Benefits Of Supplementation Research Articles

Examining the role of antioxidant supplementation in mitigating oxidative stress markers in Alzheimer's disease: a comprehensive review.

Alzheimer's disease is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the key pathological features of Alzheimer's disease is oxidative stress, which is characterized by an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential role of antioxidant supplementation in mitigating oxidative stress markers in Alzheimer's disease. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research on antioxidant supplementation in Alzheimer's disease and its effects on oxidative stress markers. The paper will examine the underlying mechanisms of oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease, the potential benefits of antioxidant supplementation, and the challenges and limitations of using antioxidants as a therapeutic strategy.

D-Serine May Ameliorate Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity Impairment Induced by Patients’ Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antibodies in Mice

Objective: To establish a mouse model of anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis and assess the potential therapeutic benefits of D-serine supplementation in mitigating synaptic plasticity impairments induced by anti-NMDAR antibodies. Methods: Anti-NMDAR antibodies were purified from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of patients diagnosed with anti-NMDAR encephalitis and verified using a cell-based assay. CSF from patients with non-inflammatory neurological diseases served as the control. These antibodies were then injected intraventricularly into C57BL/6 mice. Forty-eight hours following the injection, mice were administered either D-serine (500 mg/kg) or sterile saline intraperitoneally for three consecutive days. Subsequent analyses included Western blotting, immunofluorescence, electrophysiological studies, and a series of behavioral tests to assess pathological changes caused by anti-NMDAR antibodies. Results: Mice injected with anti-NMDAR antibodies exhibited a significant reduction in hippocampal long-term potentiation compared to controls, which was notably ameliorated by D-serine treatment. Additionally, these mice displayed decreased levels of hippocampal membrane NMDAR1 protein and postsynaptic NMDAR1 density. However, D-serine administration did not significantly alter these conditions. Notably, no significant behavioral differences were observed between mice injected with anti-NMDAR antibodies and controls in open fields, elevated plus maze, novel object recognition, or Morris water maze tests. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that exogenous D-serine can improve hippocampal plasticity impairments caused by anti-NMDAR antibodies but does not reverse the decreased expression of NMDAR. Furthermore, a single intraventricular injection of patients’ antibodies was insufficient to induce anti-NMDAR encephalitis-related behaviors in mice.

Cognitive benefits of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy track with epigenetic changes at an imprint regulator

BackgroundThe human ZFP57 gene is a major regulator of imprinted genes, maintaining DNA methylation marks that distinguish parent-of-origin-specific alleles. DNA methylation of the gene itself has shown sensitivity to environmental stimuli, particularly folate status. However, the role of DNA methylation in ZFP57’s own regulation has not been fully investigated.MethodsWe used samples and data from our previously described randomised controlled trial (RCT) in pregnancy called Folic Acid Supplementation in the Second and Third Trimester (FASSTT), including follow-up of the children at age 11. Biometric and blood biochemistry results were examined for mothers and children. Methylation of ZFP57 was analysed by EPIC arrays, pyrosequencing and clonal analysis, and transcription assessed by PCR-based methods. Functional consequences of altered methylation were examined in cultured cells with mutations or by inhibition of the main DNA methyltransferases. DNA variants were examined using pyrosequencing and Sanger sequencing, with results compared to published studies using bioinformatic approaches. Cognitive outcomes were assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children 4th UK Edition (WISC-IV), with neural activity during language tasks quantified using magnetoencephalography (MEG).ResultsHere we show that methylation at an alternative upstream promoter of ZFP57 is controlled in part by a quantitative trait locus (QTL). By altering DNA methylation levels, we demonstrate that this in turn controls the expression of the ZFP57 isoforms. Methylation at this region is also sensitive to folate levels, as we have previously shown in this cohort. Fully methylated alleles were associated with poorer performance in the Symbol Search and Cancellation subtests of WISC-IV in the children at age 11 years. There were also differences in neural activity during language tasks, as measured by MEG. Analysis of published genome-wide studies indicated other SNPs in linkage disequilibrium with the mQTL were also associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes.ConclusionsWhile numbers in the current RCT were small and require further validation in larger cohorts, the results nevertheless suggest a molecular mechanism by which maternal folic acid supplementation during pregnancy may help to counteract the effects of folate depletion and positively influence cognitive development in the offspring.

