Tea Consumption Research Articles

Pre-diagnosis tea and coffee consumption and survival after a diagnosis of ovarian cancer: results from the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium

BackgroundTea and coffee are the most frequently consumed beverages in the world. Green tea in particular contains compounds with potential anti-cancer effects, but its association with survival after ovarian cancer is uncertain.MethodsWe investigated the associations between tea and coffee consumption before diagnosis and survival using data from 10 studies in the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium. Data on tea (green, black, herbal), coffee and caffeine intake were available for up to 5724 women. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsCompared with women who did not drink any green tea, consumption of one or more cups/day was associated with better overall survival (aHR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.71–1.00, p-trend = 0.04). A similar association was seen for ovarian cancer-specific survival in five studies with this information (aHR = 0.81, 0.66–0.99, p-trend = 0.045). There was no consistent variation between subgroups defined by clinical or lifestyle characteristics and adjustment for other aspects of lifestyle did not appreciably alter the estimates. We found no evidence of an association between coffee, black or herbal tea, or caffeine intake and survival.ConclusionThe observed association with green tea consumption before diagnosis raises the possibility that consumption after diagnosis might improve patient outcomes.

Brewing method-dependent changes of volatile aroma constituents of green tea (Camellia sinensis L.).

The determination of optimal levels of green tea amount and brewing time would have a crucial role in the accumulation of desired aromatic volatile compounds to meet worldwide market demand. Aroma is the most important factor influencing tea consumers' choices along with taste, price, and brand. This study aims to determine how the brewing time and amount of green tea affect the aroma profile of green tea infusion. The effect of the amount of Turkish green tea (5-10 g) and brewing time (5-60 min) on aromatic volatile compounds was evaluated using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique. The SPME/GC-MS analysis identified 57 components in the aroma profile of green tea infusions including 13 esters, 12 alkanes, 7 unknowns, 6 ketones, 3 alcohols, 2 terpenes, 2 terpenoids, 1 alkaloid, 1 phenolic compound, 1 lactone, 1 pyrazine, and 1 norisoprenoid. The green tea amount and brewing time had significant effects on the number of chemical compounds. A total of 42, 47, and 36 aromatic volatile compounds were determined by brewing 5, 7.5, and 10 g of green tea. The most abundant constituents in green tea infusions were phytone, 2-decenal, lauric acid, unknown 1, methoxy-1-methylethyl pyrazine, α-ionone, β-ionone, and diethyl phthalate (DEP). With this study, the aroma structures of green tea infusion have been revealed for the first time depending on the brewing time and quantity.

Microbiota of black tea at different manufacturing stages

AbstractIn recent decades, the consumption of tea has increased due to its various associated health benefits, prompting growing concerns regarding the safety and quality of tea products. Nevertheless, there has been a significant dearth of scientific information regarding the microbiological status of black tea leaves. This study sought to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the microflora present in tea leaves at various processing stages of black tea production. Samples were meticulously collected during distinct processing steps, and their culturable microorganisms were identified through sequence‐based methods. The results revealed that the predominant bacterial genus throughout the tea manufacturing process was Bacillus, constituting a substantial 77% of the identified bacterial population. Other leading genera included Klebsiella (8%), Lysinibacillus (4%), Escherichia (2%) with the remaining 9% comprising various other genera. Among the fungal community, Aspergillus and Penicillium species exhibited a significantly higher relative abundance, each comprising 24%. Furthermore, yeast communities included Debaryomyces, Candida, Hyphopichia, Rhodosporidiobolus, and Wickerhamomyces species. Lactobacillus fermentum was identified in the fermented tea leaves, highlighting its role in the fermentation process. Yeasts and molds were also present in the final tea product, indicating potential post‐processing contamination. The study did not detect any mycotoxins in any of the samples. These findings had indicated that presence of some microorganisms is extremely common in different processing stages while alien microorganisms are being introduced during manufacturing. Thus, emphasizing the need for stringent regulations and quality assurance practices within the tea industry to ensure the safety and quality.

