Nutrition and health

Objectives:
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common symptom, but prophylactic measures cannot still be carried out effectively. In addition, the efficacy of vitamin E in preventing peripheral neurotoxicity caused by chemotherapy is inconclusive. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does vitamin E supplementation decrease risk of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs with a total of 488 patients.
The number of participants in each arm ranged from 13 to 96.
The experimental intervention was vitamin E supplementation as an adjuvant to cisplatin, paclitaxel and other chemotherapies.
There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found patients who received vitamin E supplementation of 600 mg/day had a significantly lower incidence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy of 69% [risk ratio = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.65, p = 0.002, I2 = 0%] than the placebo group (group without vitamin E).

The investigators found patients in the cisplatin chemotherapy group who received vitamin E supplementation had a significantly lower incidence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy of 72% [risk ratio = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.14 to 0.54, p = 0.0001, I2 = 0%]  than the placebo group.

The investigators found, moreover, vitamin E supplementation significantly decreased patients’ sural amplitude after 3 rounds of chemotherapy [MD = -2.66, 95% CI = -5.09 to -0.24, p = 0.03, I2 = 0%] in contrast with that of placebo supplementation, while no significant difference was observed when patients were treated with vitamin E after 6 rounds of chemotherapy [MD = -1.28, 95% CI = -3.11 to 0.54, p = 0.17, I2 = 40%].

The investigators found, in addition, the vitamin E-supplemented group had better improvement in the neurotoxicity score and lower incidence of reflexes and distal paraesthesias than the control group.

The investigators concluded that vitamin E supplementation of 600 mg/day decreases risk of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, particularly in the cisplatin chemotherapy group. More high-quality trials with standardized reporting of clinical outcomes about peripheral neuropathy are needed to explore the exact role of vitamin E in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Original title:
Protective Effects of Vitamin E on Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials by Miao H, Li R [...], Wen Z.

Link:
https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/515620

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vitamin E and cancer right here.

Objectives:
The efficacy of dendritic cell vaccine for newly diagnosed glioblastoma remains controversial. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does dendritic cell vaccine provide benefits for the newly diagnosed glioblastoma?

Study design:
This review article included 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found overall, compared with control group for newly diagnosed glioblastoma, dendritic cell vaccine showed no substantial effect on:
-median overall survival [SMD = 0.11, 95% CI = -0.18 to 0.41, p = 0.45];
-median progression-free survival [SMD = 0.12, 95% CI = -0.24 to 0.48, p = 0.50];
-progression-free survival rate [risk ratio = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.82 to 2.04, p = 0.27];
-overall survival rate [risk ratio = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.61 to 2.72, p = 0.50] or;
-nervous system disorders [risk ratio = 0.80, 95% CI= 0.59 to 1.08, p = 0.14].

The investigators concluded dendritic cell vaccine provides no obvious benefits for the newly diagnosed glioblastoma.

Original title:
The Efficacy of Dendritic Cell Vaccine for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Studies by Tan L, Peng J, […], Wu Q.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34767325/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on RCTs/cohort/significantly/review article and cancer right here.

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen-presenting cells that link innate and adaptive immunity and are critical for the induction of protective immune responses against pathogens.

Glioblastoma is an aggressive type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord.

Objectives:
Does breastfeeding reduce risk of ovarian cancer in women with BRCA1 mutation or BRCA2 mutation?

Study design:
This review article included 1 cohort study and 4 case-control studies with a total of 14,601 women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.

There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found ever having performed breastfeeding significantly reduced risk of ovarian cancer with 23.3% [pooled OR = 0.767, 95% CI = 0.688 to 0.856, I2 = 0%] in women with BRCA1 mutation.

The investigators found ever having performed breastfeeding non-significantly reduced risk of ovarian cancer with 18.3% [pooled OR = 0.817, 95% CI = 0.650 to1.028, I2 = 0%] in women with BRCA2 mutation.

The investigators found breastfeeding for >1 year significantly reduced risk of ovarian cancer with 21.3% [pooled OR = 0.787, 95% CI = 0.682 to 0.907, I2 = 0%] in women with BRCA1 mutation.

The investigators found breastfeeding for >1 year significantly reduced risk of ovarian cancer with 43.3% [pooled OR = 0.567, 95% CI = 0.400 to 0.802, I2 = 0%] in women with BRCA2 mutation.

The investigators concluded that ever having performed breastfeeding reduces risk of ovarian cancer in women with BRCA1 mutation and breastfeeding for >1 year reduces risk of ovarian cancer in women with BRCA2 mutation.

Original title:
The preventive effect of breastfeeding against ovarian cancer in BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Eoh KJ, Park EY, […], Lim MC.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34304906/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on breastfeeding and cancer right here.

Objectives:
Do chair-based exercise programmes improve upper extremity and lower extremity function in older adults?

Study design:
This review article included 25 studies with a total of 1,388 participants.
19 studies were randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

The chair exercises included chair-based yoga, seated tai chi and rocking chair. The interventions lasted between 2 and 72 weeks, with the most common duration being 12 weeks, delivering 2 to 14 sessions per week. Sessions lasted between 15 and 110 minutes.

