Nutrition and health

Objectives:
Taurine plays a pivotal role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, blood pressure homeostasis and obesity largely due to its cytoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Despite promising data from animal studies in this scenario, the efficacy of taurine supplementation in human studies has been inconsistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does taurine supplementation lower blood pressure and improve the lipid profile in patients with liver dysregulation?

Study design:
This review article included 12 RCTs.
Most studies were conducted in patients with liver or metabolic dysregulation (diabetes, hepatitis, fatty liver, obesity, cystic fibrosis, chronic alcoholism and cardiac surgery).
The taurine dosage varied from 0.5 to 6 g/d for 15 days to 6 months.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that taurine administration (supplementation) had a significant effect of on systolic blood pressure [WMD = -4.67 mm Hg, 95% CI = -9.10 to -0.25], diastolic blood pressure [WMD = -2.90 mm Hg, 95% CI = -4.29 to -1.52], total cholesterol levels [WMD = -10.87 mg/dL, 95% CI = -16.96 to -4.79] and triglycerides levels [WMD = -13.05 mg/dL, 95% CI = -25.88 to -0.22]. 

The investigators found, however, that taurine administration had no effect on fasting blood glucose [WMD = 0.06 mg/dL], HDL cholesterol [WMD = 0.90 mg/dL], LDL cholesterol [WMD = -6.17 mg/dL], as well as on body mass index [WMD = -0.46 kg/m²] and body weight [WMD = -0.47 kg] as the anthropometric measures.

The investigators concluded that, in patients with liver dysregulation, taurine supplements (0.5 to 6 g/d for 15 days to 6 months) reduce blood pressure and improve the lipid profile by reducing total cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Original title:
The effects of taurine supplementation on obesity, blood pressure and lipid profile: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Guan L and Miao P.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32871172/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about taurine consumption and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The main sources of taurine are animal foods, such as meat, fish and dairy products.

Objectives:
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) causes the irreversible destruction of pancreatic beta cells. The Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine can modulate the immune response and decelerate disease progression. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus benefit from the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine?

Study design:
This review article included 4 RCTs. The sample sizes ranged from 6 to 94, with a total of 198 subjects. The mean age of the examinees ranged from 10.1 to 36.0 years and the follow-up duration ranged from 1 to 8 years.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the pooled meta-analysis demonstrated no significant difference in HbA1c levels [MD = -0.12, 95% CI = -0.53 to 0.30, I2 = 56%] or fasting C-peptide levels [MD = -0.15, 95% CI = -0.35 to 0.06, I2 = 0%] in the BCG intervention group as compared with that in the placebo group.
The results remained unchanged after removing each study in the sensitivity analysis.

The investigators concluded there is no robust evidence to support the use of the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus although the HbA1c levels tend to improve. Additional RCTs to assess the long-term effects of the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine on glycemic control are warranted.

Original title:
Therapeutic Effects of BCG Vaccination on Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials by Chang YC, Lin CJ, […], Hsu HY.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7139880/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vaccination, diabetes mellitus and malnutrition right here.

Objectives:
A dietary protein intake (DPI) of between 0.6 and 0.8 g protein per kilogram body weight per day (g/kg/day) is frequently recommended for adults with moderate-to-advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, evidence on whether patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD) actually benefit from a DPI of ≤ 0.8 g/kg/day and from a low-protein diet (LPD) at CKD stages 1-3 has not been consistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do patients with diabetic kidney disease benefit from a dietary protein intake of 0.8 g protein per kilogram body weight per day (g/kg/day)?

Study design:
This review article included 9 RCTs with a total of 506 participants and follow-up periods varying from 4.5 to 60 months.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that patients with diabetic kidney disease who consumed 0.8 g protein/kg/day had a significantly reduced decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) [MD = 22.31 mL/min/1.73 m², 95% CI = 17.19 to 27.42, p 0.01] and a significant decrease in proteinuria [SMD = -2.26 units, 95% CI = -2.99 to -1.52, p 0.001] versus those on the control diet.

The investigators found the benefits of a low-protein diet to patients with diabetic kidney disease at chronic kidney disease stages 1-3 were a markedly decreased proteinuria [SMD - 0.96 units, 95% CI = -1.81 to -0.11, p = 0.03] and slight but significant decreases in glycated hemoglobin [-0.42%] and cholesterol levels [-0.22 mmol/L].

The investigators concluded that a dietary protein intake of 0.8 g/kg/day is strongly associated with a slow decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and decreases proteinuria in the patients with diabetic kidney disease. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages chronic kidney disease 1-3 benefit from a low-protein diet in terms of a marked decrease of proteinuria and slight but significant improvements in lipid and glucose control.  