Prevalence of thyroid nodule and relationship with physiological and psychosocial factors among adults in Zhejiang Province, China: a baseline survey of a cohort study

BackgroundThyroid nodules have attracted much attention due to their high incidence and potential for malignant transformation. Compared with the clinical assessment and diagnosis of thyroid nodules, there are relatively few studies on the epidemiological risk factors for thyroid nodules. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of thyroid nodule among adults in Zhejiang province and to explore their relationship with physiological and psychosocial factors.MethodsThe data used in this study were obtained from the baseline survey of the Zhejiang Provincial Cohort Study on Environment and Health. From June 2022 to December 2023, a total of 21,712 participants from five representative cities in Zhejiang were recruited for the baseline survey. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15,595 adults were included in the analysis. The data were collected via self-report questionnaires and physical examinations. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was subsequently performed.ResultsThe detection rate of thyroid nodules was 50.98% among adults in Zhejiang province. Age, gender, education level, BMI, tea and alcohol consumption all had a statistically significant association with thyroid nodules (p < 0.05). After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, results of logistic regression analysis showed that good life satisfaction (OR = 0.854, 95% CI: 0.780–0.934) had a lower risk of thyroid nodules, however, poor life satisfaction (OR = 1.406, 95% CI: 1.014–1.951), social isolation (OR = 1.294, 95% CI: 1.089–1.538) and a family history of thyroid nodules (OR = 1.334, 95% CI: 1.064–1.672) had a greater risk of thyroid nodules.ConclusionThe detection rate of thyroid nodules in adults of Zhejiang province was an increasing trend compared with that in previous years. In addition to the sensitive thyroid nodule screening technology, influencing factors mentioned in this study might also represent credible candidates for this increase. As variable influence factors, weight management, good interpersonal relationships and life satisfaction should be the focus of health interventions.

Exploring the antioxidant realm of green tea: From extraction to fortification

AbstractGreen tea, a widely consumed beverage with a long history of traditional use has garned renewed scientific interest due to its potential health benefits. Unlike other tea types, green tea undergoes minimal oxidation and thus preserving its potent catechins and antioxidant properties. This review devels into the fascinating chemistry of green tea, exploring how processing steps like fixation and rolling, shape its distinct profile. We will further explore the potential health benefits associated with green tea consumption, acknowledging the existing research focus on tea polyphenols and aiming to provide a broader perspective on its potential health impact. Finally, the review examines the emerging application of green tea extract fortification in food matrices. This innovative approach offers exciting possibilities for enhancing food stability and sensory appeal while potentially contributing to a range of health benefits.

Factors Associated with Mild Cognitive Impairment in Community-Dwelling Elderly Individuals: A Re-evaluation of Systematic Reviews

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Objective &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;This study aims to re-evaluate systematic reviews on factors associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in community-dwelling elderly individuals to inform prevention and intervention strategies in community settings. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Methods &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;Comprehensive searches were conducted across multiple databases, including CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP Journal Integration Platform, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, to identify systematic reviews on factors contributing to MCI in community-dwelling elderly individuals. Dual reviewers screened the literature, and the methodological quality was assessed using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2). Relevant factors were summarized and analyzed. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Results&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Eleven systematic reviews were included in the analysis. Of these, two were classified as high quality, two as low quality, and the remaining seven as very low quality. Protective factors against MCI included the consumption of tea, fish, and shellfish, physical exercise, and social participation. Risk factors encompassed a history of chronic diseases, depression, sleep disorders, smoking, and alcohol consumption. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusion&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; The methodological quality of systematic reviews on factors associated with MCI in community-dwelling elderly individuals is generally low. MCI is closely linked to various aspects of physiological health, psychological health, dietary nutrition, and lifestyle behaviors. It is crucial to focus on high-risk groups, particularly the elderly and females, as well as individuals experiencing subjective cognitive decline, and conduct psychological screenings and assessments of dietary quality. These factors may serve as early indicators for MCI in community-dwelling elderly individuals.

Lead in umbilical cord blood and associated factors in Casablanca Morocco: A preliminary results

BackgroundLead is the most common toxic metal to which Moroccans are exposed. Given the susceptibility of the fetus to lead, it is crucial to assess prenatal lead exposure. However, in Morocco, no study has assessed prenatal exposure to lead. The main goals of the present study are to determine lead concentration in umbilical cord blood and identify risk factors for prenatal lead exposure in Casablanca, Morocco. MethodsTo achieve these purposes, 87 cord blood lead samples were collected from mothers-baby pairs from January to December 2019. Indeed, a structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric data, leisure, cultural habits, and environmental information. Cord blood lead level was analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. ResultsThe median lead concentration was 4.902 µg/dl with a minimum and maximum of 0.833 µg/dl and 23.593 µg/dl, respectively. A high proportion of the newborns (65.52 %) had cord blood lead levels above the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) allowable threshold limit (3.5 µg/dl). Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between blood levels and the above factors. Lead levels in cord blood were significantly associated with the maternal educational level, anemia history, delivery mode, passive smoking during pregnancy as well as with the frequency of consumption of tea. ConclusionThis study provides the first data on lead levels in newborns. Cord blood lead levels were high in the majority of the participants, these results reinforce the need to establish health surveillance programs in Morocco.

