Consumption Of Plant Foods Research Articles

Plant-based diets and risk of frailty in community-dwelling older adults: the Seniors-ENRICA-1 cohort

Frailty is a geriatric syndrome that leads to increased risk of hospitalization, disability, and death. The effect of plant-based diets defined by the quality of their plant foods is unclear. Our objective is to study the association between two plant-based diet indices and the occurrence of frailty among community-dwelling older adults in Spain. We analyzed data from 1880 individuals aged ≥ 60 years from the Spanish Seniors ENRICA-1 cohort. We used a validated diet history to build two indices: (a) the healthful Plant-based Diet Index (hPDI) where healthy plant foods received positive scores, whereas less-healthy plant foods and animal foods received reverse scores; and (b) the unhealthful Plant-based Diet Index (uPDI), with positive scores to less-healthy plant foods and reverse scores to animal and healthy plant foods. Incident frailty was defined with the Fried phenotype. Study associations were summarized with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) obtained from multivariable logistic models. After 3.3 years of follow-up, 136 incident frailty cases were ascertained. Comparing the highest vs. the lowest tertile of adherence, the OR [95% CI] for frailty was 0.43 (0.25–0.74; p-trend = .003) for the hPDI, and 2.89 (1.73–4.84; p-trend < .001) for the uPDI. Higher consumption of healthy plant foods was inversely associated with frailty (0.39 [0.23–0.66; p-trend < 0.001]); higher consumption of unhealthy plant foods was associated with higher frailty risk (2.40 [1.23–4.71; p-trend = .01]). In older adults, the hPDI was associated with lower risk of frailty, while the opposite was found for the uPDI.

Functional potential of yellow mombin (Spondias mombin L.) grape, fruit from a neglected and underutilized species

Consumption of plant foods, including fruits and vegetables, has been associated with a lower risk of some diseases. Besides food constituents, such as fibre or beta-carotene, other bioactive plant compounds such as polyphenols have been suggested to contribute to this protective effect. Yellow mombin (Spondias mombin L.) is a tropical fruit with increasing acceptance in both national and international fruit markets. However, it remains a neglected and underused species. Neglected and underutilized species (NUS), also known as minor crops or 'orphan' crops, can help solving some global issues, such as hunger, poverty and adaptation to climate change. In this review, we have highlighted the functional potential of the fruit of Spondias mombin. Particular emphasis has been placed on polytphenols, vitamins and minerals.

Socioeconomic factors influencing knowledge and consumption of food plants by a human group in a mountainous environment in the semiarid region of Bahia, Northeast Brazil

BackgroundThe relationship of people with natural resources is guided by different sociocultural, ecological and evolutionary factors. Regarding food plants, it is not different. Studies around the world have evaluated the effects of socioeconomic factors, such as age, gender, income, profession, education level, time of residence, ethnic diversity, religion, festive rituals, access to urban areas and migrations. In this sense, the objective of the present study was to characterize the diversity of knowledge and use of food plants by people from Serra dos Morgados and evaluate if the socioeconomic factors influence knowledge and consumption of food plants in the community.MethodologyThis research was conducted in the village of Serra dos Morgados, municipality of Jaguarari, Bahia, with the purpose of evaluating the factors that influence in the knowledge and use of food plants. Socioeconomic data such as age, gender, time of residence, and monthly income were collected. The free list technique was applied during the collection of ethnobotanical data in order to analyze the preference of the plants based on the salience index (SI). To analyze the factors that influence knowledge and use forms, we used GLM Lasso.ResultsA total of 33 people were interviewed, 8 men and 25 women; their age ranged from 30 to 82 years. People cited 98 species of plants, 41 species being identified of spontaneous occurrence. The plant with the highest salience index (SI) was “cheirosa” (Psidium ganevii) (SI = 0.5679), followed by “massaranduba” (Micropholis sp.) (SI = 0.4323); “araça” (Campomanesia guazumifolia) (SI = 0.3320); and “cambuí” (Siphoneugena sp.) (SI = 0.3144).ConclusionsThe main factors that influence knowledge and use forms in the locality were family income and the collection site, with homegardens cited as the preferred area for collection of food plants. This study provided an overview related to potentially important species for a community located in a region where there are few ethnobiological studies. The results presented here can be used in future studies, providing clues for investigations. Also, there is a contribution to the conservation of biocultural aspects related to the use of food plants in a community living in mountainous regions.

