Nutritional Advice El Mondo

Nutrition and health

Pregnancy

Scientific studies (review articles) on the relationship between diet/nutrients and pregnancy:
One swallow does not make a summer. A famous Dutch saying that could not be any more obvious. Just because one single scientific study about a certain topic makes certain claims, it does not necessarily mean it is true. On the other hand, a review article (a collection of scientific studies on a specific topic) of randomized, placebo-controlled double blind clinical trials (RCTs) will answer the following question:
"Do taking dietary supplements make sense?" Yes for a positive conclusion and no for a negative conclusion.

One swallow does not make a summer. A famous Dutch saying that could not be any more obvious. Just because one single scientific study about a certain topic makes certain claims, it does not necessarily mean it is true. On the other hand, a review article (a collection of scientific studies on a specific topic) of cohort studies or case-control studies will answer the following question:
"Should I change my diet?".

2023:

  1. Probiotic/synbiotic supplements improve glucose and lipid metabolism in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus
  2. Vitamin B6 supplements reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy

2022:

  1. Systolic blood pressure <130 mmHg prevents severe hypertension in pregnant women

2021:

  1. Oral magnesium supplementation does not reduce leg cramps during pregnancy
  2. Salt iodination alone is not sufficient to provide adequate iodine status to pregnant women
  3. Breastfeeding reduces ovarian cancer in women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
  4. Vitamin and mineral supplementation improves glycemic control in women with gestational diabetes mellitus
  5. Prenatal alcohol exposure increases placental abruption
  6. Preterm birth and low birthweight are strongest risk factors associated with increased case fatality of infants with spina bifida
  7. Enteral zinc supplementation enhances weight gain and linear growth in preterm infants
  8. >650 mg/day maternal or neonatal DHA and/or EPA supplements increase weight in childhood
  9. 400 μg folic acid during pregnancy reduce offspring's autism spectrum disorders
  10. Multiple-micronutrient supplementation improves birth outcomes among pregnant adolescents in low- and middle-income countries
  11. Vitamin A supplementation reduces bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants
  12. CNS congenital abnormalities, intracranial calcifications, fetal loss, SGA, low birth weight and prematurity are associated with Zika virus infection
  13. A low maternal serum zinc level increases pre-eclampsia in African women
  14. Daily 100 mg cholesterol increase gestational diabetes mellitus

2020:

  1. Probiotic supplementation during pregnancy is beneficial for gestational age
  2. COVID-19 pandemic increases anxiety among women during pregnancy and perinatal period
  3. Coronavirus infection is more likely to affect pregnant women
  4. Rates of vaccine coverage immediately after birth are very low for BCG and HepB-BD in neonates in sub-Saharan Africa
  5. Artemisinin-based combination therapies should be treatment guidelines for uncomplicated falciparum malaria in pregnant women
  6. Higher levels of gestational vitamin D reduce multiple sclerosis in offspring
  7. Iron fortification increases haemoglobin concentration during pregnancy
  8. Probiotic supplementation has positive effects on outcomes of preterm infants in India
  9. No association between oral cholera vaccination and adverse pregnancy outcomes
  10. Influenza vaccination during pregnancy reduce infant influenza
  11. Probiotic supplementation improves outcomes of preterm infants in India
  12. Omega-3 fatty acids + vitamin E or D reduce gestational diabetes
  13. Maternal folic acid supplementation is associated with an increased birth weight
  14. Measles infection in pregnancy is dangerous for mother and fetus
  15. N-3 fatty acids supplementation reduces preeclampsia during pregnancy
  16. High maternal thyroid hormones during pregnancy increase neonatal birth weight

2019:

  1. 75 mg daily DHEA supplements increase fertility in women
  2. Higher plasma levels of free fatty acids increase gestational diabetes mellitus
  3. Pregnancy-associated malaria increases preterm birth and low birth weight
  4. HPV vaccination during pregnancy does not increase adverse pregnancy outcomes
  5. Maternal folic acid supplementation reduces childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
  6. Multiple micronutrient supplementation generates positive health outcomes for both infants and pregnant women
  7. 0.6-2 gram calcium supplement reduce gestational hypertension
  8. Maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy increases low birth weight
  9. Mother-infant skin to skin contact immediately after birth increases breastfeeding
  10. Steady-state red blood cell folate concentrations can be reached with 375-570 µg folic acid/day
  11. Breastfeeding can be improved by a combination of professional and laypersons
  12. High prenatal vitamin D level reduces risk autism-related traits later in life

2018:

  1. Probiotic supplementation during both prenatal and postnatal period reduces atopic dermatitis
  2. 2g inositol twice daily reduce preterm delivery rate
  3. Antioxidant supplements could increase sperm quality
  4. Egg into an infant’s diet between 3 and 6 months of age reduces egg allergy risk
  5. PUFA supplements do not improve intelligence in low birth weight children
  6. Kangaroo mother care increases breastfeeding
  7. Antenatal care and institutional delivery increase exclusive breastfeeding practices in Ethiopia
  8. Asian vegetarian mothers have an increased risk to deliver babies with low birth weight
  9. Low maternal iodine status in early pregnancy gives lower IQ
  10. Myo-inositol supplementation reduces risk of gestational diabetes and preterm delivery in pregnant women
  11. Anemia at the beginning of pregnancy increases a SGA baby
  12. Maternal probiotic supplements during pregnancy and lactation reduce eczema during childhood

2017:

  1. First-trimester use of artemisinin derivatives is not associated with an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth compared to quinine
  2. ABT results in higher efficacy than QBT in the second and third trimester of pregnancy with uncomplicated falciparum malaria
  3. Women’s groups practising participatory learning and action improve key behaviours on the pathway to neonatal mortality
  4. Breastfeeding during 6-9 months reduces risk of endometrial cancer
  5. Antenatal multiple micronutrient supplements provide greater birth-outcome benefits for infants born to undernourished and anaemic pregnant women
  6. Plasmodium falciparum malaria in pregnancy increases stillbirth risk
  7. Daily 1mg heme iron increases risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in pregnant women
  8. Childhood nutritional supplementation with ≥5 nutrients improves cognitive development of children in developing countries
  9. Pregnant women with malnutrition and malaria infection are at increased risk of having a low birthweight compared to women with only 1 risk factor or none
  10. Severe vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) increases risk of early spontaneous pregnancy loss
  11. Serum ceruloplasmin may be a useful screening and follow-up tool for developing preeclampsia
  12. High serum copper level increase risk of preeclampsia in Asian pregnant women
  13. Zinc sulfate supplementation does not reduce neonatal jaundice
  14. Fish consumption during pregnancy is not associated with risk of asthma and other allergy-related diseases from infancy to mid childhood
  15. Routine supplementation of full-term infant milk formula with LCPUFA cannot be recommended
  16. Vitamin D supplementation alone during pregnancy reduces risk of preterm birth
  17. Maternal vitamin B12 deficiency increases low birth weight in newborns

2013:

  1. Daily 10 to 66 mg iron supplementation during pregnancy improve maternal haematological status and birth weight

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Childbirth usually occurs about 38 weeks after conception; in women who have a menstrual cycle length of four weeks, this is approximately 40 weeks from the start of the last normal menstrual period. A pregnancy of 37 to 42 weeks is considered full-term. A pregnancy less than 37 weeks is considered pre-term, which is dangerous due to underdevelopment. Over 42 weeks is also dangerous due to septic poisoning.
Women generally don't begin to feel the baby moves until sometime between 16 and 22 weeks or later. In general, the gender can be determined with certainty after the fourteenth week. After 30 weeks of gestation, the baby is able to recognize a language.

The pregnancy is divided into 3 periods:

  1. The first 3 months. During these months all organs of the fetus are developed.
  2. The second three months, in which the organs further develop.
  3. The last 3 months. During these 3 months the emphasis is put on growth and the unborn child gets per day 67 mg of DHA from the mother.

A woman with a BMI of 18.5-25 will gain during pregnancy about 12 kg, of which about one third is the weight of the child.

BMI before pregnancyDesired weight gain during pregnancy
<19.8

12

.5-18

19.8-2611.5-16
26-297-11.5
>296
A woman with 65 kg and 1.57 meters has a BMI of 26.4 (65/(1.57x1.57)). BMI is kg/m2.

 

Energy requirements during pregnancy
The duration of pregnancyExtra kcal per day
The first 3 months70
The second three months260
The last 3 months500


During breastfeeding mothers need on average 500 extra calories per day. Most women need 6 months to a year after childbirth to get back to their pre-pregnancy weight.

It is not desirable to lose weight during pregnancy.

The World Health Organization shows that optimal birth weight of 3.1-3.6 kg is associated with maternal weight gains of 10-14 kg.