Original title:
Diabetic Kidney Disease Benefits from Intensive Low-Protein Diet: Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis by Li Q, Wen F, [...], Wang W.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150563/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about protein consumption and kidney disease.

For example: you are a patient with diabetic kidney disease, you weigh 70 kg and you want to eat 2200 kcal every day. How should you meet a dietary protein intake of 0.8 g protein per kilogram body weight per day (g/kg/day) in daily life?
Every day you should take maximal 0.8 g protein x 70 kg = 56 g protein. 56 g protein give 56x4 kcal = 224 kcal. 224 kcal is around 10% of 2200 kcal. Thus, you should eat products whose protein content contributes maximum 10% to the total kcal of the product in question, meaning you should eat products with 10 En% protein. These products in the supermarket contain maximum 10 En% protein.

Thus, a dietary protein intake of 0.8 g protein per kilogram body weight per day (g/kg/day) for a person weighing 70 kg on a diet of 2200 kcal, means he/she should eat products with maximum 10 En% protein in daily life.
 

Objectives:
Does fish consumption reduce risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and all-cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D)?

Study design:
This review article included 9 prospective cohort studies with 57,394 diabetic patients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of fish consumption, a significantly reduced risk of 14% [relative risk = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.76 to 0.96, I2 = 50%, n = 8] for all-cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of fish consumption, a significantly reduced risk of 39% [relative risk = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.29 to 0.93, I2 = 68%, n = 3] for coronary heart disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found there was a monotonic inverse association, with a nadir at fish consumption of approximately 2-3 servings/week, in both analyses.

The investigators concluded 2-3 servings/week of fish consumption reduce risk of all-cause mortality and coronary heart disease in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Original title:
Fish consumption and the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes: a dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies by Jayedi A, Soltani S, […], Shab-Bidar S.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32410513/

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Find more information/studies on fish consumption, cardiovascular disease and diabetes right here.
 

Objectives:
Soy products contain several compounds with anti-inflammatory properties like genistein and daidzein which reported to act through different pathways. However, there are inconsistent results and lack of any comprehensive review regarding randomized controlled trials which assess the effect of soy products on inflammatory markers. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does soy product supplementation reduce levels of inflammatory markers, like CRP, IL-6?

Study design:
This review article included 51 RCTs.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found soy product supplementation significantly reduced CRP levels [MD = -0.27 mg/L, 95% CI = -0.51 to -0.02, p = 0.028] but it did not affect IL-6 [MD = 0.0 pg/mL, 95% CI = -0.06 to 0.06, p = 0.970] and TNF-α [MD = -0.04 pg/mL, 95% CI = -0.11 to 0.03, p = 0.252].

The investigators found subgroup analysis showed that soy supplementation had a significant impact on decreasing IL-6 and TNF-α levels when studies had a long-term intervention (≥12 weeks) and used low dose isoflavone (100 mg/day).

The investigators concluded there is a significant reduction in CRP levels after soy product supplementation.

Original title:
The effects of soy supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Asbaghi O, Yaghubi E, […], Ghaedi E.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32979840/

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Find here more information/studies about soy consumption and chronic disease.

Objectives:
There is some inconclusive evidence for the role of fish consumption in susceptibility to multiple sclerosis (MS). Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does fish consumption reduce multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Study design:
This review article included 6 observational studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that the consumption of fish (at least 0.5 servings of fish per week) significantly decreased the risk of multiple sclerosis with 23% [OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.64 to 0.92, p-value = 0.004, I2 = 54.7%] compared with controls.

The investigators concluded that dietary intake of at least 0.5 servings of fish per week during adolescence and after reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis; however, further studies are required to prove this preventive effect.

Original title:
Dietary fish intake and the risk of multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies by Rezaeizadeh H, Mohammadpour Z, […], Homayon IA.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32787642/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about fish consumption.

Objectives:
Does niacin (vitamin B3) supplementation improve lipid profiles and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs comprised a total of 2,110 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Studies published ranged from 1990 to 2016 and 15 to 1,053 patients were included in each individual trial.

The follow-up duration ranged from 8.0 weeks to 12.0 months.

The study quality was assessed using the Jadad scale. 4 studies had 3 scores and the remaining 4 studies had 2 scores.

There was no significant publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found patients’ niacin supplementation was associated with lower levels of total cholesterol [WMD = -0.28, 95% CI = -0.44 to -0.12, p =  0.001], triglyceride [WMD = -0.37, 95% CI = -0.52 to -0.21, p   0 .001] and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol) [WMD = -0.42, 95% CI = -0.50 to -0.34, p    0.001].

The investigators found, moreover, the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (good cholesterol) was significantly increased when niacin supplementation [WMD = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.21 to 0.44, p 0 .001] was provided.