Efficacy of vitamin/mineral supplement on children with Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorder

Objectives The management of language deficits and therapeutic efficacy of micronutrients supplementation in improving presentations in Down syndrome (DS) and autistic children are very challenging. The aim of this open-label study is to explore the effect of micronutrients supplementation together with language stimulating environment on language abilities, the severity of autism spectrum spectrum (ASD) presentations, and on serum levels of some micronutrients and serotonin in these children. Methods DS and autistic children (N = 57) who presented with intellectual disability and developmental language delay were subjected to assessment of the language abilities, severity of autism in ASD participants, in addition to measuring of serum levels of iron, magnesium, B6, B12, and serotonin level by ELISA before and after 16 wk of an oral once-per-day dietary supplementation, together with a home-based language stimulation. The supplement included vitamins (B complex, E, C), trace minerals (Iron, magnesium, zinc), and other nutrients. Results All the participants showed improved language abilities (p = 0.01). Autistic children showed reduced autism severity (p = 0.005). Increased levels of iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, and serotonin in the serum after supplementation have been observed (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions This research provides further support for the benefits of dietary supplementation with home-based language stimulation for DS and autistic children.

A qualitative assessment of barriers to iron and folic acid supplementation among pregnant women in Botswana

BackgroundAntenatal iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation remains an effective strategy in the prevention of maternal anemia and low birthweight and is universally recommended by WHO. However, uptake of IFA has varied globally due to challenges with acceptability, supply and distribution, counselling and knowledge, and access to health services. In Botswana, nearly one-third of pregnant women engaged in antenatal care do not receive IFA, despite it being standard of care. The objectives of this study were to assess knowledge of and barriers and facilitators to IFA supplementation before and during pregnancy.MethodsWe conducted qualitative interviews with two key stakeholder groups at two different levels—the individual level (pregnant women) and the service delivery level (health care providers). Here, we present results from interviews with pregnant women at two representative antenatal clinic sites in Botswana in 2022.ResultsPregnant women were motivated to be healthy and were knowledgeable about the benefits of supplementation during pregnancy to mothers and their infants; however, women knew more about the benefits of iron than folic acid. Most women were in favor of receiving IFA supplementation prior to pregnancy and receiving fortified foods. Several key barriers were identified: lack of supplement availability in the clinics, poverty, side effects, number of tablets, and adherence. Approaches to overcome these barriers included improving supplement availability, improving health education, increasing supply of nutritious and fortified foods, backyard gardens, and increasing family and monetary support.ConclusionsOur study identified a need to 1) increase the availability of supplementation at antenatal clinics and 2) improve education regarding supplementation to include information about the benefits of folic acid and other micronutrients. Implementation research is needed to ascertain whether increasing supply and improving education could increase utilization of supplementation during pregnancy, with the ultimate goal of improving maternal and infant outcomes.

Crocin Supplementation on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Saffron is the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L. flowers. The yellow-orange color of saffron comes from crocin, a water-soluble carotenoid that can be ingested. Crocin is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential. It is believed to affect inflammation and oxidative stress, making it a promising therapeutic option. However, research on its impact is inconclusive. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the benefits of crocin supplementation and its specific effects on inflammation and oxidative stress markers. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted up to February 2024 in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science to find suitable randomized clinical trials (RCTs). All participants were adults who were supplemented with crocin as part of the study intervention. The selected trials were subjected to heterogeneity tests using the I2 statistic. Random effects models were examined based on the heterogeneity tests, and the pooled data were calculated as weighted mean differences (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Of the 519 papers that remain after duplications were removed, 13 eligible RCTs were included in the present meta-analysis. Our findings indicated that crocin supplementation significantly reduced c-reactive protein (CRP) levels (SMD: -0.50; 95%CI: -0.86 to -0.13; p = 0.008), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (SMD: -1.96; 95%CI: -2.72 to -1.19; p < 0.001), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (SMD: -3.52; 95%CI: -6.84 to -0.20; p = 0.03). Also, crocin supplementation led to a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (SMD: 1.48; 95%CI: 0.52 to 2.43; p = 0.002). Overall effect size showed that crocin intake failed to change the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels significantly. Crocin reduces inflammatory markers and increases TAC. The effect of crocin on inflammatory markers was greater in a dose ≥ 30 mg/day and an intervention duration ≥ 12 weeks. However, more studies are needed for definitive conclusions.