Dietary guidelines during pregnancy:

  • A balanced diet during pregnancy contains 18-24 kJ (4.3-5.7 kcal) per kg body weight. This diet has a low GI value and includes whole grains, fruits, beans and vegetables.
  • Your daily diet (=all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis) should on average contain maximum 30 En% fat, maximum 7-10 En% saturated fat, 15-20 En% protein, 50-55 En% carbohydrates, maximum 25 En% simple sugars, maximum 0.3 gram salt per 100 kcal, minimum 1.3 grams of fiber per 100 kcal and fish providing 500 mg of EPA and DHA (with 200 mg DHA) per day.
  • Do not drink alcohol.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Take daily 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid supplement for a period of at least four weeks prior to the first eight weeks of pregnancy.
    400 mcg of folic acid per day reduces the risk of getting a spina bifida and cleft palate in the unborn child.
  • Eat no more than 3000 micrograms of vitamin A per day.
  • Aim for a BMI of 18.5-25 before entering the pregnancy. Research has shown that the healthiest pregnancy is associated with a pre-pregnancy BMI of 23.
  • Eat fish, providing at least 200 mg of DHA per day. DHA is needed for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus.  
  • Do not eat raw or undercooked (pink fried) meat because the mother can be infected with toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis can cause permanent damage to the brains and eyes of the unborn child. Feces of cats and sandboxes are also sources of toxoplasmosis.
  • Do not eat cheeses made from raw milk (lait au cu).The listeria bacteria are found in raw milk. Listeria can be harmful to the unborn child and can even cause miscarriage.
  • Take a multivitamin supplement.
  • Take fish oil supplements (250-500 mg of EPA and DHA per tablet) if you do not eat fish. Take only dietary supplements after consulting an expert!

Dietary guidelines during breastfeeding:

  • Do not drink alcohol.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Do not drink more than 3 cups of coffee or 3 cups of tea per day. Too much caffeine (found in coffee and tea) can make the baby restless.
  • Give 4-6 months exclusively breastfeeding because breast milk is the healthiest nutrition for the baby. After 4-6 months the baby should receive supplementary feeding because breastfeeding no longer covers the daily nutritional requirements of the growing baby.
  • Do not lose more than 0.5 kg weight per week, otherwise your baby will get through breastfeeding too much toxins. Toxins in the human body are stored in fatty tissues.

Overweight

Scientific studies (review articles) on the relationship between diet/nutrients and overweight prevention:
One swallow does not make a summer. A famous Dutch saying that could not be any more obvious. Just because one single scientific study about a certain topic makes certain claims, it does not necessarily mean it is true. On the other hand, a review article (a collection of scientific studies on a certain topic) of randomized, placebo-controlled double blind clinical trials (RCTs) will answer the following question:
"Do taking dietary supplements make sense?" Yes for a positive conclusion and no for a negative conclusion.

One swallow does not make a summer. A famous Dutch saying that could not be any more obvious. Just because one single scientific study about a certain topic makes certain claims, it does not necessarily mean it is true. On the other hand, a review article (a collection of scientific studies on a certain topic) of cohort studies or case-control studies will answer the following question:
"Should I change my diet?".

2023:

  1. Causal relationship between sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and higher BMI and body weight

2021:

  1. High protein diets causally have beneficial effect on body weight management
  2. High circulating vitamin C level reduces metabolic syndrome
  3. Carbohydrate intake increases metabolic syndrome
  4. Poultry consumption decreases metabolic syndrome
  5. Nut consumption does not increase adiposity
  6. Obesity increases colorectal cancer in men with Lynch Syndrome
  7. A diet with low GI increases metabolic syndrome
  8. Hyperlipidemia, obesity and high alcohol consumption are risk factors of early-onset colorectal cancer
  9. Obesity is a risk factor for mortality from primary liver cancer
  10. Insufficiency of serum carotenoids increases overweight and obesity
  11. Obesity increases atrial fibrillation recurrence in patients undergoing catheter ablation
  12. Brown rice has anti-obesity effects in comparison with white rice
  13. No effect of vitamin E supplementation on weight, BMI and waist circumference
  14. Mortality is more frequently in COVID-19 patients with chronic kidney diseases and cardiovascular disease
  15. Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy or infancy reduces adiposity in childhood

2020:

  1. Dairy products reduce causal fat mass and BMI among overweight or obese adults
  2. Pistachio supplementation lowers BMI without increasing body weight
  3. Abdominal adiposity is a risk factor in COVID-19
  4. Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation reduces weight and BMI
  5. Obesity increases severe COVID-19
  6. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation does not decrease body weight and BMI
  7. Yogurt intake is associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
  8. Fish consumption reduces metabolic syndrome
  9. Waist circumference is a significant risk factor of liver cancer

2019:

  1. A higher serum copper level increases obesity
  2. 100 g/d fruit consumption reduces metabolic syndrome
  3. 150 mg/day quercetin supplementation reduces LDL-cholesterol in obese people
  4. <2 g/d L-carnitine decreases diastolic blood pressure in participants with obesity
  5. 280 mg/d dietary calcium intake may reduce metabolic syndrome
  6. Adults with overweight/obesity benefit from probiotics
  7. ≤400 μg/d chromium supplementation reduce BMI
  8. Whole grains, fruit, nut, legume consumption reduce adiposity risk
  9. Tree nuts reduce risk of metabolic syndrome

2018:

  1. ≥75 mg/day isoflavones reduce BMI
  2. <50 g/d carbohydrates increase good cholesterol in overweight/obese adults
  3. ≥30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks reduce BMI
  4. Carotenoids may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome
  5. Ginger intake reduces body weight and fasting glucose among overweight and obese subjects
  6. Vegetable and fruit consumption reduce metabolic syndrome

2017:

  1. A low-fat diet reduces cholesterol level in overweight or obese people
  2. A high dietary fiber intake may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome
  3. A high fruit and/or vegetable consumption reduce risk of metabolic syndrome among Asian
  4. A high relative adipose mass reduces bone mineral density in overweight and obese populations
  5. Higher sodium increases metabolic syndrome
  6. Metabolic syndrome increases risk of ischemic stroke
  7. A higher circulating DHA is associated with a lower metabolic syndrome risk
  8. Whole flaxseed supplementation in doses ≥30 g/d during ≥12 weeks has positive effects on body composition in overweight participants
  9. n-3 PUFA supplements reduce waist circumference in overweight and obese adults
  10. Green tea decreases LDL cholesterol level in overweight or obese people
  11. Decreased vitamin D levels and increased BMI increase pediatric-onset MS
  12. CLA does not reduce fasting blood glucose and waist circumference
  13. Abdominal adiposity and higher body fat mass increase risk of atrial fibrillation

2015:

  1. Green tea consumption decreases blood pressure among overweight and obese adults

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Overweight is an increasing problem in the world. It’s called overweight when the BMI is greater than 25 and obese when the BMI is greater than 30. A healthy weight has a BMI of 18.5-25. A woman with 65 kg and 1.57 meters has a BMI of 26.4 (65/(1.57x1.57)). BMI is weight divided by height squared (weight (kg)/height2 (m)).

The best way to determine overweight in children is to calculate the BMI. In adults, beside the BMI, waist circumference should also be measured.

Everybody who wants to lose weight, wants to burn more calorie at rest and more fat. How do you achieve these two goals?

Make sure the resting metabolic rate (RMR) does not decrease when following a diet (therefore, the recommendation of dietitians is no more than 0.5-1 kg of weight loss per week). A low resting metabolic rate will result in a low calorie burning at rest. But that is not what you want. You want, when following a diet, that the body will burn more calories (at rest).
A low resting metabolic rate is often the result of the insufficient intake of carbohydrate. When the body obtains insufficient quantities of carbohydrate, it’s been forced to get energy from protein, resulting in muscle degradation. Muscle degradation will in turn result in a lower resting metabolic rate. Muscle degradation can be observed when the upper arm and calf circumference become smaller. To prevent muscle degradation, when following a diet, is recommendable to choose product with 55-70 En% carbohydrates.

To prevent muscle degradation when following a diet, the diet must contain at least 1.6 g protein per kg body weight. For a person of 65 kg means 65x1.6 = 104 kg of protein per day. 1.6 g protein per kg body weight corresponds to a diet with 20 En% protein.

To prevent muscle degradation when following a diet, it is recommendable to choose products with 20-35 En% protein and/or products with 55-70 En% carbohydrates in combination with strength training. Strength training increases the resting metabolic rate. A declined resting metabolic rate is often the cause of the yo-yo effect.

Cardio-fitness is a good way to burn fat. To be able to burn fat efficiently, you should perform cardio-fitness with the heart rate between 75 and 90% of the maximum heart rate. The maximum heart rate is calculated by 220 minus age.
For example, you are 40 years old you have to perform cardio-fitness with a heart rate between 0.75-0.9x(220-40) = 135 and 162 heart beats per minute. Stop immediately  with the exercises when you are not feeling well or have pain in the chest!

