The Effect of Electrolytes on Blood Pressure: A Brief Summary of Meta-Analyses

Development of hypertension models for lung cancer screening cohorts using clinical and thoracic aorta imaging factors

This study aims to develop and validate nomogram models utilizing clinical and thoracic aorta imaging factors to assess the risk of hypertension for lung cancer screening cohorts. We included 804 patients and collected baseline clinical data, biochemical indicators, coexisting conditions, and thoracic aorta factors. Patients were randomly divided into a training set (70%) and a validation set (30%). In the training set, variance, t-test/Mann-Whitney U-test and standard least absolute shrinkage and selection operator were used to select thoracic aorta imaging features for constructing the AIScore. Multivariate logistic backward stepwise regression was utilized to analyze the influencing factors of hypertension. Five prediction models (named AIMeasure model, BasicClinical model, TotalClinical model, AIBasicClinical model, AITotalClinical model) were constructed for practical clinical use, tailored to different data scenarios. Additionally, the performance of the models was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves and decision curve analyses (DCA). The areas under the ROC curve for the five models were 0.73, 0.77, 0.83, 0.78, 0.84 in the training set, and 0.77, 0.78, 0.81, 0.78, 0.82 in the validation set, respectively. Furthermore, the calibration curves and DCAs of both sets performed well on accuracy and clinical practicality. The nomogram models for hypertension risk prediction demonstrate good predictive capability and clinical utility. These models can serve as effective tools for assessing hypertension risk, enabling timely non-pharmacological interventions to preempt or delay the future onset of hypertension.

Salt: a narrative review and local policy initiatives in Israel

High salt intake is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Some recent prospective studies have challenged the salt-CVD link. We conducted a narrative review based on a systematic search and provided a national policy update. We reviewed 14 observational prospective studies in healthy adults, reporting the association between sodium intake and excretion or reduction and CVD incidence. Validated by cohort studies, recommended sodium consumption levels (< 1.5-2 gram per day) are still relevant for the prevention of CVD in adults. We discussed the findings and policy initiatives implemented in Israel. Such initiatives included voluntary and mandatory food labeling, and culturally tailored educational programs. The Ministry of Health in Israel initiated a salt reduction policy in recent years-aimed for the future of the industry as well as the population.

The Ketogenic Diet and Cardiovascular Diseases

The most common and increasing causes of death worldwide are cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Taking into account the fact that diet is a key factor, it is worth exploring this aspect of CVD prevention and therapy. The aim of this article is to assess the potential of the ketogenic diet in the prevention and treatment of CVD. The article is a comprehensive, meticulous analysis of the literature in this area, taking into account the most recent studies currently available. The ketogenic diet has been shown to have a multifaceted effect on the prevention and treatment of CVD. Among other aspects, it has a beneficial effect on the blood lipid profile, even compared to other diets. It shows strong anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective potential, which is due, among other factors, to the anti-inflammatory properties of the state of ketosis, the elimination of simple sugars, the restriction of total carbohydrates and the supply of omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, ketone bodies provide "rescue fuel" for the diseased heart by affecting its metabolism. They also have a beneficial effect on the function of the vascular endothelium, including improving its function and inhibiting premature ageing. The ketogenic diet has a beneficial effect on blood pressure and other CVD risk factors through, among other aspects, weight loss. The evidence cited is often superior to that for standard diets, making it likely that the ketogenic diet shows advantages over other dietary models in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. There is a legitimate need for further research in this area.