The investigators found, however, niacin supplementation produced no significant effects on plasma glucose [WMD = 0.18, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.50, p = 0 .275] and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels [WMD = 0.39, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.94, p = 0 .158].

The investigators concluded that niacin (vitamin B3) supplementation improves lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol without affecting the glycemic levels for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Additional large-scale RCTs should be conducted to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of niacin supplementation.

Original title:
Effectiveness of niacin supplementation for patients with type 2 diabetes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Xiang D, Zhang Q and Wang YT.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7373507/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on cholesterol, vitamin B3 and diabetes right here.
 

Objectives:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that occurs among the general population. The insulin-lowering and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance-improving effects of inulin are unconfirmed. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do inulin supplements improve HOMA-IR, fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Study design:
This review article included 9 RCTs with a total of 661 participants.

The duration of the interventions ranged from 6 weeks to 12 weeks and the dosage of inulin supplementation ranged from 8.4 g to 10 g per day.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found inulin supplementation significantly improved fasting plasma glucose [SMD = -0.55, 95% CI = -0.73 to -0.36, p = 0.0], HOMA-IR [SMD = -0.81, 95% CI = -1.59 to -0.03, p = 0.042] and HbA1c [SMD = -0.69, 95% CI = -0.92 to -0.46, p = 0.0] in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The investigators found, further subgroup analyses revealed a significant role of inulin supplementation for treatment durations ≥8 weeks [p = 0.038 for insulin, p = 0.002 for HOMA-IR, p = 0.032 for fasting plasma glucose, p = 0 for HbA1c] in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The investigators concluded that daily 8.4-10 grams of inulin supplements for at least 8 weeks improve HOMA-IR, fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Original title:
Efficacy of inulin supplementation in improving insulin control, HbA1c and HOMA-IR in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Zhang W, Tang Y, […], Hu H.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7263925/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fiber and diabetes right here.

Inulin is a type of fiber that's found in certain plant foods. Chicory root is the main source of inulin in supplement form.

Objectives:
The relationship between dietary pattern and the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been described; however, the exclusive role of dietary factors remains controversial. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, dietary fiber, fish, n-3 or n-6 fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins reduce risk of COPD in adults?

Study design:
This review article included 10 cohort, 6 case-control and 20 cross-sectional studies.

To assess usual dietary intake, 28 studies had used food frequency questionnaires (FFQ), of which 2 studies had used FFQ and a 24-hour recall, 3 studies had used the crosscheck dietary method, 1 study had assessed with only 24-hour recall and 1 study had used weighted household food records.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 26% [relative risk = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.65 to 0.85] for COPD for the highest fruit intake group compared with the lowest intake group.
This significantly reduced risk was 29% in cohort studies [RR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.63 to 0.79, I2 = 0.0%].

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 47% [relative risk = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.39 to 0.74, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.65] for COPD mortality for the highest fruit intake group compared with the lowest intake group.

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 35% [relative risk = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.55 to 0.78] for COPD for the highest dietary fiber intake group compared with the lowest intake group.
This significantly reduced risk was 39% in cohort studies [RR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.54 to 0.68, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.9].

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 29% [relative risk = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.58 to 0.85] for COPD for the highest fish intake group compared with the lowest intake group.

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 11% [relative risk = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.76 to 0.99] for COPD for the highest vitamin C dietary intake group compared with the lowest intake group.

The investigators found no association between the risk of COPD and the intake of vegetables, n-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and β-carotene.

The investigators concluded that a higher dietary intake of fruit, dietary fiber, fish and vitamine C reduce the risk of COPD in adults.

Original title:
Dietary Factors and Risk of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis by Seyedrezazadeh E, Moghaddam MP, […], Kolahdooz F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7309892/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about fruit, dietary fiber, fish and vitamine C.

Objectives:
Antioxidant status is considered as important factor in the pathogenesis (the manner of development of a disease) of vitiligo. However, there are controversial findings about serum status of antioxidants in vitiligo patients. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between serum antioxidant level (e.g. vitamin C, E, zinc and selenium) and risk of vitiligo?

Study design:
This review article included 11 studies including 570 vitiligo cases and 580 controls (people without vitiligo).

Serum vitamin A and copper level in vitiligo patients were only evaluated in single studies and not included in meta-analysis.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found based on fixed effect model, there were no statistical difference between two groups regarding serum vitamin C levels [OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.74 to 1.84, p = 0.495] and serum vitamin E levels [OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.30 to 1.25, p = 0.180].

The investigators found in sensitivity analysis, higher serum zinc levels significantly decreased risk of vitiligo with 71% [OR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.15 to 0.54, p 0.001].

The investigators found in sensitivity analysis, higher serum selenium level significantly increased risk of vitiligo with 331% [OR = 4.31, 95% CI = 2.72 to 6.81, p 0.001].

