Consumption of hydrogenated versus nonhydrogenated vegetable oils and risk of insulin resistance and the metabolic syndrome among Iranian adult women

A novel solid-phase extraction method for separation and preconcentration of Nickel(II) in hydrogenated vegetable oils using Sudan III functionalized Fe3O4

This study presents a novel approach for separation/preconcentration of Ni(II) from hydrogenated vegetable oils prior to FAAS detection. Sudan III modified Fe3O4 that was characterized by FTIR and SEM, was utilized as solid phase extractor. Critical parameters effective on sorption and elution of Ni(II) were optimized using central composite design. The optimum conditions were 58.3 s vortexing time, 0.22 g sorbent mass and 19.1 mL sample volume for sorption and 6 mL of 0.86 mol L-1 HNO3 with 95 s vortexing time for elution. LOD and LOQ of the method were 35.9 μg kg-1 and 119.6 μg kg-1, respectively. Preconcentration factor was obtained as 3.2 and sample frequency was 23.4 h-1. Organometallic Ni standard was used in validation and recovery was 97 ± 4 % with 4.1 % precision. Applicability was proved by the analysis of commercial hydrogenated vegetable oils with recoveries between 93.0 and 108.6 %. Environmental sustainability was assessed using the Analytical GREENness calculator, resulting in a greenness score of 0.51. This method offers a sensitive, efficient, and eco-friendly approach for trace Ni(II) analysis in complex oily matrixes.

Association of priori-defined DASH dietary pattern with metabolic health status among Iranian adolescents with overweight and obesity

There was no evidence on the relationship of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) with metabolic health condition in adolescents with overweight and obesity. The purpose of this research was to investigate the association of priori-defined DASH dietary pattern with metabolic health status among adolescents with overweight and obesity in Iran. A cross-sectional survey performed on a representative sample of adolescents with overweight and obesity (n = 203). Dietary intakes were collected via a validated food frequency questionnaire and DASH score was characterized according to eight components. Data of anthropometric measures, blood pressure, circulating insulin, fasting blood sugar, and lipid profile were collected. Metabolic health status was defined based on criteria of International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and insulin resistance (IR). Based on IDF and IDF/IR criteria, 38.9% and 33.0% of adolescents suffered from metabolically unhealthy overweight/obesity (MUO). After controlling all confounders, subjects in the highest vs. lowest tertile of DASH diet had respectively 92% and 91% lower odds of MUO based on IDF definition (OR = 0.08; 95%CI 0.03-0.22) and IDF/IR criteria (OR = 0.09; 95%CI 0.03-0.29). Subgroup analysis by sex and body mass index determined that this relationship was more powerful in girls and overweight individuals. Also, in fully adjusted model, highest vs. lowest adherence to DASH diet was linked to decreased odds of hyperglycemia (OR = 0.07; 95% CI 0.03-0.21), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 0.26; 95% CI 0.09-0.73), low HDL cholesterolemia (OR = 0.30; 95% CI 0.12-0.73) and insulin resistance (OR = 0.07; 95% CI 0.02-0.28), as metabolic health components. Greater compliance to DASH dietary pattern was linked to a remarkable lower odd of metabolic unhealthy condition among Iranian adolescents, especially in overweight subjects and girls. More prospective surveys are required to assert these results.

Association between healthy eating index-2015 scores and metabolic syndrome among Iranian women: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is one of the leading public health issues in the world with a reported prevalence of nearly 25% in the past decades in Iran. The present research aimed to identify the association between the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) and MetS components among female teachers.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 97 female teachers aged 31-57 years were enrolled from 2018 to 2019 in Qom, Iran. Usual dietary intakes were assessed using a validated 168-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). HEI-2015 was calculated according to the consumption of whole fruits, vegetables, protein foods, beans, seafood, plant proteins, total and refined grain, dairy, fatty acid ratio, saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium. We also measured anthropometric and biochemical parameters. To evaluate the association between HEI-2015 and MetS, multivariate logistic regression was performed.

RESULTS

MetS was found in 59.8% of participants. Total HEI-2015 scores were significantly lower in participants with MetS compared to those without MetS (59.69 ± 8.98 vs. 64.21 ± 8.71, respectively; p = 0.02). Daily energy intake, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, serum triglyceride, and fasting blood sugar levels were higher in women with MetS (all p < 0.05). Higher HEI-2015 total scores (OR: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.89-0.99; p = 0.02) and scores of total vegetables (OR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.42-0.91; p = 0.02), dark green vegetables and beans (OR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.39-0.98; p = 0.04), fatty acid ratio (OR: 0.83; 95% CI: 0.68-0.99; p = 0.04), refined grain (OR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.75-0.99; p = 0.04), and added sugars (OR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.26-0.75; p = 0.002) were all associated with lower odds of having MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher HEI-2015 scores, particularly in total vegetables, dark green vegetables, beans, and fatty acid ratio, as well as refined grain and added sugars were found to be associated with reduced odds of having MetS among Iranian female teachers. However, further prospective studies are required to confirm this finding.

Association of main meal quality index with the odds of metabolic syndrome in Iranian adults: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common global issue linked to the quality of one's eating occasions. The current cross-sectional study evaluates the association between a novel index, the Main Meal Quality Index (MMQI), and MetS among Iranian adults.

METHODS

A total of 824 men and women were recruited, and a 24-hour dietary recall assessed the dietary intake of the participants. Lunch was selected as the main meal based on energy density. The MMQI score was calculated based on ten components of dietary intake, with a higher score indicating more adherence to the index, with the final scores ranging from 0 to 100 points. The associations were assessed using binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

The mean age was 42.2 years and the range of the calculated MMQI was 22 to 86 (mean in total participants: 56.62, mean in women: 56.82, mean in men: 55.64). The total prevalence of MetS in the sample was 34%. After adjustments for potential confounders, the participants at the top quartile of MMQI had a lower odds ratio for hypertriglyceridemia and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level, and a higher odds ratio for hypertension, hyperglycemia, abdominal obesity, and MetS. The sex-specific analysis also did not show any significant associations between adherence to MMQI and MetS and its components.

CONCLUSION

Overall, MMQI is not associated with MetS and its components in a sample of Iranian men and women. More research is needed to examine MMQI and its possible association with current health-related problems including MetS.

The Effect of a Moderately Restricted Carbohydrate Diet on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Overweight and Obese Women With Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major public health concern that increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. In previous studies of MetS management, low-carbohydrate diets have been strongly emphasized, despite the fact that many apparently healthy individuals have difficulties adhering to these diets on a long-term basis. The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the effects of a moderately restricted carbohydrate diet (MRCD) on cardiometabolic risk factors in women with MetS.

METHODS

This parallel 3-month, single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in Tehran, Iran, among 70 women with overweight or obesity aged 20 to 50 years with MetS. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either MRCD (42%-45% carbohydrates and 35%-40% fats) (n = 35) or a normal weight loss diet (NWLD) (52%-55% carbohydrates and 25%-30% fats) (n = 35). Both diets contained the same quantity of protein, which accounted for 15% to 17% of total energy. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, lipid profile, and glycemic indices were all assessed before and after the intervention.