There was considerably heterogeneity in the age range of participants included.
The mean age of participants in studies ranges from 55 to 88 years.
17 studies had a low risk of bias and 5 had a high risk of bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that chair-based exercise programmes significantly improved upper extremity [handgrip strength: MD = 2.10, 95% CI = 0.76 to 3.43, I2 = 42% and 30 s arm curl test: MD = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.34 to 4.31, I2 = 71%] and lower extremity function [30 s chair stand: MD = 2.25, 95% CI = 0.64 to 3.86, I2 = 62%].

The investigators found no significant differences in the Berg balance scale, timed up and go test or gait speed between the intervention and control groups. Similarly, no significant differences were observed for self-reported activities of daily living or for falls efficacy, which were analyzed using standardised mean difference between the intervention and control groups as there were different instruments used to measure each outcome.

The investigators concluded that chair-based exercise programmes improve upper extremity (handgrip strength and 30 s arm curl test) and lower extremity (30 s chair stand) function in older adults. These changes are observed in short (12 weeks) and medium term (12 weeks to 6 months) interventions.

Original title:
The Effect of Chair-Based Exercise on Physical Function in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Klempel N, Blackburn NE, […], Tully MA.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7920319/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on elderly and sport nutrition right here.

Upper extremity is part of the body that includes the arm, wrist and hand.
Lower extremity refers to the part of the body from the hip to the toes.

Objectives:
Previous studies have provided limited evidence for the effect of carrot intake on bladder cancer incidence. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between dietary carrot intake and bladder cancer incidence?

Study design:
This review article included 3 cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in a meta-analyse of 3 cohort studies no significant association between dietary carrot intake and bladder cancer risk [summary HR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.95 to 1.10, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.859].

The investigators concluded that there is no association between dietary consumption of carrot and the risk of bladder cancer.

Original title:
Association of Dietary Carrot Intake With Bladder Cancer Risk in a Prospective Cohort of 99,650 Individuals With 12.5 Years of Follow-Up by Xu X, Zhu Y, […], Xia D.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8349976/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on carrot consumption and cancer right here.

Objectives:
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation has been proposed as a potential therapy for cancer-related malnutrition, which affects up to 70% of patients with cancer. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do patients with cancer benefit from oral omega-3 PUFA supplements?

Study design:
This review article included 31 RCTs.
Trials supplementing ≥600 mg/d omega-3 PUFA (oral capsules, pure fish oil or oral nutritional supplements) compared with a control intervention for ≥3 weeks.

The Cochrane risk of bias tool graded most trials as “unclear” or “high” risk of bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analyses showed no significant difference between omega-3 PUFA supplements and control intervention on muscle mass, quality of life and body weight.

The investigators found oral omega-3 PUFA supplements significantly reduced the likelihood of developing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy with 80% [OR = 0.20, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.40, p 0.001, I2 = 0%].  

The investigators concluded that oral omega-3 PUFA supplementation may reduce the incidence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in patients with cancer. May reduce because most trials were graded as “unclear” or “high” risk of bias.

Original title:
The effect of oral omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on muscle maintenance and quality of life in patients with cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Lam CN, Watt AE, [...], van der Meij BS.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34130028/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on omega- 3 fatty acids and cancer right here.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most frequent side effects caused by antineoplastic agents. Antineoplastic drugs are medications used to treat cancer. Antineoplastic drugs are also called anticancer, chemotherapy, chemo, cytotoxic or hazardous drugs.

Objectives:
There appears to be a sex-specific association between obesity and colorectal neoplasia in patients with Lynch Syndrome (LS). Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does obesity (BMI>30) increase colorectal cancer in patients with Lynch Syndrome?

Study design:
This review article included 3 prospective cohort studies with 2,463 subjects (persons), of which 735 subjects with colorectal cancer.

All studies with a prospective study design (cohort studies) expressed the association between obesity and colorectal cancer in terms of adjusted HR (95% CI).

There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a twofold risk of colorectal cancer in obese men with Lynch Syndrome compared to nonobese men with Lynch Syndrome [SRR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.23 to 3.55, I2 = 33%].  
No significantly increased risk due to obesity was found for women [SRR = 1.41, 95% CI = 0.46 to 4.27, I2 = 68%].  

The investigators found a significantly 49% increased colorectal cancer risk for obesity (BMI>30) for subjects with an MLH1 mutation [SRR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.11 to 1.99, I2 = 0%].

The investigators concluded that obesity (BMI>30) increases colorectal cancer in men with Lynch Syndrome, particularly with an MLH1 mutation.

Original title:
A Meta-Analysis of Obesity and Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Patients with Lynch Syndrome: The Impact of Sex and Genetics by Lazzeroni M, Bellerba F, […], Gandini S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8160758

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on cancer and obesity/overweight right here.

Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is an autosomal dominantly inherited disease. People with Lynch syndrome have about a 40% to 80% chance of getting colorectal cancer by age 70. They’re also at risk for cancer of the uterus, ovaries or stomach. And they tend to get cancer at younger ages than other people, often in their 30s and 40s.

An error or mutation, in one copy of the MLH1 gene is one of the causes of Lynch syndrome. Men and women with a mutation in MLH1 have a 52-82% lifetime risk (up to age 70) to develop colon or rectal cancer.
 

Objectives:
Does calcium reduce the risk of incidence and recurrence of colorectal adenomas and advanced adenomas?

Study design:
This review article included 37 relevant clinical trials and observational studies involving over 10,964 cases.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that calcium consumption significantly reduced the risk of colorectal adenomas incidence by 8% [RR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.89 to 0.96].

The investigators found that calcium intake as a food significantly reduced the risk of colorectal adenomas incidence by 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.72 to 0.86].

The investigators found that calcium intake as dairy product significantly reduced the risk of colorectal adenomas incidence by 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.78 to 0.98].

The investigators found, however, calcium supplements did not show a significant effect on colorectal adenomas incidence [RR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.89 to 1.05].

The investigators found that total calcium intake significantly reduced the risk of advanced colorectal adenomas incidence by 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.85].

The investigators found that total calcium intake significantly reduced the risk of recurrence of adenomas by 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.93].

The investigators concluded that natural sources of calcium such as dairy products and foods have more effective role than supplementary calcium in terms of reducing the risk of incidence and recurrence of colorectal adenomas and advanced adenomas.

Original title:
Calcium and dairy products in the chemoprevention of colorectal adenomas: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Emami MH, Salehi M, […], Maghool F.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33951958/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on calcium, dairy products and colorectal cancer right here.

The colorectal adenoma is a benign glandular tumor of the colon and the rectum. It is a precursor lesion of the colorectal adenocarcinoma (colon cancer).

Objectives:
The efficacy and safety of L‐arginine supplements and their effect on maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) remained unclear. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does supplementation with arginine increase VO2 max in healthy people?

Study design:
This review article included 11 RCTs.
The different types of arginine supplements were L‐arginine, arginine aspartate, arginine alpha‐ketoglutarate and arginine in combination with antioxidants.
There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found subgroup analysis showed that arginine in the form of L‐arginine significantly increased VO2 max compared to the other forms [weighted mean difference = 0.11 L/min, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.485].

The investigators concluded that supplementation with L‐arginine alone increases VO2 max compared to the other types of arginine or combined with other metabolites or supplements. Future homogeneous and well‐designed randomized clinical trials are needed to a deep understand of the effects of L‐arginine on VO2 max in healthy human subjects.

Original title:
The effect of L-arginine supplementation on maximal oxygen uptake: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Rezaei S, Gholamalizadeh M, […], Doaei S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7883807/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies on protein and sport nutrition. 

VO2 max is the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilize during exercise. The more oxygen your body can use, the more your muscles can work.

Objectives:
Apart from ruminant fat, trans fatty acids are produced during the partial hydrogenation of vegetable oils, (eg, in the production of ultraprocessed foods). Harmful cardiovascular effects of trans fatty acids are already proven, but the link with cancer risk has not yet been summarized. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does high consumption of dietary trans fat increase risk of cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 17 cohort and case-control studies on breast cancer, 11 cohort and case-control studies on prostate cancer and 9 cohort and case-control studies on colorectal cancer.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that high consumption of dietary total trans fat significantly increased prostate cancer with 49% [OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.95].
Significantly means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found that high consumption of dietary total trans fat significantly increased colorectal cancer with 26% [OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.08 to 1.46].
Significant because OR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 1.08 to 1.46. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found no association between high consumption of dietary total trans fat and the risk of breast cancer [OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.99 to 1.26].
No association ant because OR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.99 to 1.26. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found results were dependent on the fatty acid subtype, with even cancer-protective associations for some partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.

The investigators found enhancing moderators in the positive transfat-cancer relation were gender (direction was cancer-site specific), European ancestry, menopause, older age and overweight.

The investigators concluded that high consumption of dietary total trans fat increases prostate cancer and colorectal cancer. Future studies need methodological improvements (eg, using long-term follow-up cancer data and intake biomarkers). Owing to the lack of studies testing trans-fatty acid subtypes in standardized ways, it is not clear which subtypes (eg, ruminant sources) are more carcinogenic.

Original title:
Dietary trans-fatty acid intake in relation to cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Michels N, Specht IO and Huybrechts I.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34104953/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on trans fat, breast cancer and colorectal cancer right here.

A diet high in trans fat is a diet with more than 1 En% trans fat.

Trans fat can be found in doughnuts, cakes, pie crusts, biscuits, frozen pizza, cookies, crackers and stick margarines and other spreads.

Objectives:
Does prenatal alcohol exposure have adverse effects on pregnancy and birth outcomes?