A Review on Role of Nutraceutical in Alzhemer’s Disease

Nutraceuticals are the products derive from food sources with extra health benefits. They can prevent malignant processes. The term ‘nutraceuticals’ combines two words ‘nutrients ( a nourishing food component ) and ‘pharmaceuticals’(a medical drug ) The philosophy behind nutraceuticals is according to Hippocrates “ Let food be your medicine”. Categories of nutraceuticals are dietary supplements, functional food, medicinal food, pharmaceuticals. Advance age is often characterized by a declined in large spectrum of cognitive abilities including reasoning, memory, perceptual speed and language. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common and feared from dementia representing circa 70% of all dementia cases and displaying a dramatic epidemics due to the enormous growth of the aged population worldwide. It is still unclear which factors lead to molecular cascade of neurode generation in AD, but along with genetic environmental factors vascular pathology and risk factor have been recently shown to play crucial role in AD pathogenesis .AD impacts dramatically on everyday life of older adults, being one of the main cause of disability in old age. There is clear evidence that a diet rich in specific nutritional food group (fruit, fish, vegetables) can reduce the incidence and prevalence of some of the main clinical outcomes, such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer. This specific nutritional food group are rich in micronutrients and vitamins are beneficial for health. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high consumption of plant food, fish olive oil as primary source of monounsaturated fat and moderate intake of wine. In this article, we focus our attention on group of substance proposed to prevent or treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Pilot Study on the Effects of a Whole-Food, Plant-Strong Diet on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Veterans: Part 3

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study was to conduct a preliminary test of the effectiveness of two on-line nutrition programs to promote adoption of a whole-food, plant-strong diet (PSD), and reduce specific cardiovascular risk factors, and plaque inflammation in Veterans. MethodsA 12 month prospective randomized trial design was used to pilot this comparison. Veterans with diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, or overweight/obesity, and an interest and desire to make a lifestyle change were recruited. Veterans were randomized 2:1 into treatment (Culinary Rx: CRx) and control (TeleMOVE! : TM) arms. Baseline anthropometrics, biochemistries, and dietary patterns were measured. Dietary patterns were collected using 3-day food records and the 4Leaf survey (developed specifically for estimating the percentage of calories from whole, plant-based foods). Measures were repeated at 3, 6 and 12 months. ResultsData are reported as mean and standard deviation, unless otherwise stated. Ninety-two Veterans, 66 males and 26 females (77% Caucasian, 15% African American) were randomized; 49 completed the entire study. There was no significant difference in age (60 ± 13 vs. 64 ± 11, P = 0.168) or baseline values (e.g., BMI: 35 ± 5 vs 35 ± 4, P = 0.899; HbA1c: 6.3 ± 1.0 vs. 6.4 ± 1.0, P = 0.564) between Veterans enrolled in CRx vs. TM, respectively. More females were enrolled in the CRx vs. TM (34% vs. 8%, P = 0.01). Veterans enrolled in CRx lost an average of 3.5% of body weight compared to a 1.7% loss for those enrolled in TM (P = 0.014) over 1 year. Both groups reported a significant increase in the % calories ingested from whole plant foods over time (p < 0.0001), but this increase was greater in the CRx group (p = .0015). The baseline % consumption of whole plant foods was 10–19%. This changed to 40–59% in CRx and 20–39% in TM. LDL, HDL, triglycerides and HbA1c were similar at baseline in both groups, and did not change over time. ConclusionsThe Culinary Rx program was more effective in promoting adoption of a whole-food, plant-strong diet and greater weight loss over 12 months in Veterans than the current VA standard of care on-line program, TeleMOVE!. Although there was no significant change in LDL, baseline levels were already low due to most Veterans’ receiving lipid lowering medications. Funding SourcesRouxbe Online Cooking School.

Speciation of Arsenic(III) and Arsenic(V) in Plant-Based Drinks.