In summary, it can be said the best way to lose weight is to perform strength training with cardio-fitness in combination with a diet containing products with 20-35 En% protein and/or products with 55-70 En% carbohydrates.

The main cause of overweight is the body gets more calories than it daily burns. Through physical activities, the body will burn more calories. To gain positive effects of physical exercises the body should burn at least 2000 calories (kcal) per week or at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise of moderate intensity, accumulated over the week, which can be split into periods of at least 10 minutes. To prevent overweight, physical activities should account for 15-30% of the daily calorie intake.

The main consequences of overweight are:

  • Cardiovascular diseases.
  • Type 2 diabetes. The main effects of type 2 diabetes are cardiovascular diseases and kidney problems.

Belly fat is bad because it increases the risk of getting type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, aim for a waist circumference of 68-80 cm for women and 79-94 cm for men. A loss of 1 cm of belly fat (e.g. 95 to 94 cm) corresponds to a loss of 1 kg of fat. 1 kg of fat corresponds to 9000 calories.

Local fat loss, such as the backside or thighs is a scientific myth.

The human body will only burn fat when it meets the following two criteria:

  1. Increased oxygen uptake (only occurs during physical exercises).
  2. Increased energy demand (only occurs during physical exercises).

We like to eat fat but our body likes to use carbohydrates as energy source.

Overweight is the result of poor knowledge about nutrition in combination with hardly physical exercises.

It is not possible to lose more than 1.8 grams of fat per week. However, at more than 1 kg of fat loss per week, the body will also break down muscle, resulting in a low resting metabolic rate and yoyo-effect.

When following a diet is favorable to minimize fat through diet. But at least 7 grams of fat per day is necessary to ensure the intake of essential fatty acids and to stimulate the production of bile salts.
7 grams of fat per day corresponds to a daily diet with 4 En% fat. However, a diet with at least 20 En% fat (and up to 35 En% fat) is necessary to prevent a deficiency of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins on long-term.

A responsible breakfast contains up to 350 kcal.
A responsible lunch contains up to 450 kcal.
A responsible evening meal contains up to 750 kcal.

Good indicators for weight loss are a decreased body fat and an increased muscle mass. The body fat and muscle mass can be measured with a body composition analyzers scale.

Recommended daily energy intake by sex and age group
Age group (years)MenWomen
Kcal per dayKcal per day
616001500
1222002000
1729002300
30-3926002000
50-5925002000
70-7923001800
Others25002000

 

Recommended fat percentage by sex and age group
Age group (years)MenWomen
17-291525
30-3917.527.5
40-492030
50+2535
A healthy adult male has a body fat percentage around 15%.
A healthy adult woman has a body fat percentage around 25%.


Dietary guidelines for overweight prevention:

  • Choose products with 20-30 En% fat, products with maximum 7 En% saturated fat, products with 20-35% protein, products with maximum 10 En% sugars, products with minimum 1.5 grams of fiber per 100 kcal and products with a GI value of 55 or lower or in other words, your daily diet (=all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis) should on average contain 20-30 En% fat, maximum 7 En% saturated fat, 20-35% protein, maximum 10 En% sugars and minimum 1.5 grams of fiber per 100 kcal.
  • Products with 20-35 En% protein in combination with 10000 steps per day and 25-30 grams of fiber per day will reduce weight in a responsible manner.
    Products with 20-35 En% protein should contain maximum 30 En% fat and maximum 7 En% saturated fat!
  • No more than 0.5-1 kg of weight loss per week. 0.5 kg of weight loss per week corresponds to a decreased intake of 350 kcal per day through diet and 150 kcal extra through physical activities.
  • To prevent a deficiency of vitamins and essential fatty acids a diet should contain a minimum of 1700 kcal per day.
  • Increase the resting metabolic rate. Strength training is the best way to increase the resting metabolic rate.
  • Use the following guideline: total energy intake per day is 25-30 kcal per kg body weight.
  • Eat 300 grams of vegetables and five servings of fruit per day or 25-30 grams of fiber per day. Dietary fiber provides a longer satiety, resulting in less meal times during the day. Furthermore, the antioxidants from fruits and vegetables reduce inflammation.
    30 grams of fiber per day corresponds to a daily diet of minimum 1.5 grams of fiber per 100 kcal.
  • Eat no more than 19 grams of saturated fat per day at 2500 kcal and 15 grams of saturated fat at 2000 kcal. The WHO advises 2000 kcal per day for women and 2500 kcal for men.
  • Aim for a healthy weight. A healthy weight has a BMI of 18.5-25. BMI is weight divided by height squared (weight (kg)/height2 (m)).
  • Spend at least 90 minutes per day on physical exercises or at least 10000 steps per day.
  • Stop smoking because smoking causes atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the most important cause of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Do not go shopping on an empty stomach.
  • Do not skip breakfast.
  • Put the meal on a small plate. So it looks like there is a lot of food on the plate!
  • Eat at least 2 times (100-150 g fish per time) a week oily fishes or take daily 250-500 mg EPA and DHA.
    Oily fishes are sardines, herring, salmon, anchovies, eel and mackerel.
  • Limit alcohol to 2 glasses for men and 1 glass for women per day.
  • Eat no more than 6 grams of salt per day, corresponding to 2400 mg of sodium.
    6 grams salt per day corresponds to a daily diet with <0.3 g salt per 100 kcal.
  • Do not take weight loss supplements. They do not what they claim.
Age (years)Recommended BMI for menRecommended BMI for women
414.40-17.5514.25-17.28
514.20-17.4214.05-17.15
614.04-17.5513.90-17.34
714.02-17.9213.94-17.75
814.10-18.4414.06-18.35
914.29-19.1014.26-19.07
1014.53-19.8414.57-19.86
1114.84-20.5514.99-20.74
1215.23-21.2215.52-21.68
1315.70-21.9116.13-22.58
1416.25-22.6216.73-23.34
1516.84-23.2917.28-23.94
1617.42-23.9017.75-24.37
1717.98-24.4618.16-24.70
18 and older18-50-25.0018.50-25.00

Chronic diseases

Scientific studies (review articles) on the relationship between diet/nutrients and chronic diseases:
One swallow does not make a summer. A famous Dutch saying that could not be any more obvious. Just because one single scientific study about a certain topic makes certain claims, it does not necessarily mean it is true. On the other hand, a review article (a collection of scientific studies on a certain topic) of randomized, placebo-controlled double blind clinical trials (RCTs) will answer the following question:
"Do taking dietary supplements make sense?" Yes for a positive conclusion and no for a negative conclusion.

One swallow does not make a summer. A famous Dutch saying that could not be any more obvious. Just because one single scientific study about a certain topic makes certain claims, it does not necessarily mean it is true. On the other hand, a review article (a collection of scientific studies on a certain topic) of cohort studies or case-control studies will answer the following question:
"Should I change my diet?".

2024:

  1. Higher carotenoids blood concentration reduce liver disease

2023:

  1. High β-carotene dietary intake reduces Parkinson's disease among women
  2. 50g/d legume dietary intake may reduce mortality from all causes

2022:

  1. Selenium supplementation reduces postpartum depression
  2. Tomato intake causally reduces TNF-α levels in adults
  3. 400 mg/day vitamin C supplementation improves lung function of COPD patients
  4. Vitamin E supplements enhance quality of life of rheumatoid arthritis patients
  5. Meat intake may increase kidney stones
  6. High-dose dietary intake of vitamins A and B reduces glaucoma
  7. Higher intake of antioxidant-rich foods reduces Parkinson's disease

2021:

  1. 0.8-10 mg/d folic acid supplements decrease CRP levels
  2. Low vitamin D level increases asthma in children
  3. Low vitamin D level increases acne
  4. Selenium supplementation decreases hs-CRP level among patients with metabolic diseases
  5. NAC supplementation could improve lung function in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  6. Vitamin B1 supplementation reduces ICU delirium in critically ill patients
  7. Soy supplementation improves insulin resistance for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
  8. 540 mg/d green tea catechins supplementation reduces UV-induced damage due to erythema inflammation
  9. Cardiovascular reserve is improved after kidney-transplantation
  10. Vitamin B1 + vitamin C supplementation does not reduce mortality in patients with sepsis or septic shock
  11. Grape products containing polyphenols supplementation improves status of oxidative stress
  12. Vitamin B supplementation is effective in treating mouth ulcers
  13. L-carnitine supplementation should be supported in hemodialysis patients
  14. Carotenoid supplements decrease inflammation
  15. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation reduces oxidative stress
  16. 400 mg/day vitamin B2 supplementation decrease migraine attacks
  17. A higher manganese level increases MS
  18. Peripheral neuropathy is associated with lowered plasma vitamin B12 levels
  19. Resistant starch type 2 improves residual renal function of patients under maintenance hemodialysis
  20. Intravenous NAC administration decreases serum creatinine levels
  21. Probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic supplementation improve oxidative stress in patients with chronic kidney disease
  22. Ginger supplementation improves oxidative stress levels
  23. Serum albumin concentrations are lower in patients with stable COPD
  24. Melatonin supplements have positive effects on sleep quality in adults with metabolic disorders

