Fad Diets: Facts and Fiction

Timing of dietary effects on the epigenome and their potential protective effects against toxins

Exposure to toxins causes lasting damaging effects on the body. Numerous studies in humans and animals suggest that diet has the potential to modify the epigenome and these modifications can be inherited transgenerationally, but few studies investigate how diet can protect against negative effects of toxins. Potential evidence in the primary literature supports that caloric restriction, high-fat diets, high protein-to-carbohydrate ratios, and dietary supplementation protect against environmental toxins and strengthen these effects on their offspring's epigenome. Most notably, the timing when dietary interventions are given - during a parent's early development, pregnancy, and/or lifetime - result in similar transgenerational epigenetic durations. This implies the existence of multiple opportunities to strategically fortify the epigenome. This narrative review explores how to best utilize dietary modifications to modify the epigenome to protect future generations against negative health effects of persistent environmental toxins. Furthermore, by suggesting an ideal diet with specific micronutrients, macronutrients, and food groups, epigenetics can play a key role in the field of preventive medicine. Based on these findings, longitudinal research should be conducted to determine if a high protein, high-fat, and low-carbohydrate diet during a mother's puberty or pregnancy can epigenetically protect against alcohol, tobacco smoke, and air pollution across multiple generations.

Biological properties of vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, cobalamin, is indispensable for humans owing to its participation in two biochemical reactions: the conversion of l-methylmalonyl coenzyme A to succinyl coenzyme A, and the formation of methionine by methylation of homocysteine. Eukaryotes, encompassing plants, fungi, animals and humans, do not synthesise vitamin B12, in contrast to prokaryotes. Humans must consume it in their diet. The most important sources include meat, milk and dairy products, fish, shellfish and eggs. Due to this, vegetarians are at risk to develop a vitamin B12 deficiency and it is recommended that they consume fortified food. Vitamin B12 behaves differently to most vitamins of the B complex in several aspects, e.g. it is more stable, has a very specific mechanism of absorption and is stored in large amounts in the organism. This review summarises all its biological aspects (including its structure and natural sources as well as its stability in food, pharmacokinetics and physiological function) as well as causes, symptoms, diagnosis (with a summary of analytical methods for its measurement), prevention and treatment of its deficiency, and its pharmacological use and potential toxicity.

Studying the Role of Vegetarianism as a Potential Strategy for Cancer Prevention and Treatment, a Bibliometric Analysis

Vegetarianism, as a dietary pattern, is characterized by animal product avoidance and increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. It has been associated with health benefits, both physical and psychological, and has raised interest as a potential strategy for cancer prevention and treatment, which remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, demanding continual exploration of novel approaches.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

This study aims to describe trends in scientific publications about the relationship between vegetarianism and cancer and to highlight research gaps using bibliometric analysis.

METHODS

The methodology includes comprehensive research of three literature databases. After combining and cleaning these data, a final sample of 3427 studies was obtained that was analyzed using the Bibliometrix-R package.

RESULTS

The results indicate a continuously growing production of scientific publications. The most impactful sources, authors and their collaborations were identified. Author keywords, their co-occurrence network, and thematic trends were studied.

CONCLUSIONS

Through synthesizing and critically evaluating insights from the scientific literature, we aim to contribute to the understanding of the potential benefits of vegetarianism in cancer prevention and management. However, due to the complexity of the topic, the results are often contradictory and could be used as a starting point for further research.

Beyond the Detox Myth: A Corpus-Assisted Discourse Study of Science and Pseudoscience Online

This paper explores the intersection of science and pseudoscience in online discourse about detoxification, investigating how and to what extent they coexist on the web. Drawing on previous studies of internet health scams, it examines the discursive strategies used to either validate or refute alternative detox treatments. Using a corpus-assisted discourse studies approach, the study analyses a corpus of texts (167,177 tokens) about detoxification randomly collected from the web. The results show that corrective messages debunking the detox myth make up less than 10% of the corpus. Furthermore, many keywords in the corpus, such as "toxin(s)," are subject to constant renegotiation. Advocates of alternative medicine use the term "toxin(s)" to justify detox treatments, while scientists criticize it as pseudoscientific. The study highlights how terminological ambiguity facilitates the mixing of science and pseudoscience, confusing readers. It also highlights the role of language in health-related misinformation and calls for interdisciplinary research to develop educational tools for health professionals.

Fad diets for non-dialysis chronic kidney disease patients: Can "the miracle diet" be a threat?

In the pursuit of an effortless "miracle cure", there has been a significant increase in the proliferation of fad diets. These diets generally exclude a food group or macronutrients and may also restrict energy intake; they become popular quickly but often lack substantial scientific evidence to support their efficacy and safety. They only show short-term results rather than promoting a lifestyle change. Fad diets are nutritionally unbalanced and can be dangerous for some individuals. Most fad diets are generally restrictive in carbohydrates, high in protein, or unbalanced and have low energy intake, which can harm patients with early stages of chronic kidney damage (CKD) who need a low-protein diet with adequate energy intake. This narrative review discusses the risk of fad diet prescriptions for non-dialysis CKD patients.