From ocean to emotion: a pilot study exploring acute mood effects following consumption of a DHA-rich powder compared with placebo in middle-aged Australian men.

While there is evidence that long-chain n-3 PUFA supplementation benefits mood, the extent to which a single high dose of n-3 PUFA can induce acute mood effects has not been examined. The present study investigated whether a single dose of a DHA-rich powder affects self-reported mood in middle-aged males during elevated cognitive demand. In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with a balanced crossover design, twenty-nine healthy males (age M = 52.8 years, sd = 5.3) were administered a powder (in a meal) containing 4·74 g n-3 PUFA (DHA 4020 mg; EPA 720 mg) or placebo in random order on two different testing days separated by a washout period of 7 ± 3 d. Participants completed mood assessments before and after completing two cognitive test batteries at baseline and again 3·5-4·0 h following the consumption of the active treatment or placebo. While completion of the cognitive test batteries increased negative mood, differential effects for alertness (P = 0·008) and stress (P = 0·04) followed consumption of the DHA-rich powder compared with placebo. Although alertness declined when completing the cognitive batteries, it was higher following consumption of the DHA-rich powder compared with placebo (P = 0·006). Conversely, stress was lower following consumption of the DHA-rich powder relative to placebo, though this difference only approached significance (P = 0·05). Overall, results from this pilot study demonstrate that a single high dose of n-3 PUFA may deliver acute mood benefits following elevated cognitive demand in healthy middle-aged males.

Phagostimulant MTSG supplementation benefits growth-promoting and defensive effects of Rhodobacter azotoformans on Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis

The use of phagostimulant and Rhodobacter has been well proposed in Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis culture. Yet the influence of phagostimulant supplementation on the growth-promoting and defensive effects of Rhodobacter on Chinese mitten crabs is still unknown. In this study, a 40-day feeding trial was carried out to examine the contribution of dietary phagostimulant MTSG to the effects of R. azotoformans on the growth performance, immunity, antioxidant capability, intestinal flora diversity, and resistance of E. sinensis to bacterial challenge. The results revealed higher weight gain, specific growth rate, as well as serum and hepatopancreatic acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities in the 3.0 to 9.0 g/kg diet MTSG + R. azotoformans-fed crabs than R. azotoformans-fed crabs, indicating that the supplementation of MTSG at 3.0 to 9.0 g/kg diet could improve the effect of R. azotoformans on growth performance, immunity and antioxidant capability of Chinese mitten crabs. Furthermore, the supplementation of MTSG at 3.0 to 9.0 g/kg diet could strengthen the effect of R. azotoformans on intestinal flora diversity of Chinese mitten crabs, and enhance the effect of R. azotoformans on the disease resistance against S. putrefaciens infection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal the contribution of a phagostimulant (MTSG) to the growth-promoting and defensive effects of R. azotoformans on Chinese mitten crabs.

Effects of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation, and gut microbiota: a systematic review of human and animal studies.

The scientific literature indicates that chokeberry is widely used as a supplement to support the maintenance of the body's homeostasis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. In recent years, positive effects of chokeberry on intestinal parameters have also been observed. Oxidative stress, inflammation, and according to recent reports, also the gut microbiome are closely related to the overall well-being and health of the population. This study, therefore, attempts to summarize all the health benefits of black chokeberry supplementation. This study was registered in PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) under registration number CRD42023395969. Additionally, the systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method. Electronic databases were searched in Web of Science, Pubmed, Scopus, and EBSCO using the following combination of the words "chokeberry or aronia" and "inflammation or oxidative stress or microbiota or microbiome or permeability or gut." Ultimately, 57 studies were summarized in the review. Data analysis showed that black chokeberry has a positive effect on the reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress, and intestinal microflora, but the size of the changes varies and depends on many variables. Therefore, the researchers concluded that the compounds found in black chokeberry play a pivotal role in maintaining the overall balance within the system. This is a crucial consideration given the tendency for disturbances in organismal homeostasis to accompany disease processes and various disorders. However, further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms and optimize its use fully.