2020:

  1. 0.5 to 6 g/d taurine supplementation reduces total cholesterol and triglyceride in patients with liver dysregulation
  2. Patients with diabetic kidney disease benefit from <0.8 g protein per kilogram body weight per day
  3. <100 mg/day isoflavones reduce IL-6 and TNF-α levels
  4. 0.5 servings of fish per week reduce multiple sclerosis
  5. A higher dietary intake of fruit, dietary fiber, fish and vitamine C reduce COPD in adults
  6. Higher selenium and lower zinc level increase risk of vitiligo
  7. Higher serum levels of homocysteine increase multiple sclerosis
  8. Physical exercise offers benefits to patients with chronic kidney disease
  9. 300 mg/day dietary anthocyanins reduce inflammation
  10. Pomegranate decreases inflammation in adults
  11. LDL cholesterol-lowering treatment reduce risk of major vascular events
  12. Hepatitis B virus infection increases chronic kidney disease
  13. Lead increases ALS
  14. Meat is not a risk factor for asthma in children

2019:

  1. Vitamin B12, D and E reduce eczema
  2. Higher levels of selenium in cerebrospinal fluid increase Parkinson's disease
  3. Omega-3 supplementation decreases CRP levels in patients on hemodialysis
  4. Low selenium and zinc levels increase rheumatoid arthritis
  5. 60-500 mg/day coenzyme Q10 supplements reduce inflammation
  6. Egg consumption does not increase inflammation
  7. Hypomagnesemia increases all-cause mortality in end-stage renal disease patients
  8. Vitamin D improves fasting glucose among patients with chronic kidney disease
  9. Dietary DHA, DPA and EPA are associated with higher lung function among current smokers
  10. Exercise intervention in kidney transplant recipients improves quality of life
  11. 200g vegetables per day reduce gallstone disease
  12. ≥12 weeks of L-carnitine supplements reduce inflammation
  13. Plasma creatinine seems to be a promising prognostic biomarker for ALS
  14. 10-40 g/day dietary fiber intake reduce diverticular disease risk
  15. Higher hemoglobin levels decrease transfusion risk in predialysis patients with CKD
  16. Magnesium deficiency increases risk of ADHD
  17. High prenatal vitamin D level reduces risk autism-related traits later in life
  18. 3 cups/d coffee consumption reduce risk of all-cause mortality
  19. Dietary n-3 PUFAs reduce ulcerative colitis
  20. 15 minutes/week sunlight exposure decreases risk of Parkinson's disease

2018:

  1. Dairy products, high purine vegetables, soy foods and coffee decrease gout
  2. Postherpetic neuralgia patients benefit from vitamin B12 supplementation
  3. 320 to 1500 mg/day magnesium supplementation decreases CRP levels
  4. 1 g/day salt reduction reduces blood pressure in end-stage renal disease
  5. Coffee consumption is associated with a higher circulating level of adiponectin in women
  6. Higher intakes of fruit and vegetables improve immune function
  7. Oral supplementation with chondroitin sulfate reduces pain in knee osteoarthritis
  8. Coffee consumption is associated with a lower level of serum CRP in humans
  9. Milk increases acne
  10. 1 time/week fish consumption from 6-9 months reduces asthma and wheeze in children up to 4.5 years old
  11. A high uric acid level plays a protective role in ALS
  12. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation reduces serum triglycerides levels of patients with metabolic disorders
  13. Zinc deficiency increases risk of autoimmune disorders

2017:

  1. Cranberry may be effective in preventing urinary tract infection recurrence in women
  2. High consumption of soft drinks increases ulcerative colitis
  3. Children and adolescents with ADHD have a deficiency in n-3 PUFAs levels
  4. Subjects with end-stage renal disease benefit from a diet with <5.5 En% protein
  5. Resveratrol supplementation ≥3 months has favorable effects on several risk factors of non-communicable diseases
  6. 500 mg/day quercetin reduce circulating C-reactive protein levels
  7. Asthma increases risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in women
  8. Improving iron status decreases fatigue in patients with iron deficiency without anaemia
  9. High sucrose intake might increase the risk of Crohn’s disease
  10. Daily 1-2g L-carnitine supplementation reduce inflammation
  11. Decreased vitamin D levels and increased BMI increase pediatric-onset MS
  12. Lower serum zinc levels increase Parkinson's disease
  13. Decreased folate level is a risk factor for schizophrenia
  14. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation may decrease inflammation
  15. Marine oil supplements alleviate pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients
  16. Serum vitamin D ≥75 nmol/L reduces risk of allergic rhinitis in men

2016:

  1. Daily 3 cups of tea decrease risk of depression

2015:

  1. 500-1000 mg/day oral ginger intake reduce pain in osteoarthritis patients
  2. Ultrasound can detect active Crohn’s disease in adults

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Chronic diseases, also known as noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are diseases caused by inflammation in the human body. Inflammation is caused by the actions of free radicals or eicosanoids, which are produced from the fatty acid arachidonic acid. While the eicosanoids produced from arachidonic acid are pro-inflammatory, are the eicosanoids produced from EPA anti-inflammatory.
Arachidonic acid is found in meat, eggs, dairy products, and fish. The WHO and the EFSA have not set nutritional recommendation for dietary arachidonic acid yet.

Chronic diseases generally cannot be prevented by vaccines or cured by medication nor do they just disappear. Chronic diseases tend to become more common with age.

Free radicals are caused by the inhalation of cigarette smoke, diseases, physical exercises, smog, fine particles, high-fat products and exhaust gases. Free radicals can be neutralized by antioxidants. But scientific studies showed that taking antioxidant supplements will cause more harm than good. Therefore, nutritionists recommend to get antioxidants from diet rather than from dietary supplements. Antioxidants are found in vegetables, fruits and nuts.

Scientific studies showed that an n3:n6 ratio of 1 to 5 or less possible prevents chronic diseases. However, the WHO and the EFSA have not set specific values for the n3:n6 ratio yet.

Chronic diseases are:

  • Autoimmune diseases (AID)
  • Diabetes
  • Brain disorders (epilepsy, Parkinson's disease)
  • Cancer
  • Joint disorders (rheumatism, gout and arthritis)
  • Heart diseases
  • Kidney diseases
  • Lung diseases (asthma and COPD)
  • Mental disorders

Dietary guidelines for chronic disease prevention:

  • Choose products with maximum 30-35 En% fat, products with maximum 7-10 En% saturated fat, products with maximum 0.3 gram of salt per 100 kcal, products with minimum 1.5 grams of fiber per 100 kcal, products with a GI-number of 55 or lower and fishes providing at least 2000 mg EPA and DHA per day or in other words, your daily diet (=all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis) should on average contain maximum 30-35 En% fat, maximum 7-10 En% saturated fat, maximum 0.3 gram of salt per 100 kcal and minimum 1.5 grams of fiber per 100 kcal.
  • Stop smoking because cigarette smoke contains/causes free radicals.
  • Aim for a healthy weight. A healthy weight has a BMI of 18.5-25. BMI is weight divided by height squared (weight (kg)/height2 (m)).
    Overweight is a risk factor for certain chronic diseases.
  • Spend at least 60-90 minutes of physical activities per day or at least 10000 steps per day.
  • Eat at least 3 times (100-150 g fish per time) a week oily fish. Oily fishes are sardines, herring, salmon, anchovies, eel and mackerel.
  • Eat 300 grams of vegetables and five servings of fruit a day or 30-40 grams of fiber per day.
    40 grams of fiber per dag corresponds to a daily diet of minimum 2 grams of fiber per 100 kcal.
  • Take when needed glucosamine supplements. Take supplements always after consultation with an expert!
  • Do not take antioxidant supplements because they do more harm than good!

Higher carotenoids blood concentration reduce liver disease

Objectives:
Due to the high incidence of liver disease and the severity of adverse outcomes, liver disease has become a serious public health problem, bringing a huge disease burden to individuals, families and society. Most studies have shown significant differences in serum carotenoid content and dietary carotenoid intake between liver disease patients and non-liver disease patients, but some studies have reported contrary results.Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do higher serum concentrations of carotenoids (such as, α-carotene, β-carotene, lycopene, cryptoxanthin and lutein/zeaxanthin) or higher dietary intakes of carotenoids reduces the risk of liver disease?