A qualitative analysis of college women's experiences with dieting

OBJECTIVE

Dieting is a known risk factor for disordered eating, yet many college women engage in this behavior. Given the popularity of diets, and the risks associated with dieting, it is important to enhance understanding of dieters' experiences. This study utilized a qualitative approach to investigate college women's experiences of dieting.

PARTICIPANTS

Eighty-four woman-identifying undergraduates [42% White, 24% Asian, 20% Black, 14% other; Mage = 19.18 (1.77)] who endorsed dieting were included in the study.

METHODS

Participants provided short-answer responses to open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS

The following themes were identified: A complicated relationship, variability of experiences, and social factors. Subthemes highlighted the complexity of college women's dieting behavior.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide important insight into college women's dieting experiences and their consequences. Future qualitative research should aim to understand how to apply these findings to eating disorder prevention efforts.

Team Approach: An Interdisciplinary Framework for Weight Loss Before Total Joint Arthroplasty Surgery

» Obesity is a public health concern, with 41.9% of the US population classified as obese. Obesity increases the risk of chronic disease, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, etc., leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Obesity has been identified as an independent risk factor of postoperative complications, including infection and impaired wound healing, following elective surgery. In total joint arthroplasty, it has been well elucidated that obese patients are predisposed to higher rates of postoperative complications, longer hospital stays, and increased cost of stay.» Obesity is influenced by the interplay between many societal, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors and requires a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. The patient's care team should be well versed in nutritional counseling, behavioral health counseling, medication management, and surgery to allow for a comprehensive approach.» Orthopaedic surgeons, dietitians, nutritionists, weight-loss physicians, and bariatric surgeons all play a critical role in treating this patient population. This review highlights the roles of these practitioners in developing an interdisciplinary framework to help patients with hip and knee arthritis lose weight before joint replacement surgery. Not only will this afford more patients the quality-of-life benefits that come with a hip or knee replacement but will also serve to decrease the complication rates associated with this patient cohort.» The aim of this review was to educate orthopaedic surgeons on various strategies that can be used to best optimize these patients for successful joint replacement surgery.

Effects of time-restricted feeding (TRF)-model of intermittent fasting on adipose organ: a narrative review

Time-restricted feeding (TRF), an intermittent fasting approach involving a shortened eating window within 24 h, has gained popularity as a weight management approach. This review addresses how TRF may favor fat redistribution and the function of the adipose organ. TRF trials (mainly 16:8 model, with a duration of 5-48 weeks) reported a significant weight loss (1.2-10.2%, ~ 1.4-9.4 kg), with a considerable decrease in total fat mass (1.6-21%, ~ 0.5-7 kg) and visceral adipose compartment (VAC, 11-27%) in overweight and obese subjects. Experimental TRF in normal-fed and obesogenic-diet-fed mice and rats (with a fasting duration ranging between 9 and 21 h within 1-17 weeks) reported a significant reduction in body weight (~ 7-40%), total fat mass (~ 17-71%), and intrahepatic fat (~ 25-72%). TRF also improves VAC and subcutaneous adipose compartment (SAC) function by decreasing adipocyte size, macrophage infiltration, M1-macrophage polarity, and downregulating inflammatory genes. In conclusion, beyond its effect on body weight loss, total fat mass, and intrahepatic fat accumulation, TRF favors adipose organ fat redistribution in overweight and obese subjects by decreasing VAC and improving the function of VAC and SAC.

Undergraduates' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours associated with fad diets

PURPOSE

We aimed to determine undergraduate students' use and knowledge of fad diets as well as examine how appealing students found these diets given the goal of rapid weight loss and/or improved health. Twenty-three students from a Midwestern university (mean age = 19.2, mean BMI = 27.35, 69.6% female) were recruited through new student orientations for this qualitative study. Approximately 52% of participants identified as White, 30% as Black, 13% as Asian, and 4% as multi-racial.

METHODS

Knowledge and opinions about fad diets were collected via focus groups and individual interviews. Coding of transcripts was conducted by hand using the constant comparative method and data were analysed based on grounded theory.

RESULTS

Two primary themes emerged: very negative views of fad diets and the importance of healthy eating. Although few participants had tried fad diets, they thought these diets: 1) did not lead to sustained weight loss, 2) were associated with disappointment and health issues, and 3) were money-making schemes delivered heavily through social media. Participants also valued healthy eating.

CONCLUSION

Experimental studies are needed to examine how healthy eating among university students can be supported through credible sources, accurate information, and established connections via innovative social media platforms.