Studies on the synergistic Interplay of Vitamin D and K for Improving Bone and Cardiovascular Health

Nutrients perform their roles either directly or through interaction with other nutrients inside our body. The nature of interactions between nutrients can be synergistic, which brings about maximum benefit to the host, or antagonistic, i.e., one nutrient affects the uptake and availability of other nutrients in the body. These interactions need to be critically analysed and acknowledged to harness their positive health benefits. Combining nutrients having a synergistic effect may help in lowering the threat of cardiovascular ailment, osteoporosis, and other health issues. This study aims to qualitatively review the information that is currently available upon the synergistic effects of co-supplementing Vitamin D and K on bone and cardiovascular health among various age groups. The methodology followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A structured search of two databases-PubMed and Google Scholar—was carried out, and articles were identified that focused upon the dual supplementation of Vitamin D and K, which has been shown to improve bone and cardiovascular health among users. The search was restricted to the English language, conducted, and published between 2006 and 2021. Overall, 12 studies involving 8216 participants were included in the qualitative analysis. Among these, 5 were randomized controlled trials, 6 were observational studies, and 1 was interventional studies. The results were interpreted based on improved bone health by assessing the progress in Bone Mineral Content (BMC), lower extremity function, Bone Mineral Density (BMD), and bone turnover. In contrast, improvement in cardiovascular health was recorded based on the Carotid Intima-media Thickness (CIMT), arterial stiffness, high systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the structure of the heart. Out of a total 12 studies, 11 studies showed that Vitamin D work in synergy with Vitamin K and also has a significant role in improving bone fractures, low BMD, and cardiovascular disorders. Further research and clinical trials on these Vitamins in different age groups and disease conditions are warranted.

Biochemical reference intervals for captive bred Crocodylus moreletii and Crocodylus acutus in the Alcuzahue Lagoon, Colima, Mexico

ABSTRACT Crocodylus moreletii and Crocodylus acutus are two endangered crocodile species endemic to Mexico. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, a total of 58 crocodiles (30 females and 28 males) were examined to determine and evaluate 24 blood biochemical indicators associated with energy, lipid, protein, mineral and enzymatic metabolic processes. Most of the serum biochemistry parameters were similar among sexes by species. However, male crocodiles showed higher triacylglycerol concentration and alkaline phosphatase activity, and lower globulin concentration than females. There were some significant differences between species. Total bilirubin, triacylglycerol, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen carbonate were higher in Crocodylus moreletii, and urea nitrogen, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase were higher in Crocodylus acutus. These reference values are very important for the protection of crocodiles. The calculated confidence intervals could be used to detect alert situations when at least 5% of the sampled crocodiles would fall outside of the calculated reference interval for a given parameter.

Evaluation of the Cardiovascular Effects of Coriandrum sativum and Citrus limon to Treat Arsenic-Induced Endothelial Damage and Hypertension in Rats

Based on the vernacular reputation of Coriandrum sativum and Citrus limon to treat hypertension, this study was designed to explore the cardiovascular effects of C. sativum (CS) and C. limon (CL) on arsenic-induced hypertension and endothelial damage. Hypertension was induced by arsenic (100 ppm) in drinking water. The crude methanolic extracts of CS and CL were tested for in vivo and in vitro activities using Power Lab. High performance liquid chromatography analysis of CS and CL showed the presence of phenolic compounds. In anesthetized rats, CS (50 mg) and CL (10 mg) showed a marked decrease in blood pressure of 51% and 35%, respectively. Similarly, ascorbic acid (10 mg) also showed a decreased blood pressure (41%). The CS and CL caused complete relaxation (0.003−5 mg/mL) against phenylephrine (1µM) and high K+ (80 mM)-induced contraction. The CS and CL, independently and in combination, exhibited marked (p < 0.001) attenuation in the blood pressure of the arsenic-induced hypertensive rats when compared with the controls. The beneficial effects of the CS and CL were also observed on lipid peroxidation and eNOS. These data suggest that CS and CL possess significant antihypertensive activity, possibly mediated via endothelium protection, and anti-oxidant effects. Thus, this study provides a rationale for the medicinal use of CS and CL in hypertension and also against arsenic-induced cardiovascular complications.