The investigators concluded that higher serum selenium and lower zinc level increase risk of vitiligo. Potential mechanism associated with preventive effects of zinc and the depigmentation effect of selenium should be more elucidated in further studies.

Original title:
Serum Level of Antioxidant Vitamins and Minerals in Patients With Vitiligo, a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Huo J, Liu T, [...], Wang R.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32593085/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about antioxidants, selenium and zinc.

Vitiligo is a long-term condition where pale white patches develop on the skin. It's caused by the lack of melanin, which is the pigment in skin. Vitiligo can affect any area of skin, but it commonly happens on the face, neck and hands and in skin creases.

Objectives:
Does barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.) supplementation improve glycemic markers including fasting blood sugar (FBS) concentrations, insulin levels, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) percentage?

Study design:
This review article included 7 RCTs, comprising 452 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the meta-analysis revealed that barberry supplementation significantly reduced insulin levels [Hedges’s = -0.67, 95% CI = -1.31 to -0.03, p = 0.04, I2 = 73.3%].
However, no significant positive effect was observed for fasting blood sugar levels [WMD = -8.06 mg/dL, 95% CI = -20.46 to 4.33, p = 0.23, I2 = 96.1%], HbA1c percentage [WMD = -0.83%, 95% CI = -2.33 to 0.67, p = 0.27, I2 = 88.3%] and HOMA-IR index [WMD = -0.55, 95% CI = -1.60 to 0.50, p = 0.30, I2 = 99.4%].

The investigators concluded barberry supplementation improves insulin levels.

Original title:
The Effect of Barberry (Berberis Vulgaris L.) on Glycemic Indices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials by Safari Z, Farrokhzad A, […], Askari G.

Link:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229920302235?via%3Dihub

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

Objectives:
Vitamin D deficiency has been related to the risk of sepsis. However, previous studies showed inconsistent results regarding the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 (OH)D) and mortality risk in septic patients. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D level in blood) increase mortality risk in septic patients?

Study design:
This review article included 8 follow-up studies (4 were prospective and the other 4 were retrospective) with 1,736 septic patients.

The sample sizes of the included studies varied from 57 to 610.
The mean ages of the patients included in each study ranged from 57 to 75 years and the proportions of male patients varied from 43% to 71%.

Optimal vitamin D level, vitamin D insufficiency, vitamin D deficiency and severe vitamin D deficiency are defined as serum 25 (OH)D > 30 ng/mL, 21-29 ng/mL and  20 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, respectively.

There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analysis with a random-effect model showed that septic patients with lower serum 25 (OH)D ( 30 ng/ml) at admission was associated with a significantly increased mortality risk of 93% [adjusted RR = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.41 to 2.63, p  0.001, I2 = 63%, p = 0.003].
Sensitivity analysis by excluding one study at a time did not significantly change the results.

The investigators found subgroup analyses according to the severity of vitamin D deficiency showed that patients with severe vitamin D deficiency ( 10 ng/mL) was significantly associated with a 92% higher mortality risk [adjusted RR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.09 to 2.55, p  0.001].
But the associations were not significant for vitamin D insufficiency (25 (OH)D = 20-30 ng/mL) or deficiency (25 (OH)D = 10-20 ng/mL).

The investigators found further analyses showed that the association between lower serum 25(OH) D and higher mortality risk were consistent in studies applied different diagnostic criteria for sepsis (SIRS, Sepsis-2.0 or Sepsis-3.0), short-term (within 1 month) and long-term studies (3-12 months) and in prospective and retrospective studies.

The investigators concluded that severe vitamin D deficiency ( 10 ng/mL) is independently associated with increased mortality in patients with sepsis. Large-scale prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.

Original title:
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and the risk of mortality in adult patients with Sepsis: a meta-analysis by Li Y and Ding S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7057612/

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Find here more information/studies about vitamin D.

Objectives:
A low insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) level is known to be associated with many disorders. Several studies have shown that soy consumption may influence IGF-1, but the findings remain inconclusive. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does soy consumption increase insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) level?

Study design:
This review article included 8 clinical trials.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, overall, a significant increment in plasma IGF-1 was observed following soy intervention [WMD = 13.5 ng/mL, 95% CI = 5.2 to 21.8, I2 = 97%].

The investigators found, subgroup analyses demonstrated a significantly greater increase in IGF-1, when soy was administered at a dosage of ≤40 g/day [WMD = 11.7 ng/mL, 95% CI = 10.9 to 12.6, I2 = 98%] and when the intervention duration was 12 weeks [WMD = 26.6 ng/mL, 95% CI = 9.1 to 44.1, I2 = 0.0%].

