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Micek A, Jagielski P, Bolesławska I, Witkowska AM, Waśkiewicz A, Wajda Z, Kamińska A, Cebula A, Godos J. Negative Association of Lignan and Phytosterol Intake with Stress Perception during the COVID-19 Pandemic-A Polish Study on Young Adults. Nutrients 2024; 16:445. [PMID: 38337729 PMCID: PMC10857242 DOI: 10.3390/nu16030445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been an increasing global prevalence of depression and other psychiatric diseases in recent years. Perceived stress has been proven to be associated with psychiatric and somatic symptoms. Some animal and human studies have suggested that consuming foods abundant in lignans and phytosterols may be associated with lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Still, the evidence is not yet strong enough to draw firm conclusions. Thus, we investigated the association between dietary intake of these phytochemicals and the level of stress experienced by adult individuals. METHODS Diet was assessed using self-reported 7-day dietary records. The intakes of lignans and phytosterols were estimated using databases with their content in various food products. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) was implemented to measure the level of perceived stress. A logistic regression analysis was used to test for associations. RESULTS The odds of elevated PSS were negatively associated with dietary intake of total phytosterols, stigmasterol, and β-sitosterol, with evidence of a decreasing trend across tertiles of phytochemicals. The analysis for doubling the intake reinforced the aforementioned relationships and found protective effects against PSS for total lignans, pinoresinol, and campesterol. CONCLUSIONS Habitual inclusion of lignans and phytosterols in the diet may play a role in psychological health. To address the global outbreak of depression and other mental health issues triggered by stress, it is important to take a holistic approach. There is a need to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment, among which certain dietary interventions such as consumption of products abundant in lignans and phytosterols may play a substantial role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Micek
- Statistical Laboratory, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-126 Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Jagielski
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-066 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Izabela Bolesławska
- Department of Bromatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Anna Maria Witkowska
- Department of Food Biotechnology, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-295 Bialystok, Poland;
| | - Anna Waśkiewicz
- Department of Epidemiology, Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Cardiology, 04-628 Warszawa, Poland;
| | - Zbigniew Wajda
- Faculty of Management and Social Communication, Institute of Applied Psychology, Jagiellonian University, 30-348 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Anna Kamińska
- Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-121 Kraków, Poland; (A.K.); (A.C.)
| | - Aneta Cebula
- Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-121 Kraków, Poland; (A.K.); (A.C.)
| | - Justyna Godos
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
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Pietrzak A, Kęska A, Iwańska D. Diet Inflammatory Index among Regularly Physically Active Young Women and Men. Nutrients 2023; 16:62. [PMID: 38201892 PMCID: PMC10780425 DOI: 10.3390/nu16010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, special attention has been paid to the relationship between diet and inflammation in the body. A factor that influences both diet and inflammation is physical activity. The aim of this study was to assess the inflammatory potential of the diets of young people engaging in regular physical activity. The participants were physical education students (n = 141 men and n = 151 women). The measurements included basic anthropometric parameters and a 4-day nutritional history from which the dietary inflammatory index (DII) was calculated. The average DII for female students was 2.09 ± 1.52, and that for male students was 0.21 ± 1.69. Consumption of all macro- and micronutrients was significantly higher among women and men with the lowest DII value (corresponding to an anti-inflammatory diet). The female and male students consuming anti-inflammatory diets were characterized by greater lean body mass (LBM), and, for the male students, a lower body fat content, compared to those whose diets were pro-inflammatory. Young and regularly physically active people are also exposed to the pro-inflammatory nature of their diets, whose long-term effects may lead to health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pietrzak
- Department of Human Biology, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Anna Kęska
- Department of Human Biology, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Dagmara Iwańska
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland;
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Zalewska A, Gałczyk M, Mierzejewska A. Fatigue and physical activity levels in poles living in Poland and the United Kingdom in the further year of the COVID-19 pandemic: a pilot study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2260. [PMID: 37974181 PMCID: PMC10655265 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17191-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary assessment of the prevalence of fatigue and level of physical activity, as well as the relationship between fatigue and physical activity among Poles living in Poland and the United Kingdom (UK) in the further year in the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A web-based online survey was conducted among Poles living permanently in Poland and the UK in January 2023. Responses were obtained from 200 respondents aged 18-69 years. The level of fatigue was assessed by the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). The level of physical activity was measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). RESULTS The median for the total fatigue score was equal to 17 points out of a possible 105. 13.5% of the subjects had a low level of physical activity, the average MET for high-intensity activity was 1294.55 METs, for moderate activity 714.44 METs, and for walking 631 METs. As age and number of COVID-19 cases increased, scores on the MFIS questionnaire scale also increased. With an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, high-intensity MET scores decreased. CONCLUSIONS The level of fatigue, in contrast to the level of physical activity, was low in the study population. There were few statistically significant differences in fatigue between people living in Poland and the UK. Further experimental studies on the physiological mechanism of differences in fatigue and physical activity are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Zalewska
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lomza, 14 Akademicka St, Lomza, 18-400, Poland.