An investigation of the owner- and pet-related factors that may affect the use of alternative feeding practices in dogs and cats in Hungary

Background

Alternative feeding practices have become increasingly popular among companion animal owners. We sought to identify possible factors behind the choice of alternative feeding types.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed with Hungarian pet owners. Descriptive data analysis and logistic regression models were undertaken to determine factors that may increase the likelihood of adopting alternative feeding practices.

Results

In total, 1007 pet owners completed the questionnaire, of which 789 were dog owners and 218 were cat owners. The type of settlement was identified as a possible factor influencing the choice of application of alternative feeding patterns for dogs and cats. In the case of dogs, the owner's diet variable showed significantly increased odds of choosing an alternative feeding pattern where the owner followed an alternative diet. For cats, the owner's diet did not have a significant effect on choosing alternative feeding practices for these pets.

Conclusions

Owners who followed an alternative diet were more likely to choose an alternative feeding pattern for their dogs but not for their cats. Further study is required to identify additional factors that may influence the owners' choice of feeding practices and to more widely investigate the feeding habits of cat owners.

The Impact of Food Environments on Midlife Australian Adults With Addictive Eating Behaviors

Research into addictive eating has gained traction over recent years, however there is still debate among experts surrounding the nature of the condition. Using reflexive thematic analysis this paper considers addictive eating through a participant focused lens, specifically focussing on the phenomena of the food environment and its impact on individuals with addictive eating. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken to explore the participants' (n = 10) perspectives with addictive eating. After completion of interviews, six main themes were constructed; Relating to the food environment impact was Convenience of processed foods, which encompassed two subthemes; the Easy option, and, Essential for survival; It's what I can afford; Relating to fad diets and addictive eating was Consciousness; Unmaintainable and unsustainable; Cutting though the noise; and Being a part of the group. This study highlights the need to support consumers to consider ways in which fresh foods can be made more accessible and convenience foods made more healthful, and what support can be provided to food-insecure adults living with food-insecurity.

Evaluating the evening carbohydrate dilemma: the effect of within-the-day carbohydrate periodization on body composition and physical fitness

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of carbohydrate timing and type on body composition and physical fitness.

METHODS

Forty-two healthy, trained male volunteers underwent a four-week intervention, randomly divided into three groups: (i) Sleep Low-No Carbohydrates (SL-NCHO): consuming all carbohydrate intake at regular intervals prior to evening training, (ii) Sleep High-Low Glycemic Index (SH-LGI), and (iii) Sleep High-High Glycemic Index (SH-HGI). In both SH-LGI and SH-HGI, carbohydrates were distributed throughout the day, both pre-(60% of total intake) and post-evening training (40% of total intake). The SH-LGI and SH-HGI groups diverged in evening carbohydrate quality, featuring LGI and HGI foods, respectively. All participants performed a standardized exercise program combining resistance exercise and high-intensity interval training. Body composition was assessed using skinfold measurements and bioelectrical impendence analysis. Physical fitness was assessed by measuring VO2max, Visual Reaction Time (VRT), Countermovement Jump (CMJ), and 1-repetition maximum (1RM) in hack squat, chest press, shoulder press, and lat-pulldown exercises.

RESULTS

There was a significant time-effect on both body composition and physical fitness indices. Bodyfat percentage decreased by an average of 1.5% (p < 0.001), fat-mass by 1.4 kg (p < 0.001) and fat-free mass increased by 0.9 kg (p = 0.006). A time-effect was also observed in VO2max, CMJ, 1RM testing, and VRT (all p < 0.05). There were no significant differences among interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

A balanced dietary plan with sufficient nutrient and energy intake promotes body composition optimization and physical fitness, independently of carbohydrate type or timing. This study points towards implementing flexible nutrition interventions, emphasizing the potential of tailored dietary strategies to optimize health and physical fitness.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

The trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT05464342.

Coexistence of Celiac Disease and Allergic Wheat Sensitivity: An Observational Study of Daily Clinical Practice

INTRODUCTION

Although separate immunogenic mechanisms are involved, IgE-type sensitization to wheat and celiac disease (CD) may coexist. We observationally assessed the importance of this relationship in daily practice using CD and wheat sensitization screenings.

METHODS

Celiac antibody (CA) screening and food prick tests (FPTs) were requested simultaneously from patients who presented to the Allergy Clinic between January 2022 and December 2023 and had any complaint accompanied by CD symptoms/findings (non-celiac group). Patients with positive CA (CA+) underwent endoscopy. As another group, FPT results were recorded for patients previously diagnosed with CD following a gluten-free diet (celiac group).