The investigators found, in addition, soy intervention resulted in a greater increase in IGF-1 among non-healthy subjects [WMD = 36 ng/mL, 95% CI = 32.7 to 39.4, I2 = 84%] than healthy subjects [WMD = 9.8 ng/mL, 95% CI = 8.9 to 10.7, I2 = 90%].

The investigators concluded ≤40 grams of soy consumption per day during 12 weeks increase the IGF-1 level.

Original title:
The Effect of Soy Intervention on Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Levels: A Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials by Jiawei Zeng J, Feng Y, […], Chen X.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32072706/

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Find more information/studies on subgroup analysis/significant and soja consumption right here.

Objectives:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating and disabling inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Multiple sclerosis is triggered by complex environmental factors which mostly affect genetically the susceptible young people. Emerging data has suggested that changes of homocysteine (Hcy), vitamin B12 and folate serum levels may be associated with multiple sclerosis. However, previous findings are not always consistent. Therefore, this review aricle has been conducted.

Does a low serum homocysteine, vitamin B12 or folate level increase risk of multiple sclerosis?

Study design:
This review article included 21 original studies with 1,738 multiple sclerosis patients and 1,424 controls (patients without multiple sclerosis). There were 17 studies for measuring homocysteine, 16 studies for measuring vitamin B12 and 13 studies for measuring folate in patients with multiple sclerosis, respectively.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) had higher serum levels of homocysteine [SMD = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.33 to 0.95, p 0.0001] compared with control groups.

The investigators found no significant differences of SMD for vitamin B12 [SMD = -0.08, 95% CI = -0.35 to 0.20, p = 0.58] or folate [SMD = 0.07, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.28, p = 0.52] between MS and controls.

The investigators found subgroup analysis demonstrated that there was statistically significant difference for homocysteine between relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients and controls with a SMD of 0.67 [95% CI = 0.21 to 1.13, p = 0.004].

However, no significant difference of homocysteine serum levels between secondary progressive MS patients or primary progressive MS patients and controls.

The investigators found no significant difference of homocysteine levels in females [SMD = 0.22, 95% CI = -0.16 to 0.60, p = 0.25] or males [SMD = 0.56, 95% CI = -0.13 to 1.26, p = 0.11] between MS patients and controls.

The investigators concluded higher serum levels of homocysteine increase risk of multiple sclerosis (MS), especially for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients. Functional studies are required to assess the effects of homocysteine on patients with MS at the molecular level.

Original title:
Serum levels of Homocysteine, Vitamin B12 and Folate in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: an Updated Meta-Analysis by Li X, Yuan J, [...], Hu W.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7085269/

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Find here more information/studies about lowering serum levels of homocysteine.

Objectives:
Physical exercise may offer multiple benefits to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, it was not traditionally recommended because of the possibility of impairing renal function and increasing proteinuria. Therefore, this review aricle has been conducted.

Does low-intensity physical exercise offer benefits to patients with chronic kidney disease?

Study design:
This review article included 21 RCTs with a intervention of at least 12 weeks and 927 patients.

The frequency of low-intensity physical exercise in 14 studies was 3 times per week during 30 minutes.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no differences in glomerular filtration rate or proteinuria between the intervention group (group with low-intensity physical exercise) and the control group (group without low-intensity physical exercise) [SMD = -0.3, p = 0.81 and SMD = 26.6, p = 0.82].

The investigators found positive effects on peak oxygen consumption [SMD = 2.5, p 0.001], functional capacity [SMD = 56.6, p 0.001], upper limb strength [SMD = 6.8, p 0.001] and haemoglobin [SMD = 0.3, p = 0.003] for the intervention group.

The investigators found an improvement on the quality of life, using the KDQOL-36 survey [SMD = 3.56, p = 0.02] and the SF-36 survey [SMD = 6.66, p = 0.02] for the intervention group.

The investigators concluded low-intensity physical exercise routinely has no negative impact on renal function. On the contrary, it improves aerobic and functional capacity, impacting positively on the quality of life.

Original title:
Impact of physical exercise in patients with chronic kidney disease: Sistematic review and meta-analysis by Villanego F, Naranjo J, […], Mazuecos A.

Link:
https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/S0211699520300266?token=62CEB2BCF50CE23B396565B5DC989F795AEEB75C666C74AA410FD2172DB39F90DBBB5D72BF3B4347C0C8AD2FEF8B0110

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

Low-intensity physical exercises are a casual walk, a stretch session, a beginners' yoga class or tai chi.

Objectives:
Does high magnesium dietary intake reduce risk of type 2 diabetes and stroke?

Study design:
This review article included 53 prospective cohort studies with a total of 1,912,634 participants and 76,678 cases (persons with type 2 diabetes or stroke).