| | - Monika Gałczyk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lomza, 14 Akademicka St, Lomza, 18-400, Poland
| | - Aneta Mierzejewska
- Department of Psychology, Apsley Business School London, 2 Apsley House, 176 Upper Richmond Road, SW15 2SH, London, UK
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Mousavinasab F, Karimi R, Taheri S, Ahmadvand F, Sanaaee S, Najafi S, Halvaii MS, Haghgoo A, Zamany M, Majidpoor J, Khosravifar M, Baniasadi M, Talebi M, Movafagh A, Aghaei-Zarch SM, Khorram N, Farnia P, Kalhor K. Microbiome modulation in inflammatory diseases: Progress to microbiome genetic engineering. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:271. [PMID: 37951913 PMCID: PMC10640760 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03095-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in sequencing technology and analytical approaches have allowed researchers to show that the healthy gut microbiome is very varied and capable of performing a wide range of tasks. The importance of gut microbiota in controlling immunological, neurological, and endocrine function is becoming well-recognized. Thereby, numerous inflammatory diseases, including those that impact the gastrointestinal system, as well as less obvious ones, including Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), cancer, gestational diabetes (GD), type 1 diabetes (T1D), and type 2 diabetes (T2D), have been linked to dysbiotic gut microbiota. Microbiome engineering is a rapidly evolving frontier for solutions to improve human health. Microbiome engineering seeks to improve the function of an ecosystem by manipulating the composition of microbes. Thereby, generating potential therapies against metabolic, inflammatory, and immunological diseases will be possible through microbiome engineering. This essay first provides an overview of the traditional technological instruments that might be used for microbiome engineering, such as Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT), prebiotics, and probiotics. Moreover, we will also discuss experimental genetic methods such as Metagenomic Alteration of Gut microbiome by In situ Conjugation (MAGIC), Bacteriophage, and Conjugative plasmids in manipulating intestinal microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ronika Karimi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sima Taheri
- Department of Microbiology, Shahr Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Saameh Sanaaee
- Department of New Science, Faculty of Cellular and Molecular biology, Tehran Medical Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Najafi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Haghgoo
- Department of Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Zamany
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit, Iran University of medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jamal Majidpoor
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Infectious Disease Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Mina Khosravifar
- Institute of Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Mohammad Baniasadi
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Talebi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Movafagh
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyed Mohsen Aghaei-Zarch
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Nastaran Khorram
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Poopak Farnia
- Mycobacteriology Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kambiz Kalhor
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, USA
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Wiśniewski OW, Czyżniewski B, Żukiewicz-Sobczak W, Gibas-Dorna M. Nutritional Behavior in European Countries during COVID-19 Pandemic-A Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3451. [PMID: 37571387 PMCID: PMC10420667 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is highly linked with hyperinflammation and dysfunction of the immune cells. Studies have shown that adequate nutrition, a modifiable factor affecting immunity and limiting systemic inflammation, may play an adjunct role in combating the negative consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Due to the global lockdown conditions, the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed, among others, to restrictions on fresh food availability and changes in lifestyle and eating behaviors. The aim of this paper was to review the data regarding eating habits in European countries within the general population of adults and some specific subpopulations, including obese, diabetic, and psychiatric patients, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PubMed database and the official websites of medical organizations and associations were searched for the phrases "COVID" and "eating habits". Papers regarding the pediatric population, non-European countries, presenting aggregated data from different countries worldwide, and reviews were excluded. During the COVID-19 pandemic, unhealthy lifestyles and eating behaviors were commonly reported. These included increased snacking, intake of caloric foods, such as sweets, pastries, and beverages, and a decline in physical activity. Data suggest that poor eating habits that create a positive energy balance have persisted over time as an additional post-COVID negative consequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oskar Wojciech Wiśniewski