Recently, food products based only on plants have become increasingly popular and are often found on store shelves. It is a specific market response to the growing demand for, and interest in, plant foods. Cow’s milk has also gained its counterpart in the form of plant-based beverages, based on cereals, nuts or legumes. The emergence of an increasingly wide range of plant-based food products has also led to increased research on safe plant food consumption. This study was conducted to quantify total arsenic content and its species (arsenic(III) and (V)) in samples of plant-based beverages purchased at Polish markets. Speciation analysis of arsenic was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The presented study was conducted on six selected plant-based beverages, including almond, millet, soybean, rice, coconut and oat. An analysis using size exclusion chromatography was performed. In order to initially visualize the content of the observed elements and the particle size of the compounds in which they occur, at first the samples were subjected to the size-exclusion chromatography. Speciation analysis of arsenic was carried out using anion-exchange liquid chromatography, combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The presented method was validated with certified reference material (CRM rice flour).

Classification of African Native Plant Foods Based on Their Processing Levels.

With increasing advocacy for plant food consumption, the sub-Saharan Africa landscape is home to diverse plant-based food commodities. The need to leverage the advantages of unprocessed/minimally processed foods (PFs) over ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is a system that requires exploitation. Most of the crops produced in the continent are either classified as traditionally or moderately PFs. However, the rise in industrialization and formalization of markets is impacting and marginalizing traditional food processing (FP). Current FP classification frameworks are briefly discussed. The level of processing of cereals, grains, fruits, vegetables, roots, and tuber crops in the continent requires intervention from nutritionists, food scientists, and scientific and governmental bodies to gain a holistic view and tackle the issue of food insecurity in Africa. This study reviews the levels of processing of African foods, challenges, and future directions.

Dietary Fat Intake: Associations with Dietary Patterns and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer-A Case-Control Study.

Simple SummaryBreast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in females worldwide. Although fat has been hypothesized to be involved in BC etiology, the results of available studies are inconclusive. The aim of this study was to assess the associations of dietary fat intake, including an individual’s percentage of energy from dietary fat (Pfat) with peri- and postmenopausal breast cancer (BC) occurrence in women. The associations between Pfat and dietary patterns (DPs) were also examined. The current findings strengthen reports that a higher dietary fat intake may contribute to an increased incidence of BC, which indicates a need to reduce dietary fat intake in cancer prevention.The aim of this study was to assess the associations of dietary fat intake with BC occurrence and dietary patterns. This case-control study involved 420 women aged 40–79 years from northeastern Poland, including 190 newly diagnosed BC cases. Dietary data were collected using a food frequency questionnaire (62-item FFQ-6®). The Quick Food Scan of the National Cancer Institute and the Percentage Energy from Fat Screener scoring procedures were used to estimate the percentage energy from dietary fat (Pfat). The odds of BC occurrence was three times higher in the Pfat > 32%. The Pfat > 32% was positively associated with the ‘Non-Healthy’ DP and inversely associated with the Polish-aMED® score, ‘Prudent’ DP, and ‘Margarine and Sweetened Dairy’ DP. This case-control study suggests that a higher dietary fat intake (>32%) may contribute to an increased occurrence of peri- and postmenopausal breast cancer in women. Given the obtained results, an unhealthy dietary pattern characterized by the consumption of highly processed, high in sugar foods and animal fat foods should be avoided to reduce fat intake. Instead, the frequent consumption of low-processed plant foods, fish, and moderate consumption of low-fat dairy should be recommended since this pro-healthy diet is inversely associated with dietary fat intake.

Abstract 022: Association Of Nutritionally-Rich Plant-Centered Diets With Gut Microbial Diversity And Composition Columbia Heart Failure-Microbiome Study