Beneficial effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation postbiotic products on calf and cow health and plausible mechanisms of action

Supplementation of cattle diets with Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) has been shown to improve health and performance of calves and cows in both the dairy and feedlot. Numerous studies have shown SCFP supplementation is beneficial in the context of production- and infection-related stressors, promoting resilience, accelerated resolution of inflammation or oxidative stress, and enabling the cow or calf to maintain homeostasis. SCFPs, derived from yeast fermentation, encompass a rich array of bioactive compounds, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and metabolites, which likely influence the host through both distinct and overlapping processes. Understanding the mechanisms by which SCFPs exert their beneficial effects is crucial for optimizing their utilization in cattle production systems. In this review, we focused not only on the beneficial effects of SCFPs on health and performance but also on their influence on host microbiota, epithelial barrier integrity, and the host immune system, providing mechanistic insights. Previous studies have suggested that SCFPs impact host metabolism, modulate rumen and hindgut microbial populations, exert antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects, and stimulate the expression of genes involved in maintaining tissue barrier integrity. However, there are still gaps in understanding certain mechanistic pathways, particularly those involving the nervous system, as well as the paradoxical effects of SCFPs in enhancing immune responses while simultaneously mitigating excessive inflammation. This review summarizes several recent reports describing the health benefits of SCFP supplementation in cattle and considers the available evidence on the mode of action.

Modulation of Canine Gut Microbiota by Prebiotic and Probiotic Supplements: A Long-Term In Vitro Study Using a Novel Colonic Fermentation Model.

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in dogs' health, influencing immune function, digestion, and protection against pathogens. This study evaluates the effects of three canine dietary supplements-Microbiotal (prebiotic), Lactobacillus reuteri (probiotic), and a combination of both-on the gut microbiota composition of a healthy canine donor using an in vitro colonic fermentation model. The SCIME™ platform, adapted to simulate the canine gastrointestinal tract, was used to monitor microbial shifts in the luminal and mucosal environments of the proximal and distal colon over a 2-week treatment period. The microbial communities were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing to assess changes at various taxonomic levels. Alpha- and beta-diversity indices were calculated, while LEfSe and treeclimbR were employed to identify taxa-driving microbial shifts. Results indicated that all treatments led to significant modulations in key microbial groups, with enrichment of Limosilactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Prevotella, and Faecalibacterium. These changes suggest improved saccharolytic fermentation and butyrate production, particularly when prebiotics and probiotics were co-administered. This study highlights the promising benefits of combined prebiotic and probiotic supplementation in promoting gut health and microbial diversity, providing a basis for future studies targeting the metabolic activity of the gut microbiota using the same supplements and technology.

Magnesium and Zinc as Vital Micronutrients Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery – a Review

Introduction and Aim of the ReviewMagnesium and zinc are vital for cellular metabolism and maintaining homeostasis, playing a particularly significant role for athletes. Magnesium, which is largely stored in bones and muscles, is essential for protein synthesis. Zinc, a critical trace element found in muscle and bone tissue, participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions, acts as an antioxidant and making both minerals crucial for physical performance. This study aims to explore the physiological role of magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) in the context of athletic performance and to examine their impact on energy metabolism, muscle function, protein synthesis and potential benefits of Mg and Zn supplementation for improving athletic outcomes and post-exercise recovery. MethodsA comprehensive review of scientific literature was conducted through a thorough search of the PubMed database to explore the latest findings on the utility of magnesium and zinc in sports. Only articles in English were considered. Current KnowledgeThe review results indicate that Mg and Zn play critical roles in energy metabolism, muscle and immune system health. Mg deficiency can impair muscle function and reduce endurance, while its supplementation supports muscle relaxation, cardiovascular health, and respiratory efficiency. Although required in small amounts, Zn is indispensable for enzymatic activity, protein synthesis, hormonal balance, and muscle recovery, making it vital for post-exercise recovery and immune response modulation. ConclusionsAvailable data suggest that Mg and Zn supplementation may positively influence athletic performance, energy metabolism, and recovery post-exercise, though further research is needed to establish specific supplementation guidelines. This review provides a foundation for developing supplementation strategies aimed at enhancing athletic performance and supporting healthy recovery.