FINDINGS

Compared with the NWLD group, following an MRCD significantly decreased weight (-4.82 vs -2.40 kg; P = 0.01), body mass index (-1.88 vs -0.94 kg/m²; P = 0.01), waist circumference (-5.34 vs -2.75 cm; P = 0.01), hip circumference (-2.58 vs -1.11 cm; P = 0.01), serum triglyceride (-26.8 vs -7.19 mg/dL; P = 0.01), and increased serum HDL-C levels (1.89 vs. 0.24 mg/dL; P = 0.01). There was no significant difference between the 2 diets in waist-to-hip ratio, serum total cholesterol, serum LDL-C, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, insulin levels, or the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance.

IMPLICATIONS

Moderate carbohydrate replacement with dietary fats significantly improved weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, serum triglyceride, and HDL-C levels among women with MetS. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials identifier: IRCT20210307050621N1.

Saturated fats network identified using Gaussian graphical models is associated with metabolic syndrome in a sample of Iranian adults

BACKGROUND

Gaussian graphical models (GGM) are an innovative method for deriving dietary networks which reflect dietary intake patterns and demonstrate how food groups are consuming in relation to each other, independently. The aim of this study was to derive dietary networks and assess their association with metabolic syndrome in a sample of the Iranian population.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 850 apparently healthy adults were selected from referral health care centers. 168 food items food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intakes. Food networks were driven by applying GGM to 40 food groups. Metabolic syndrome was defined based on the guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III).

RESULTS

Three GGM networks were identified: healthy, unhealthy and saturated fats. Results showed that adherence to saturated fats networks with the centrality of butter, was associated with higher odds of having metabolic syndrome after adjusting for potential confounders (OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.61-2.82; P trend = 0.009) and higher odds of having hyperglycemia (P trend = 0.04). No significant association was observed between healthy and unhealthy dietary networks with metabolic syndrome, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia and central obesity. Furthermore, metabolic syndrome components were not related to the identified networks.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that greater adherence to the saturated fats network is associated with higher odds of having metabolic syndrome in Iranians. These findings highlight the effect of dietary intake patterns with metabolic syndrome.

Structure and Properties of Organogels Prepared from Rapeseed Oil with Stigmasterol

This work used the natural ingredient stigmasterol as an oleogelator to explore the effect of concentration on the properties of organogels. Organogels based on rapeseed oil were investigated using various techniques (oil binding capacity, rheology, polarized light microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) to better understand their physical and microscopic properties. Results showed that stigmasterol was an efficient and thermoreversible oleogelator, capable of structuring rapeseed oil at a stigmasterol concentration as low as 2% with a gelation temperature of 5 °C. The oil binding capacity values of organogels increased to 99.74% as the concentration of stigmasterol was increased to 6%. The rheological properties revealed that organogels prepared with stigmasterol were a pseudoplastic fluid with non-covalent physical crosslinking, and the G' of the organogels did not change with the frequency of scanning increased, showing the characteristics of strong gel. The microscopic properties and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that stigmasterol formed rod-like crystals through the self-assembly of intermolecular hydrogen bonds, fixing rapeseed oil in its three-dimensional structure to form organogels. Therefore, stigmasterol can be considered as a good organogelator. It is expected to be widely used in food, medicine, and other biological-related fields.

Joint association of meal frequency and diet quality with metabolic syndrome in Iranian adults

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common complication that has been shown in various studies to be related to the frequency and timing of eating. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between meal timing and frequency with diet quality and prevalence of MetS.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 850 adults (20 to 59 years) and divided the participants into different categories in terms of frequency of eating occasions (EO) (5 ≥ , 6-7 and 7 <), meal (2 ≥ and 3) and snack (2 ≥ , 3 and 4 ≤) in a day. Daily food consumption was assessed using the structured three 24-h recalls. The quality of diet we calculated using the food quality score (FQS). Metabolic syndrome was defined based on the guidelines of the national cholesterol education program adult treatment panel III (ATP III). The covariates-adjusted relationships between exposures and outcomes were investigated using a logistic regression test and two-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of MetS in participants was 34.2%. The average FQS was 28.0. Increased frequency of EOs and snacks was related to the higher prevalence of MetS ((OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.24, 2.37; P < 0.01) and (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.07, 1.68; P, 0.01), respectively). The adjusted mean of FQS was not significantly different between the EO as well as meals and snack categories. The joint association of EO frequency and snack frequency with diet quality showed a higher chance of having MetS ( (OR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.19, 4.66; P, 0.01 and (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.06, 2.68; P,0.02), respectively). Also, we observed a higher mean of high density level cholesterol in people with the highest FQS and lowest EO frequency (P,0.02).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the EO and snack frequency may be associated with the higher chance of MetS. We also found when the frequency of EO increases, the beneficial associations of the diet quality were overshadowed. To confirm our findings, well designed randomised clinical trials are needed.

The association between dietary diversity score and general and abdominal obesity in Iranian children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the association between diet and disease, the consideration of a whole diet has appeared to be more effective than the examination of single-nutrient intake. This study aimed to examine the relationship between dietary diversity score (DDS) and obesity in Iranian children.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 456 children aged 11-18 years, who were selected by random cluster sampling. The usual food intake for each participant assessed using a validated Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). To calculate the dietary diversity score, food items were categorized into 5 broad groups and 23 subgroups based on the US Department of Agriculture Food Guide Pyramid. Participants were categorized based on the DDS tertile cut-off points. Anthropometric measurements were conducted based on standard protocols. Overweight and obesity were defined as 85th ≤ BMI < 95th, and ≥ 95th percentiles of BMI, respectively. Additionally, abdominal obesity was considered as WC ≥ 85th percentile.

RESULTS

Mean and standard deviation (SD) of subjects' Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference were 20.88 (SD 4.22) kg/m² and 74.27 (SD 10.31) cm, respectively. The probability of overweight and obesity was increased as tertiles of DDS increased (OR among tertiles: 1.00, 1.82 and 2.13 for overweight and 1.00, 2.60 and 3.45 for obesity; this was the same for abdominal obesity: 1.00, 2.22 and 3.45, P <  0.001 for all). However, no statistically significant results were found after adjustment for energy intake.

CONCLUSION

Dietary diversity positively affected obesity through higher energy intake. Despite the wide recommendation of having high dietary diversity, public health programs should emphasize to improve dietary diversity only in selective food items.

Adherence to the low carbohydrate diet and the risk of breast Cancer in Iran

Background

Previous studies on the link between macronutrients and breast cancer have mostly focused on individual macronutrients rather than their combination. This study investigates the association between adherence to a low carbohydrate diet and odds of breast cancer among women.