Introduction: A plant-centered diet is related to lower risk of cardiovascular disease. However, its association with the gut microbiome has not been well studied in populations with heart failure (HF), and mechanisms linking diet to improved outcomes among HF patients are poorly understood. Hypothesis: Consuming a more nutritionally-rich plant-centered diet is associated with increased microbial alpha diversity and with favorable taxonomic composition and features as compared to consuming less plant-centered diets. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 152 patients with NYHA class I-IV HF with reduced ejection fraction. Diet was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Plant-centered diet quality was evaluated using A Priori Diet Quality Score (APDQS) and the APDQS was classified into quintiles; high scores were characterized by higher consumption of nutritionally-rich plant foods with lower consumption of high-fat meats and unhealthy plant foods. Stool samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Associations of the APDQS with alpha (Shannon Index and Inverse Simpson) and beta diversity (defined via Bray-Curtis dissimilarity index) were evaluated by linear regression and permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA), respectively. Negative-binomial regressions using DESeq2 were used to study the association between the APDQS and the relative abundance of specific taxa at the phylum and genus levels. Adjustments for multiple comparisons were performed using the false discovery rate. Results: Mean Shannon Index and Inverse Simpson values were 6.28±0.5 and 407.7±183.37, respectively. Among patients aged &lt;61y, after multivariable adjustment, the APDQS (per 12 units) was associated with higher Shannon Index (0.13±0.05; P for slope=0.007) and Inverse Simpson (46.87±15.5; P for slope=0.004); no associations were observed among those aged ≥ 61y (P for interaction &lt;0.05 for each). APDQS quintiles were not associated with beta-diversity (PERMANOVA, P=0.54). At the genus level, the highest quintile of the ADPQS (vs the lowest quintile) was associated with higher abundance of Enterobacter and lower abundance of Catenibacterium. Conclusions: Consuming nutritionally-rich plant-centered diets was significantly associated with higher gut microbiota diversity in younger HF patients, as well as significantly higher or lower abundance of certain bacterial taxa at the genus level.

Trace element ratios in tooth enamel as palaeodietary indicators of seaweed consumption and coastal grazing, and their broader applicability

Ratios of barium and strontium concentrations in skeletal samples (e.g. in the logarithmic form lg(Ba/Sr)), are a possible alternative or supplementary marker to stable carbon isotope ratios (δ13C) for identification of marine food consumption. Previous studies have compared lg(Ba/Sr) values between different species of animals with differing diets, but few studies have been performed where animals of the same species consumed known diets ranging from completely terrestrial to completely marine. Additionally, how seaweed consumption affects dental and bone Ba, Sr and other trace element concentrations has not yet been directly investigated.In this study, tooth enamel from modern sheep (n = 15) that consumed known diets containing varying amounts of terrestrial grasses and seaweeds were analysed for their Sr, Ba, Ca, V, Mn, Co, Ni, As, and U concentrations. Additionally, δ13C values were analysed to enable comparison of δ13C and trace element ratios as markers of marine plant food consumption. The consumed vegetation types (grasses and seaweeds) were also analysed for trace element ratios, as were soils and sands from areas where the animals were pastured. To investigate how decay processes (i.e., diagenesis) may affect lg(Ba/Sr) in archaeological tooth enamel, teeth of 22 sheep from seven archaeological sites (ranging from ca. 5000 to 1000 years old) on the Orkney Islands, Scotland, were also analysed.The results show that tooth enamel from seaweed-eating sheep had significantly different lg(Ba/Sr) (−2.4 to −1.6) and δ13C values (−6.7‰ to −3.3‰) when compared to terrestrial-feeding sheep (lg(Ba/Sr) 0.6 to −0.5; δ13C −15.5‰ to −14.7‰), with a linear correlation between lg(Ba/Sr) and δ13C (R2 = 0.94). Vegetation, soil and sand results confirmed the assumed dependence of enamel lg(Ba/Sr) values on the (bioaccessible) Ba and Sr concentrations of the consumed matter. The archaeological samples had elevated relative amounts of U, V, As, Mn, Co, and Ni, attributable to diagenesis. However, the lg(Ba/Sr) values of the archaeological enamel followed the trend established using the modern samples, indicating that diagenesis did not cause significant changes in lg(Ba/Sr) in these samples. In conclusion, lg(Ba/Sr) values in enamel appear to be a useful indicator of the relative amount of marine food consumed, including seaweeds. This may be particularly advantageous for samples and locations where δ13C is unreliable or ambiguous as an indicator of marine food consumption.