Total Polyphenol Contents and Mineral Profiles in Commercial Wellness Herbal Infusions: Evaluation of the Differences between Two Preparation Methods.

The popularity of the consumption of wellness herbal teas is due to the many health-promoting properties they seem to possess. Modern preparation methods using coffee machines are also popular today. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to evaluate differences in infusions obtained by the traditional method using filters and by espresso coffee machines using pods. In this regard, different herbal materials were selected and purchased in two different types of herbal containers, and the corresponding infusions were analyzed for the contents of total polyphenols and mineral elements. Results showed that filter infusions had higher polyphenol and mineral contents than pod infusions, excluding Cd and Pb. For each of the plant materials used, differences due to the method of infusion preparation are highlighted. From a qualitative point of view, both methods of infusion preparation are valid, but the filter infusion method allows a higher transfer of minerals and polyphenols into the infusion, improving quality. The analyzed infusions can be safely consumed with respect to As, Cd, Pb, and Hg contents. Good amounts of polyphenols and Mn can be obtained by drinking a cup of any of the infusions analyzed, especially the mate infusion obtained by the filter technique, with amounts of 429 mg for polyphenols and 69.27% of the RDA for manganese.

Evaluation of the Current Situation of Tea Production and Consumption in Bangladesh Through Different Statistical Models

Evaluation of the Current Situation of Tea Production and Consumption in Bangladesh Through Different Statistical Models

A Comparative Study of the Effect Coffee and Tea on Some Parameters in the Rats Blood

Abstract Background: Tea and coffee have been consumed since decade ago and became a significant part of social life and cultural traditions. Objective: The study aims to evaluate the effects of coffee and black tea extract on some blood factors in adult albino rats. Materials and Methods: Eighteen adult male albino rats, classified into three groups of six: group 1 (control) received orally drinking water only, group 2 (tea) received orally extract tea, group 3 (coffee) treated orally with coffee. Coffee and tea extracts were prepared daily at a dose of 30 g/L and provided at all times to the rats for 30 day as drinking water. Iron and ferritin levels, cholesterol concentration of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities as well as the levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were compared among these groups. Results: This study inferred, there was a significant decrease the amount of iron in the blood as well as the ferritin. Also consumption of coffee or tea lowers LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol and enhanced antioxidant activity by SOD and GPx enzymes more than control group. Furthermore, increased these levels in proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) in treated rats with tea and coffee extract more than their levels in the control group. Conclusion: The extracts of tea and coffee lowered the iron and ferritin concentration, have remarkable antioxidant activity, and increased the levels in proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α) in the rat blood.

Association of Herbal Tea and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, Anthropometric Parameters, and Fasting Blood Glucose Levels Among Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials.

This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to test our hypothesis that herbal tea may improve anthropometric parameters, metabolic factors, and hormone levels in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). A literature search was conducted on Information Sciences Institute, Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar, up to March 2023 without applying language or date restrictions. RCTs that assigned herbal tea vs. placebo on PCOS women and evaluated changes in anthropometric measurements, metabolic indices, or hormonal profiles were included. Six RCTs with 235 PCOS women (119 in the intervention and 116 in the control group) were included. Meta-analysis showed that herbal tea consumption led to significant decreases in weight (weighted mean difference [WMD], -2.02 kg; 95% confidence interval [CI], -3.25, -0.80), body mass index (BMI) (WMD, -0.88 kg/m2; 95% CI, -1.47, -0.28) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD, -6.47 mg/dL; 95% CI, -8.49, -4.45), compared to the control group. Herbal tea supplementation has also significantly increased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration (WMD, 0.56 IU/L; 95% CI, 0.17, 0.95). Meanwhile, the effect of herbal tea on the waist/hip ratio, hip circumference, waist circumference, body fat, fasting insulin, FBG/insulin ratio, luteinizing hormone, total testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate was not significant. Herbal tea might be a potential supplemental therapy to manage weight, BMI, FBG, and FSH in PCOS women. Further large randomized clinical trials are recommended to affirm these findings.