RESULTS

In total, 169 patients (124 non-celiac and 45 celiac) were included in the study. Wheat prick positivity (WP+) was observed in 1 patient with CD. Among 65 WP+ patients without a CD diagnosis, 14 (20.3%) tested positive for CA+, and histopathology detected CD in 4 of these cases. Among the 59 WP- patients, 4 (8.8%) had CA+. The CA+ status of those with WP+ was significantly higher than those with WP- (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

The 4 patients unaware of their CD exhibited WP+, with a higher rate of CA+ observed in the WP+ group. The association between WP+ and CA+ suggests that an impaired intestinal barrier may lead to simultaneous T helper 1 and 2 type inflammatory responses. Although different types of sensitization to the same food would not typically be expected, growing evidence indicates that this phenomenon does occur. Further studies are necessary to confirm these findings and to explore the underlying causes.

Understanding obesity among young adults in India: A focus group study

INTRODUCTION

The study aims to understand the knowledge and awareness about risk factors and consequences of obesity, barriers and motivators to weight loss, and potential solutions for weight management among young adults (YAs) in India.

METHOD

Six focus group discussions were conducted with an inductive approach among obese YAs (18-30 years) recruited through snowball and purposive sampling. The principle of maximum diversity was used to build a pool of varied and extensive information regarding obesity in YAs. The discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim using NVivo 1.0 by QSR International to generate codes, subthemes, and themes from the discussions.

RESULT

Among the thirty recruited YAs (mean age 24.7 ± 2.84 years), nearly half were from a high-income group (56.6 %) and had postgraduate education (53.3 %). Key themes included the need for increased awareness about obesity risk factors and consequences across different societal levels. Physical appearance was the primary motivator for weight loss, followed by physical endurance and social support. Major barriers included lack of energy, time, motivation, lifestyle changes, easy access to unhealthy foods, work commitments, and workplace culture. A holistic approach involving dietary changes, physical activity, and educational and policy reforms was suggested as potential solutions.

CONCLUSION

The challenges faced by YAs in developing countries regarding different aspects of the development and management of obesity are unique and different from the other population groups. Individualized weight management modules may be useful for managing obesity in this group.

Unraveling the Evolutionary Diet Mismatch and Its Contribution to the Deterioration of Body Composition

Over the millennia, patterns of food consumption have changed; however, foods were always whole foods. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been a very recent development and have become the primary food source for many people. The purpose of this review is to propose the hypothesis that, forsaking the evolutionary dietary environment, and its complex milieu of compounds resulting in an extensive metabolome, contributes to chronic disease in modern humans. This evolutionary metabolome may have contributed to the success of early hominins. This hypothesis is based on the following assumptions: (1) whole foods promote health, (2) essential nutrients cannot explain all the benefits of whole foods, (3) UPFs are much lower in phytonutrients and other compounds compared to whole foods, and (4) evolutionary diets contributed to a more diverse metabolome. Evidence will be presented to support this hypothesis. Nutrition is a matter of systems biology, and investigating the evolutionary metabolome, as compared to the metabolome of modern humans, will help elucidate the hidden connections between diet and health. The effect of the diet on the metabolome may also help shape future dietary guidelines, and help define healthy foods.

Health Belief and Behavioral Analysis of Fad Diets: A Perspective from Younger Generations in a Developing Country

The surge in popularity of fad diets has raised concerns about compromised health among individuals due to their beliefs and intentions regarding consumption. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of fad dieting among persons who are dieting and to determine the different factors influencing the inclination to adopt fad diets. Specifically, this study explored the ways in which individual openness to following fad diets, participation in diet trends, and characteristics may influence attitudes towards fad diet adoption. Data from 407 participants aged 18-34, collected via Google Forms, were analyzed using a high-ordered construct approach between the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and health belief model (HBM). Employing partial least squares structural equation modeling, significant results were obtained. The key findings revealed that knowledge about dieting, perceived benefits, and health motivation significantly influenced individuals' intentions to adopt fad diets. Additionally, the study demonstrated significant impacts of health motivation on attitude and perceived behavioral control, subsequently affecting individuals' intention to adopt dietary practices. Practical implications include the development of tailored health communication strategies for government agencies and informed decision-making support for individuals considering adopting fad diets. This research contributes valuable insights into the perception and psychological and social factors shaping dietary decisions, laying the groundwork for enhanced health education and intervention strategies. Furthermore, the study's theoretical framework offers potential for extension and application to health-related food consumption behaviors across diverse cultural contexts.

High-Protein Processed Foods: Impact on Diet, Nutritional Status, and Possible Effects on Health

Proteins are macronutrients with multiple health benefits, but excessive consumption can negatively affect health. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of a sample of high-protein processed foods (HPPFs), describe how their consumption affects dietary balance, and acquire knowledge of the consumption patterns of these products in a Spanish population. A sample of HPPFs available in supermarkets and on websites was collected. The contribution to recommended protein intakes was calculated using national and international references and considering the single consumption of the HPPFs and the product plus 150 g of meat. Furthermore, an online survey was conducted among a convenience sample. A total of 36 enriched protein products were evaluated. The percentage of proteins in these products ranges from 10 to 88%. The contribution of the protein recommended intake was within a range of 87.4-306.6% and 66.4-232.8% (women and men, respectively), only considering the additional proteins from 150 g of meat. One hundred thirty-nine participants completed the survey; 67.6% affirmed that they had consumed HPPFs, and half consumed them without following any consumption control. Since these products are accessible to everyone in supermarkets and protein intake is generally higher than the recommended limits, regulating the mass sale of HPPFs is essential to ensure they do not lead to protein overconsumption.