Biological Properties and Phytonutrient Profile of Beans: Vigna angularis, Vigna radiata, and Glycine max

The consumption of specific plant foods in distinct diets reduces chronic illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and even cancer. This offers an interesting platform to study the various phytonutrients claimed by numerous studies for providing different physiological and pharmacological effects in the human body. This study has focused on the analysis of phytonutrients in three leguminous plants, namely Vigna angularis (VA), Vigna radiata (VR), and Glycine max (GM). Chemical constituents evaluated include polyphenols, flavonoids, condensed tannins, and polysaccharides, while DPPH free radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays were utilized for in vitro antioxidant activities. The findings showed that the beans contain a professed number of condensed tannins and polyphenols, while they also contain flavonoids and polysaccharides. The 95% ethanol extract of VA showed the highest level of extracted total polyphenols and total condensed tannin content than other extracts. VA 95% EtOH extract exhibited a phytochemical profile consistent with the obtained biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cell viability. Our study has successfully determined the phytonutrient profiles of the bean extracts and their associated biological activities.

Influence of Olive Oil and Its Components on Breast Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms.

Breast cancer is the most frequent malignant neoplasia and a leading cause of mortality in women worldwide. The Mediterranean diet has been proposed as a healthy dietary pattern with protective effects in several chronic diseases, including breast cancer. This diet is characterized by the consumption of abundant plant foods and olive oil as the principal source of fat, which is considered one of the main components with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) has several bioactive compounds, mainly including monounsaturated fatty acids, triterpenes and polyphenols, such as phenolic alcohols (e.g., hydroxytyrosol), secoiridoids (e.g., oleuropein and oleocanthal), lignans (e.g., pinoresinol) or flavonoids (e.g., luteolin). While epidemiological evidence is still limited, experimental in vivo and in vitro data have shown a protective effect of this oil and its compounds on mammary carcinogenesis. Such effects account through complex and multiple mechanisms, including changes in epigenetics, transcriptome and protein expression that modulate several signaling pathways. Molecular targets of EVOO compounds have a role in the acquisition of cancer hallmarks. Although further research is needed to elucidate their beneficial effects on human prevention and progression of the disease, evidence points to EVOO in the context of the Mediterranean diet as a heathy choice, while EVOO components may be promising adjuvants in anticancer strategies.

CURRENT TRENDS IN MILK PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION IN THE WORLD IN THE CONDITIONS OF GLOBALIZATION

Introduction. The article analyses current trends in milk production and consumption in the world, taking into account the latest factors of product competitiveness in the global milk market and the growing interest of consumers in plant substitutes for animal milk. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, world dairy production continues to grow, with Asia experiencing the largest increase since 2019. The next decade will create great opportunities for the dairy industry in the world. The increase in demand will be accelerated by the globalization of the industry, which will form consolidation in order to efficiently use resource potential, ensure a sustainable supply of milk and stable profits for producers. Purpose. The purpose of the article is to study current trends in milk production and consumption in the world, taking into account the latest factors of product competitiveness in the global milk market and the growing interest of consumers in plant substitutes for animal milk. Method (methodology).The methodological basis of the study is scientific work on the current state and trends in production and milk consumption in the world. Dialectical, systemic and synergetic approaches were used at all stages of the study; methods of general scientific knowledge: comparison, analysis and synthesis, induction and deduction. Statistical analysis was used as specific methods. Results. The results of the study allowed us to draw conclusions about the social significance of dairy production. Globalization with a significant impact on domestic and international trade in the dairy industry will accelerate in the coming years, as more and more consumers seek to include dairy products in their daily diet to promote good quality and healthy natural products. One of the current trends in the world food market is a significant increase in consumption of plant foods. At present, each country faces a difficult task to develop an effective strategy for the development of natural dairy products in such conditions. The development of the world dairy market is influenced by various factors that determine the volume of production and consumption of dairy products, associated primarily with global changes in consumer preferences, increasing demand for goods in cheaper price segments, population growth, especially in developing countries, as well as economic development and overall welfare of mankind. In the context of globalization, an important factor in the world market is the economic policy of major countries that export and import milk and dairy products. In recent years, trade wars have begun to intensify, in particular between key players in the global market, which negatively affects the market for natural milk and dairy products and hinders its development. as well as with economic development and the general growth of human well-being. In the context of globalization, an important factor in the world market is the economic policy of major countries that export and import milk and dairy products. In recent years, trade wars have begun to intensify, in particular between key players in the global market, which negatively affects the market for natural milk and dairy products and hinders its development. As well as with economic development and the general growth of human well-being. In the context of globalization, an important factor in the world market is the economic policy of major countries that export and import milk and dairy products. In recent years, trade wars have begun to intensify, in particular between key players in the global market, which negatively affects the market for natural milk and dairy products and hinders its development.