Associations of Dietary Patterns during Pregnancy with Gestational Hypertension: The "Born in Shenyang" Cohort Study

The literature on maternal dietary patterns and gestational hypertension (GH) risk is largely ambiguous. We investigated the associations of maternal dietary patterns with GH risk among 1092 pregnant women in a Chinese pre-birth cohort. We used both three-day food diaries (TFD) and food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) to assess the diets of pregnant women. Principal components analysis with varimax rotation was used to identify dietary patterns from the TFD and FFQ, respectively. In total, 14.5% of the participants were diagnosed with GH. Maternal adherence to a “Wheaten food−coarse cereals pattern (TFD)” was associated with a lower risk of GH (quartile 3 [Q3] vs. Q1, odds ratio [OR] = 0.53, 95%CI: 0.31, 0.90). Maternal adherence to a “Sweet food−seafood pattern (TFD)” was associated with lower systolic blood pressure (Q4 vs. Q1, β = −2.57, 95%CI: −4.19, −0.96), and mean arterial pressure (Q4 vs. Q1, β = −1.54, 95%CI: −2.70, −0.38). The protective associations of the “Sweet food-seafood (TFD)” and “Fish−seafood pattern (FFQ)” with the risk of GH were more pronounced among women who were overweight/obese before pregnancy (p for interaction < 0.05 for all). The findings may help to develop interventions and better identify target populations for hypertension prevention during pregnancy.

Effects of the Mediterranean diet on the components of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome, also as known as Syndrome X or Insulin Resistance Syndrome, is a complex health problem featuring visceral obesity (the main diagnostic criterion), insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and high blood pressure. Currently, this health condition has gained a momentum globally while raising concerns among health-related communities. The World Health Organization, American Heart Association and International Diabetes Federation have formulated diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome. Diet and nutrition can influence this syndrome: for example, the Western diet is associated with increased risk of metabolic syndrome, whereas the Nordic and Mediterranean diets and the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension are potentially beneficial. The Mediterranean diet can affect the components of metabolic syndrome due to its high dietary fiber, omega 3 and 9 fatty acids, complex carbohydrates, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and bioactive substances, such as polyphenols. These nutrients and bioactive substances can combat obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The mechanisms by which they do so are generally related to oxidative stress, inflammation (the most common risk factors for metabolic syndrome) and gastrointestinal function. The literature also shows examples of positive effects of the Mediterranean diet on the metabolic syndrome. In this review of the literature, we shed light on the effects, mechanisms and dynamic relationship between the Mediterranean diet and metabolic syndrome.

The effect of purple-black barberry (Berberis integerrima) on blood pressure in subjects with cardiovascular risk factors: a randomized controlled trial

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Berberis integerrima commonly known as "barberry" belongs to the Berberidaceae family and has been used as a medicinal plant in Iranian traditional medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Our aim in this study was to investigate the effects of barberry consumption on blood pressure (BP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty-four medicated hypertensive patients were selected and randomly allocated to barberry and placebo groups. The barberry group received 10 g/day dried purple-black barberry powder, once daily, for 2-months. Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial BP was assessed through 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring before and after 2-month treatment. The estimation of sodium and potassium intake was done through measurement of sodium and potassium in 24-h urinary samples. Plasma and urinary nitrite, and nitrate (NOx) levels, as well as plasma angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity, were also determined.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight participants with an average age of 54.12 ± 10.32 years and BMI of 27.93 ± 2.22 kg/m² completed the study. There was no significant difference in body weight, physical activity, and the 24-h urinary sodium and potassium excretion between the two groups before and after the study. After adjusting for baseline values and changes in sodium intake, systolic, and mean arterial BP decreased significantly in the barberry group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.015 and p = 0.008, respectively). Plasma NOx levels and ACE activity were not different between the two groups, but urinary NOx was increased significantly in the barberry group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients treated with antihypertensive drugs, daily consumption of purple-black barberry can be effective in improving systolic BP control.

Nutrient pattern analysis of mineral based, simple sugar based, and fat based diets and risk of metabolic syndrome: a comparative nutrient panel

BACKGROUND

Although there is growing evidence on the association between nutrient patterns and metabolic risk factors, very little is known about the relationship between nutrient patterns and metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this study was to examine the associations of nutrient patterns with MetS among apparently healthy obese adults living in Tabriz, Iran.