Benefits of Astaxanthin supplementation: selected issues

INTRODUCTION: Astaxanthin, a carotenoid compound belonging to the xanthophyll group, occurs naturally in algae, yeast, and marine organisms such as shrimp, trout, lobster, and krill. Renowned for its antioxidant prowess, astaxanthin shields mitochondria from harm caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Its exceptional antioxidant potency is noteworthy, surpassing that of α-tocopherol (Vitamin E) by 100-fold and eclipsing over 600 other recognized natural carotenoids. REVIEW METHODS: The article was complied by analyzing data from PubMed and Google Scholar data regarding the benefits of astaxanthin supplementation. THE STATE OF KNOWLEDGE: Astaxanthin, offers a range of health benefits. It modulates immune responses, inhibits cancer cell growth, reduces bacterial presence and gastric inflammation. With potent antioxidant properties, it also serves as a neuroprotective agent by combating neuroinflammation. Additionally, astaxanthin shows promise in preventing and treating liver diseases, thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and signaling pathway regulation properties. Overall, antioxidants like astaxanthin, whether from diet or supplements, help combat lipid and protein oxidation, thereby slowing down the progression of atherosclerosis. CONCLUSION: Astaxanthin emerges as a promising candidate for treating various pathological conditions linked to oxidative damage and impaired mitochondria function. These conditions span across cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and liver diseases. It could also help healthy people like athletes in enhancement of overall quality of life.

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitory and glucoregulatory potential of soy protein fermented with a bacterium (Bacillus subtilis PM_NEIST_3) isolated from Hawaijar

Soybean-derived proteins are known to exert hypoglycemic effects; however, some soy proteins may cause anti-nutritional effects. Fermentation of soybean promotes hydrolysis of major anti-nutrient proteins and generation of bioactive peptides with antidiabetic potency. The present study aims to screen antidiabetic potential of protein isolates from ethnic fermented soybean (FS) of North-East (NE) India and to develop fermented soy protein isolate (FSPI) under controlled conditions by using the proficient bacteria isolated from the most effective FS with sound antidiabetic activity. Results showed that Hawaijar, a FS of Manipur, NE India, exhibited significant α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory potential among the well-known FS of NE India under investigation. Thereafter, in the laboratory, the fermented soy protein isolate (FSPI-BS) was prepared by fermenting the SPI using a bacterial strain (Bacillus subtilis PM_NEIST_3) isolated from Hawaijar. The FSPI-BS generated by 72h fermentation exhibited significant α-glucosidase inhibitory potential. Further in vitro studies revealed that FSPI-BS promoted muscle glucose uptake and metabolism against high-glucose exposure via stimulating the PI3K/AKT/GLUT4 signaling cascade. In vivo studies using sucrose-induced Wistar rats demonstrated the inhibitory effect of FSPI-BS on postprandial blood glucose elevation. Moreover, studies with high-fat diet-fed model of type 2 diabetes revealed the benefits of FSPI-BS supplementation in improving glycemic parameters, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and skeletal muscle glucose metabolism. SDS-PAGE and western-blotting data unraveled a modification in protein profile with reduction in allergens and other baneful proteins in FSPI-BS. Therefore, FSPI-BS can be effectively used in managing hyperglycemia with no side effects.

Effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on muscle mass, fat mass, and visceral fat of hemodialysis patients; A randomized clinical trial.

Several studies demonstrated the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation in body composition, specifically on the lean body mass and fat mass in hemodialysis patients. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a total of 120 end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients were randomly allocated into two groups. The intervention group has taken three grams of omega-3 fatty acids daily while the placebo group received three grams of medium chain triglycerides (MCT) as a placebo for a total of 2months. The changes in the body mass index (BMI) and body composition (fat mass, muscle, and visceral fat) were assessed at baseline and following the intervention. No significant difference was found in the mean of BMI, FAT, muscle, and visceral fat in the intervention group compared to the control group after the intervention. After two months of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, the study found no statistically significant impact of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on various indices of body composition. The effect of ω-3 supplementation in reducing visceral fat was close to significant (p=0.08). This study suggests that there is currently inadequate evidence to support the effect of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in improving anthropometric measurements in patients with CKD, except a partial effect on visceral fat. Further large-scale and long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm the present results.