Study design:
This review article included 3 RCT studies, 6 cohort studies, 11 case-control studies, 9 cross-sectional studies and 1 RCT-combined cross-sectional study.

The Egger test showed no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found pooled meta-analysis showed that higher serum α-carotene [SMD = -0.58, 95% CI = -0.83 to -0.32, p < 0.001], β-carotene [SMD = -0.81, 95% CI = -1.13 to -0.49, p < 0.001] and lycopene [SMD = -1.06, 95% CI = -1.74 to -0.38, p < 0.001] significantly reduced the risk and severity of liver disease. 

The investigators found, however, no significant difference was observed between serum β-cryptoxanthin [SMD = 0.02, 95% CI = -0.41 to 0.45, p = 0.92] and lutein/zeaxanthin [SMD = 0.62, 95% CI = -1.20 to 2.45, p = 0.502] and the risk and severity of liver disease. 

The investigators found dietary β-carotene intake [SMD = -0.22, 95% CI = -0.31 to -0.13, p < 0.001] significantly reduced the risk of liver disease. 

The investigators found an intake of more than 6 mg of carotenoids on an energy-restricted diet can effectively alleviate the symptoms of NAFLD. 

The investigators concluded that higher serum concentrations of α-carotene, β-carotene and lycopene reduce risk of liver disease. Meanwhile, dietary intake of β-carotene reduces the incidence of liver disease. 

Original title: 
A systematic review of dietary and circulating carotenoids and liver disease by Hu B, Sui J, […], Xia H. 

 

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39229651/


Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on cohort studies/significantly, carotenoids and chronic disease right here. 

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease worldwide.

Causal relationship between sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and higher BMI and body weight

Objectives:
Is there a causal relationship between sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and higher BMI and body weight in both children and adults?
 
Study design:
This review article included 85 studies with 48 in children (40 cohort studies with 91,713 participants and 8 RCTs with 2,783 participants) and 37 in adults (21 cohort studies with 448,661 participants and 16 RCTs with 1,343 participants).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found among cohort studies, each serving/day increase in sugar-sweetened beverages intake was significantly associated with a 0.07 kg/m2 [95% CI = 0.04 to 0.10 kg/m2] higher BMI in children and a 0.42 kg [95% CI = 0.26 to 0.58 kg] higher body weight in adults.

The investigators found RCTs in children indicated less BMI gain with sugar-sweetened beverages reduction interventions compared with control [MD = -0.21 kg/m2, 95% CI = -0.40 to -0.01 kg/m2].

The investigators found RCTs in adults showed randomization to addition of sugar-sweetened beverages to the diet led to greater body weight gain [MD = 0.83 kg, 95% CI = 0.47 to 1.19 kg] and subtraction of sugar-sweetened beverages led to weight loss [MD = -0.49 kg, 95% CI = -0.66 to -0.32 kg] compared with the control groups.

The investigators found a positive linear dose-response association between sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and weight gain for all outcomes assessed.

The investigators concluded there is a causal relationship between sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and higher BMI and higher body weight in both children and adults.

Original title:
Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and weight gain in children and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials by Nguyen M, Jarvis SE, [...], Malik VS.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36789935/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and obesity/overweight right here.

High β-carotene dietary intake reduces Parkinson's disease among women

Objectives:
Does high-dose dietary intake of vitamin E, β-carotene or vitamin C reduce risk of Parkinson's disease?

Study design:
This review article included 13 observational studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no significant association between high-dose vitamin C dietary intake and the risk of Parkinson's disease compared with low-dose vitamin C dietary intake [RR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.89 to 1.08].

The investigators found compared with low-dose dietary intake, high-dose dietary intake of vitamin E significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 13% [RR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.99].

The investigators found compared with low-dose dietary intake, high-dose dietary intake of β-carotene significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease among women with 22% [RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.64 to 0.96].

The investigators concluded both high-dose dietary intake of vitamin E and β-carotene (beta-carotene) reduce risk of Parkinson's disease.

Original title:
Vitamin C, vitamin E, β-carotene and risk of Parkinson's disease: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies by Niu F, Xie W, […], Yu X.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36961747/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant, vitamin C, E, beta-carotene and Parkinson’s disease.
 

Probiotic/synbiotic supplements improve glucose and lipid metabolism in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus

Objectives:
The effect of probiotic/synbiotic supplementation on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is controversial. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do probiotic/synbiotic supplements improve glucose and lipid metabolism in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus?

Study design:
This review article included 11 RCTs with a total of 390 women with gestational diabetes mellitus in probiotics/synbiotics group and 389 women with gestational diabetes mellitus in placebo group.

The mean age of those participants ranged from 26.4 years to 33.5 years.
The duration of intervention ranged from 4 weeks to 8 weeks.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared with the placebo, probiotics/synbiotics supplements were associated with a statistically significant improvement in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) [MD = -2.33, 95% CI = -4.27 to -0.40, p = 0.02, I2 = 74%].  

The investigators found compared with the placebo, probiotics/synbiotics supplements were associated with a statistically significant improvement in the homoeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) [MD = -0.40, 95% CI = -0.74 to -0.06, p = 0.02, I2 = 76%].  

The investigators found compared with the placebo, probiotics/synbiotics supplements were associated with a statistically significant improvement in fasting serum insulin (FSI) [MD = -2.47, 95% CI = -3.82 to -1.12, p = 0.0003, I2 =73%].  

The investigators found compared with the placebo, probiotics/synbiotics supplements were associated with a statistically significant improvement in total cholesterol (TC) [MD = -6.59, 95% CI = -12.23 to -0.95, p = 0.02].  

The investigators found subgroup analysis revealed that the kind of supplement led to heterogeneity for FPG and FSI, while heterogeneity was not found for others.

The investigators concluded probiotic/synbiotic supplements improve glucose and lipid metabolism in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus. The use of specific probiotic supplementations containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum (>1 × 106 CFU/g) may be a promising prevention and therapeutic strategy for gestational diabetes mellitus, as they could directly act on the intestinal mucosal barrier and restore the gut flora balance. However, due to the heterogeneity among existing studies, further studies are warranted to address the limitations of existing evidence and better inform the management of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Original title:
The Effects of Probiotics/Synbiotics on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials by Mu J, Xian Guo X, […], Cao G.

Link:
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/6/1375

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

 

50g/d legume dietary intake may reduce mortality from all causes

Objectives:
There is an equivocal and inconsistent association between legume consumption and health outcomes and longevity. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a higher legume dietary intake reduce mortality and stroke risk?

Study design:
This review article included 32 cohort studies (31 publications) involving 1,141,793 participants and 93,373 deaths from all causes (all-cause mortality).

The certainty of evidence was judged from low to moderate.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found higher dietary intakes of legumes, compared with lower dietary intakes, were significantly associated with a reduced risk of 6% for mortality from all causes [HR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.91 to 0.98, n = 27].

The investigators found higher dietary intakes of legumes, compared with lower dietary intakes, were significantly associated with a reduced risk of 9% for stroke [HR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.99, n = 5].

The investigators found no significant association for cardiovascular diseases mortality [HR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.91 to 1.09, n =11], coronary heart disease mortality [HR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.78 to 1.09, n = 5] or cancer mortality [HR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.72 to 1.01, n = 5].

The investigators found in the linear dose-response analysis, a 50 g/d increase in legume dietary intake was significantly associated with a 6% reduction in the risk of all-cause mortality [HR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.89 to 0.99, n = 19], but no significant association was observed for the remaining outcomes.

The investigators concluded a higher legume dietary intake may reduce mortality from all causes and stroke risk. May reduce because the certainty of evidence is low to moderate.

Original title:
Legume Consumption and Risk of All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies by Zargarzadeh N, Mousavi SM, […], Esmaillzadeh A.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36811595/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant, vegetable intake and stroke prevention.
 

 Vitamin B6 supplements reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy

Objectives:
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP) are common symptoms in pregnancy. Although no definitive treatment option for NVP, pyridoxine (vitamin B6) supplementation has been used widely. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does supplementation of pyridoxine alone as well as combined treatment of pyridoxine with an active ingredient as the intervention reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found 8 studies showed beneficial effects with pyridoxine alone as the supplementation, while 6 others found that the supplementation of pyridoxine in combination with another active substance had favourable effects.

The investigators found supplementation of pyridoxine alone as well as combined treatment of pyridoxine with an active ingredient as the intervention significantly improved the symptoms of nausea according to Rhode's score [0.78, 95% CI= 0.26 to 1.31, p = 0.003, I2 = 57%, p = 0.10] and PUQE score [0.75, 95% CI = 0.28 to 1.22, p = 0.002, I2 = 0%, p = 0.51], respectively.