Diet and Consumer Behavior in U.S. Vegetarians: A National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) Data Report.

An increasing number of individuals adopt plant-based diets for their potential health benefits. Understanding vegetarians’ dietary behavior in the context of their socioeconomic background is essential for pro-vegetarian messaging and to influence public beliefs about plant food consumption. Thus, this study sought to investigate diet and consumer behaviors in U.S. vegetarians. This is a cross-sectional, population-based study with data from the Nutrition and Health Examination Surveys (2007–2010). Selected items from three modules (diet and nutrition behavior, consumer behavior, and food security) were compared between vegetarians (n = 352) and the general population (n = 14,328). U.S. vegetarians consumed significantly fewer calories and less cholesterol but more fiber than their omnivorous counterparts. Moreover, vegetarians had significantly fewer soft drinks and salty snacks available at home. We also observed significant intergroup differences with regard to the availability of fruit and dark green vegetables. Vegetarians spent less money on eating out and indicated a lower number of not-home-prepared meals and ready-to-eat foods. We found no differences regarding money spent at supermarkets or grocery stores. Our study contributes to a better understanding of dietary and consumer behaviors in vegetarians. We shed a new light on the economic feasibility of vegetarian diets, highlighting that these diets are not necessarily more expensive than an omnivorous diet.

Effects of pre‐harvest synthetic chemicals on post‐harvest bioactive profile and phytoconstituents of white cultivar of Vigna unguiculata grains

In this study, the impact of pre-harvest synthetic chemical treatments on the post-harvest bioactive compounds, phyto-constituents, and thermal properties of white cultivar of V. unguiculata was investigated. The results showed that organic V. unguiculata grains (white cultivar) contained 36.02 g bioactive compounds/100 g grain, whereas nonorganic (control) recorded 22.94 g bioactive compounds/100 g grains. Among the bioactive compounds in the organic grains were [3-(2-hydroxy-6-methylphenyl)-4(3H)-quinazolinone (10.25 g/100 g grain)]; [methaqualone (13.94 g/100 g grain)]; [pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid, 4-iodo-1-methyl- (5.78 g/100 g grain)]; and [cinnamic acid, p-(trimethylsiloxy)-, methyl ester (4.43 g/100 g grain)]. The identified bioactive compounds have health-promoting potentials. Organic grains had peak viscosity of 114.02 RVU, final viscosity (135.81RVU), and pasting temperature (76.15°C), whereas nonorganic grains recorded peak viscosity of 84.89RVU, final viscosity (92.98 RVU), and pasting temperature (77.08°C). Organic grains had L*, a*, and b* of 84.31, 0.42, and 13.01, respectively. The nonorganic grains had 88.98, 0.33, and 15.09 for L*, a*, and b*, respectively. The enthalpies of the organic and nonorganic were 2.98 J/g and 2.94 J/g, respectively. Organic grains showed significant (p < .05) superiority in bioactive compounds, phytochemicals, and antioxidants over nonorganic grains. Flavonoids, alkaloids, total phenolic, DPPH, and FRAP contents of the organic grains were 13.45 mgRE/100 g, 1.90 mg/100 g, 1,350 mgGAE/100 g, 2,700 µmolTEAC/100 g, and 19 mmol Fe2+/100 g, respectively, whereas nonorganic grains had flavonoids (8.11 mgRE/100 g), alkaloids (1.20 mg/100 g), total phenolic (978 mgGAE/100 g), DPPH (1802 µmolTEAC/100 g), and FRAP (8.04 mmol Fe2+/100 g). Phenolic compounds profile showed that organic grains were richer in epicatechin, gallic acid, ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, 4-hydroxy benzoic acid, and catechin. Good pasting properties of the organic grains showed that it could function as a food thickener. Organic V. unguiculata grains (white cultivar) are rich in health-promoting compounds and could, therefore, be used as an ingredient in the development of functional foods. Practical applications Bioactive compounds and their bioactivity have become invaluable in human health due to the occurrence of diverse cardiovascular diseases. The consumption of plant foods that are rich in bioactive compounds is imperial for healthy living. The white cultivar of Vigna unguiculata is consumed in many homes in Africa with limited industrial applications at present. However, the organic V. unguiculata grains are rich in health-promoting compounds. Consequently, organic V. unguiculata grain has potential application as an active ingredient in the development of functional foods that could serve as anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating, neuroprotective, anti-apoptotic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, and cardioprotective.