- Department of Cardiology-Intensive Therapy and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 49 Przybyszewskiego Street, 60-355 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Nutrition and Food, Faculty of Health Sciences, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Bartłomiej Czyżniewski
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty Street, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland;
| | - Wioletta Żukiewicz-Sobczak
- Department of Nutrition and Food, Faculty of Health Sciences, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Gibas-Dorna
- Collegium Medicum, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty Street, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland
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6
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Micek A, Bolesławska I, Jagielski P, Konopka K, Waśkiewicz A, Witkowska AM, Przysławski J, Godos J. Association of dietary intake of polyphenols, lignans, and phytosterols with immune-stimulating microbiota and COVID-19 risk in a group of Polish men and women. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1241016. [PMID: 37599696 PMCID: PMC10436747 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1241016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Devastating consequences of COVID-19 disease enhanced the role of promoting prevention-focused practices. Among targeted efforts, diet is regarded as one of the potential factors which can affect immune function and optimal nutrition is postulated as the method of augmentation of people's viral resistance. As epidemiological evidence is scarce, the present study aimed to explore the association between dietary intake of total polyphenols, lignans and plant sterols and the abundance of immunomodulatory gut microbiota such as Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli and the risk of developing COVID-19 disease. Methods Demographic data, dietary habits, physical activity as well as the composition of body and gut microbiota were analyzed in a sample of 95 young healthy individuals. Dietary polyphenol, lignan and plant sterol intakes have been retrieved based on the amount of food consumed by the participants, the phytochemical content was assessed in laboratory analysis and using available databases. Results For all investigated polyphenols and phytosterols, except campesterol, every unit increase in the tertile of intake category was associated with a decrease in the odds of contracting COVID-19. The risk reduction ranged from several dozen percent to 70 %, depending on the individual plant-based chemical, and after controlling for basic covariates it was statistically significant for secoisolariciresinol (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.11-0.61), total phytosterols (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.22-0.95) and for stigmasterols (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.14-0.72). We found an inverse association between increased β-sitosterol intake and phytosterols in total and the occurrence of Escherichia coli in stool samples outside reference values, with 72% (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08-0.86) and 66% (OR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.10-1.08) reduced odds of abnormal level of bacteria for the highest compared with the lowest tertile of phytochemical consumption. Additionally, there was a trend of more frequent presence of Enterococcus spp. at relevant level in people with a higher intake of lariciresinol. Conclusion The beneficial effects of polyphenols and phytosterols should be emphasized and these plant-based compounds should be regarded in the context of their utility as antiviral agents preventing influenza-type infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Micek
- Statistical Laboratory, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Cracow, Poland
| | - Izabela Bolesławska
- Department of Bromatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Paweł Jagielski
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Public Health, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamil Konopka
- Department of Oncology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Waśkiewicz
- Department of Epidemiology, Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, National Institute of Cardiology, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Anna Maria Witkowska
- Department of Food Biotechnology, Medical University of Bialystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Juliusz Przysławski
- Department of Bromatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Justyna Godos
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Martín Giménez VM, Modrego J, Gómez-Garre D, Manucha W, de las Heras N. Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in COVID-19: Modulation and Approaches for Prevention and Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12249. [PMID: 37569625 PMCID: PMC10419057 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation and oxidative stress are critical underlying mechanisms associated with COVID-19 that contribute to the complications and clinical deterioration of patients. Additionally, COVID-19 has the potential to alter the composition of patients' gut microbiota, characterized by a decreased abundance of bacteria with probiotic effects. Interestingly, certain strains of these bacteria produce metabolites that can target the S protein of other coronaviruses, thereby preventing their transmission and harmful effects. At the same time, the presence of gut dysbiosis can exacerbate inflammation and oxidative stress, creating a vicious cycle that perpetuates the disease. Furthermore, it is widely recognized that the gut microbiota can metabolize various foods and drugs, producing by-products that may have either beneficial or detrimental effects. In this regard, a decrease in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA), such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate, can influence the overall inflammatory and oxidative state, affecting the prevention, treatment, or worsening of COVID-19. This review aims to explore the current evidence regarding gut dysbiosis in patients with COVID-19, its association with inflammation and oxidative stress, the molecular mechanisms involved, and the potential of gut microbiota modulation in preventing and treating SARS-CoV-2 infection. Given that gut microbiota has demonstrated high adaptability, exploring ways and strategies to maintain good intestinal health, as well as an appropriate diversity and composition of the gut microbiome, becomes crucial in the battle against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virna Margarita Martín Giménez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas y Tecnológicas, Universidad Católica de Cuyo, San Juan 5400, Argentina;
| | - Javier Modrego
- Laboratorio de Riesgo Cardiovascular y Microbiota, Hospital Clínico San Carlos-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Dulcenombre Gómez-Garre
- Laboratorio de Riesgo Cardiovascular y Microbiota, Hospital Clínico San Carlos-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n. Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Walter Manucha
- Área de Farmacología, Departamento de Patología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza 5500, Argentina;
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Mendoza 5500, Argentina
| | - Natalia de las Heras
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Plaza Ramón y Cajal, s/n. Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Rust P, Ekmekcioglu C. The Role of Diet and Specific Nutrients during the COVID-19 Pandemic: What Have We Learned over the Last Three Years? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5400. [PMID: 37048015 PMCID: PMC10093865 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Nutrients and diets have an important impact on our immune system and infection risk and a huge number of papers have been published dealing with various aspects of nutrition in relation to SARS-CoV-2 infection risk or COVID-19 severity. This narrative review aims to give an update on this association and tries to summarize some of the most important findings after three years of pandemic. The analysis of major studies and systematic reviews leads to the conclusion that a healthy plant-based diet reduces the risks for SARS-CoV-2 infection and especially COVID-19 severity. Regarding micronutrients, vitamin D is to the fore, but also zinc, vitamin C and, to some extent, selenium may play a role in COVID-19. Furthermore, omega-3-fatty acids with their anti-inflammatory effects also deserve attention. Therefore, a major aim of societal nutritional efforts in future should be to foster a high quality plant-based diet, which not only exerts beneficial effects on the immune system but also reduces the risk for non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes or obesity which are also primary risk factors for worse COVID-19 outcomes. Another aim should be to focus on a good supply of critical immune-effective nutrients, such as vitamin D and zinc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Rust
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Vienna, Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Cem Ekmekcioglu
- Department of Environmental Health, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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9
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COVID-19: Reducing the risk via diet and lifestyle. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 21:1-16. [PMID: 36333177 PMCID: PMC9550279 DOI: 10.1016/j.joim.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This review shows that relatively simple changes to diet and lifestyle can significantly, and rapidly, reduce the risks associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in terms of infection risk, severity of disease, and even disease-related mortality. A wide range of interventions including regular exercise, adequate sleep, plant-based diets, maintenance of healthy weight, dietary supplementation, and time in nature have each been shown to have beneficial effects for supporting more positive health outcomes with COVID-19, in addition to promoting better overall health. This paper brings together literature from these areas and presents the argument that non-pharmaceutical approaches should not be overlooked in our response to COVID-19. It is noted that, in several cases, interventions discussed result in risk reductions equivalent to, or even greater than, those associated with currently available vaccines. Where the balance of evidence suggests benefits, and the risk is minimal to none, it is suggested that communicating the power of individual actions to the public becomes morally imperative. Further, many lives could be saved, and many harms from the vaccine mandates avoided, if we were willing to embrace this lifestyle-centred approach in our efforts to deal with COVID-19.