Study design:
This review article included 33 studies.
The quality assessment identified that 61% of studies were high quality, 30% were average quality and 9% were low quality.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that prenatal alcohol exposure significantly increased the likelihood of placental abruption with 48% [odds ratio = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.37 to 1.60].

The investigators found no association between prenatal alcohol exposure and placenta previa [odds ratio = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.84 to 1.34].

The investigators found that prenatal alcohol exposure significantly reduced placental weight with 51g [95% CI = -82.8g to -19.3g].

The investigators found reports of altered placental vasculature, placental DNA methylation, and gene expression following prenatal alcohol exposure.

The investigators concluded prenatal alcohol exposure increases the likelihood of placental abruption and is associated with decreased placental weight, altered placental vasculature, DNA methylation and molecular pathways. Given the critical role of the placenta in determining pregnancy outcomes, further studies investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying alcohol-induced placental dysfunction are required. Sex-specific placental adaptations to adverse conditions in utero have been well documented; thus, future studies should examine prenatal alcohol exposure-associated placental outcomes separately by sex.

Original title:
Prenatal alcohol consumption and placental outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies by Steane SE, Young SL, […], Moritz KM.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34181895/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on review article/meta-analysis/significantly, alcohol and pregnancy right here.
 

Objectives:
Despite the widespread increase in the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EoCRC), the reasons for this increase remain unclear. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

What are the risk factors of early-onset colorectal cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 20 studies.

With the exception of alcohol consumption, there was considerable heterogeneity among studies [I2 > 60%].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found colorectal cancer history in a first-degree relative was significantly associated with a 4.21-fold enhanced risk of early-onset colorectal cancer [RR = 4.21, 95% CI = 2.61 to 6.79].

The investigators found hyperlipidemia significantly increased risk of early-onset colorectal cancer with 62% [RR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.22 to 2.13].

The investigators found obesity (BMI>30) significantly increased risk of of early-onset colorectal cancer with 54% [RR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.01 to 2.35].

The investigators found compared to non-drinkers, high alcohol consumption significantly increased risk of of early-onset colorectal cancer with 71% [RR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.62 to 1.80].

The investigators concluded that colorectal cancer history in a first-degree relative, hyperlipidemia (a high level of lipids (fats, cholesterol and triglycerides) circulating in the blood), obesity and high alcohol consumption are risk factors of early-onset colorectal cancer. High-quality studies conducted on generalizable populations and that comprehensively examine risk factors for early-onset colorectal cancer are required to inform primary and secondary prevention strategies.

Original title:
Risk Factors for Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis by O'Sullivan DE, Sutherland RL, […], Brenner DR.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33524598/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on obesity, alcohol consumption and colorectal cancer right here.

Early-onset colorectal cancer is colorectal cancer diagnosed in a patient younger than age 50.

 

Objectives:
Does guarana supplementation reduce cancer-related fatigue?

Study design:
This review article included 7 RCTs with a total of 427 cancer patients.
Some studies presented a low risk of bias for all the categories.
Meta-analysis was conducted for 3 studies about breast cancer, which presented sufficient data.

The instruments used to analyze fatigue were the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI), the Chalder Fatigue Scale, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-FATIGUE) and the Piper Scale.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found guarana supplementation did not reduce cancer-related fatigue compared with placebo groups [mean = -0.02, 95% CI = -1.54 to 1.50, p = 0.98] and the quality of evidence according to GRADE was very low.

The investigators concluded that guarana supplementation did not reduce cancer-related fatigue. However, further studies with better methodological quality are needed.

Original title:
The use of guarana (Paullinia cupana) as a dietary supplement for fatigue in cancer patients: a systematic review with a meta-analysis by de Araujo DP, Pereira PTVM, […], Garcia JBS.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34146166/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fruit and cancer right here.

 

Objectives:
Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress (OS) are associated with breast cancer. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as an adjuvant treatment with conventional anti-cancer chemotherapy has been demonstrated to help in the inflammatory process and oxidative stress. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does coenzyme Q10 supplementation reduce levels of inflammatory markers, oxidative stress parameters and matrix metalloproteinases/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (MMPs/TIMPs) in patients with breast cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 9 RCTs.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that coenzyme Q10 supplementation (100 mg/day for 45-90 days) significantly decreased the levels of
-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) [SMD = -1.88, 95% CI = -2. 62 to -1.13, I2 = 93.1%, p 0.001];
-IL-8 [SMD = -2.24, 95% CI = -2.68 to -1.8, I2 = 79.6%, p = 0.001];
-matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) [SMD = -1.49, 95% CI = -1.85 to -1.14, I2 = 76.3%, p = 0.005] and
-matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) [SMD = -1.58, 95% CI = -1.97 to -1.19, I2 = 79.6%, p = 0.002].

The investigators concluded that 100 mg/day coenzyme Q10 supplementation for 45-90 days reduces some of the important markers of inflammation and matrix metalloproteinases in patients with breast cancer. However, further studies with controlled trials for other types of cancer are needed to better understand and confirm the effect of coenzyme Q10 on tumor therapy.