Participants were predominately middle aged at baseline (at the beginning of the studies), with a mean magnesium intake of 370 mg/day for the highest category and 232 mg/day for the lowest category.

The mean duration of all eligible studies was 10.7 years.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, when comparing the highest category of magnesium dietary intake (370 mg/day) to the lowest (232 mg/day), a significantly reduced risk of 22% [RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.75 to 0.81, p 0.001, I2 = 35.6%, p = 0.021] for type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found, when comparing the highest category of magnesium dietary intake (370 mg/day) to the lowest (232 mg/day), a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.83 to 0.94, p 0.001, I2 = 0%, p = 0.529] for total stroke.

The investigators found, when comparing the highest category of magnesium dietary intake (370 mg/day) to the lowest (232 mg/day), a significantly reduced risk of 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.95, p = 0.001, I2 = 16.9%, p = 0.265] for ischaemic stroke.

The investigators found in studies adjusted for cereal fiber dietary intake, a significantly reduced risk of 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.85, p 0.001] for type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found in studies adjusted for calcium dietary intake, a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80 to 0.99, p = 0.040] for total stroke.

The investigators found in stratified analyses by characteristics of the population and study design, a significantly reduced risk of 9% [RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.83 to 0.99] for total stroke among female.

The investigators found in stratified analyses by characteristics of the population and study design, a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.79 to 1.00] for ischaemic stroke among female.

The investigators found in stratified analyses by characteristics of the population and study design, a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.82 to 0.96] for total stroke among individuals with BMI ≥25 kg/m².

The investigators found in stratified analyses by characteristics of the population and study design, a significantly reduced risk of 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.96] for ischaemic stroke among individuals with BMI ≥25 kg/m².

The investigators found in stratified analyses by characteristics of the population and study design, a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.83 to 0.95] for total stroke among studies wtith ≥12-year follow-up.

The investigators found in stratified analyses by characteristics of the population and study design, a significantly reduced risk of 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.95] for ischaemic stroke among studies wtith ≥12-year follow-up.

The investigators found for every 100 mg/day increment of magnesium dietary intake, a significantly reduced risk of 6% [RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.93 to 0.95] for type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found for every 100 mg/day increment of magnesium dietary intake, a significantly reduced risk of 2% [RR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.97 to 0.99] for total stroke.

The investigators found for every 100 mg/day increment of magnesium dietary intake, a significantly reduced risk of 2% [RR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.97 to 0.99] for ischaemic stroke.

The investigators concluded magnesium dietary intake has a substantial inverse association with type 2 diabetes and (total/ ischaemic) stroke. Furthermore, female, participants with obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) and with a longer follow-up period (≥12 years) obtain greater benefit from magnesium intake with a lower risk of total and ischaemic stroke incidence. Overall, these findings support the guidelines to address the role of magnesium dietary intake in early prevention strategies to combat type 2 diabetes and stroke. However, additional RCTs are needed in the future to validate the causality.

Original title:
Association of magnesium intake with type 2 diabetes and total stroke: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis by Zhao B, Zeng L, [...], Zhang W.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7103847/

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Objectives:
Is there an association between total meat, red meat, processed meat, poultry and fish intake and risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D)?

Study design:
This review article included 28 prospective cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared with the lowest category, the highest category of total meat intake, significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 33% [summary relative risk = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.16 to 1.52].
Significantly means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found when compared with the lowest category, the highest category of red meat intake, significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 22% [summary relative risk = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.16 to 1.28].
Significantly because summary relative risk of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 1.16 to 1.28. Summary relative risk of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found when compared with the lowest category, the highest category of processed meat intake, significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 25% [summary relative risk = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.37].
Significantly means it can be said with a 95% confidence that the highest category of processed meat intake really increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 25%.

The investigators found no association between highest category of poultry intake and risk of type 2 diabetes [summary relative risk = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.93 to 1.07].
No association because summary relative risk of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.93 to 1.07. Summary relative risk of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found no association between highest category of fish intake and risk of type 2 diabetes [summary relative risk = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.93 to 1.10].

The investigators found in the dose-response analysis, each additional 100g/day of total and red meat and 50g/day of processed meat, were found to be associated with a 36% [95% CI = 1.23 to 1.49], 31% [95% CI = 1.19 to 1.45] and 46% [95% CI = 1.26 to 1.69] increased risk of type 2 diabetes, respectively.

The investigators found, in addition, there was evidence of a non-linear dose-response association between processed meat and type 2 diabetes [p = 0.004], with the risk increasing by 30% with increasing intakes up to 30g/day.

The investigators concluded 100g/day of total meat, 100g/day red meat and 50g/day of processed meat, increase risk of type 2 diabetes.