The investigators concluded supplementation of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) alone as well as combined treatment of pyridoxine with an active ingredient as the intervention reduces nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

Original title:
The effects of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) supplementation in nausea and vomiting during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Jayawardena R, Majeed S, […], Ranaweera P.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36719452/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vitamin B6 and pregnancy right here.
 

Fish consumption reduces Alzheimer's disease

Objectives:
Current findings about the differential effects of various sources of dietary animal protein on the risk of neurodegenerative diseases are contradictory. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there an association between various sources of dietary animal protein and the risk of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, dementia and cognitive impairment?

Study design:
This review article included 33 prospective cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary fish consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of 25% for Alzheimer's disease [RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.57 to 0.97].

The investigators found dietary fish consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of 16% for dementia [RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.75 to 0.93].

The investigators found dietary fish consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of 15% for cognitive impairment [RR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.95].

The investigators found compared to the lowest consumption, the highest total dairy products consumption was significantly associated with an increased risk of 49% for Parkinson's disease [RR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.06 to 2.10].

The investigators found compared to the lowest consumption, the highest milk consumption was significantly associated with an increased risk of 40% for Parkinson's disease [RR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.73].

The investigators found total dairy products consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of 11% for cognitive impairment [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80 to 0.99].

The investigators found total meat consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of 28% for cognitive impairment [RR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.57 to 0.90].

The investigators found poultry consumption was significantly associated with a reduced risk of 18% for cognitive impairment [RR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.68 to 0.99].

The investigators found linear dose-response meta-analysis revealed that each 200g/d increase in total dairy dietary intake was significantly associated with an 11% higher risk of Parkinson's disease and a 12% lower risk of cognitive impairment.

The investigators found a strong linear association between fish consumption and reduced risk of dementia.

The investigators concluded dairy consumption, particularly milk is associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease, while a higher intake of fish reduces Alzheimer's disease, dementia and cognitive impairment. Future well-controlled, randomized clinical trials are essential to validate the present findings.

Original title:
Association between animal protein sources and risk of neurodegenerative diseases: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Talebi S, Asoudeh F, […], Mohammadi H.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36647769/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant, dairy product, Parkinson's disease and proteins.
 

Selenium supplementation reduces postpartum depression

Objectives:
The results of human studies are inconsistent regarding selenium and depressive disorders. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does high selenium intake (through diet or supplements) reduce risk of depression?

Study design:
This review article included 20 studies (4 RCTs, 9 cross-sectional studies, 4 case-control studies and 3 prospective cohort studies) with a total of 47,164 participants.
The age of participants ranged from 18.0 ± 1.2 to 82 years old.
12 studies included both men and women.
Confounding variables were adjusted in half of included studies.
All included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) had high quality.
There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no significant differences in serum selenium levels between patients with depression and healthy subjects [WMD = 2.12 mg/L, 95% CI = -0.11 to 4.36, I2 = 98.0%, p 0.001].

The investigators found no significant differences between serum levels of selenium and depression scores [r = -0.12, 95% CI = -0.33 to 0.08, I2 = 73.5%, p = 0.010].

The investigators found high selenium supplementation significantly reduced the risk of postpartum depression with 3% [OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.95 to 0.99, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.507].

The investigators found selenium supplementation significantly reduced depressive symptoms [WMD = -0.37, 95% CI = -0.56 to -0.18, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.959].

The investigators concluded that high selenium supplementation has a protective role against postpartum depression. In addition, supplementation with selenium reduces depressive symptoms. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Original title:
The role of selenium in depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of human observational and interventional studies by Sajjadi SS, Foshati S, […], Rouhani H.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8776795/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant and selenum intake.

 

Tomato intake causally reduces TNF-α levels in adults

Objectives:
Inflammation is a major cause of chronic diseases. Several studies have investigated the effects of tomato intake on inflammatory biomarkers; however, the results are equivocal. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does tomato intake have positive impact on inflammatory biomarkers in adults?

Study design:
This review article included 7 RCTs (8 treatment arms) with a total of 465 subjects.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that pooled effect size of articles indicated that tomato intake was not significantly effective on CRP [WMD = 0.13 mg/dL, 95% CI = -0.09 to 0.36, p = 0.23, I2 = 83.9%] and IL-6 [Hedges' g = -0.12, 95% CI = -0.36 to 0.13, p = 0.34, I2 = 0.0%] levels compared to the control group.

The investigators found that pooled effect size of articles indicated that tomato intake significantly reduced TNF-α [Hedges' g = -0.45, 95% CI = -0.76 to -0.13, p = 0.005, I2 = 0.0%] levels in adults.

The investigators concluded that tomato intake causally reduces TNF-α levels in adults. However, additional well-designed studies that include more diverse populations and longer duration are warranted.

Original title:
Effect of tomato consumption on inflammatory markers in health and disease status: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials by Widjaja G, Doewes RI, […], Aravindhan S.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35871957/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant, and tomato intake.

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is an inflammatory cytokine that is elevated in heart failure.

400 mg/day vitamin C supplementation improves lung function of COPD patients

Objectives:
Do COPD patients benefit from vitamin C supplementation?

Study design:
This review article included 10 RCTs with a total of 487 patients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that vitamin C supplementation (≥400 mg/day) significantly improved the forced expiratory volume in one second as a percentage (FEV1%) of COPD patients [SMD = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.03 to 2.12, p = 0.04].

The investigators found, moreover, vitamin C supplementation (≥400 mg/day) significantly improved the ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) [WMD = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.26 to 1.06, p = 0.001], vitamin C level in serum [SMD = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.02 to 1.24, p = 0.04] and glutathione (GSH) level in serum [SMD = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.06 to 3.89, p = 0.0006] of COPD patients.

The investigators found no statistically significant difference was observed in body mass index (BMI), fat-free mass index (FFMI), vitamin E level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) level in serum.

The investigators concluded vitamin C supplementation increases the levels of antioxidation in serum (vitamin C and GSH) and improves lung function (FEV1% and FEV1/FVC) of COPD patients, especially when treated with vitamin C supplementation greater than 400 mg/day. However, further prospective studies are needed to explore the role of vitamin C in improving nutritional status.

Original title:
Efficacy of Vitamin C Supplementation on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Lei T, Lu T, […], Liu J.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9473551/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant and vitamin C.

Vitamin E supplements enhance quality of life of rheumatoid arthritis patients

Objectives:
Do rheumatoid arthritis patients benefit from vitamin E supplements?

Study design:
This review article included 9 RCTs with a total of 39,845 patients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that vitamin E supplements were shown to be more effective in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis for sensitive joints [MD = -1.66, 95% CI = -6.32 to -2.99, I2 = 93%, p 0.00001] and swollen joints [MD = -0.46, 95% CI = -1.98 to 1.07, I2 = 56%, p = 0.08].

The investigators concluded vitamin E's ability to restore the intestinal barrier and improve the gastrointestinal tract may be linked to the prevention and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Vitamin E supplements used on a regular basis can help individuals with rheumatoid arthritis reduce joint discomfort, edema and stiffness, as well as enhance their overall quality of life.

Original title:
Effect of vitamin E supplementation in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Kou H, Qing Z, […], Ma J.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35468933/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant and vitamin E.

 

Meat intake may increase kidney stones

Objectives:
What is the association of total protein, animal protein and animal protein sources with risk of kidney stones in the general population?

Study design:
This review article included 14 prospective cohort studies.
According to NutriGrade scoring system, the credibility of evidence for most of the exposures was rated as low.
Some kind of publication bias was found in the association of animal protein intake and risk of kidney stones, according to Egger's and Begg's tests.
Sensitivity analysis of processed meat as well as dairy consumption with risk of kidney stones showed one study changed the overall estimate.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that higher dietary intake of non-dairy animal protein significantly increased risk of kidney stones with 11% [RR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.20, I2 = 0%, n = 4].
Significant means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found that higher dietary intake of total meat and meat products significantly increased risk of kidney stones with 22% [RR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.09 to 1.38, I2 = 13%, n = 3].
Significant because RR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 1.09 to 1.38. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found that higher dietary intake of processed meat significantly increased risk of kidney stones with 22% [RR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.10 to 1.51, I2 = 0%, n = 2]. 

The investigators found that higher intake of dairy protein significantly decreased risk of kidney stones with 9% [RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.99, I2 = 0%, n = 4].

The investigators found, moreover, each 100 gram increment of red meat dietary intake was significantly associated with an increased risk of 39% for kidney stones [RR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.71].

The investigators concluded that higher dietary intake of meat and meat products may increase the risk of kidney stones in the general population, while higher dietary intake of dairy proteins may decrease the risk of kidney stones in the general population. May because the credibility of evidence for most of the exposures was rated as low and there was publication bias. Therefore, further observational studies are needed to confirm present results.