Original title:
Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on inflammation, angiogenesis, and oxidative stress in breast cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Alimohammadi M, Rahimi A, […], Rafiei A.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34008150/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on coenzyme Q10 and breast cancer right here.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a central role in promoting angiogenesis and is over-expressed in breast cancer.

IL-8 is a marker of ER-negative and/or HER2-positive breast cancer.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of zinc-containing, calcium dependent endopeptidases which play a substantial role in breast carcinogenesis through several mechanisms. These mechanisms include remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM), cell proliferation and angiogenesis which promote metastasis and result in tumor progression.

Objectives:
Essential amino acids (EAAs) promote the process of regulating muscle synthesis. Thus, whey protein that contains higher amounts of essential amino acids can have a considerable effect on modifying muscle synthesis. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding the effect of soya and whey protein supplementation on body composition. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does whey protein or soya protein supplementation improve body composition parameters (like lean body mass, body mass, fat mass and body fat percentage) in adults?

Study design:
This review article included 10 RCTs with 596 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a significant increase in lean body mass after whey protein supplementation [WMD = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.15 to 1.67, p = 0.019].
This significant increase was not found for soya protein supplementation.

The investigators found no significant change between whey protein supplementation and body mass, fat mass and body fat percentage.

The investigators found no significant change between soya protein supplementation and body mass, fat mass and body fat percentage.

The investigators concluded that whey protein supplementation improves body composition via increases in lean body mass, without influencing fat mass, body mass and body fat percentage in adults.

Original title:
Comparison of the effect of soya protein and whey protein on body composition: a meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials by Damaghi MP, Mirzababaei A, […], Mirzaei K.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33971994/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies on protein and sport nutrition. 

Objectives:
There is much debate regarding the source/quality of dietary proteins in supporting indices of skeletal muscle anabolism. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

What is the effect of protein source/quality on acute muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and changes in lean body mass (LBM) and strength, when combined with resistance exercise (RE)?  

Study design:
This review article included 27 studies that compared the effects of ≥2 dose-matched, predominantly isolated protein sources of varying "quality”, in young (18-35 y) and older (≥60 y) adults.

3 separate models were employed as follows: 1) protein feeding alone on muscle protein synthesis, 2) protein feeding combined with a bout of resistance exercise on muscle protein synthesis and 3) protein feeding combined with longer-term resistance exercise training (RET) on lean body mass and strength.  

The mean age for the young groups across all 3 models ranged between 20 and 29 y and the older groups were between 61 and 75 y.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found analysis revealed an effect favoring higher-quality protein for postprandial muscle protein synthesis at rest [mean difference (MD) = 0.014%/h, 95% CI = 0.006 to 0.021, p 0.001] and following resistance exercise [MD = 0.022%/h, 95% CI = 0.014 to 0.030, p 0.00001] in young [model 1 = 0.016%/h, 95% CI = -0.004 to 0.036, p = 0.12. Model 2 = 0.030%/h, 95% CI = 0.015 to 0.045, p 0.0001] and older [model 1 = 0.012%/h, 95% CI = 0.006 to 0.018, p 0.001. Model 2 = 0.014%/h, 95% CI = 0.007 to 0.021, p 0.001] adults.  

The investigators found, however, although higher protein quality was significantly associated with superior strength gains with resistance exercise training [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.24 kg, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.45, p = 0.03], no effect was observed on changes to lean body mass [SMD = 0.05 kg, 95% CI = -0.16 to 0.25, p = 0.65].

The investigators concluded that protein quality provides a small but significant impact on indices of muscle protein anabolism in young and older adults. However, further research is warranted to elucidate the importance of protein source/quality on musculoskeletal aging, particularly in situations of low protein intake.

Original title:
Protein Source and Quality for Skeletal Muscle Anabolism in Young and Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Morgan PT, Harris DO, […], Breen L.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8245874/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on protein and sport nutrition right here.

Objectives:
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs; leucine, isoleucine and valine) are essential amino acids involved in immune responses and may have roles in protein malnutrition and sarcopenia (a type of muscle loss (muscle atrophy) that occurs with aging and/​or immobility). Furthermore, certain liver diseases have been associated with a decreased Fischer's ratio (BCAAs to aromatic amino acids; phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan). However, a comprehensive synthesis of the evidence from human controlled studies on the supplemental use of BCAAs during the oncology peri-operative period has not been published. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) supplementation during the oncological surgical period reduce post-operative morbidity from infections and ascites?

Study design:
This review article included 13 RCTs and 6 cohort studies with 2,019 participants.
Mean (or median) ages of the RCTs populations were from 53 to 67 years old and all of the RCTs had a predominantly male population.
9 RCTs (69%) evaluated oral intake of BCAAs and 4 (31%) administered (parenteral) BCAAs intravenously in hospital.
Duration of treatment use in the RCTs ranged from intra-operatively (single intravenous administration) up to a maximum duration of 13 months (oral administration).

Among 13 RCTs, 77% involved liver cancer. Methodological study quality scored substantial risk-of-bias across most RCTs.