Food Consumption, Dietary Diversity and Associated Factors in Pregnant Women Receiving Ante-Natal Care in East Gojjam Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia

Introduction: Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) and Food Consumption Score (FCS) are indices developed to indicate micronutrient deficiency and food inadequacy. This study assessed the association between socio-economic-demographic, environmental, anthropometric and risky behavioral factors with DDS and FCS. Although these indices are significantly applicable in low-income countries set up, limited studies have been conducted on the effect of these factors on DDS and FCS. Materials and Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 423 pregnant women of<17 weeks gestation from randomly selected health institutions in five Woredas that are located in the local administration of Amhara Regional State from June 2019 to October 2019. Weekly and daily nutritional reports were collected using food frequency questionnaires. In addition, the Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) of each participant was also recorded using a “MUAC tape”. Moreover, Wealth Index (WI) was developed and categorized using principal component analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were calculated between DDS and/or FCS and their associated factors. Results and Discussion: The prevalence of low DDS and FCS were 53.2 and 19.7%, respectively. Attainment of education up to junior school level (AOR of 0.260 (0.096, 0.709); P<0.009), low FCG (0.008 (0.001, 0.058); P<0.0001), alcohol (0.307 (0.145, 0.651); P<0.002) and frequent coffee consumption (0.393 (0.177, 0.874); P<0.022) were found to be significant risks for low DDS. Whereas, sharing toilets with other households and low DDS were associated with low FCS with AOR of=0.396 (0.174, 0.901); P<0.027 and 0.008 (0.001, 0.06) P<0.0001, respectively. In addition, the poorest WI quintile reduced the probability of the DDS by 53.9% while an increased MUAC will put the participant in the adequate or high DDS group by 11%. Conclusion and Recommendation: Low level of education, low FCS, poorest WI, low MUAC, alcohol and frequent coffee consumption were found to contribute to the reduction in DDS. A low FCS was associated with the use of a shared toilet between households as well as low DDS. Therefore, aggressive promotion of women’s education, provision of health education about the use of diversified or fortified food and supplementation of micronutrients, ceasing alcohol and coffee consumption is recommended. Moreover, policies on fostering plant and animal food production and consumption would be of high priority. In addition, the fortification of food with essential amino acids and micronutrients, and supplementation of MMN should be encouraged until sufficient production and diversification of the consumed food are attained.

Impact of short-term oral dose of cinnamtannin A2, an (−)-epicatechin tetramer, on spatial memory and adult hippocampal neurogenesis in mouse

Recent epidemiological and intervention studies have suggested that polyphenol-rich plant food consumption reduced the risk of cognitive decline. However, the findings were tentative and by no means definitive. In the present study, we examined the impact of short-term oral administration of cinnamtannin A2 (A2), an (−)-epicatechin tetramer, on adult hippocampal neurogenesis and cognitive function in mice. Mice received supplementation with vehicle (20% glycerol) or 100 μg/kg A2 for 10 days. Then, we conducted the open field test, the object location test, and the novel object test. In the open field test, the A2-treated group tended to spend more time in the center of the arena, compared to the vehicle-treated group. The A2-treated group spent significantly more time exploring objects placed in different locations, compared to the vehicle-treated group. There were no significant differences between groups in the object preference index or in the novel object test. In addition, A2 administration significantly increased the number of hippocampal bromodeoxyuridine-labeled cells in the dentate gyrus, but not in the CA1 or CA3 regions. These results suggested that short-term administration of A2 may impact spatial memory by enhancing neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus of adult mice.

Association between Plant-Based Dietary Patterns and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies.