Methods

This hospital-based case-control study was carried out on 412 women with pathologically confirmed breast cancer within the past year and 456 apparently healthy controls that were matched in terms of age and residential place. Dietary data was collected using a 168-item validated FFQ. Participants were classified in terms of quintiles of percentages of energy intake from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Then, individuals in the highest quintile of fat and protein intake were given a score of 5 and those in the lowest quintile of these macronutrients were given a score of 1. Participants in the other quintiles of these macronutrients were given the corresponding score. In terms of carbohydrate intake, those in the highest quintile received a score of 1 and those in the lowest quintile received 5. The scores were then summed up to calculate the total low carbohydrate diet (LCD) score, which varied from 3 to 15. A higher score meant greater adherence to a low carbohydrate diet.

Results

The mean age of study participants was 45.2 y and mean BMI was 28.4 kg/m². Mean LCD score of participants was 8.9 ± 2.5 (8.9 ± 2.6 in cases and 9.0 ± 2.5 in controls). Although no significant association was observed between adherence to the LCD score and odds of breast cancer in the study population, a trend toward significant positive association was seen between consumption of LCD and odds of breast cancer in postmenopausal women; after controlling for several potential confounders, individuals in the third quartile of LCD score were 1.94 times more likely to have breast cancer than those in the lowest quartile (95% CI: 1.00, 3.76). This association strengthened after controlling for dietary variables (2.50; 1.18–5.32). Even after further adjustment for BMI, this association remained significant (2.64, 1.23–5.67). No significant relationship was observed in premenopausal women, either before or after controlling for confounders.

Conclusion

Adherence to LCD may be associated with increased odds of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Prospective cohort studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Direct association between high fat dietary pattern and risk of being in the higher stages of chronic kidney disease

Background: Although there are some reports on the association of dietary patterns and chronic kidney disease (CKD), no data exists regarding the relation between dietary pattern and CKD from developing countries. Objective: To examine the association between major dietary patterns, renal function and progression of CKD. Methods: Two hundred twenty one subjects with diagnosed CKD were selected for this cross-sectional study. Dietary intake of patients was assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Major dietary patterns were extracted by factor analysis. Renal function was measured by blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Cr) level as well as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Results: Three major dietary patterns were identified: high fruits and vegetables, high simple carbohydrate and sugar and high fat. Subjects in the second quartile of high fat dietary pattern score had lower Cr and higher eGFR in compared with the first quartile after adjusting for covariates (P = 0.02 for both). After adjusting for confounders (age, physical activity, socioeconomic status, height, weight, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and energy intake), patients in the top quartile of high fat dietary pattern score were found to be at greater risk of being in the higher stages (stage 3 vs. stages 4 and 5) of CKD (odds ratio: 3.09; 95% CI: 1.23, 7.76; P for trend = 0.02). Conclusion: We observed that a high fat dietary pattern was directly associated with progression of CKD.

Nutritive value and trans fatty acid content of fast foods in Qena city, Egypt

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the nutrient composition and cholesterol content of most popular fast foods sold in Qena city, Egypt with reference to their trans fatty acids contents.

Design/methodology/approach

Total 80 samples of fast foods were collected from various fast food restaurants in Qena city, Egypt. The samples were investigated for their nutritive quality by measuring moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrate and energy content as described by the association of analytical chemists. The cholesterol content was determined using a spectrophotometer, while trans fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography using standard methods.

Findings

The study revealed a wide variation in the composition and nutritive value. On a fresh weight basis, moisture, protein, fat, carbohydrate and ash ranged from 45.9-55.0 (P < 0.001), 15.0-22.3 (P < 0.001), 13.1-15.7 (P = 0.034), 6.0-16.2 (P < 0.001) and 2.2-3.5 (P < 0.001), %w/w, respectively. The fast foods were very energy dense with calorie content varying from 236.5-281.1 (P < 0.001), Kcal/100 g. The mean values of cholesterol were between 15-17 mg/100 g (P = 0.398). The findings showed that fast foods had high total trans fatty acids content exceeding the Danish legal limit of 2 g/100 g of fat being in the range of 3.5 to 11.3 g per 100 g fat (P = 0.379). Elaidic acid is the predominant trans-isomer in industrially produced trans fatty acids. The concentrations of elaidic acid were high in all samples examined (P = 0.942).

Originality/value

This study has established the fact that fast foods are associated with high total energy intake, high intake of fat, trans fat and a higher proportion of calories being derived from total fat and trans-fat. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the intake of fast food.

Adherence to Healthy Eating Index-2010 is inversely associated with metabolic syndrome and its features among Iranian adult women

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Nowadays, metabolic syndrome (MetS) is deemed as a major public health challenge in both developed and developing countries. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the association between Healthy Eating Index-2010 (HEI-2010) score and MetS and its features among Iranian female nurses.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

This cross-sectional study was performed among 1036 Iranian women. A validated, self-administered, dish-based, semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the habitual intake of participants. HEI-2010 score was used to assess diet quality of participants. MetS was defined based on the guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III). Multivariate logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders was used to assess the relation between HEI-2010 and MetS.

RESULTS

After adjusting for potential confounders, participants in the highest quartile of HEI-2010 had the lowest risk of MetS compared with those in the first quartile (odds ratio: 0.72; 95% confidence interval: 0.50-0.96). Furthermore, the risk of MetS features including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high serum triacylglycerol and low serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol significantly decreased across HEI-2010 quartiles (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher HEI-2010 scores were inversely associated with lower risk of MetS and its components among Iranian women.

RNAi-mediated down-regulation of the expression of OsFAD2-1: effect on lipid accumulation and expression of lipid biosynthetic genes in the rice grain

BACKGROUND

The bran from polished rice grains can be used to produce rice bran oil (RBO). High oleic (HO) RBO has been generated previously through RNAi down-regulation of OsFAD2-1. HO-RBO has higher oxidative stability and could be directly used in the food industry without hydrogenation, and is hence free of trans fatty acids. However, relative to a classic oilseed, lipid metabolism in the rice grain is poorly studied and the genetic alteration in the novel HO genotype remains unexplored.

RESULTS

Here, we have undertaken further analysis of role of OsFAD2-1 in the developing rice grain. The use of Illumina-based NGS transcriptomics analysis of developing rice grain reveals that knockdown of Os-FAD2-1 gene expression was accompanied by the down regulation of the expression of a number of key genes in the lipid biosynthesis pathway in the HO rice line. A slightly higher level of oil accumulation was also observed in the HO-RBO.

CONCLUSION

Prominent among the down regulated genes were those that coded for FatA, LACS, SAD2, SAD5, caleosin and steroleosin. It may be possible to further increase the oleic acid content in rice oil by altering the expression of the lipid biosynthetic genes that are affected in the HO line.

Is the metabolic syndrome inversely associates with butter, non-hydrogenated- and hydrogenated-vegetable oils consumption: Tehran lipid and glucose study

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between hydrogenated- (HVOs) and non-hydrogenated vegetable oils (non-HVOs) and butter and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) after 3-years of follow-up in adults.