Overall, 6 cohort studies were of low methodological quality.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analysis of RCTs showed a 38% significantly decreased risk of post-operative infections in BCAAs group compared to controls [RR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.44 to 0.87, p= 0.006, I2 = 0%, number of RCTs, k = 6, total sample size, n = 389].

The investigators found BCAAs supplementation was also beneficial for ascites [RR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.35 to 0.86, p = 0.008, I2 = 0%, k = 4, n = 296], body weight [MD = 3.24 kg, 95% CI = 0.44 to 6.04, p = 0.02, I2 = 24%, k = 3, n = 196] and hospitalization length [MD = -2.07 days, 95% CI = -3.97 to -0.17, p = 0.03, I2 = 59%, k = 5, n = 362].

The investigators found no differences between BCAAs and controls for mortality, recurrence, other post-operative complications (liver failure, edema, pleural effusion), blood loss, quality of life, ammonia level and prothrombin time.

The investigators found no serious adverse events were related to BCAAs; however, serious adverse events were reported due to intravenous catheters. No safety concerns from observational studies were identified.

The investigators concluded that branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) supplementation during the oncological surgical period may reduce important post-operative morbidity from infections and ascites compared to controls. May reduce because the included studies were of low methodological quality. Therefore, blinded, placebo-controlled confirmatory trials of higher methodological quality are warranted, especially using oral, short-term BCAAs-enriched supplements within the context of recent ERAS programs.

Original title:
Are Supplemental Branched-Chain Amino Acids Beneficial During the Oncological Peri-Operative Period: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Cogo E, Elsayed  M, […], Papadogianis P.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7930658/

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Ascites is the buildup of fluid in the space around the organs in the abdomen. When ascites is caused by cancer, it is called malignant ascites.
 

Objectives:
Due to the rapid increase of primary liver cancer incidence and the poor prognosis, it is imperative to identify new modifiable factors such as diet and nutrition for the prevention of liver cancer. Diet high in saturated fatty acids (SFA) has been hypothesized to be associated with increased risk of cancers. However, the associations between dietary fatty acids and liver cancer are not consistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a diet high in saturated fatty acids or cholesterol increase risk of liver cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 14 prospective cohort studies with 15,890 liver cancer cases.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest dietary saturated fat versus lowest intake, a significantly increased risk of 34% [RR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.06 to 1.69, I2 = 16.9%, n = 5] for liver cancer.

The investigators found for every increase with 1 En% saturated fat, a significantly increased risk of 4% [RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.07, I2 = 16.8%, n = 5] for liver cancer.

The investigators found per 0.1-unit increase in ratio of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA): saturated fat (SFA), a significantly decreased risk of 9% [RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.86 to 0.95] for liver cancer.

The investigators found per 0.1-unit increase in ratio of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA):saturated fat (SFA), a significantly decreased risk of 6% [RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.90 to 0.97] for liver cancer.

The investigators found for every increase with 100 mg dietary cholesterol intake per day, a significantly increased risk of 16% [RR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.07, I2 = 0%, n = 2] for liver cancer.

The investigators found for the highest serum total cholesterol levels versus lowest levels, a significantly decreased risk of 58% [RR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.33 to 0.54, I2 = 90.7%, n = 7] for liver cancer.

The investigators found for the highest serum total cholesterol levels versus lowest levels, a significantly decreased risk of 61% [RR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.27 to 0.57] for liver cancer among men. 

The investigators found for the highest serum total cholesterol levels versus lowest levels, a significantly decreased risk of 69% [RR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.26 to 0.38] for liver cancer among women. 

The investigators found for every increase with 1 mmol/L in serum cholesterol level, a significantly decreased risk of 28% [RR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.69 to 0.75, I2 = 75.3%, n = 7] for liver cancer.

The investigators found for every increase with 1 mmol/L in serum HDL cholesterol level, a significantly decreased risk of 58% [RR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.27 to 0.64, I2 = 0%, n = 2] for liver cancer.

The investigators found these findings were generally robust and stable in sensitivity analyses.

The investigators concluded there is an increased risk for dietary saturated fat with liver cancer using both category and dose-response analyses. Higher ratios of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA):saturated fat (SFA) and unsaturated fatty acids (UFA):saturated fat (SFA) are associated with a lower risk of developing liver cancer. Higher serum total and HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk of liver cancer with high between-studies variability.

Original title:
Dietary Fats, Serum Cholesterol and Liver Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies by Zhao L, Deng C, [...], Zhang X.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8037522/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fat and cholesterol consumption and cancer right here.

A diet high in saturated fat (unhealthy fat) is a diet with more than 10 En% saturated fat.

The easiest way to follow a diet with more than 10 En% saturated fat is to choose only products/meals that also contain more than 10 En% saturated fat. Check here which products contain more than 10 En% saturated fat.

More than 10% saturated fat means that the total amounts of saturated fat make up more than 10% of the total kcal of the diet. So a 2000 kcal diet with more than 10 En% saturated fat contains more than 22 grams of saturated fat. 22 grams of saturated fat provides 22x9 kcal = 198 kcal. 198 kcal is 10% of 2000 kcal.