METHODS

Three hundred and forty-seven apparently healthy obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) adults aged 20-50 years were included in this cross-sectional study. Dietary intake of 38 nutrients was assessed by a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) of 132 food items. Nutrient patterns were determined using factor analysis. The MetS was defined based on the guidelines of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III).

RESULTS

Three major nutrient patterns were extracted: "Mineral based pattern", "Simple sugar based pattern" and "Fat based pattern". There was no significant association between nutrient patterns and MetS, in the crude model even after adjusting for confounders. There was a significant difference between quartiles in the mineral based pattern for free mass (FFM), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), large Waist circumference (WC) and Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). In the simple sugar based pattern, we observed a significant association for SBP, DBP, and triglyceride (TG) levels. In addition, the fat based pattern was positively associated with BMI, and weight.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not observe any significant association of nutrient patterns with the risk of MetS amongst the apparently healthy obese adult's population. Whereas we confirmed the deleterious effect of the simple sugar and fat based patterns on several metabolic risk factors, our findings also showed that the mineral based pattern is related to healthier metabolic factors in an Iranian population. These results should be approved by future studies to recognize any causal relationship between adherence to specific nutrient patterns and MetS.

Serum Magnesium, Blood Pressure, and Risk of Hypertension and Chronic Kidney Disease Progression in the CRIC Study

[Figure: see text].

Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Potential of Tateishi Kazu Vegetable Soup

Many industrialized areas of the world demand for the nutraceuticals due to rapidly growing health risks linked with higher consumption of processed foods. Tateishi Kazu vegetable soup or miracle soup is widely consumed around the world because of its nutraceutical properties. In the current research, the Tateishi Kazu vegetable soup was made from both organic and nonorganic sources, such as carrot, burdock root, shiitake mushroom, daikon radish, and radish leaves. We analyzed colour, antioxidant properties, cell viability, and mineral and free amino acid contents of both soups. The L $\ast$ a $\ast$ b and pH values revealed no drastic changes in the colour of the organic soup stored for 96 hours. The essential amino acids were present in higher amounts in an organic soup compared to the nonorganic soup. Similarly, the total mineral contents of the organic soup were higher than the nonorganic soup; however, potassium was the major mineral in both soups. Higher phenolic contents with elevated 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were noticed in organic soup. Moreover, both soups showed considerable reduction in cell viability of HepG2 cells tested through the MTT assay. From the present study, we concluded that the organic Tateishi Kazu vegetable soup can be of great importance to food industry due to the presence of viable nutrients and pharmacological properties.

Estimated salt intake and risk of atrial fibrillation in a prospective community-based cohort

INTRODUCTION

Hypertension predisposes to atrial fibrillation (AF) - a major risk factor for ischaemic stroke. Since a high dietary salt consumption is associated with hypertension, we investigated the association between urinary sodium excretion as a marker for dietary sodium intake and risk of new-onset AF in community-dwelling adults.

METHOD

The UK Biobank includes 40- to 69-year-old British residents recruited 2006-2010. Participants were divided into sex-specific quintiles according to 24-hour sodium excretion estimated based on spot samples with the Kawasaki equation. We excluded participants with AF at baseline. Cox regression adjusted for cardiovascular risk factors was used to assess associations with risk of AF, using the third quintile as reference.

RESULTS

A total of 257 545 women and 215 535 men were included. During up to 10 years' follow-up, 2221 women and 3751 men were diagnosed with AF. There was a tendency for an increased risk of AF in the lowest and highest quintiles of estimated daily salt intake in both women and men. In the fully adjusted model, significant associations were seen amongst men in the lowest and highest quintiles of sodium excretion (hazard ratio, HR_Qv1 , 1.20; 95% CI, 1.08-1.32, P < 0.001, and HR_Qv5 1.15, 95% CI, 1.03-1.27, P = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

We found evidence for a U-shaped association between estimated daily salt intake and AF risk amongst men. A suggestive J-shaped association in women was not statistically confirmed, but analyses were likely underpowered. Our results suggest that above a certain physiological minimum level progressively higher salt intake is associated with increasing risk of AF.