The Potential Effects of the Ketogenic Diet in the Prevention and Co-Treatment of Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorder: From the Basic Research to the Clinical Practice

BACKGROUND

The ketogenic diet (KD) has been highly developed in the past for the treatment of epileptic pathological states in children and adults. Recently, the current re-emergence in its popularity mainly focuses on the therapy of cardiometabolic diseases. The KD can also have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activities which may be applied to the prevention and/or co-treatment of a diverse range of psychiatric disorders.

PURPOSE

This is a comprehensive literature review that intends to critically collect and scrutinize the pre-existing research basis and clinical data of the potential advantageous impacts of a KD on stress, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

METHODS

This literature review was performed to thoroughly represent the existing research in this topic, as well as to find gaps in the international scientific community. In this aspect, we carefully investigated the ultimate scientific web databases, e.g., PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, to derive the currently available animal and clinical human surveys by using efficient and representative keywords.

RESULTS

Just in recent years, an increasing amount of animal and clinical human surveys have focused on investigating the possible impacts of the KD in the prevention and co-treatment of depression, anxiety, stress, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Pre-existing basic research with animal studies has consistently demonstrated promising results of the KD, showing a propensity to ameliorate symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. However, the translation of these findings to clinical settings presents a more complex issue. The majority of the currently available clinical surveys seem to be moderate, usually not controlled, and have mainly assessed the short-term effects of a KD. In addition, some clinical surveys appear to be characterized by enormous dropout rates and significant absence of compliance measurement, as well as an elevated amount of heterogeneity in their methodological design.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the currently available evidence seems promising, it is highly recommended to accomplish larger, long-term, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials with a prospective design, in order to derive conclusive results as to whether KD could act as a potential preventative factor or even a co-treatment agent against stress, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Basic research with animal studies is also recommended to examine the molecular mechanisms of KD against the above psychiatric diseases.

Nutritional interventional studies in patients with multiple sclerosis: a scoping review of the current clinical evidence

A good nutritional status appears to slow down disease progression and ameliorate symptoms' intensity in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Up to date, there are several interventional studies, which have explored the potential beneficial effects of specific dietary patterns as well as specific bioactive nutrients against disease progression and symptomatology of MS patients. This is a thorough, scoping review, which aims to critically summarize and scrutinize the currently available clinical evidence of the potential beneficial effects of nutritional interventional studies against MS progression and symptomatology. This review was conducted to systematically map the research done in this area, as well as to identify gaps in knowledge. For this purpose, we thoroughly explored the most accurate scientific web databases, e.g., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to achieve the most relevant clinical human studies applying effective and characteristic keywords. There are currently several dietary patterns and specific bioactive nutrients that show promising results by slowing down disease progression and by improving MS symptoms. However, there are also certain conflicting results, while most of the existing studies enrolled a small number of MS patients. Nutritional interventions may exert substantial protective effects against MS progression and symptomatology. However, large, long-term, randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials with a prospective design are strongly recommended to delineate whether such nutritional intervention may attenuate disease progression, and improve symptomatology in MS patients.

Daily Dietary Protein Distribution Does Not Influence Changes in Body Composition During Weight Loss in Women of Reproductive Years with Overweight or Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Preservation of fat-free mass (FFM) during intentional weight loss is challenging yet important to maintain a resting metabolic rate. A balanced protein distribution of 25-30 g per meal improves 24-h muscle protein synthesis, which may promote FFM maintenance and greater reductions in fat mass (FM) during weight loss in women.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine whether the daily dietary protein distribution pattern during energy restriction influences changes in body composition in women of reproductive age. We hypothesized that evenly distributing protein across meals compared with the usual intake pattern of consuming most of the protein at the dinner meal would be superior in preserving FFM while reducing FM during weight loss.

METHODS

Healthy women (n = 43) aged 20-44 y with a BMI of 28-45 kg/m2 completed a randomized parallel feeding study testing 2 patterns of daily protein intake (even distribution across all meals compared with a skewed distribution with most protein consumed at the evening meal). Participants completed an 8-wk controlled 20% energy restriction (all foods provided), followed by an 8-wk self-choice phase in which participants were asked to maintain a similar diet and dietary pattern when purchasing and consuming their own foods. Body composition was measured at baseline, week 8, and week 16. Data were analyzed using mixed models. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Data are presented as differences in least squares means ± SE.