Original title:
Meat and fish intake and type 2 diabetes: dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies by Yang X, Li Y, […], Li L.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32302686

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Objectives:
Is there a causal relationship between dietary anthocyanins and reduced levels of systemic and vascular inflammation?

Study design:
This review article included 32 RCTs.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that dietary anthocyanins significantly decreased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) [-0.33 mg/L, 95% CI = -0.55 to -0.11, p = 0.00], interleukin-6 (IL-6) [-0.41 ρg/mL, 95% CI = -0.70 to -0.13, p = 0.004], tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) [-0.64 ρg/mL, 95% CI = -1.18 to -0.09, p = 0.023], intercellular adhesion molecule-1 [-52.4 ng/mL, 95% CI = -85.7 to -19.1, p = 0.002] and vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1)  [-49.6 ng/mL, 95% CI = -72.7 to -26.5, p  0.001]. 

The investigators found that dietary anthocyanins significantly increased adiponectin level [0.75 μg/mL, 95% CI = 0.23 to 1.26, p = 0.004].

The investigators found subgroup analyses showed that administration of higher doses of anthocyanins (>300 mg/day) significantly decreased levels of CRP, IL-6, TNF-α and VCAM-1.

The investigators concluded that >300 mg/day dietary anthocyanins reduce the levels of systemic and vascular inflammation in the subjects.

Original title:
Impact of dietary anthocyanins on systemic and vascular inflammation: Systematic review and meta-analysis on randomised clinical trials by Fallah AA, Sarmast E, […], Jafari T.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31669599

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Find here more information/studies about inflammation and anthocyanins.

Inflammation in the body can be measured by the following biomarker; the pro-inflammatory cytokines. The pro-inflammatory cytokines are the C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-1, interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, MCP-1, the vascular adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α).

Objectives:
Is there a causal relationship between intake of pomegranate and decreased risk of getting inflammation in adults?

Study design:
This review article included 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 572 subjects.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared to placebo, that pomegranate supplementation significantly reduced hs-CRP levels [WMD = -6.57 mg/L, 95% CI = -10.04 to -3.10, p = 0.000].

The investigators found when compared to placebo, that pomegranate supplementation significantly reduced IL-6 levels [WMD = -1.68 pg/mL, 95% CI = -3.52 to -0.157, p = 0.000].

The investigators found when compared to placebo, that pomegranate supplementation significantly reduced TNF-α levels [WMD = -2.37 pg/mL, 95% CI = -3.67 to -1.07, p = 0.00].

The investigators found no association between pomegranate supplementation and CRP levels [WMD = 2.19 mg/dL, 95% CI = -3.28 to 7.67, p = 0.61], E-selectin levels [WMD = 8.42 ng/mL, 95% CI = -22.9 to 39.8, p = 0.599], ICAM levels [WMD = -17.38 ng/mL, 95% CI = -53.43 to 18.66, p = 0.107], VCAM levels [WMD = -69.32 ng/mL, 95% CI = -229.26 to 90.61, p = 0.396] or MDA levels [WMD = 0.031 μmol/L, 95% CI = -1.56 to 0.218, p = 0.746].

The investigators concluded pomegranate supplementation reduces hs-CRP levels, IL-6 levels and TNF-α levels in adults.

Original title:
The effects of pomegranate supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction: A meta-analysis and systematic review by Wang P, Zhang Q, [...], Yao G.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32147056

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about fruit and chronic diseases.

Inflammation in humans can be measured by biomarkers, such as highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α).

Inflammation in humans can lower the resistance. A low resistance makes the body susceptible to diseases.
 

Objectives:
Is there a causal relationship between psyllium (a dietary fiber) consumption and improvements of risk factors of diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 9 RCTs with 395 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found psyllium consumption significantly reduced triglycerides levels with 19.18 mg/dL [WMD = -19.18 mg/dL, 95% CI = -31.76 to -6.60, I2 = 98%].

The investigators found psyllium consumption significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels with 8.96 mg/dL [WMD = -8.96 mg/dL, 95% CI = -13.39 to -4.52, I2 = 97%].

The investigators found psyllium consumption significantly reduced fasting blood sugar levels with 8.96 mg/dL [WMD = -31.71 mg/dL, 95% CI = -50.04 to -13.38, I2 = 97%].

The investigators found psyllium consumption significantly reduced hemoglobin A1c levels with 0.91% [WMD = -0.91%, 95% CI = -1.31 to -0.51, I2 = 99%].

The investigators found no significant change in high-density lipoprotein, body mass index, cholesterol and weight following psyllium consumption.

The investigators concluded there is a significant reduction in triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (bad cholesterol), fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c levels following psyllium consumption among diabetic patients.