METHODS

This study was conducted between 2006-2008 and 2009-2011 within the framework of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, on 1582 adults, aged 19-84 years. Intakes of HVOs, non-HVOs and butter were assessed by a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Based on the consumption of food rich in fat including HVOs, non-HVOs and butter, participants were categorized to consumers and non-consumers.

RESULTS

Of 1582 participants during a 3-year follow-up, 15.2% developed MetS. Non-consumption of butter was associated with lower MetS risk compared with its consumption. Among consumers of food rich in fat, intake of HVOs and butter were associated with an increased risk of MetS; ORs in the final multivariate model were 2.70 (95% CI: 1.52-4.78) for HVOs and 2.03 (95% CI: 1.20-3.41) for butter, in the highest, compared to the lowest category of dietary intakes. Intake of non-HVOs was not associated with risk of MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of HVOs and butter were positively associated with an increase risk of MetS.

Magnesium, Iron, and Zinc Supplementation for the Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review on the Recent Literature

BACKGROUND

The etiology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not exactly known and its etiology is multifactorial. The usual treatment for these children is based on pharmacotherapy treatment, although the pharmacotherapy has a high effectiveness in ADHD treatment, it often causes different side effects. Existing evidence suggests that children who receive mineral supplement without considering their age and supplement formula may perform better on different behavioral tests compared with those receiving placebo.

METHODS

In this study, we tried to review the previous evidence regarding the effects of minerals in prevention and management of ADHD. We searched PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, Ovid, Scopus, and ISI web of science up to June 2013. "iron," "iron supplementation," "magnesium," "magnesium supplementation," "zinc," "zinc supplementation," "attention deficit hyperactivity disorder" were used as the keywords. Totally 11 randomized controlled trials were eligible to be included in the systematic review.

RESULTS

Our review showed that we don't have any predominant evidence about using mineral supplementation on children with ADHD.

CONCLUSIONS

We need more evidence for indicating the effect of zinc, magnesium, and iron supplementation in the treatment of ADHD among children.

Low-carbohydrate-diet score and metabolic syndrome: An epidemiologic study among Iranian women

OBJECTIVE

Epidemiologic studies linking carbohydrate consumption and risk for metabolic syndrome (MetS) are limited. The association between low-carbohydrate-diet score and MetS has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate low-carbohydrate-diet score in relation to MetS among a group of Iranian women.

METHOD

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 442 Iranian female teachers >20 y of age. Usual dietary intakes were assessed using a validated, dish-based semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute/International Diabetes Federation definition guidelines.

RESULTS

The prevalence of MetS in the lowest and highest quintile of low-carbohydrate-diet score was 17.5% and 18.8%, respectively (P = 0.97). There was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence between extreme quartiles low-carbohydrate-diet score and MetS (odds ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-2.28). After controlling for age, energy intake, and other potential confounders, low-carbohydrate-diet score was not significantly associated with MetS. A significant association was observed between this score and abnormal fasting plasma glucose. We failed to find a significant relationship between this score and other components of MetS.

CONCLUSIONS

Diets with lower amounts of carbohydrate and higher contents of fat and protein were not significantly associated with the risk for MetS in a cross-sectional study with a group of Iranian women. More longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these results.

A bibliometric analysis of diets and breast cancer research

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. The primary aim of this work was to provide an in-depth evaluation of research publications in the field of diets and breast cancer. The impact of economic outcome on national academic productivity was also investigated. Data were retrieved using Pubmed for English-language publications. The search included all research for which articles included words relating to "diets and breast cancer". Population and national income data were obtained from publicly available databases. Impact factors for journals were obtained from Journal Citation Reports® (Thomson Scientific). There were 2,396 publications from 60 countries in 384 journals with an impact factor. Among them, 1,652 (68.94%) publications were Original articles. The United States had the highest quantity (51% of total) and highest of mean impact factor (8.852) for publication. Sweden had the highest productivity of publication when adjusted for number of population (6 publications per million population). Publications from the Asian nation increased from 5.3% in 2006 to 14.6% in 2012. The Original article type was also associated with geography (p<0.001; OR=2.183; 95%CI=1.526-3.123), Asian countries produced more proportion of Original articles (82%) than those of rest of the world (67.6%). Diets and breast cancer-associated research output continues to increase annually worldwide including publications from Asian countries. Although the United States produced the most publications, European nations per capita were higher in publication output.

Effects of Legume-Enriched Diet on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors among Individuals at Risk for Diabetes: A Crossover Study

AIMS

First-degree relatives of patients with diabetes are at high risk for chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes and obesity. Our purpose was to determine the effects of consuming 4 servings of legumes per week on lipid profiles, glycemic indices, and blood pressure of participants with family history of diabetes over 6 weeks of intervention.

METHODS

A total of 26 first-degree relatives of patients with diabetes (14 women and 12 men) participated in this randomized crossover clinical trial study. Participants were randomly assigned to a legume-enriched diet or habitual diet for 6 weeks. Paired t test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to compare data for the 2 experimental diets.

RESULTS

The mean ± SE of legumes intake during the legume phase was 111.12 ± 10.53 g/day that was significantly higher (p < 0.001) than the amounts of legumes during habitual diet (50.73 ± 7.10 g/d). Percentage changes for cardiovascular disease risk factors did not change significantly following 6 weeks of legume consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of 4 servings of legumes per week had no significant effect on anthropometric measurements, glycemic indices, and lipid profiles of participants with family history of diabetes, though it could reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure at a marginally significant level.

Moderate replacement of carbohydrates by dietary fats affects features of metabolic syndrome: a randomized crossover clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

Earlier studies on the management of metabolic syndrome (MetS) have mostly focused on very low carbohydrate diets, whereas long-term adherence to such diets is difficult for apparently healthy people. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of moderate replacement of carbohydrates by dietary fats on insulin resistance and features of MetS among women.

METHODS

This randomized crossover clinical trial was performed with 30 overweight or obese (body mass index [BMI] > 25 kg/m(2)) women with MetS. After a 2-wk run-in period, participants were randomly assigned to consume either a calorie-restricted high-carbohydrate (HC) diet (60%-65% of energy from carbohydrates and 20%-25% from fats) or a calorie-restricted moderately restricted carbohydrate (MRC) diet (43%-47% of total calories as carbohydrate and 36%-40% as dietary fats) for 6 wk. Protein contents of both diets were 15% to 17% of total energy. A 2-wk washout period was applied following which participants were crossed over to the alternate treatment arm for an additional 6 wk. Anthropometric, blood pressure, and biochemical measurements were performed before and after each phase of intervention.