RESULTS

No significant main effects of group or group-by-time interactions were observed. All measures exhibited the main effect of time (P < 0.001). Overall, body weight, FFM, FM, and body fat percentage decreased 5.6 ± 0.4, 1.0 ± 0.2, 4.6 ± 0.4 kg, and 2.3 ± 0.2%, respectively, during this 16-wk study.

CONCLUSION

Daily dietary protein distribution at a fixed protein level does not appear to influence changes in body composition during weight loss in women of reproductive age.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER AND WEBSITE WHERE IT WAS OBTAINED

NCT03202069 https://classic.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov/ct2/show/NCT03202069.

Weight Loss Diets, Fads, and Trends

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review popular dietary trends and provide recommendations regarding validated dietary approaches for weight loss in the pediatric population.

RECENT FINDINGS

Like adults, children and adolescents trying to lose weight will succumb to diets promoted by the media. Many of these so-called "fad" diets tout unsupported claims for health but prove very difficult for long-term adherence. Since childhood is a pivotal time for establishing lifestyle habits, we need to provide practical dietary advice supported by scientific research. Studies suggest that emphasizing macronutrient balance while limiting both ultraprocessed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages can help our pediatric patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight. We review literature discouraging the use of restrictive dieting in the pediatric population and instead encourage a whole-foods-based, balanced dietary approach, along with regular physical activity. The goal is to support reasonable and sustainable lifestyle habits that ultimately allow children to establish lifelong health-promoting behaviors.

Methodological Challenges and Confounders in Research on the Effects of Ketogenic Diets: A Literature Review of Meta-Analyses

Several meta-analyses have found a positive association between a popular type of "fad diet", ketogenic diets, and their effect on anthropometric and blood parameters. However, the non-specific inclusion criteria for meta-analyses may lead to incorrect conclusions. The aim of this literature review is to highlight the main confounders and methodological pitfalls of meta-analyses on ketogenic diets by inspecting the presence of key inclusion criteria. The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched for meta-analyses. Most meta-analyses did not define the essential parameters of a ketogenic diet (i.e., calories, macronutrient ratio, types of fatty acids, ketone bodies, etc.) as inclusion criteria. Of the 28 included meta-analyses, few addressed collecting real, re-measured nutritional data from the ketogenic diet and control groups in parallel with the pre-designed nutritional data. Most meta-analyses reported positive results in favor of ketogenic diets, which can result in erroneous conclusions considering the numerous methodological pitfalls and confounders. Well-designed clinical trials with comparable results and their meta-analyses are needed. Until then, medical professionals should not recommend ketogenic diets as a form of weight loss when other well-known dietary options have been shown to be healthy and effective.

Adherence and Sociodemographic Determinants of Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet among Slovenian Adults and the Elderly

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is considered a model for good health, and is promoted worldwide as one of the healthiest dietary patterns. Despite the MD's health benefits, the literature suggests that adherence to the MD tends to be in decline in most populations worldwide, including those in the Mediterranean region. The aim of this study was to investigate adherence to the MD, and its main sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, in the Slovenian population. Using a nationwide cross-sectional food consumption survey (SI.Menu), data were collected from a general questionnaire, from the 14-item MD adherence screener (14-MEDAS score), and from a questionnaire on the dietary habits of 850 adults and elderly people. The mean MEDAS score for the total study sample was 5.6 (SD 2.1), indicating a low adherence to the MD among the Slovenian population. The adherence to the MD was higher among women (OR = 1.534; 95% Cl 1.156-2.034), those with a university degree (OR = 1.527; 1.098-2.125; compared to those with no university degree), those who lived in a suburb or city (OR = 1.511; 1.016-2.249; OR = 1.568; 1.122-2.191; compared with those who lived in a village), non-smokers (OR = 1.561; 1.380-1.830; compared with smokers), and those who lived in the western part of Slovenia (OR = 1.558; 1.170-2.074; compared with those who lived in eastern Slovenia). Adherence to the MD in the Slovenian population is low, and is strongly related to educational level, gender, geographic region, place of residence, and smoking status. The frequency of the consumption of different food groups is also closely related.

Dietary Patterns and Practices and Leucocyte Telomere Length: Findings from the UK Biobank

BACKGROUND

Shorter telomere length (TL) is associated with risk of several age-related diseases and decreased life span, but the extent to which dietary patterns and practices associate with TL is uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association of dietary patterns and practices and leucocyte TL (LTL).

DESIGN

This was a cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING

Data collected voluntarily from up to 422,797 UK Biobank participants, during 2006-2010.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

LTL was measured as a ratio of the telomere repeat number to a single-copy gene and was loge-transformed and standardized (z-LTL).