Original title:
Associations of Total Protein or Animal Protein Intake and Animal Protein Sources with Risk of Kidney Stones: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis by Asoudeh F, Talebi S, […], Mohammadi H.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35179185/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about RCTs/significant, meat and dairy consumption.

When the credibility of evidence of the studies in the review article is low and there is publication bias, the results will not be very reliable.
 

High-dose dietary intake of vitamins A and B reduces glaucoma

Objectives:
There is currently a lack of high-quality research on the best dietary recommendations for patients with early glaucoma or at high risk for glaucoma. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a high dietary vitamin intake reduce risk of glaucoma?

Study design:
This review article included 8 cohort studies, with a total of 262,189 patients.

There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that high-dose dietary intake of vitamins A was significantly associated with a 27% low risk of glaucoma [OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.53 to 0.76 , p 001, I2 = 49%].

The investigators found that high-dose dietary intake of vitamins B (a combination of B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12) was significantly associated with a 29% low risk of glaucoma [OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.64 to 0.80, p 0.001, I2 = 29%].

The investigators found no association between high-dose dietary intake of vitamins C, D or E and lower risk of glaucoma.

The investigators concluded that high-dose dietary intake of vitamins A and B, but not vitamins C, D or E, is associated with a low prevalence of glaucoma. Overall, middle-aged and elderly people or patients with early glaucoma should consume vitamin-rich foods rich or take additional vitamin supplements.

Original title:
Vitamin intake and glaucoma risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Han FF and Fu XX.             

Link:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0181551222000419?via%3Dihub

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Higher intake of antioxidant-rich foods reduces Parkinson's disease

Objectives:
Does a higher intake of dietary antioxidants (like vitamin C and E, β-carotene, zinc, anthocyanins, lutein) reduce risk of Parkinson's disease (PD)?

Study design:
This review article included 6 prospective cohort studies and 2 nested case-control studies (448,737 participants with 4,654 persons with Parkinson's disease) and 6 case-control studies (1,948 persons without Parkinson's disease and 1, 273 persons with Parkinson's disease).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found comparded to the lowest dietary vitamine E intake, that the highest dietary vitamine E intake significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 16% [pooled RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.71 to 0.99, n = 7 cohort studies].
Significantly means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found compared to the lowest dietary anthocyanins intake, that the highest dietary anthocyanins intake significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 24% [pooled RR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.61 to 0.96, n = 2 cohort studies].
Significantly because pooled RR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 0.61 to 0.96. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found compared to the lowest dietary lutein intake, that the highest dietary lutein intake significantly increased risk of Parkinson's disease with 86% [pooled RR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.20 to 2.88, n = 3 case-control studies].

The investigators found in dose-response meta-analyses that every increment of dietary vitamin C intake with 50 mg/d significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 6% [RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.88 to 0.99, n = 6].

The investigators found in dose-response meta-analyses that every increment of dietary vitamin E intake with 5 mg/d significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 16% [RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.70 to 0.99, n = 7].

The investigators found in dose-response meta-analyses that every increment of dietary β-carotene intake with 2 mg/d significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 6% [RR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.89 to 0.99, n = 6].

The investigators found in dose-response meta-analyses that every increment of dietary zinc intake with 1 mg/d significantly reduced risk of Parkinson's disease with 35% [RR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.49 to 0.86, n = 1].

The investigators concluded that higher intake of antioxidant-rich foods reduces risk of Parkinson's disease. Future, well-designed prospective studies are needed to validate the present findings.

Original title:
Dietary Antioxidants and Risk of Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis of Observational Studies by Talebi S, Ghoreishy SM, […], Mohammadi H.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35030236/

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High protein diets causally have beneficial effect on body weight management

Objectives:
Do diets rich in protein causually reduce body weight of adults with overweight or obesity? 

Study design:
This review article included 37 RCTs.
The diets were included during a mean of 32 weeks interventions, ranging from 8 to 104 weeks.

There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found protein intake (ranging from 18-59 energy percentage [En%]) significantly reduced body weight by 1.6 kg [95% CI = 1.2 to 2.0 kg, I2 = 56%] compared to controls (digestible carbohydrate, fiber, fat or no supplementation (no placebo used)).
This result was also found in sensitivity analysis.

The investigators found the effect size of dietary protein in body weight management was dependent on specific phenotypes, where individuals with prediabetes had more benefit compared to individuals with normoglycemia.
Furthermore, individuals without the obesity risk allele (AA genotype) had more benefit compared to individuals with the obesity risk alleles (AG and GG genotypes).

The investigators concluded that diets rich in protein (18-59 energy percentage [En%]) during 32 weeks causally have a moderate beneficial effect on body weight management of adults with overweight or obesity.

Original title:
Are Dietary Proteins the Key to Successful Body Weight Management? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Studies Assessing Body Weight Outcomes after Interventions with Increased Dietary Protein by Hansen TT, Astrup A and Sjödin A.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8468854/

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A diet rich in protein with 18-59 energy percentage [E%] or a diet with 18-59 En% protein means that the amounts of protein contribute 18 to 59% to the total calories (kcal) of the diet.
If the diet contains 2000 kcal, 90 grams of protein contribute 18% to this 2000 kcal.
1 gram of protein gives 4 kcal. Thus 90 grams of protein provide 360 kcal (90x4 kcal) and 360 kcal is 18% of 2000 kcal.

The most easy way to follow a diet rich in protein with 18-59 energy percentage is to choose only meals/products with 18-59 En% protein. Check here which products contain 18-59 En% protein.

However, the most practical way to follow a diet with 18-59 En% protein is, all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should contain on average 18-59 En% protein.

To do this, use the 7-points nutritional profile app to see whether your daily diet contains 18-59 En% protein.

A high-protein diet is a diet with at least 20 En% protein.

 

High circulating vitamin C level reduces metabolic syndrome

Objectives:
The association between vitamin C and metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been evaluated in several epidemiological studies with conflicting results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do dietary vitamin C intake and circulating vitamin C level reduce risk of metabolic syndrome? 

Study design:
This review article included 26 cross-sectional studies and 2 cohort studies with a total number of 110,771 participants. 23 studies were related to the dietary vitamin C level.
The sample size ranged from 143 to 27,656 persons.
The dietary vitamin C level was assessed by food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) in 4 studies, a 24-h or 3-day recall in 18 studies and a 4-day record in 1 study.

No evidence of publication bias existed according to Begg's rank correlation test [p = 0.495].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared to the lowest dietary vitamin C intake, that the highest dietary vitamin C intake significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 7% [overall multivariable-adjusted RR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.88 to 0.97, p = 0.003, I2 = 54.5%, p = 0.003]. The above findings were confirmed in cross-sectional studies [RR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.87 to 0.97, p = 0.001] and 24-h or 3-day recall [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.86 to 0.93, p 0.001] studies.

The investigators found when compared to the lowest circulating vitamin C level, that the highest circulating vitamin C level significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 40% [overall multivariable-adjusted RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.49 to 0.74, p 0.001, I2 = 22.7%, p = 0.249].

The investigators concluded that both the dietary and the circulating vitamin C level reduce risk of metabolic syndrome. However, due to the limitation of the available evidence, more well-designed prospective studies are still needed.

Original title:
Vitamin C and Metabolic Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies by Guo H, Ding J, [...], Zhang Y.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8531097/

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In practice, a lot of dietary vitamin C intake amounts to 200 to 300 grams of vegetables and 2-5 pieces of fruit per day. Vitamin C is found in fruit and vegetables.

A high circulating vitamin C level can be obtained through vitamin C-rich food and/or taking vitamin C supplements.

 

Carbohydrate intake increases metabolic syndrome

Objectives:
The associations between dietary carbohydrate and diverse health outcomes remain controversial and confusing. Therefore, this review article (meta-analyse) has been conducted.

What is the association between dietary carbohydrate intake and diverse health outcomes?

Study design:
This review article included 43 meta-analyses of observational research studies with 23 health outcomes, including cancer (n = 26), mortality (n = 4), metabolic diseases (n = 4), digestive system outcomes (n = 3) and other outcomes [coronary heart disease (n = 2), stroke (n = 1), Parkinson's disease (n = 1) and bone fracture (n = 2)].

This umbrella review summarized 281 individual studies with 13,164,365 participants.

33.3% studies were considered to be of high quality and 66.7% of moderate quality.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found highly suggestive evidence showed that dietary carbohydrate intake significantly increased risk of metabolic syndrome with 25% [adjusted summary odds ratio = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.15 to 1.37].

The investigators found suggestive evidence showed that dietary carbohydrate intake significantly decreased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma with 43% [adjusted summary hazard ratio = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.42 to 0.78].