RESULTS

Mean age and BMI of study participants was 42.4 y and 33 kg/m(2), respectively. A trend toward greater reduction in waist (-3.9 versus -2.6 cm; P = 0.07) and hip circumferences (-2.7 versus -1.5 cm; P = 0.07) as well as serum triglyceride (TG) levels (-31.3 versus 0.13 mg/dL; P = 0.07) was observed after consumption of an MRC diet compared with an HC diet. The TG to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio had a tendency to improve with the MRC diet rather than the HC diet (-0.9 versus -0.1; P = 0.06). Consumption of the MRC diet resulted in a greater reduction of systolic blood pressure (-8.93 versus -2.97 mm Hg; P = 0.06) and diastolic blood pressure (-12.7 versus -1.77 mm Hg; P = 0.001) compared with the HC diet. The prevalence of MetS was significantly decreased following the consumption of the MRC diet (P = 0.03). The two diets were not significantly different in terms of their effect on fasting plasma glucose, serum HDL-C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol, insulin levels, and Homeostasis Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance.

CONCLUSION

Moderate replacement of carbohydrates by dietary fats was not associated with statistically different changes in fasting plasma glucose, insulin, or atherogenic dyslipidemia among individuals with the metabolic syndrome; however, it resulted in decreased diastolic blood pressure and lower prevalence of the metabolic syndrome.

Diet macronutrients composition in nonalcoholic Fatty liver disease: a review on the related documents

CONTEXT

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing health problem in both developed and developing countries. Metabolic abnormalities, specially insulin resistance and hyperglycemia are highly correlated with NAFLD. Lifestyle modifications including physical activity and promoting nutrient intakes are critical in prevention and treatment of NAFLD. Hence, in this article we aimed to review the evidence regarding the effects of various macronutrients on fat accumulation in hepatic cells as well as the level of liver enzymes.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITIONS

The relevant English and non-English published papers were searched using online databases of PubMed, ISI Web of Science, SCOPUS, Science Direct and EMBASE from January 2000 to January 2013. We summarized the findings of 40 relevant studies in this review.

RESULTS

Although a hypocaloric diet could prevent the progression of fat accumulation in liver, the diet composition is another aspect which should be considered in diet therapy of patients with NAFLD.

CONCLUSIONS

Several studies assessed the effects of dietary composition on fat storage in liver; however, their findings are inconsistent. Most studies focused on the quantity of carbohydrate and dietary fat; whilst there is very limited information regarding the role of protein intake.

Effects of recommendations to follow the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet v. usual dietary advice on childhood metabolic syndrome: a randomised cross-over clinical trial

The effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan on childhood metabolic syndrome (MetS) and insulin resistance remain to be determined. The present study aimed to assess the effects of recommendations to follow the DASH diet v. usual dietary advice (UDA) on the MetS and its features in adolescents. In this randomised cross-over clinical trial, sixty post-pubescent adolescent girls with the MetS were randomly assigned to receive either the recommendations to follow the DASH diet or UDA for 6 weeks. After a 4-week washout period, the participants were crossed over to the alternate arm. The DASH group was recommended to consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products and low in saturated fats, total fats and cholesterol. UDA consisted of general oral advice and written information about healthy food choices based on healthy MyPlate. Compliance was assessed through the quantification of plasma vitamin C levels. In both the groups, fasting venous blood samples were obtained at baseline and at the end of each phase of the intervention. The mean age and weight of the participants were 14·2 (sd 1·7) years and 69 (sd 14·5) kg, respectively. Their mean BMI and waist circumference were 27·3 kg/m2 and 85·6 cm, respectively. Serum vitamin C levels tended to be higher in the DASH phase than in the UDA phase (860 (se 104) v. 663 (se 76) ng/l, respectively, P= 0·06). Changes in weight, waist circumference and BMI were not significantly different between the two intervention phases. Although changes in systolic blood pressure were not statistically significant between the two groups (P= 0·13), recommendations to follow the DASH diet prevented the increase in diastolic blood pressure compared with UDA (P= 0·01). We found a significant within-group decrease in serum insulin levels (101·4 (se 6·2) v. 90·0 (se 5·5) pmol/l, respectively, P= 0·04) and a non-significant reduction in the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance score (P= 0·12) in the DASH group. Compared with the UDA group, the DASH group experienced a significant reduction in the prevalence of the MetS and high blood pressure. Recommendations to follow the DASH eating pattern for 6 weeks among adolescent girls with the MetS led to reduced prevalence of high blood pressure and the MetS and improved diet quality compared with UDA. This type of healthy diet can be considered as a treatment modality for the MetS and its components in children.

Role of dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in type 2 diabetes: a review of epidemiological and clinical studies

The worldwide increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses an immense public health hazard leading to a variety of complications such as cardiovascular diseases, nephropathy and neuropathy. Diet, as a key component of a healthy human lifestyle, plays an important role in the prevention and management of T2DM and its complications. The dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been associated with various favourable functions such as anti-inflammatory effects, improving endothelial function, controlling the blood pressure, and reducing hypertriglyceridemia and insulin insensitivity. According to some epidemiological studies, a lower prevalence of T2DM was found in populations consuming large amounts of seafood products, which are rich in n-3 PUFAs. However, the evidence on the relation between fish intake, dietary n-3 PUFAs, and risk of T2DM is controversial. Therefore, this paper aimed to review the epidemiological and clinical studies on the role of dietary n-3 PUFAs in T2DM. Also, the limitations of these studies and the need for potential further research on the subject are discussed.

Effects of trans fatty acids on glucose homeostasis: a meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Although evidence from cohort studies has suggested that trans fatty acid (TFA) consumption may be associated with insulin resistance and diabetes, randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) have yielded conflicting results.

OBJECTIVE

In a meta-analysis, we combined all available RCTs that examined the role of TFA intake on glucose homeostasis.

DESIGN

A systematic review of PubMed was performed, and a total of 7 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. Primary outcomes were glucose and insulin concentrations. Secondary outcomes were total, LDL-, and HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations. The pooled effect size (ES) was calculated through fixed- and random-effects meta-analyses. The potential existence of publication bias was evaluated by using funnel-plot analysis. Metaregression analysis was performed to evaluate for potential dose-response relations between the ES of outcomes and TFA intake.

RESULTS

Increased TFA intake did not result in significant changes in glucose or insulin concentrations. Increased TFA intake led to a significant increase in total and LDL-cholesterol [ES (95% CI): 0.28 (0.04, 0.51) and 0.36 (0.13, 0.60), respectively] and a significant decrease in HDL-cholesterol concentrations [ES (95% CI): -0.25 (-0.48, -0.01)]. Our analysis also showed the absence of publication bias and any dose-response relations between the ES and TFA intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased TFA intake does not result in changes in glucose, insulin, or triglyceride concentrations but leads to an increase in total and LDL-cholesterol and a decrease in HDL-cholesterol concentrations. There is no evidence to support a potential benefit of the reduction of dietary TFA intake on glucose homeostasis.