However, products with more than 10 En% saturated fat are unhealthy products.

Objectives:
Does mushroom dietary intake reduce risk of cancer at any site?

Study design:
This review article included 11 case-control studies and 6 cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found higher mushroom consumption significantly reduced total cancer with 34% [pooled RR for the highest compared with the lowest consumption groups = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.55 to 0.78, n = 17].

The investigators found higher mushroom consumption significantly reduced breast cancer with 35% [pooled RR for the highest compared with the lowest consumption groups = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.52 to 0.81, n = 10].

The investigators found higher mushroom consumption significantly reduced nonbreast cancer with 20% [pooled RR for the highest compared with the lowest consumption groups = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.97, n = 13].

The investigators found there was evidence of a significant nonlinear dose-response association between mushroom consumption and the risk of total cancer [p-nonlinearity = 0.001, n = 7].

The investigators concluded higher mushroom consumption reduces risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer.

Original title:
Higher Mushroom Consumption Is Associated with Lower Risk of Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies by Ba DM, Ssentongo P, […], Richie JP.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33724299/

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Find more information/studies on vegetables consumption and breast cancer right here.

Objectives:
Controversial results of the association between green tea consumption and risk for esophageal cancer (EC) were reported by previous meta-analysis. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does green tea consumption reduce esophageal cancer risk?

Study design:
This review article included 14 studies with a total of 5,057 esophageal cancer cases among 493,332 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in the dose-response analysis, no association for a 1 cup/d increase in green tea and esophageal cancer risk [the summary OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.95 to 1.04, I2 = 77%].

The investigators found no nonlinearity association was observed between tea consumption and risk for esophageal cancer [p = 0.71 for nonlinearity].

The investigators found in the subgroup analysis of sex, a significantly reduced risk of 21% for esophageal cancer among women for a 1 cup/d increase in green tea [summary OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.68 to 0.91, I2 = 0%].
However, this reduced risk was not found for men [summary OR for a 1 cup/d increase in green tea = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.95 to 1.11, I2 = 67%].
Significant because OR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 0.68 to 0.91. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators concluded that a 1 cup/d increase in green tea consumption reduces esophageal cancer among women. Notably, these findings might be influenced by limited studies and potential bias, such as dose of green tea assessment and select bias of case-control studies. Further larger number, prospective and well-designed larger-scale studies are needed to provide more precise evidence, especially in women and more regions (United States and Europe).

Original title:
Green tea consumption and risk for esophageal cancer: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Zhao H, Mei K, […], Lixia Xie L.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33744644/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on green tea consumption and cancer right here.

Objectives:
The etiology of cancer type may vary significantly due to anatomy, embryology and physiology of the cancer site. Although the association between potato consumption and colorectal cancer (CRC) was summarized in a 2018 meta-analysis of 5 cohort studies, however, no meta-analysis has evaluated potato consumption in relation to multiple cancer sites in adults. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do potato intakes increase multiple cancer sites risk?

Study design:
This review article included 20 prospective cohort studies (with a total of 785,348 participants, of which 19,882 incident cases (persons with cancer)) and 36 case-control studies ( with a total of 21,822 cases (persons with cancer) and 66,502 controls (persons without cancer)).

Certainty of the evidence was low for total cancer, colorectal cancer, colon, rectal, renal, pancreatic, breast, prostate and lung cancer and very low for gastric and bladder cancer.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found among cohort studies, no association between high versus low intake of total potato (white and yellow) consumption and overall cancers [RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.96 to 1.11, tau2 = 0.005, n = 18].

The investigators found no relation between total potato consumption (high compared with low intake) and risk of colorectal, pancreatic, colon, gastric, breast, prostate, kidney, lung or bladder cancer in cohort or case-control studies.

The investigators found no association between high versus low consumption of potato preparations (boiled/fried/mashed/roasted/baked) and risk of gastrointestinal-, sex-hormone-, or urinary-related cancers in cohort or case-control studies.

The investigators concluded that potato intakes or potato preparations are not associated with multiple cancer sites when comparing high and low intake categories. This finding is consistent with the findings from the 2018 meta-analysis regarding potato intake and risk of colorectal cancer.

Original title:
Potato Consumption and Risk of Site-Specific Cancers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies by Mofrad MD, Mozaffari H, […], Azadbakht L.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33861304/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on potato consumption and cancer right here.

Objectives:
Does tart cherry (TC) supplementation improve recovery following strenuous exercise?

Study design:
This review article included 14 studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found tart cherry supplementation had a small significant beneficial effect in reducing muscle soreness [effect size (ES) = -0.44, 95% CI = -0.87 to -0.02].

The investigators found a moderate significant beneficial effect was observed for recovery of muscular strength [ES = -0.78, 95% CI = -1.11 to -0.46] for tart cherry supplementation.