Nutraceuticals and blood pressure control: a European Society of Hypertension position document

: High-normal blood pressure (BP) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, however the cost-benefit ratio of the use of antihypertensive treatment in these patients is not yet clear. Some dietary components and natural products seems to be able to significantly lower BP without significant side effects. The aim of this position document is to highlight which of these products have the most clinically significant antihypertensive action and wheter they could be suggested to patients with high-normal BP. Among foods, beetroot juice has the most covincing evidence of antihypertensive effect. Antioxidant-rich beverages (teas, coffee) could be considered. Among nutrients, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C supplements could improve BP. Among nonnutrient-nutraceuticals, soy isoflavones could be suggested in perimenopausal women, resveratrol in insulin-resistant patients, melatonin in study participants with night hypertension. In any case, the nutracutical approach has never to substitute the drug treatment, when needed.

Non-pharmacological management of hypertension

Hypertension is an insidious disease which predisposes to cardiovascular complications and if not treated properly can lead to various serious complications. Economic limitations, having additional benefits with few or almost no side effects have made non-pharmacological management of hypertension an attractive approach for dealing with hypertension, in developed and developing countries alike. A MEDLINE search was done for relevant references with emphasis on original studies, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses for this review paper. Lifestyle modifications including changes in the dietary pattern, adopting special diets with low sodium, saturated fat and high calcium, magnesium and potassium and trying the new methods like time restricted meal intake which work in tandem with the circadian rhythm are opening new vistas in the field of non-pharmacological management of hypertension. Lifestyle modifications that effectively lower blood pressure are increased physical activity, weight loss, limited alcohol consumption, relaxation techniques of Yoga, Acupuncture, Tai chi, mindfulness-based stress-reduction program, and Transcendental Meditation. Air pollution of the surrounding air is linked with poor health outcomes and is a major contributor to the global burden of disease. Fine particulate matter <2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5) is strongly associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Short-term PM exposure (hours to weeks) increases the likelihood of adverse cardiovascular events including myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure, and longer-term exposure multiplies that risk. Non-pharmacological methods should be initiated early phase of disease and should be continued with medication.

The Effect of Exogenous Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Salt Supplementation on Metrics of Safety and Health in Adolescents

The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, very low-carbohydrate, moderate-protein diet that will induce a state of ketosis, but because of its restrictive nature, it may be difficult to adhere to, especially in adolescents. Supplementing with exogenous beta-hydroxybutyrate salts may induce a state of temporary ketosis without any undesirable side effects, thereby promoting the benefits of ketosis and minimizing adherence requirements to a ketogenic diet. To date, beta-hydroxybutyrate supplementation in healthy adolescents has not been explored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the safety of exogenous beta-hydroxybutyrate salt supplementation in a healthy adolescent population. In the present study, 22 healthy male and female adolescents consumed 3.75 g of beta-hydroxybutyrate salts or maltodextrin placebo twice daily for 90 days. Comprehensive blood safety analysis, bone densitometry, happiness and emotional intelligence surveys, and blood pressure were assessed at Pre, Day 45, and Day 90. There were no significant differences detected in subjects supplementing with beta-hydroxybutyrate salts, indicating that exogenous beta-hydroxybutyrate salts had no detrimental impact on fasting blood safety metrics, bone density, happiness, emotional intelligence, or blood pressure. We conclude that supplementing with exogenous beta-hydroxybutyrate salts is safe and well-tolerated by healthy adolescents.