Consumption of energy-dense diets in relation to cardiometabolic abnormalities among Iranian women

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association between dietary energy density and the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors among Iranian adult women.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran.

SUBJECTS

We assessed habitual dietary intakes of 486 Iranian adult women by the use of a validated FFQ. Dietary energy density (DED) was calculated as each individual's reported daily energy intake (kJ/d, kcal/d) divided by the total weight of foods (excluding beverages) consumed (g/d). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), lipid profiles and blood pressure were measured. Diabetes (FPG ≥ 126 mg/dl), dyslipidaemia (based on the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III) and hypertension (based on the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure) were determined. The presence of 'at least one risk factor' and 'at least two risk factors' of the three major risk factors for CVD (hypertension, dyslipidaemia and diabetes) was also evaluated. To explore the associations between DED and cardiometabolic risk factors, we obtained prevalence ratios in different models accounting for confounders.

RESULTS

Mean DED was 7.41 (sd 1.46) kJ/g (1.77 (sd 0.35) kcal/g). Consumption of energy-dense diets was associated with higher intakes of energy, dietary fat, cholesterol, vegetable oils, refined grains and high-fat dairy products, along with lower intakes of dietary carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables, and meat and fish. Adherence to an energy-dense diet was associated with elevated levels of serum TAG, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol and lower levels of serum HDL cholesterol. Women in the top quartile of DED were more likely to have dyslipidaemia (61 % v. 31 %, P < 0.05), at least one (68 % v. 35 %, P < 0.05) and at least two (29 % v. 10 %, P < 0.05) cardiometabolic risk factors compared with those in the bottom quartile. Consumption of energy-dense diets was significantly associated with a greater chance of having dyslipidaemia (prevalence ratio in top quartile v. bottom quartile: 1.78; 95 % CI 1.33, 2.58), at least one (1.81; 1.44, 2.49) and at least two cardiometabolic risk factors (2.81; 1.51, 5.24). Additional control for BMI and total energy intake slightly attenuated the associations. No overall significant associations were found between consumption of energy-dense diets and risk of having diabetes or hypertension either before or after adjustment for confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of energy-dense diets was significantly related to the high prevalence of dyslipidaemia, at least one and at least two cardiometabolic risk factors among Iranian adult women. Prospective studies are required to confirm our findings.

Environmental risk conditions and pathways to cardiometabolic diseases in indigenous populations

This review examines environments in relation to cardiometabolic diseases in Indigenous populations in developed countries. Environmental factors are framed in terms of context (features of places) and composition (features of populations). Indigenous peoples are seen to have endured sociopolitical marginalization and material disadvantage spanning generations. Past adverse collective experiences, modified by culture, are reflected by current heterogeneity in environmental context and composition. As risk conditions, unfavorable contextual and compositional exposures influence the expression of cardiometabolic risk for individuals. Minimal research has evaluated heterogeneity in risk conditions against heterogeneity in cardiometabolic diseases between or within Indigenous populations. Thus far, the features of populations, not of places themselves, have been implicated in relation to cardiometabolic diseases. Behavioral, psychosocial, and stress-axis pathways may explain the relationships between risk conditions and cardiometabolic diseases. Implications of environmental factors and their pathways as well as important research needs are discussed in relation to ecological prevention to reduce cardiometabolic diseases.

Effect of trans-fatty acid intake on insulin sensitivity and intramuscular lipids--a randomized trial in overweight postmenopausal women

Intake of industrially produced trans-fatty acids (TFA) has been linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in observational studies. We investigated the causality of this association by examining if a high intake of TFA impairs measures of glucose homeostasis and induces intramuscular lipid deposition in abdominally obese women. In a double-blind, parallel dietary intervention study, 52 healthy but overweight postmenopausal women were randomized to receive either partially hydrogenated soybean oil (15 g/d TFA) or a control oil (mainly oleic and palmitic acid) for 16 weeks. Three markers of glucose homeostasis and 4 markers of lipolysis were derived from glucose, insulin, C-peptide, nonesterified fatty acid, and glycerol concentrations during a 3-hour frequent sampling oral glucose tolerance test. Intramuscular lipids were assessed by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Forty-nine women completed the study. Insulin sensitivity (assessed by ISI(composite)), β-cell function (the disposition index), and the metabolic clearance rate of insulin were not significantly affected by the dietary intervention. Neither was the ability of insulin to suppress plasma nonesterified fatty acid and glycerol during oral glucose ingestion nor the intramuscular lipid deposition. In conclusion, high TFA intake did not affect glucose metabolism over 16 weeks in postmenopausal overweight women. A study population with a stronger predisposition to insulin resistance and/or a longer duration of exposure may be required for insulin sensitivity to be affected by intake of industrial TFA.

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension eating plan affects C-reactive protein, coagulation abnormalities, and hepatic function tests among type 2 diabetic patients

Few studies exist regarding the effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on novel cardiovascular risk factors among type 2 diabetic patients. We evaluated the effects of the DASH eating pattern on C-reactive protein (CRP) level, coagulation abnormalities, and hepatic function tests in type 2 diabetic patients. In this randomized, crossover clinical trial, 31 type 2 diabetic patients consumed a control diet or the DASH diet for 8 wk. The DASH diet was rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products and low in saturated fat, total fat, cholesterol, refined grains, and sweets, with a total of 2400 mg/d sodium. The control diet was a standard diet for diabetic patients. There was a 4-wk washout between the 2 trial phases. The main outcome measures were CRP level, coagulation indices, and hepatic function tests. The mean percent change for plasma CRP level was -26.9 ± 3.5% after the DASH diet period and -5.1 ± 3.8% after the control diet period (P = 0.02). Decreases in both alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels were greater after consuming the DASH diet compared with the control diet (-14.8 ± 3.0% vs -6.6 ± 3.4%; P = 0.001; -29.4 ± 3.7% vs -5.9 ± 1.4%; P = 0.001, respectively). The decrease in the plasma fibrinogen level during the DASH diet period (-11.4 ± 3.6%) was greater than that during the control diet (0.5 ± 3.4%) (P = 0.03). Among diabetic patients, the DASH diet can play an important role in reducing inflammation, plasma levels of fibrinogen, and liver aminotransferases. Future longer term studies are recommended.