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Adherence a priori to a Mediterranean-style diet was assessed through the MedDietScore. Principal component analysis was used to a posteriori extract the "Meat" and "Prudent" dietary patterns. Additional dietary practices considered were the self-reported adherence to "Vegetarian" diet, "Eating 5-a-day of fruit and vegetables" and "Abstaining from eggs/dairy/wheat/sugar." Associations between quintiles of dietary patterns or adherence to dietary practices with z-LTL were investigated through multivariable linear regression models (adjusted for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical characteristics).

RESULTS

Adherence to the "Mediterranean" and the "Prudent" patterns, was positively associated with LTL, with an effect magnitude in z-LTL of 0.020 SD and 0.014 SD, respectively, for the highest vs the lowest quintile of adherence to the pattern (both P values < 0.05). Conversely, a reversed association between quintile of the "Meat" pattern and LTL was observed, with z-LTL being on average shorter by 0.025 SD (P = 6.12×10-05) for participants in the highest quintile of the pattern compared with the lowest quintile. For adherents to "5-a-day" z-LTL was on average longer by 0.027 SD (P = 5.36×10-09), and for "abstainers," LTL was shorter by 0.016 SD (P = 2.51×10-04). The association of LTL with a vegetarian diet was nonsignificant after adjustment for demographic, lifestyle, and clinical characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Several dietary patterns and practices associated with beneficial health effects are significantly associated with longer LTL. However, the magnitude of the association was small, and any clinical relevance is uncertain.

Current treatment landscape for obesity in Singapore

The rising prevalence of obesity in Singapore is a harbinger for a corresponding increase in obesity-related complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and coronary heart disease. Obesity is a complex disease driven by multiple factors, and hence, treatment cannot follow a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Lifestyle modifications involving dietary interventions, physical activity and behavioural changes remain the cornerstone of obesity management. However, similar to other chronic diseases such as T2DM and hypertension, lifestyle modifications are often insufficient on their own, hence the importance of other treatment modalities including pharmacotherapy, endoscopic bariatric therapy and metabolic-bariatric surgery. Weight loss medications currently approved in Singapore include phentermine, orlistat, liraglutide and naltrexone-bupropion. In recent years, endoscopic bariatric therapies have evolved as an effective, minimally invasive and durable therapeutic option for obesity. Metabolic-bariatric surgery remains the most effective and durable treatment for patients with severe obesity, with an average weight loss of 25%-30% after one year.

Severe Dyslipidemia Mimicking Familial Hypercholesterolemia Induced by High-Fat, Low-Carbohydrate Diets: A Critical Review

Emerging studies in the literature describe an association between high-fat, low-carbohydrate diets and severe hypercholesterolemia consistent with the levels observed in patients with (homozygous) familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) may result from the reduced clearance of LDL particles from the circulation, the increased production of their precursor, or a combination of both. The increased intake of (saturated) fat and cholesterol, combined with limited to no intake of carbohydrates and fiber, are the main features of diets linked to hypercholesterolemia. However, several observations in previous studies, together with our observations from our lipid clinic, do not provide a definitive pathophysiological explanation for severe hypercholesterolemia. Therefore, we review these findings and possible pathophysiological explanations as well as opportunities for future research. Altogether, clinicians should rule out high-fat, low-carbohydrate diets as a possible cause for hypercholesterolemia in patients presenting with clinical FH in whom no mutation is found and discuss dietary modifications to durably reduce LDL-C levels and cardiovascular disease risk.

Consideration of nutrients of public health concern highlighted in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 among a large sample of US primary shoppers

The objective of this research is to estimate the proportion of consumers who consider nutrients identified in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 (DGA) as being of public health concern during food choice using a large, population-weighted sample of U.S. residents. A question was included in a bi-monthly survey of consumer scanner panel members, asking whether respondents considered each of eight nutrients in a check-all-that-apply format. Four of these nutrients are under-consumed nutrients, while three are nutrients to avoid. Calories was additionally included, as over-consumption of calories causes weight gain. Weighted mean proportions and 95% confidence intervals were estimated. The survey was administered to a population-weighted sample of 42,018 US consumers participating in a consumer scanner panel in May-June 2021 by an online survey firm that maintains the consumer panel. Over one-quarter of respondents considered none of the nutrients. Each under-consumed nutrient of public health concern was considered by less than 30% of respondents, ranging from a low of 14.5% for potassium (95%CI = 14.3-14.7%) to a high of 28.9% for dietary fiber (95%CI = 28.7-29.1%). Nutrients to be avoided were considered by higher percentages of the sample, ranging from 31.8% for saturated fats (95%CI = 31.6-32.0%) to 46.1% for added sugars (95%CI = 45.8-46.3%). Respondents considered an average of just over 2.4 total nutrients, with a greater focus on nutrients to avoid, including calories (weighted mean = 1.55), than under-consumed nutrients (weighted mean = 0.89). Over one-quarter of consumers considered no nutrients of public health concern. Consumers focused more on nutrients to avoid rather than under-consumed nutrients. Promoting increased awareness of important under-consumed nutrients may improve public health.