Impact of Micronutrients on Hypertension: Evidence from Clinical Trials with a Special Focus on Meta-Analysis

Hypertension (HT) is one of the pivotal risk factors for various detrimental diseases like cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cerebrovascular disease, and renal dysfunction. Currently, many researchers are paying immense attention to various diet formula (dietary approach) with a special focus on micro and macronutrients along with modified lifestyle and standard anti-hypertensive drugs. Micronutrients (minerals/vitamins) play a central role in the regulation of blood pressure (BP) as they aid the function of macronutrients and also improve the anti-hypertensive functions of some anti-hypertensive agents. Even though several studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of micronutrients on controlling BP, still some ambiguity exists among the nutritionists/doctors, which combination or individual mineral (dietary approach) contributes to better BP regulation. Therefore, this critical review article was attempted to delineate the underlying role of micronutrients (minerals and vitamins) for the management and prevention or delaying of HT and their related complications with strong affirmation from clinical trials as well as its mechanism of controlling BP. Moreover, the major source and recommended daily allowance (RDA) of various micronutrients are included in this review for guiding common readers (especially HT subjects) and dieticians to choose/recommend a better micronutrient and their combinations (other nutrients and standard anti-hypertensive drugs) for lowering the risk of HT and its related co-morbid conditions like CVDs.

Magnesium and Hypertension in Old Age

Hypertension is a complex condition in which various actors and mechanisms combine, resulting in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications that today represent the most frequent causes of mortality, morbidity, disability, and health expenses worldwide. In the last decades, there has been an exceptional amount of experimental, epidemiological, and clinical studies confirming a close relationship between magnesium deficit and high blood pressure. Multiple mechanisms may help to explain the bulk of evidence supporting a protective effect of magnesium against hypertension and its complications. Hypertension increases sharply with advancing age, hence older persons are those most affected by its negative consequences. They are also more frequently at risk of magnesium deficiency by multiple mechanisms, which may, at least in part, explain the higher frequency of hypertension and its long-term complications. The evidence for a favorable effect of magnesium on hypertension risk emphasizes the importance of broadly encouraging the intake of foods such as vegetables, nuts, whole cereals and legumes, optimal dietary sources of magnesium, avoiding processed food, which are very poor in magnesium and other fundamental nutrients, in order to prevent hypertension. In some cases, when diet is not enough to maintain an adequate magnesium status, magnesium supplementation may be of benefit and has been shown to be well tolerated.

Low Dietary Magnesium and Overweight/Obesity in a Mediterranean Population: A Detrimental Synergy for the Development of Hypertension. The SUN Project

Hypertension is the strongest independent modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. We aimed to investigate the association of magnesium intake with incident hypertension in a Mediterranean population, and the potential modification of this association by body mass index BMI. We assessed 14,057 participants of the SUN (Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra) prospective cohort (67.0% women) initially free of hypertension. At baseline, a validated 136-item food frequency questionnaire was administered. We used Cox models adjusted for multiple socio-demographic, anthropometric, and lifestyle factors, and prevalent conditions present at baseline. Among a mean 9.6 years of follow-up we observed 1406 incident cases of medically diagnosed hypertension. An inverse association in multivariable-adjusted models was observed for progressively higher magnesium intake up to 500 mg/d vs. intake < 200 mg/d, which was greater among those with a BMI > 27 kg/m². Lean participants with magnesium intake < 200 mg/d vs. >200 mg/d also had a higher risk of incident hypertension. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet did not modify these associations. In conclusion, dietary magnesium intake < 200 mg/d was independently associated with a higher risk of developing hypertension in a Mediterranean cohort, stronger for overweight/obese participants. Our results emphasize the importance of encouraging the consumption of magnesium-rich foods (vegetables, nuts, whole cereals, legumes) in order to prevent hypertension.

Diet-gene interaction: effects of polymorphisms in the ACE, AGT and BDKRB2 genes and the consumption of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium on blood pressure of normotensive adult individuals