Plant-based diets, characterized by a higher consumption of plant foods and a lower consumption of animal foods, are associated with a favorable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but evidence regarding the association between plant-based diets and CVD (including coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke) incidence remain inconclusive. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science databases through December 2020 to identify prospective observational studies that examined the associations between plant-based diets and CVD incidence among adults. A systematic review and a meta-analysis using random effects models and dose–response analyses were performed. Ten studies describing nine unique cohorts were identified with a total of 698,707 participants (including 137,968 CVD, 41,162 CHD and 13,370 stroke events). Compared with the lowest adherence, the highest adherence to plant-based diets was associated with a lower risk of CVD (RR 0.84; 95% CI 0.79–0.89) and CHD (RR 0.88; 95% CI 0.81–0.94), but not of stroke (RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.73–1.03). Higher overall plant-based diet index (PDI) and healthful PDI scores were associated with a reduced CVD risk. These results support the claim that diets lower in animal foods and unhealthy plant foods, and higher in healthy plant foods are beneficial for CVD prevention. Protocol was published in PROSPERO (No. CRD42021223188).

Adherence to a Plant-Based Diet and Consumption of Specific Plant Foods-Associations with 3-Year Weight-Loss Maintenance and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors: A Secondary Analysis of the PREVIEW Intervention Study.

Plant-based diets are recommended by dietary guidelines. This secondary analysis aimed to assess longitudinal associations of an overall plant-based diet and specific plant foods with weight-loss maintenance and cardiometabolic risk factors. Longitudinal data on 710 participants (aged 26–70 years) with overweight or obesity and pre-diabetes from the 3-year weight-loss maintenance phase of the PREVIEW intervention were analyzed. Adherence to an overall plant-based diet was evaluated using a novel plant-based diet index, where all plant-based foods received positive scores and all animal-based foods received negative scores. After adjustment for potential confounders, linear mixed models with repeated measures showed that the plant-based diet index was inversely associated with weight regain, but not with cardiometabolic risk factors. Nut intake was inversely associated with regain of weight and fat mass and increments in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Fruit intake was inversely associated with increments in diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. Vegetable intake was inversely associated with an increment in diastolic blood pressure and triglycerides and was positively associated with an increase in HDL cholesterol. All reported associations with cardiometabolic risk factors were independent of weight change. Long-term consumption of nuts, fruits, and vegetables may be beneficial for weight management and cardiometabolic health, whereas an overall plant-based diet may improve weight management only.

Polymorphic variants of glutathione reductase - new genetic markers of predisposition to type 2 diabetes mellitus

To study the associations of three common single nucleotide variants of the gene encoding antioxidant system enzyme, glutathione reductase GSR with a predisposition to type 2 diabetes (T2D). The observational mono-center transverse controlled study involved 1032 type 2 diabetics (640 women, 392 men; mean age 61.14.8 years) and 1056 healthy volunteers (676 women, 380 men; mean age 60.96.2 years). Eating habits were evaluated retrospectively according to questionnaire data. A 10 ml blood sample was drawn from all participants in the study for genetic and biochemical tests. Genotyping was done with the use of the iPLEX technology on MassArray System. We first identified the relationship of the polymorphisms rs2551715, rs2911678, rs3757918 of the GSR gene with a reduced risk of developing T2D in the Russian population. At the same time, the protective effects of the variants of the glutathione reductase gene manifested only in individuals with normal body weight provided they consumed fresh vegetables and fruits, whereas in those with insufficient consumption of plant foods, as well as in all overweight and obese patients, the protective effect of GSR was not observed. In patients with T2D, the plasma levels of hydrogen peroxide and the glutathione dimer were sharply increased compared with the controls. We also found that the rs2551715 polymorphism was associated with a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the blood plasma of patients with T2D, while SNP rs2911678 was associated with a decrease in the concentration of the oxidized form of glutathione. Bioinformatical analysis confirmed the positive effect of alternative alleles on GSR expression and revealed the closest protein partners of the enzyme and their joint participation in the metabolism of acetyl-CoA, the catabolism of hydrogen peroxide and the control of cellular redox homeostasis. Polymorphic variants of the GSR gene rs2551715, rs2911678, rs3757918 are associated with a predisposition to T2D, but their relationship with the disease is modulated by the consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits and depends on body mass index.