Susceptibility to COVID-19 Nutrition Misinformation and Eating Behavior Change during Lockdowns: An International Web-Based Survey

To understand the susceptibility to nutrition-health misinformation related to preventing, treating, or mitigating the risk of COVID-19 during the initial lockdowns around the world, the present international web-based survey study (15 April-15 May 2020) gauged participants' (n = 3707) level of nutrition-health misinformation discernment by presenting them with 25 statements (including unfounded or unproven claims circulated at the time), alongside the influence of information sources of varying quality on the frequency of changes in their eating behavior and the extent of misinformation held, depending on the source used for such changes. Results revealed widespread misinformation about food, eating, and health practices related to COVID-19, with the 25 statements put to participants receiving up to 43% misinformed answers (e.g., 'It is safe to eat fruits and vegetables that have been washed with soap or diluted bleach'). Whereas higher quality information sources (nutrition scientists, nutrition professionals) had the biggest influence on eating behavior change, we found greater misinformation susceptibility when relying on poor quality sources for changing diet. Appropriate discernment of misinformation was weakest amongst participants who more frequently changed their eating behavior because of information from poor quality sources, suggesting disparities in the health risks/safety of the changes performed.

Small Bowel Obstruction Caused by an Aggressive Weight Loss Diet in a Patient With No Predisposing Factors

Phytobezoars are a well-documented cause of small bowel obstruction. Previous reports include patients who have predisposing factors such as gastric surgery, diabetes mellitus, or poor dentition. Consequences of extreme dieting have also been reported, but a resultant phytobezoar and life-threatening bowel obstruction are rare. We present a case of phytobezoar solely due to a diet inordinately high in fiber.

Astounding Health Benefits of Jamun (Syzygium cumini) toward Metabolic Syndrome

Syzygium cumini, also called Jamun, or black plum, is an excellent source of bioactive components such as flavonoids, polyphenols, antioxidants, iron, and vitamin C. The Jamun tree is a tropical evergreen blooming plant and is an important medicinal plant from the Myrtaceae family that has been used for a long time in Indian and other traditional medicines across the world. Jamun is mainly cultivated in Asian countries such as Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Since ancient medicine, it has been utilized to treat a variety of diseases and physiological conditions. Currently, it is mostly used as a medication to treat various metabolic issues, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, obesity, etc. Therefore, Jamun could serve a beneficial role against metabolic syndrome (MS). In this work, the latest available scientific literature on Jamun was collected and the clinical trials investigating its effect on diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and hyperlipidemia were analyzed to find out how Jamun could improve the symptoms and biomarkers of MS. Overall, the results of this study found a significant association of Jamun with the prevention and treatment of these biomarkers of MS. In many studies, Jamun showed pharmacological modifications not only in MS but in many other diseases as well. Currently, its utilization as a folk medicine for the treatment of patients with MS is widely acknowledged. Hence, the findings of a large number of clinical studies confirmed the ameliorating effects of Jamun against MS due to its antioxidation, antidiabetic, anti-inflammation anticarcinogenic, and hyperlipidemic effects. More research is still needed to determine and identify the Jamun compounds and to elucidate their mechanisms of action that are responsible for these astounding bioactive properties and health benefits.

Clinical, Nutritional, and Functional Evaluation of Chia Seed-Fortified Muffins

Health-protective functional foods are gaining popularity in the world of nutrition because they promote excellent health while decreasing pharmaceutical burdens. Chia seeds (CS) (Salvia hispanica L.), the greatest vegetative source of α-linolenic acid, bioactive proteins, and fibers, are among the top unconventional oilseeds shown to have bounteous benefits against various non-communicable diseases. Purposely, this study was designed to integrate roasted CS powder into white-flour-based ordinary bakery goods to improve their nutritional and nutraceutical profiles. CS efficacy in normal and hyperlipidemic Sprague-Dawley rats resulted in mitigating blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol while elevating high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hematocrit, hemoglobin, red blood cell counts, and platelets. The nutritional profiling of chia-fortified muffins indicated significant increases of 47% in fat, 92% in fiber, 15% in protein, and 62% in minerals. The farinographic experiments of CS-blends revealed generally improved dough quality features with a significant rise in the degree of softening as fortification levels increased. A marketable recipe for CSF-muffins with several degrees of fortification demonstrated a significant rise in fat, 92% rise in fiber, 15% rise in protein, and 62% rise in minerals. Sensorial evaluation by trained taste panelists revealed a maximum appraisal of the 15% chia-fortified muffins due to aroma, appearance, and overall acceptability, and were forwarded for being acceptable for commercialization.