Different kinds of vegetable oils in relation to individual cardiovascular risk factors among Iranian women

Detrimental effects oftrans-fats on lipid profiles, blood pressure and plasma glucose levels have been documented by short-term clinical trials with high doses oftrans-fats, but limited observational studies have considered habitual consumption of partially hydrogenated vegetable oil (PHVO) and these outcome variables, particularly hypertension. We aimed to evaluate the association of PHVO and non-hydrogenated vegetable oils (non-HVO) intake with individual cardiovascular risk factors. In a cross-sectional study of 486 Iranian adult women, usual dietary intakes were assessed, and fasting plasma glucose (FPG), lipid profiles and blood pressure were measured. PHVO (commonly used for cooking in Iran) were considered as the PHVO category. Sunflower oil, maize oil, rapeseed oil, soyabean oil and olive oil were defined as the non-HVO category. Diabetes (FPG ≥ 1260 mg/l), dyslipidaemia (based on Adult Treatment Panel III) and hypertension (based on Joint National Committee VI) were defined. The presence of ‘at least one risk factor’ and ‘at least two risk factors’ of the three major risk factors for CVD (hypertension, dyslipidaemia and diabetes) was also evaluated. After controlling for age and other potential confounders, a high consumption of HVO was associated with a greater risk of having dyslipidaemia (OR for topv. bottom quintile 5·04; 95 % CI 2·70, 9·36), hypertension (OR for topv. bottom quintile 3·03; 95 % CI 1·55, 6·10), at least one (OR for topv. bottom quintile 8·52; 95 % CI 4·41, 16·41) and at least two risk factors (OR for topv. bottom quintile 3·60; 95 % CI 1·64, 7·74), while those in the top quintile of non-HVO consumption had lower odds for all these conditions. Further adjustment for dietary intakes had little impact on these associations. Even after additional adjustment for BMI, the positive association of HVO and the inverse association of non-HVO with the above-mentioned cardiovascular risk factors remained significant, except for the association between non-HVO and hypertension that became marginally significant. No overall significant associations were found between the consumption of HVO and non-HVO and diabetes. Higher intakes of PHVO were associated with a greater risk of individual cardiovascular risk factors, while those of non-HVO were associated with a reduced risk.

Is vitamin D status a determining factor for metabolic syndrome? A case-control study

This study was undertaken to assess vitamin D status in nonmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome (MeS) and to evaluate its possible role in inflammation and other components of MeS. A case-control study was conducted during late fall and winter 2009-10. A total of 375 women with waist circumference (WC) ≥88 cm were examined to find 100 who met MeS criteria according to the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP)/Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III criteria (NCEP/ATP III). Of those without MeS, 100 age- and residence area-matched women were selected as a control group. Anthropometric and laboratory evaluations were performed. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body mass index (BMI), homeostatic model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and body fat mass (FM) were also evaluated. Women with MeS had significantly higher BMI, waist circumference (WC) and FM but lower serum osteocalcin than controls. There was no significant difference in serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) or vitamin D status between the two groups. Serum highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) concentration was significantly higher in the MeS group, compared to the controls (3.4 ± 3.3 vs 2.0 ± 1.9 mg/L, P < 0.001). The difference remained significant even after controlling for BMI (P = 0.011), WC (P = 0.014) and FM (P = 0.005). When comparison was made only in those subjects with insulin resistance (HOMA-IR > 2.4), hsCRP was still higher in the MeS group (n = 79) than in the control group (n = 61) (P < 0.001). When data were categorized according to vitamin D status, in the MeS group significantly higher plasma glucose concentrations were observed in subjects with vitamin D deficiency compared to those with insufficiency or sufficiency (104.0 ± 11.7, 83.0 ± 11.3 and 83.2 ± 9.9 mg/dL, respectively, P < 0.001). Interestingly, their WC or WHR did not show any significant difference. In stepwise regression analysis, 25(OH)D was the main predictor of both hsCRP and plasma glucose. Vitamin D status may, at least in part, be a determining factor of systemic inflammation and the related metabolic derangements of MeS.

Relationship between major dietary patterns and metabolic syndrome among individuals with impaired glucose tolerance

OBJECTIVE

Dietary habits have been associated with the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome and limited data are available in this field for individuals with impaired glucose tolerance. This study focused on the association between major dietary patterns and prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was done in 425 subjects 35 to 55 y of age. Dietary data were collected using a food-frequency questionnaire. Blood pressure, waist circumference, glucose, triacylglycerols, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were measured and metabolic syndrome was defined based on Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines.

RESULTS

Five major dietary patterns were found: a western pattern (high in sweets, butter, soda, mayonnaise, sugar, cookies, tail of a lamb, hydrogenated fat, and eggs), a prudent pattern (high in fish, peas, honey, nuts, juice, dry fruits, vegetable oil, liver and organic meat, and coconuts and low in hydrogenated fat and non-leafy vegetables), a vegetarian pattern (high in potatoes, legumes, fruits rich in vitamin C, rice, green leafy vegetables, and fruits rich in vitamin A), a high-fat dairy pattern (high in high-fat yogurt and high-fat milk and low in low-fat yogurt, peas, and bread), and a chicken and plant pattern (high in chicken, fruits rich in vitamin A, green leafy vegetables, and mayonnaise and low in beef, liver, and organic meat). After adjusting for confounding variables, the western pattern was associated with greater odds of having increased triacylglycerol (odds ratio 1.76, 95% confidence interval 1.01-3.07) and blood pressure (odds ratio 2.62, 95% confidence interval 1.32-5.23). The prudent pattern was positively associated with a prevalence of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (odds ratio 0.55, 95% confidence interval 0.31-0.96). The vegetarian dietary pattern was inversely associated with a risk of an abnormal fasting blood glucose level (odds ratio 2.26, 95% confidence interval 1.25-4.06).

CONCLUSION

Major dietary patterns were significantly associated with the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Dietary diversity score is related to obesity and abdominal adiposity among Iranian female youth

Objective

To assess the relationship between diet and disease, consideration of whole-diet indices may be more informative than single-nutrient intake. The present study was conducted to report the relationship among dietary diversity score (DDS), obesity and abdominal adiposity among female university students.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Isfahan, Iran.

Subjects

A representative sample of 289 healthy female students aged 18–28 years was selected randomly from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Usual dietary intake was assessed using a validated semi-quantitative FFQ. DDS was calculated according to the scoring of the five food groups based on the US Department of Agriculture Food Guide Pyramid. This is a score of diet variety, and shows the diversity of the consumed diet. Participants were categorised on the basis of quartile cut-off points of DDS. Potential confounders such as age, total energy intake and physical activity were considered in all the analyses.

Results

The means (sd) of BMI and waist circumference were 25·9 (sd 5·1) kg/m2 and 85·5 (sd 14) cm, respectively. The probability of obesity decreased with quartiles of DDS (OR among quartiles: 1·00, 0·41, 0·31 and 0·21, P = 0·03; this was the same for abdominal adiposity: 1·00, 0·55, 0·36 and 0·21, P = 0·02). Those in the lowest quartile of the DDS had the highest risk for being overweight.

Conclusions

There were inverse associations among DDS, obesity and abdominal adiposity among the female students of Isfahan University. Further prospective investigations are needed to confirm this finding.