Associations between iron status and psychosocial wellbeing among pregnant women in Cape Coast, Ghana: a longitudinal study.

To determine the associations among iron status, depressive/anxiety symptoms, and quality of life (QoL) throughout pregnancy. This longitudinal study recruited participants in their 1st trimester (< 13 weeks; n=116) and followed in their 2nd (n=71) and 3rd (n=71) trimesters. Sociodemographic, food security, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and QoL questions were collected. Hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin (Ft), and transferrin saturation (TSAT) were determined. Women were categorized as iron improvers or non-improvers based on changes in iron status. Associations were assessed using difference-in-difference analyses. Cape Coast, Ghana between October 2017 to September 2018. Pregnant women, 18-38 years. Improvement in Ft levels from the 1st to 2nd trimester were associated with reduced depressive symptoms (-2.96 vs -0.58, p=0.028), and higher overall QoL (13.99 vs 1.92, p=0.006) particularly role physical (23.32 vs -2.55, p=0.025) and role emotional (27.50 vs 10.06, p=0.025) subscales. Improvement in Hb levels during the same period were linked to less anxiety, particularly fear factor (-2.62 vs -0.51, p=0.020); and worsened physical health aspect of QoL (-21.80 vs -3.75, p=0.005). Improvement in TSAT levels from 2nd to 3rd trimester were associated with increased total anxiety (1.56 vs -0.64, p=0.030) and panic factor (0.45 vs -0.26, p=0.004) and decreased total QoL (-1.08 vs 7.94, p=0.017), specifically role physical (-10.98 vs 11.93, p=0.018). Increases in iron status from first to second trimester were related to improvements in psychosocial wellbeing, implying potential benefit of iron supplementation on affect in early pregnancy. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Ergogenic Effect of Nitrate Supplementation in Clinical Populations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background/Objectives: Inorganic nitrate (NO3-) supplementation, via its conversion to nitric oxide (NO), has been purported to be ergogenic in healthy individuals. Many disease states are characterized by reduced NO bioavailability and are expected to derive a benefit from NO3-. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the current literature on the ergogenic effect of NO3- supplementation in individuals with cardiopulmonary and metabolic diseases (CPMD). Methods: Relevant databases were searched up to December 2023 for randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trials for aerobic exercise outcome variables with CPMD. Results: Twenty-two studies were included, and 46% reported ergogenic benefits of inorganic nitrate supplementation. NO3- supplementation had no effect on aerobic performance with respect to maximal (SMD = 0.11, 95% CI: -0.12 to 0.34, p = 0.34) and submaximal (SMD = 0.16, 95% CI: -0.13 to 0.46, p = 0.27) TTE, VO2peak (SMD = 0.002, 95% CI: -0.37 to 0.38, p = 0.99), or 6MW (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI: -0.29 to 0.28, p = 0.96). When the studies were limited to only cardiovascular disease conditions, NO3- supplementation had trivial effects on aerobic performance with respect to Timed Trials (SMD = 0.14, 95% CI: -0.04 to 0.33, p = 0.13), VO2 (SMD = -0.02, 95% CI: -0.32 to 0.27, p = 0.87), and small effects on Distance Trials (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI: -0.18 to 0.69, p = 0.25). Sunset funnel plots revealed low statistical power in all trials. Conclusions: The results of this systematic review revealed that 46% of the individual studies showed a positive benefit from inorganic nitrate supplementation. However, the meta-analysis revealed a trivial effect on physical function in CPMD populations. This is likely due to the large heterogeneity and small sample sizes in the current literature.

Maternal Dietary Improvement or Leptin Supplementation During Suckling Mitigates the Long-Term Impact of Maternal Obesogenic Conditions on Inflammatory and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in the Offspring of Diet-Induced Obese Rats.