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10
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Forde B, Yao L, Shaha R, Murphy S, Lunjani N, O'Mahony L. Immunomodulation by foods and microbes: Unravelling the molecular tango. Allergy 2022; 77:3513-3526. [PMID: 35892227 PMCID: PMC10087875 DOI: 10.1111/all.15455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic health and immune function are intimately connected via diet and the microbiota. Nearly 90% of all immune cells in the body are associated with the gastrointestinal tract and these immune cells are continuously exposed to a wide range of microbes and microbial-derived compounds, with important systemic ramifications. Microbial dysbiosis has consistently been observed in patients with atopic dermatitis, food allergy and asthma and the molecular mechanisms linking changes in microbial populations with disease risk and disease endotypes are being intensively investigated. The discovery of novel bacterial metabolites that impact immune function is at the forefront of host-microbe research. Co-evolution of microbial communities within their hosts has resulted in intertwined metabolic pathways that affect physiological and pathological processes. However, recent dietary and lifestyle changes are thought to negatively influence interactions between microbes and their host. This review provides an overview of some of the critical metabolite-receptor interactions that have been recently described, which may underpin the immunomodulatory effects of the microbiota, and are of relevance for allergy, asthma and infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Forde
- APC Microbiome Ireland, UCC, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, UCC, Cork, Ireland
| | - Lu Yao
- APC Microbiome Ireland, UCC, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, UCC, Cork, Ireland
| | - Rupin Shaha
- APC Microbiome Ireland, UCC, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, UCC, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Nonhlanhla Lunjani
- APC Microbiome Ireland, UCC, Cork, Ireland.,University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, UCC, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, UCC, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, UCC, Cork, Ireland
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11
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Cheng X, Zhang Y, Li Y, Wu Q, Wu J, Park SK, Guo C, Lu J. Meta-analysis of 16S rRNA microbial data identified alterations of the gut microbiota in COVID-19 patients during the acute and recovery phases. BMC Microbiol 2022; 22:274. [PMCID: PMC9662111 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-022-02686-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Dozens of studies have demonstrated gut dysbiosis in COVID-19 patients during the acute and recovery phases. However, a consensus on the specific COVID-19 associated bacteria is missing. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis to explore whether robust and reproducible alterations in the gut microbiota of COVID-19 patients exist across different populations.
Methods
A systematic review was conducted for studies published prior to May 2022 in electronic databases. After review, we included 16 studies that comparing the gut microbiota in COVID-19 patients to those of controls. The 16S rRNA sequence data of these studies were then re-analyzed using a standardized workflow and synthesized by meta-analysis.
Results
We found that gut bacterial diversity of COVID-19 patients in both the acute and recovery phases was consistently lower than non-COVID-19 individuals. Microbial differential abundance analysis showed depletion of anti-inflammatory butyrate-producing bacteria and enrichment of taxa with pro-inflammatory properties in COVID-19 patients during the acute phase compared to non-COVID-19 individuals. Analysis of microbial communities showed that the gut microbiota of COVID-19 recovered patients were still in unhealthy ecostates.
Conclusions
Our results provided a comprehensive synthesis to better understand gut microbial perturbations associated with COVID-19 and identified underlying biomarkers for microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Are Foods from the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown Low in Nutrients? An Analysis of Chinese Psychological Distress Effects. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14214702. [PMID: 36364964 PMCID: PMC9656422 DOI: 10.3390/nu14214702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The city-wide COVID-19 lockdown has resulted in psychological anguish, which may have an impact on dietary consumption. This study’s dual goals are to show how Chinese food consumption was altered before and after the lockdown, and to examine the nutrient density for the psychologically affected group. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 652 people from Mainland China, Taiwan, and Macao was conducted with the aid of a web-based questionnaire. Sociodemographic characteristics, related environmental factors, nutrient consumption, food recommendations, and psychological distress were all measured. 516 trustworthy data revealed that two nutrient-poor foods were consumed less frequently during the lockdown than they were before to the COVID-19 outbreak (i.e., salty snacks and alcoholic beverages). People who endured high levels of psychological distress in particular tended to consume more. Particularly, those who experienced high levels of psychological distress had a tendency to consume far more alcohol than people who only experienced low levels of stress. Comparing the time before the COVID-19 to the present, there has statistically been an increase in the frequency of family members recommending diets. According to research, by food advice, individuals who experience psychological distress should consume more nutrient-dense foods (78.7%) than nutrient-poor ones (61.9%). Thus, food advice plays a role in mediating the relationship between psychological distress and dietary decisions for nutrient-rich (b = 0.186, p < 0.001) or nutrient-poor (b = 0.187, p < 0.001) food groups. This study provides insights for lowering psychological distress through dietary consumption, where the exact mechanisms underlying these connections have not been thoroughly elucidated. It encourages nutrition research by recommending practical nutrition education from family and environmental activities. Chronic psychological anguish may have a crucial relationship to secure access to food and a balanced diet. Along with nutrition instruction, it is critical to develop skills in interventions such as food procurement and culinary knowledge.