Trans-fatty acids and nonlipid risk factors

Consumption of industrially produced trans-fatty acids (TFA) is associated with substantial risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). The magnitude of this relationship, as well as emerging associations with end points such as diabetes and sudden cardiac death, cannot be fully explained by the well-established adverse effects of TFA on serum lipids. We review the evidence for effects of TFA intake on nonlipid risk factors. Based on evidence from randomized controlled trials, observational studies, animal experiments, and in vitro studies, these include effects on systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, visceral adiposity, insulin resistance, and arrhythmic risk. The types and strength of evidence for each of these nonlipid effects varies, but the overall constellation of findings is qualitatively and quantitatively unique among dietary fats. The multiple adverse effects and implicated pathways are consistent with the observed strong associations of TFA consumption with CHD risk. These nonlipid effects also explain why TFA consumption may adversely impact other non-CHD diseases and end points.

Dairy consumption and circulating levels of inflammatory markers among Iranian women

Objective

Although recent studies have shown an inverse relationship between dairy consumption and metabolic abnormalities, we are aware of no study evaluating the association between dairy consumption and circulating levels of inflammatory markers. The current study was undertaken to assess the association between the consumption of high-fat and low-fat dairy products and circulating levels of inflammatory markers among Tehrani women aged 40–60 years.

Design

In a cross-sectional study of 486 apparently healthy women aged 40–60 years, we assessed usual dietary intakes by means of an FFQ. Anthropometric measurements were made and fasting blood samples were taken for measuring inflammatory markers.

Results

The reported mean (sd) daily intake of low- and high-fat dairy consumption was 85 (sd 23) and 101 (sd 29) g/d, respectively. After control for age, BMI, waist circumference and other potential confounders, low-fat dairy consumption was inversely associated with C-reactive protein (β = −0.04), IL-6 (β = −0.02) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (β = −0.06); with further adjustment for dietary intakes, the associations remained significant just for soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (β = −0.03). High-fat dairy intake was positively associated with log-transformed values of serum amyloid A (β = 0.08) and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (β = 0.05), both before and after adjustment for all potential confounding variables. No overall significant associations were found between total dairy consumption and inflammation.

Conclusions

The current study indicates an independent relationship between high-fat as well as low-fat dairy consumption, not total dairy intake, and some markers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Further studies are required to identify responsible components of dairy products and related mechanisms of action.

Red meat intake is associated with metabolic syndrome and the plasma C-reactive protein concentration in women

Although red meat consumption has been related to the prevalence of diabetes, few data are available showing the relation among red meat intake, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome. We aimed to identify the association between red meat intake, metabolic syndrome, and circulating concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP) as a surrogate measure of inflammation. In a cross-sectional study of 482 Tehrani female teachers aged 40-60 y, we used a FFQ to assess red meat intake. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profiles, and plasma CRP concentrations were evaluated according to standard methods. Metabolic syndrome was defined as recommended by National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. Red meat intake (mean +/- SEM) was 45.9 +/- 3.0 g/d. After statistically controlling for potential confounders, geometric mean plasma CRP concentrations across increasing quintile categories of red meat intake were 1.46, 1.66, 1.73, 1.89 +/- 1.89, and 2.03 mg/L (P-trend < 0.01). In the crude model, individuals in the top quintile of red meat intake had greater odds of having metabolic syndrome compared with those in the bottom quintile [odds ratio (OR): 2.33; 95% CI: 1.24, 4.38, P-trend < 0.01]. This association remained significant even after adjustment for potential confounders (OR, 2.15; CI, 1.18, 4.01; P-trend <0.01). Adjustment for CRP did not affect this association (OR, 2.06; CI, 1.16, 3.98; P-trend <0.01). In conclusion, increased red meat consumption is cross-sectionally associated with greater risk of metabolic syndrome and inflammation. Further prospective investigations will be needed to confirm this finding.

Home use of vegetable oils, markers of systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction among women

BACKGROUND

Most knowledge about adverse health effects of trans fats was mainly derived from studies done in Western populations of European or American origins; few data are available in the understudied region of the Middle East.

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the association between consumption of partially hydrogenated vegetable oils (PHVOs) and non-HVOs and circulating concentrations of inflammatory markers among Tehrani women aged 40-60 y.

DESIGN

Usual dietary intakes were assessed with a food-frequency questionnaire among 486 apparently healthy women. PHVOs (commonly used for cooking in Iran) were considered as PHVOs category. Sunflower oil, corn oil, canola oil, soybean oil, and olive oil were defined as non-HVOs. Anthropometric measurements were done, and fasting blood samples were taken to measure inflammatory markers.

RESULTS

The energy-adjusted daily intakes (mean +/- SD) of PHVOs and non-HVOs were 23 +/- 11 and 22 +/- 10 g/d, respectively. After control for potential confounders, women in the highest quintile of PHVO intake had higher plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP; percentage difference from lowest quintile: 45%; P for trend: <0.01), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha; 66%; P for trend: <0.01), interleukin-6 (72%; P for trend: <0.05), and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1; 22%; P for trend: <0.01) than did women in the lowest quintile. In contrast, higher consumption of non-HVOs was associated with lower circulating concentrations of CRP (percentage difference between top and bottom quintiles: -23%; P for trend: 0.05), TNF-alpha (-29%; P for trend: <0.01), serum amyloid A (-24%; P for trend: <0.01), and sICAM-1 (-19%; P for trend:<0.05). Adjustment for body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, and lipid profiles slightly attenuated the associations in some cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher intakes of PHVOs are associated with elevated concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers, whereas higher intakes of non-HVOs are associated with lower plasma concentrations of these biomarkers.

Food intake patterns may explain the high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among Iranian women

Some cardiovascular risk factors are more prevalent in Middle Eastern countries than in other parts of the world. Lifestyle-related factors, including diet, might account for this discrepancy. We aimed to identify the association between food intake patterns and cardiovascular risk factors among Iranian adult women. We studied 486 apparently healthy Iranian women aged 40-60 y. We used a Willett-format FFQ for collecting dietary data. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) concentrations, lipid profiles, and blood pressure were measured. Diabetes was defined as FPG > or = 6.93 mmol/L; dyslipidemia was based on Adult Treatment Panel III and hypertension on Joint National Committee VI recommendations. The presence of at least 1 risk factor and at least 2 risk factors of the 3 major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes) was also evaluated. We identified 3 major eating patterns (healthy, Western, and Iranian). After controlling for potential confounders, subjects in the top quintile of the healthy dietary pattern were less likely to have dyslipidemia [odds ratio (OR), 0.36; 95% CI, 0.19-0.53], hypertension (OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.17-0.60), at least 1 (OR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.18-0.58), and at least 2 risk factors (OR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.20-0.77) compared with the lowest quintile. In contrast, those with greater adherence to the Western dietary pattern had greater odds for cardiovascular risk factors (OR, 2.59-3.11; P < 0.05). The Iranian dietary pattern was significantly associated with dyslipidemia (OR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.02-2.99) and at least 1 risk factor (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.05-3.20). The major dietary patterns and diabetes were not associated. Eating patterns of this Middle Eastern population might explain the higher prevalence of some cardiovascular risk factors in this region. However, our findings need to be confirmed in other Middle Eastern countries.