This study investigates the impact of maternal nutrition during lactation on inflammation and oxidative stress in the offspring of diet-induced obese rats, along with the potential benefits of leptin supplementation during suckling. Dams were fed either a standard diet (SD), a western diet (WD) before and during gestation and lactation (WD-dams), or a WD switched to an SD during lactation (Rev-dams). Offspring were supplemented with leptin or vehicle during suckling and then fed an SD or WD until four months. Offspring of the Rev-dams exhibited improved metabolic indicators, including lower body weight, reduced plasma levels of TNF-alpha, a higher adiponectin/leptin (A/L) ratio, enhanced liver antioxidant defenses, and decreased inflammation markers in white adipose tissue (WAT) compared to WD-dams, with sex differences. Leptin supplementation further modulated these markers, reducing oxidative stress in liver and inflammation in WAT and liver (e.g., hepatic Tnfa expression decreased by 45% (males) and 41% (females) in the WD group on an SD), and improving the A/L ratio, with effects varying by maternal conditions and sex. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of maternal nutrition and leptin intake during suckling in shaping long-term metabolic and inflammatory health in offspring, offering strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of maternal obesity on future generations.

Impacts of zinc enriched spirulina as an adjunct to conventional treatment of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Study protocol for a North African randomized controlled trial (SPIRICOPD).

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a respiratory condition strongly related to oxidative stress. Recent studies have explored the potential benefits of nutritional supplementation in managing several conditions. To investigate the effects of zinc-enriched Spirulina Supplementation (ZSS) on patients with COPD. This study is a monocentric randomized controlled clinical trial. COPD-eligible adult male patients under 65 years of age, receiving regular medical treatment, will be included. They will continue their conventional medical treatment following the GOLD 2023 guidelines for COPD. Ninety subjects will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group (G1) or the control group (G2) in a 1:1 ratio. G1 will receive ZSS (1 g/day) for 2 months, while G2 will continue only basic medical treatment. The study will assess oxidant-antioxidant balance, lung function through pulmonary function tests, functional capacity via the 6-minute walking test, lipid profile, dyspnea, and health-related quality of life. All outcomes will be measured at baseline and two months later after supplementation completion. After the 8-week treatment, patients will be followed up for an additional 4 weeks. Ethics approval was obtained from the faculty of medicine of Sousse ethics committee. It is expected that ZSS can positively impact the oxidant/antioxidant balance in patients with COPD after two months of supplementation. The authors anticipate that ZSS may improve various physiological parameters, such as lung function, exercise capacity, endothelial function, and metabolic profile, leading to an overall improvement in the quality of life of patients with COPD.

Regular use of fish oil supplements, Life’s Essential 8 score, and cardiovascular mortality in people with type 2 diabetes: a longitudinal cohort study

BackgroundTill date, no studies have investigated the effects of cardiovascular health on the cardioprotective benefits of fish oil supplementation in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The utility of fish oil in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in people with diabetes remains unclear and inconsistent. ObjectiveTo investigate the potential modifying effect of cardiovascular health (CVH) level, as assessed using the Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) score, on the association between regular fish oil supplement use and CVD mortality in middle-aged and older people with T2D. MethodsParticipants with T2D in the UK Biobank were included. CVH level was categorized by the mean LE8 score (55 points). Multivariable-adjusted Cox models were used to evaluate the longitudinal association between regular use of fish oil supplements and CVD mortality. We performed stratified analysis across different CVH levels, and tested for potential interaction between fish oil supplement use and CVH level. ResultsThe analysis included 19,003 participants (mean age 59.9±6.9 years, 36.1% women), of whom 39.6% were regular users of fish oil supplements. During a median follow-up of 13.7 years, regular use of fish oil supplements was significantly associated with a lower risk of CVD mortality among participants with better CVH (i.e., LE8 score ≥55 points; hazard ratio [HR]=0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51–0.84, P = 0.001), but not among those with poorer CVH (i.e., LE8 score <55 points; HR=1.02, 95% CI 0.83–1.25, P=0.867). The interaction between the use of fish oil supplements and CVH level on CVD mortality was significant (P=0.018). ConclusionsMiddle-aged and older T2D individuals with a relatively low baseline CVH level may not obtain cardiovascular benefits from fish oil supplements. Our findings highlight the importance of promoting multimodal lifestyle interventions to improve survival outcomes of people with T2D.