The investigators found a moderate significant effect was observed for muscular power [ES = -0.53, 95% CI = -0.77 to -0.29] for tart cherry supplementation.
A further subgroup analysis on this variable indicated a large significant effect of tart cherry supplementation on recovery of jump height [ES = -0.82, 95% CI = -1.18 to -0.45] and a small significant effect of tart cherry supplementation on sprint time [ES = -0.32, 95% CI = -0.60 to -0.04]. 

The investigators found a small significant effect was observed for both C-reactive protein [ES = -0.46, 95% CI = -0.93 to -0.00] and Interleukin-6 [ES = -0.35, 95% CI = -0.68 to -0.02] for tart cherry supplementation.

The investigators found no significant effects were observed for creatine kinase and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) for tart cherry supplementation. 

The investigators concluded that tart cherry supplementation improves aspects of recovery from strenuous exercise.

Original title:
Tart Cherry Supplementation and Recovery From Strenuous Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Hill JA, Keane KM, […], Howatson G.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33440334/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies on fruit and sport nutrition. 

Objectives:
Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) are deleterious fat deposits in the human body and can be effectively reduced by exercise intervention. Despite well-established exercise prescriptions are available, the effective dosage of exercise for reducing VAT requires verification. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

What is the most effective exercise dosage (modality, intensity, duration and amount) for decreasing visceral adipose tissue (VAT)?

Study design:
This review article included 32 RCTs with a total of 1,900 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that 30-60 min of high-intensity interval training, 3 times per week for 12 to 16 weeks [SMD = -0.39, 95% CI = -0.60 to -0.18] and 30-60 min of aerobic exercise of at least moderate intensity, 3 times per week for 12 to 16 weeks [SMD = -0.26, 95% CI = -0.38 to -0.13] were beneficial for reducing visceral adipose tissue.

The investigators found, by contrast, resistance exercise, aerobic exercise combined with resistance exercise and sprint interval training had no significant effects on reducing visceral adipose tissue.

The investigators found no difference in visceral adipose tissue reduction was observed between exercising more or less than 150 minutes per week.

The investigators found meta-regression revealed that the effect of visceral adipose tissue reduction was not significantly influenced by an increase in the duration of or amount of exercise in an exercise program.

The investigators concluded that 30-60 min of high-intensity interval training, 3 times per week for 12 to 16 weeks and 30-60 min of aerobic exercise of at least moderate intensity, 3 times per week for 12 to 16 weeks causally reduce visceral adipose tissue.

Original title:
Effect of exercise intervention dosage on reducing visceral adipose tissue: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Chang YH, Yang HY and Shun SC.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33558643/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about fat and sport nutrition. 

A causal relationship can be found in RCTs.

High intensity interval trainings are:
-using a stationary bike, pedal as hard and fast as possible for 30 seconds.
-after jogging to warm up, sprint as fast as you can for 15 seconds.
-perform squat jumps as quickly as possible for 30 to 90 seconds.

Objectives:
Does citrus dietary intake reduce the risk of lung cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 21 observational studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found pooled analyses showed that those with the highest citrus fruit dietary intake compared to the lowest intake had a 9% reduction in lung cancer risk [OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.98].

The investigators found a nonlinear association between citrus dietary intake and lung cancer risk in the dose-response analysis [p = 0.0054] and that the risk reached the minimum [OR = 0.91] around 60 g/d.
However, no obvious dose-response association was observed with intakes above 80 g/d.

The investigators concluded that citrus fruit dietary intake is negatively associated with the risk of lung cancer. Besides, there is a nonlinear dose-response relationship between citrus fruit dietary intake and lung cancer risk within a certain range (60-80g per day).

Original title:
Citrus fruit intake and lung cancer risk: A meta-analysis of observational studies by Wang J, Gao J, [...], Qian BY.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33529754/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fruit consumption and cancer right here.

Citrus fruits include oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits.

Objectives:
Does a low selenium level in human tissues increase the risk of breast cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 18 case-control studies with 3,374 women diagnosed with breast cancer (case group) and 3,582 healthy controls (women without breast cancer).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found selenium level of the case group (group with women diagnosed with breast cancer) was significantly lower than the control group (group with women without breast cancer) [-0.53 μg/L, 95% CI = -0.72 to -0.34, p 0.001].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis that serum selenium level of the case group was significantly lower than the control group [-1.14 μg/L, 95% CI = -1.70 to -0.58, p 0.001].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis that plasma selenium level of the case group was significantly lower than the control group [-0.21 μg/L, 95% CI = -0.37 to -0.04, p 0.014].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis that selenium level of toenail of the case group was significantly lower than the control group [-0.21 μg/L, 95% CI = -0.38 to -0.03, p 0.021].

The investigators concluded that a low selenium level in human tissues increases the risk of breast cancer, which may improve the understanding of the effects of selenium on human health.

Original title:
Relationship Between Selenium in Human Tissues and Breast Cancer: a Meta-analysis Based on Case-Control Studies by Zhu X, Pan D, […], Sun G.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33420696/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on selenium and breast cancer right here.