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13
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Venter C, Meyer RW, Greenhawt M, Pali-Schöll I, Nwaru B, Roduit C, Untersmayr E, Adel-Patient K, Agache I, Agostoni C, Akdis CA, Feeney M, Hoffmann-Sommergruber K, Lunjani N, Grimshaw K, Reese I, Smith PK, Sokolowska M, Vassilopoulou E, Vlieg-Boerstra B, Amara S, Walter J, O'Mahony L. Role of dietary fiber in promoting immune health-An EAACI position paper. Allergy 2022; 77:3185-3198. [PMID: 35801383 DOI: 10.1111/all.15430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Microbial metabolism of specific dietary components, such as fiber, contributes to the sophisticated inter-kingdom dialogue in the gut that maintains a stable environment with important beneficial physiological, metabolic, and immunological effects on the host. Historical changes in fiber intake may be contributing to the increase of allergic and hypersensitivity disorders as fiber-derived metabolites are evolutionarily hardwired into the molecular circuitry governing immune cell decision-making processes. In this review, we highlight the importance of fiber as a dietary ingredient, its effects on the microbiome, its effects on immune regulation, the importance of appropriate timing of intervention to target any potential window of opportunity, and potential mechanisms for dietary fibers in the prevention and management of allergic diseases. In addition, we review the human studies examining fiber or prebiotic interventions on asthma and respiratory outcomes, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and overall risk of atopic disorders. While exposures, interventions, and outcomes were too heterogeneous for meta-analysis, there is significant potential for using fiber in targeted manipulations of the gut microbiome and its metabolic functions in promoting immune health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Venter
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Matthew Greenhawt
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Isabella Pali-Schöll
- Comparative Medicine, Messerli Research Institute of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Bright Nwaru
- Krefting Research Centre, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Caroline Roduit
- University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Eva Untersmayr
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karine Adel-Patient
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, INRAE, UMR MTS/SPI/Laboratoire d'Immuno-Allergie Alimentaire (LIAA), INRA, CEA, Université Paris Saclay, Gif sur Yvette Cedex, France
| | | | - Carlo Agostoni
- Pediatric Unit, De Marchi Clinic, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunita, Universita' degli Studi, Milan, Italy
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland.,Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Mary Feeney
- Division of Asthma, Allergy and Lung Biology, Department of Paediatric Allergy, King's College London, London, UK.,Guy's & St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - Karin Hoffmann-Sommergruber
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nonhlanhla Lunjani
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.,University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kate Grimshaw
- Dietetic Department, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Imke Reese
- Private Practice for Dietary Advice and Nutrition Therapy, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter K Smith
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
| | - Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Emilia Vassilopoulou
- Department of Nutritonal Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Berber Vlieg-Boerstra
- OLVG, Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Rijnstate Hospital, Department of Paediatrics, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - Shriya Amara
- Undergraduate, University College Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jens Walter
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Liam O'Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Medicine, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
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14
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Kupcewicz E, Rachubińska K, Gaworska-Krzemińska A, Andruszkiewicz A, Kawalec-Kajstura E, Kozieł D, Młynarska K, Grochans E. Determinants of the Impact of Fatigue on the Health of Polish Nursing Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Clin Med 2022; 11:6034. [PMID: 36294355 PMCID: PMC9605428 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11206034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Lockdown-related fatigue occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic is a complex problem that can be experienced in different social groups. The objective of the current study is to attempt to identify socio-demographic and lifestyle-related factors that determine the impact of fatigue on health in general as well as in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial terms and to determine whether, and to what extent, these were predictors of fatigue in nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) The study was conducted by the diagnostic poll method between 20 March and 15 December 2021 among 894 nursing students at six Polish universities. To collect the data, a validated Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) was