The investigators found suggestive evidence showed that dietary carbohydrate intake significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality with 19% [adjusted summary hazard ratio 1.19, 95% CI = 1.09 to 1.30].

The investigators concluded despite the fact that numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have explored the relationship between carbohydrate intake and diverse health outcomes, there is no convincing evidence of a clear role of carbohydrate intake. However, highly suggestive evidence shows carbohydrate intake is associated with higher risk of metabolic syndrome. Suggestive evidence shows carbohydrate intake is associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality and lower risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Original title:
Dietary Carbohydrate and Diverse Health Outcomes: Umbrella Review of 30 Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of 281 Observational Studies by Liu YS, Wu QJ […], Zhao YH.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8116488/

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Oral magnesium supplementation does not reduce leg cramps during pregnancy

Objectives:
Leg cramps are one of the common symptoms during pregnancy. About 30%-50% of pregnant women experience leg cramps twice a week. Leg cramps may cause severe pain and sleep disturbance, hinder performance of daily activities and may lengthen the duration of pregnancy and the type of childbirth. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does oral magnesium supplementation reduce leg cramps during pregnancy?

Study design:
This review article included 4 RCTs with a total of 332 pregnant women.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the frequency of leg cramps during pregnancy was not significantly decreased in the magnesium group compared to the control group (group without magnesium) [WMD = -0.47, 95% CI = -1.14 to 0.20, p = 0.167].

The investigators found oral magnesium supplementation did not significantly improved the recovery from leg cramps during pregnancy compared to the control group [OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.14 to 1.52, p = 0.207].

The investigators found oral magnesium supplementation had no significant side effects in the treatment group (group with magnesium) compared to the control group [OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 0.90 to 3.69, p = 0.094].

The investigators concluded that oral magnesium supplementation is not effective in the treatment of leg cramps during pregnancy.

Original title:
Effect of oral magnesium supplementation for relieving leg cramps during pregnancy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Liu J, Song G, [...], Meng T.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34247796/

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No difference in seroconversion between 3 doses of fIPV and 3 doses of full-dose poliovirus vaccine

Objectives:
Since WHO recommended introduction of at least a single dose of inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) in routine immunisation schedules, there have been global IPV shortages. Fractional-dose IPV (fIPV) administration is one of the strategies to ensure IPV availability. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a difference in seroconversion and antibodies response between fractional-dose IPV (fIPV) and full-dose IPV?

Study design:
This review article included 14 articles: 2 ongoing trials and 12 articles reporting on 10 completed studies.

The seroconversion meta-analysis for the three-dose comparison was homogeneous [p = 0.45, I2 = 0%], whereas heterogeneity was observed in the two-dose [p 0.00001, I2 = 88%] and one-dose [p = 0.0004, I2 = 74%] comparisons.
Heterogeneity was observed in meta-analyses of GMTs for one-dose [p 0.00001, I2 = 92%, two-dose [p = 0.002, I2 = 80%] and three-dose [p 0.00001, I2 = 93%] comparisons. Findings for types 1 and 3 were similar to those for type 2.
The certainty of the evidence was high for the three-dose comparisons and moderate for the rest of the comparisons.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for poliovirus type 2, there were no significant differences in the proportions of seroconversions between fractional and full doses of IPV for 2 or 3 doses: the risk ratio for serconversion at 1 dose was 0.61 [95% CI = 0.51 to 0.72], at 2 doses was 0.90 [95% CI = 0.82 to 1.00] and at 3 doses was 0.95 [95% CI = 0.91 to 1.00].

The investigators found geometric mean titres (GMTs) for poliovirus type 2 were lower for fIPV than for full-dose IPV [-0.51, 95% CI = -0.87 to -0.14] at 1 dose [-0.49, 95% CI = -0.70 to -0.28] at 2 doses and [-0.98, 95% CI = -1.46 to -0.51] at 3 doses.

The investigators concluded that there is no substantial difference in seroconversion between 3 doses of fractional-dose IPV (fIPV) and 3 doses of full-dose poliovirus vaccine (IPV), although the full dose gives higher titres of antibodies for poliovirus type 1, 2 and 3. Use of fractional IPV instead of the full dose can stretch supplies and possibly lower the cost of vaccination.

Original title:
Fractional dose compared with standard dose inactivated poliovirus vaccine in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Mashunye TR, Ndwandwe DE, [...], Wiysonge CS.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33939958/

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0.8-10 mg/d folic acid supplements decrease CRP levels

Objectives:
It has been theorized that folic acid supplementation improves inflammation. However, its proven effects on inflammatory markers are unclear as clinical studies on this topic have produced inconsistent results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Have folic acid supplements positive effects on inflammatory markers, like CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α?

Study design:
This review article included 12 RCTs with a total of 1,392 participants.
The studies were conducted between 2003 and 2018 and their sample size varied from 19 to 530 participants.
The mean age of the participants ranged from 24.1 to 68.1 years old.
The supplementation period ranged from 2 to 52 weeks.
The daily mentioned dosage of folic acid varied between 0.8 mg and 10 mg/d.

There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a significant effect of folic acid supplementation on serum concentrations of CRP [WMD = -0.59 mg/L, 95% CI = -0.85 to -0.32, p 0.001, I2 = 91.3%, p 0.001].
This significantly reduced effect was also found in the subgroup and sensitivity analysis.
Subgroup analysis showed that baseline serum concentrations of CRP, duration of intervention, dosage and the participants’ age and gender explained this heterogeneity.

The investigators concluded that 0.8-10 mg/d folic acid supplements decrease serum concentrations of CRP.

Original title:
Effects of Folic Acid Supplementation on Inflammatory Markers: A Grade-Assessed Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials by Asbaghi O, Ashtary-Larky D, […], Naeini AA.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8308638/

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Poultry consumption decreases metabolic syndrome

Objectives:
What is the association between red meat and poultry consumption and the risk of metabolic syndrome?

Study design:
This review article included 9 prospective cohort studies, which involved a total of 21,869 participants.
Among them, 8 studies were identified for red meat consumption.

No publication bias was observed according to the Begg's rank-correlation test and the Egger's test.  

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that red meat consumption was significantly associated with a higher risk of 35% for metabolic syndrome [multi-variable adjusted RR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.62, p = 0.001, I2 = 54.4%, p = 0.032].  
The same results were obtained in subgroup analysis for >5 years follow-up [RR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.09 to 1.7, p = 0.006], non-National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP-ATP III) [RR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.12 to 1.62, p = 0.002], Non-Asia [RR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.29 to 1.77, p 0.001], adjustment of BMI [RR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.23 to 1.6, p 0.001] and physical activity studies [RR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.29 to 1.71, p 0.001].

The investigators found that unprocessed red meat consumption was significantly associated with a higher risk of 32% for metabolic syndrome [multi-variable adjusted RR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.14 to 1.54, p = 0.0003, I2 = 0%, p = 0.397].  

The investigators found that processed red meat consumption was significantly associated with a higher risk of 48% for metabolic syndrome [multi-variable adjusted RR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.11 to 1.97, p = 0.007, I2 = 64.7%, p = 0.097].  

The investigators found that poultry consumption was significantly associated with a lower risk of 15% for metabolic syndrome [multi-variable adjusted RR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.75 to 0.97, p = 0.02, I2 = 0%, p = 0.707].  

The investigators concluded that red meat (processed and unprocessed) consumption is associated with a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, whereas, poultry consumption is associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome. More well-designed randomized controlled trials are still needed to address the issues further.

Original title:
Association of Red Meat and Poultry Consumption With the Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies by Guo H, Ding J, [...], Zhang Y.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8295459/

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Low vitamin D level increases asthma in children

Objectives:
The association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OH)D level (vitamin D level in blood) and asthma occurrence in children was controversial. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does a low vitamin D level increase risk of asthma occurrence in children?

Study design:
This review article included 35 studies with 5,711 children with asthma and 21,561 children without asthma. Among them, 24 studies were included for analyzing the association between 25(OH)D level and asthma and 12 studies evaluated the treatment effect of vitamin D.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that the children with asthma had significant lower 25(OH)D level than children without asthma [21.7 ng/mL versus 26.5 ng/mL, SMD = -1.36, 95% CI = -2.40 to -0.32, p = 0.010].

The investigators found, besides, children with asthma treated with vitamin D supplement had a significantly lower recurrence rate of 65% than the placebo group [18.4% versus 35.9%, RR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.35 to 0.79, p = 0.002].

The investigators concluded that children with asthma have a lower 25(OH)D level than healthy children. Vitamin D supplement could decrease the asthma recurrence rate in the follow-up years.

Original title:
Vitamin D and asthma occurrence in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Wang Q, Ying Q, [...], Chen J.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34366195/

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