Original title:
The effect of psyllium consumption on weight, body mass index, lipid profile, and glucose metabolism in diabetic patients: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Xiao Z, Chen H, [...], Wei Y.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31919936

Additional information of El Mondo:
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Psyllium is a form of fiber made from the husks of the Plantago ovata plant’s seeds. The psyllium husk is a naturally occurring source of soluble fiber.
Psyllium is commonly found in cereals, dietary supplements and is also added to some foods including baked products such as breads, cereal bars and rice/grain cakes.
 

Objectives:
The activity of hepatitis B virus (HBV) as a risk factor for the incidence and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has not been clarified. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does hepatitis B virus infection increase risk of chronic kidney disease?

Study design:
This review article included 33 studies with a total of 7,849,849 patients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in 11 cohort studies with 1,056,645 patients, that a positive HBV serologic status (hepatitis B virus infection) significantly increased risk of incidence of chronic kidney disease with 40% [adjusted HR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.16 to 1.69, p 0.001, I2 = 49.5%, p 0.0001].

The investigators found in 10 cross-sectional studies with 3,222,545 patients, no relationship between hepatitis B virus infection and prevalence of chronic kidney disease [adjusted OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.90 to 1.218, p = 0.5].

The investigators found meta-regression analysis reported a relationship between positive HBsAg status and incidence of chronic kidney disease in the general population [p 0.015].

The investigators concluded hepatitis B virus infection increases risk of developing of chronic kidney disease in the adult general population. Studies aimed to understand the mechanisms responsible of such association are underway.

Original title:
HBV infection is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis by Fabrizi F, Cerutti R, […], Messa P.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32037008

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about kidney disease.
 

Objectives:
Lead is a known risk factor for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, the results of studies exploring the relationship between lead exposure and the occurrence of ALS are inconsistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a high lead exposure increase risk of ALS?

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

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a high lead exposure significantly increased risk of ALS with 28% [OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.63].
Subgroup and sensitivity analyses showed stable results.

The investigators concluded a high lead exposure increases risk of ALS.

Original title:
Population-based study of environmental/occupational lead exposure and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Meng E, Mao Y, […], Jin W.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31578652

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about chronic diseases.
 

Objectives:
Previous findings on the associations of legume and soy intake with the risk of type 2 diabetes are conflicting. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does legume or soy dietary intake reduce risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 15 unique cohort studies with a total of 565,810 individuals and 32,093 incident cases (persons with type 2 diabetes).

Overall quality of evidence was rated as moderate for total legumes and low for total soy and soy subtypes.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no association between total legumes dietary intake and risk of type 2 diabetes [summary RR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.79 to 1.14, I2 = 84.8%].
No association because RR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.79 to 1.14. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found no association between total soy dietary intake and risk of type 2 diabetes [summary RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.68 to 1.01, I2 = 90.8%].

The investigators found no association between soy milk dietary intake and risk of type 2 diabetes [summary RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.71 to 1.11, I2 = 91.7%].

The investigators found tofu dietary intake significantly reduced risk of type 2 diabetes with 8% [summary RR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.99].
Significantly because RR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 0.84 to 0.99. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found soy protein dietary intake significantly reduced risk of type 2 diabetes with 16% [summary RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.75 to 0.95].

The investigators found soy isoflavones dietary intake significantly reduced risk of type 2 diabetes with 12% [summary RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.96].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, significant linear inverse associations for tofu, soy protein and soy isoflavones [all p 0.05].

The investigators concluded dietary intakes of tofu, soy protein and soy isoflavones reduce incident type 2 diabetes. These findings support recommendations to increase intakes of certain soy products for the prevention of type 2 diabetes. However, the overall quality of evidence was low and more high-quality evidence from prospective studies is needed.

Original title:
Legume and soy intake and risk of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies by Tang J, Wan Y, […], Feng F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31915830

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and tofu right here.
 

Objectives:
Many studies have been reported that dietary meat intake may be associated with the risk of asthma in children, but the results are inconsistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does dietary meat intake increase asthma in children?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 9 articles.

No publication bias was detected.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary meat intake 3 or more times per week compared with never/occasionally intake had no significant association with asthma risk among children [OR = 1.27, 95% CI  =  0.80-2.01, p =  0.308].
Not significant because OR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.80 to 2.01. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found, similarly, daily dietary intake of meat did not affect the risk of asthma in children when compared with never/occasionally intake [OR  =  1.13, 95% CI  =  0.93-1.37, p  =  0.234].

The investigators concluded dietary meat intake is not a risk factor for asthma in children. Due to some limitations that exist in this review article, more studies are needed to further assess the association between dietary meat intake and asthma risk in children.

Original title:
Dietary meat intake and risk of asthma in children: evidence from a meta-analysis by Zhang D, Cao L, [...], Wang Z.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31895767

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about meat consumption and chronic diseases.