Functional variants in genes of the renin-angiotensin (RAS) and kallikrein-kinin (KKS) systems have already been implicated in blood pressure (BP) modulation, but few studies have focused on a nutrigenetics approach. Thus, the aim of this study is to verify the effects of the interaction between genetic polymorphisms (rs4340-ACE, rs699-AGT, and rs1799722-BDKRB2) and micronutrient consumption (sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium) on BP values of normotensive adult individuals. The study included 335 adults, men and women, 25.5 (6.6) years old. Biochemical, anthropometric, BP measurements, and food intake data were assessed for all participants. Gene-nutrient interaction on BP outcome was tested by multiple linear regression with manual backward stepwise modeling. Our results indicated that individuals with G allele for rs699 polymorphism, in the increase of sodium and magnesium consumption, both in the genotypic model (sodium, p = 0.035; magnesium, p = 0.016) and in the dominant model (sodium, p = 0.009; magnesium, p = 0.006) had higher systolic BP (SBP) levels compared to AA homozygotes (sodium, p = 0.001; magnesium, p < 0.001). Also, individuals with the T allele for the rs1799722 polymorphism, with higher calcium intake, had significantly higher levels of SBP and diastolic BP (DBP) when compared to CC homozygotes (p = 0.037). In conclusion, our findings pointed for significant interactions between genetic polymorphisms (rs699-AGT and rs1799722-BDKRB2) and the consumption of micronutrients (sodium, magnesium, and calcium) on the BP variation. These findings contribute to the understanding of the complex mechanisms involved in BP regulation, which probable include several gene-nutrition interactions.

Potassium Intake and Blood Pressure: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Epidemiologic studies, including trials, suggest an association between potassium intake and blood pressure (BP). However, the strength and shape of this relationship is uncertain.

Methods and Results

We performed a meta‐analysis to explore the dose‐response relationship between potassium supplementation and BP in randomized‐controlled trials with a duration ≥4 weeks using the recently developed 1‐stage cubic spline regression model. This model allows use of trials with at least 2 exposure categories. We identified 32 eligible trials. Most were conducted in adults with hypertension using a crossover design and potassium supplementation doses that ranged from 30 to 140 mmol/d. We observed a U‐shaped relationship between 24‐hour active and control arm differences in potassium excretion and BP levels, with weakening of the BP reduction effect above differences of 30 mmol/d and a BP increase above differences ≈80 mmol/d. Achieved potassium excretion analysis also identified a U‐shaped relationship. The BP‐lowering effects of potassium supplementation were stronger in participants with hypertension and at higher levels of sodium intake. The BP increase with high potassium excretion was noted in participants with antihypertensive drug‐treated hypertension but not in their untreated counterparts.

Conclusions

We identified a nonlinear relationship between potassium intake and both systolic and diastolic BP, although estimates for BP effects of high potassium intakes should be interpreted with caution because of limited availability of trials. Our findings indicate an adequate intake of potassium is desirable to achieve a lower BP level but suggest excessive potassium supplementation should be avoided, particularly in specific subgroups.

Valorisation of By-Products from Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) Processing

In recent years, increased awareness of the health benefits associated with consuming soy-based foods, knowledge of milk-related allergies and a move towards more sustainable food production have led to an increase in the number of available soy-based products. The biggest producers in the world, the USA, South America and China, are from the Pacific region. This enormous production is accompanied by the accumulation of related by-products, in particular, a substance that is known as okara. Okara is a paste that is rich in fibre (50%), protein (25%), fat (10%), vitamins and trace elements. Its proper use would lead to economic advantages and a reduction in the potential for polluting the environment. Its high fibre content and low production costs mean that it could also be used as a dietary supplement to prevent diabetes, obesity and hyperlipidaemia. Chemical or enzymatic treatment, fermentation, extrusion, high pressure and micronisation can all increase the soluble fibre content, and thus improve nutritional quality and processing properties. However, the product also degrades rapidly due to its high moisture content (70-80%), which makes it difficult to handle and expensive to dry by conventional means. The aim of this paper is therefore to thoroughly study the existing literature on this subject in order to develop a general protocol for okara exploitation and valorisation. A cost/benefit analysis could drive the design of eco-friendly, sustainable protocols for the preparation of high-value nutritional products.

The Importance of Nutrition in Hypertension

Arterial hypertension (AH) is considered to be one of the most relevant cardiovascular risk factors, and its wide prevalence in all age ranges makes it necessary to analyse all the possible causes and treatments. In this special issue, nutritional interventions are examined either as causes or as treatments of AH. [...].