used. (3) Students from the age group of ≤20 experienced a significantly greater impact of fatigue on health in general as well as in physical and cognitive terms. The study demonstrated a significant negative relationship between the year of study and the impact of fatigue on health in general terms (r = −0.12; p < 0.0001) and the analyzed health terms, on physical (r = −0.12; p < 0.0001), cognitive (r = −0.10; p < 0.002), and psychosocial (r = −0.07; p < 0.041). In predicting the impact of fatigue on health in general and physical terms, it was the variable related to a reduction in physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic that had the greatest contribution, while for the cognitive and psychosocial functions, it was the number of meals consumed per day. (4) It is recognized that action is needed to reduce the impact of fatigue on student health by modifying the predictors related to student lifestyles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Kupcewicz
- Department of Nursing, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kamila Rachubińska
- Department of Nursing, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Anna Andruszkiewicz
- Department of Basic Clinical Skills and Postgraduate Education for Nurses and Midwifes, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 85-821 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Ewa Kawalec-Kajstura
- Department of Internal Medicine and Community Nursing, Institute of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 30-688 Krakow, Poland
| | - Dorota Kozieł
- Medical College, J. Kochanowski University in Kielce, 25-369 Kielce, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Młynarska
- Department of Nursing, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Grochans
- Department of Nursing, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland
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Proposition of a New POLA Index to Assess the Immunomodulatory Properties of the Diet and Its Relationship with the Gut Microbiota, Using the Example of the Incidence of COVID-19 in a Group of People without Comorbidities. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14204227. [PMID: 36296911 PMCID: PMC9607188 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A rise in the incidence of infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has sparked the search for protective strategies against the new pathogen. It is known that individual food components can interact with different immune cells, modulating the immune response of the body. The aim of this study was to develop an index assessing the immunomodulatory potential of diet (POLA index) and to test its utility for the prediction of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in a group of healthy young people following a traditional or vegetarian diet. Data on body composition, anthropometric measurements, physical activity, dietary intake, and gut microbiota were obtained from 95 adults (mean age, 34.66 ± 5.76 years). There was a strong correlation between the dietary inflammatory index and the POLA index (r = 0.90; p < 0.0001). Based on Cohen’s kappa statistic, there was a good agreement in qualitative interpretation between the two indices (kappa = 0.61; p < 0.0001). People on a diet with beneficial immunomodulatory effects had a lower risk of COVID-19 of approximately 80%, as compared with those on a diet with highly unbeneficial immunomodulatory effects. In daily practice, the POLA index might serve as a useful tool for dietitians to identify individuals whose diet is deficient in ingredients for optimal immune system function and change their dietary behavior to ensure optimal immune function that reduces the risk of infection.
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Suboptimal Consumption of Relevant Immune System Micronutrients Is Associated with a Worse Impact of COVID-19 in Spanish Populations. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14112254. [PMID: 35684054 PMCID: PMC9183133 DOI: 10.3390/nu14112254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a global health crisis and the factors behind its differential impact on COVID-19 among populations are still being known. Geographical differences in nutrient profile could be a relevant factor, especially considering that scientific evidence supports that 10 micronutrients are essential for proper immune system function. This study aims to evaluate these micronutrient intakes in the territories of Spain and to analyze their relationship with epidemiological indicators of COVID-19 from the first two waves of COVID-19, when neither specific vaccines nor drugs had yet come into play. Results showed that vitamin D, A, B9, and zinc intakes were particularly insufficient in Spain. The joint intake of these four micronutrients was lower in regions with the highest COVID-19 incidence and mortality, and of particular importance, was the insufficient intake of vitamin D. A pattern of food consumption associated with lower COVID-19 impact was observed. In conclusion, the results show the relevance of the optimal consumption of foods rich in essential nutrients for the immune system. Therefore, this assessment could serve to launch specific dietary recommendations to strengthen the immune system in Spanish territories to better face potential new COVID-19 variants and/or further infectious diseases.
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