the association between DHA and EPA supplementation during pregnancy complicated with type 1 diabetes on concentration and proportion of fatty acids in maternal and foetal blood.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of 111 eligible pregnant women with type 1 diabetes and presented the results of 84 (intervention arm and control arm comprised 42 participants each) of them who successfully finished the trial in an academic hospital. The initiation of EPA and DHA supplementation or placebo started at randomization visit on gestational week 11-12. Blood samples were taken on the first (screening) visit to the clinic (1st trimester, between 8th and 10th gestational week, GW), then in the second trimester (19-24th GW) and third trimester (30th-33rd GW). On the delivery day, a blood sample was taken on fasting just before birth. The umbilical vein blood sample was taken shortly after the delivery.

RESULTS

We found a significant increase in the intervention group when compared the first and the third trimester for n-3 PUFAs concentration, 4.3 mg/L (3.3-7.6): 10.0 mg/L (7.1-13.7), p < .001. In the intervention group, the concentration of DHA in maternal vein serum was 11.4 mg/L (7.7-17.5), and in umbilical vein serum, it was 5.1 mg/L (3.0-7.7), which was significantly higher than that in the control group, maternal vein serum: median 9.2 mg/L(6.0-12.3), p = .03 and umbilical vein serum: median 3.4 mg/L (2.1-5.6), p = .009.

CONCLUSION

The increased weight gain in pregnancy and concentration and proportions of DHA, n-3 PUFAs with a decreased proportion of AA, n-6 PUFAs, and AA/DHA ratio in maternal and umbilical vein serum summarize the effect of supplementation with EPA and DHA.

Development, characterization and stability of a white cachama pâté-type product (Piaractus brachypomus)

The objective of the work was to formulate, characterize and evaluate the stability of a product based on white cachama (Piaractus brachypomus). From four lipid sources (pork back fat, canola oil, olive oil or sacha inchi oil), the one with the highest acceptance rate was selected based on the acceptance index and sensory characteristics. The formulation was optimized using the response surface method; 15 formulations were used in triplicate, evaluating the pH, moisture, colour and sensory acceptance values. The macronutrient composition and lipid profile of the optimal formulation was determined; its stability was evaluated under refrigeration conditions by measuring lipid and protein degradation, changes in colour, texture, changes at the microbiological and sensory levels. It was found an optimal proportion of inclusion of 50% white cachama pasta, 21% canola oil and 23% water. The stability of the final product obtained was 42 days, with 82% of acceptability index. This product could be an alternative to other pâté-type products from other species.

Diet and Chronic Non-Cancer Pain: The State of the Art and Future Directions

Nutrition plays an important role in pain management. Healthy eating patterns are associated with reduced systemic inflammation, as well as lower risk and severity of chronic non-cancer pain and associated comorbidities. The role of nutrition in chronic non-cancer pain management is an emerging field with increasing interest from clinicians and patients. Evidence from a number of recent systematic reviews shows that optimising diet quality and incorporating foods containing anti-inflammatory nutrients such as fruits, vegetables, long chain and monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and fibre leads to reduction in pain severity and interference. This review describes the current state of the art and highlights why nutrition is critical within a person-centred approach to pain management. Recommendations are made to guide clinicians and highlight areas for future research.

Food and Feed Safety of NS-B5ØØ27-4 Omega-3 Canola (Brassica napus): A New Source of Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids

DHA canola, a genetically engineered Brassica napus (OECD Unique Identifier NS-B5ØØ27-4), has been developed as one of the first land-based production systems for omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA), whose health benefits are well-established. Yet, the marine sources of these nutrients are under high pressures due to over-fishing and increasing demand. DHA canola is a plant-based source for these essential fatty acids that produces a high level of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This terrestrial system allows for sustainable, scalable and stable production of omega-3 LCPUFA that addresses not only the increasing market demand, but also the complex interplay of agriculture, aquaculture, and human nutrition. The vector used to produce the desired oil profile in DHA canola contains the expression cassettes of seven genes in the DHA biosynthesis pathway and was specifically designed to convert oleic acid to DHA in canola seed. The characterization and safety evaluation of food and feed produced from DHA canola are described and supported by a detailed nutritional analysis of the seed, meal, and oil. Aside from the intended changes of the fatty acid profile, none of the other compositional analytes showed biologically meaningful differences when compared to conventional canola varieties. In addition, the meal from DHA canola is compositionally equivalent to conventional canola meal. Further evidence of nutritional value and safety of DHA canola oil have been confirmed in fish feeding studies. Given that most human populations lack sufficient daily intakes of omega-3 LCPUFA, a dietary exposure assessment is also included. In conclusion, the results from these studies demonstrate it is safe to use products derived from DHA canola in human foods, nutraceuticals, or animal feeds.