Analyzing urinary hippuric acid as a metabolic health biomarker through a supramolecular architecture

The prevalence of metabolic disorders has been found to increase concomitantly with alternations in habitual diet and lifestyle, indicating the importance of metabolic health monitoring for early warning of high-risk status and suggesting effective intervention strategies. Hippuric acid (HA), as one of the most abundant metabolites from the gut microbiota, holds potential as a regulator of metabolic health. Accordingly, it is imperative to establish an efficient, sensitive, and affordable method for large-scale population monitoring, revealing the association between HA level and metabolic disorders. Upon systematic screening of macrocycle•dye reporter pair, a supramolecular architecture (guanidinomethyl-modified calix[5]arene, GMC5A) was employed to sense urinary HA by employing fluorescein (Fl), whose complexation behavior was demonstrated by theoretical calculations, accomplishing quantification of HA in urine from 249 volunteers in the range of 0.10 mM and 10.93 mM. Excitedly, by restricted cubic spline, urinary HA concentration was found to have a significantly negative correlation with the risk of metabolic disorders when it exceeded 0.76 mM, suggesting the importance of dietary habits, especially the consumption of fruits, coffee, and tea, which was unveiled from a simple questionnaire survey. In this study, we accomplished a high throughput and sensitive detection of urinary HA based on supramolecular sensing with the GMC5A•Fl reporter pair, which sheds light on the rapid quantification of urinary HA as an indicator of metabolic health status and early intervention by balancing the daily diet.

Long-Term Effects of Tea Consumption Habits on Cardiovascular Performance of Adolescent Population: An Observational Study of Adolescent Community in Jakarta, Indonesia

Background: Tea is a popular drink that is widely consumed in Indonesia. Some studies show the potential benefits of tea on cardiovascular health, but evidence regarding long-term effects in adolescents is limited. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between tea consumption habits and cardiovascular performance in the adolescent population in Jakarta. Methods: This prospective observational cohort study involved 1,500 adolescents aged 15-18 years in Jakarta. Data on tea consumption habits was collected through a structured questionnaire, while cardiovascular performance was measured through blood pressure tests, body mass index (BMI), and treadmill tests. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards analyzes were used to identify the association between habitual tea consumption and cardiovascular events over a 5-year period. Results: The results showed that regular tea consumption (≥3 cups/week) was associated with a reduced risk of hypertension (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.48-0.88) and an increase in cardiovascular functional capacity as measured by treadmill testing (HR 0 .72; 95% CI 0.55-0.94). Conclusion: The habit of regular tea consumption among adolescents in Jakarta is associated with a reduced risk of hypertension and improved cardiovascular performance. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the mechanisms underlying tea's protective effects.

Tea consumption and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular disease, and cancer mortality: a meta-analysis of thirty-eight prospective cohort data sets.

Tea consumption has been considered beneficial to human health because tea contains phytochemicals such as polyphenols and theaflavins. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between tea consumption and mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer to provide a quantitative assessment of current evidence. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched through April 2024 to identify eligible studies. Random effects models were used to combine study-specific effect estimates (ESs). A total of 38 prospective cohort data sets (from 27 papers) with 1,956,549 participants were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled ESs of the highest versus lowest categories of tea consumption were 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.86 to 0.95) for all-cause mortality, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.79 to 0.94) for CVD mortality, and 0.90 (95% CI, 0.78 to 1.03) for cancer mortality. In the dose-response analysis, a non-linear association was observed. The greatest risk reductions were observed for the consumption of 2.0 cup/day for all-cause mortality (ES, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.88 to 0.94) and 1.5 cup/day for cancer mortality (ES, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.89 to 0.96), whereas additional consumption did not show a further reduction in the risk of death. A plateau was observed for CVD mortality at moderate consumption levels (1.5-3.0 cup/day), but a sustained reduction in mortality risk was observed at higher intake levels. Moderate tea consumption (e.g., 1.5-2.0 cup/day) was associated with lower all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality compared to no tea consumption. Further well-designed prospective studies are needed for a definitive conclusion.

6-week time-restricted eating improves body composition, maintains exercise performance, without exacerbating eating disorder in female DanceSport dancers.

Despite the high risk of eating disorder (ED)-related attitudes and behaviors among female dancers, targeted scientific dietary regimens are currently inadequate. Time-restricted eating (TRE), a popular intermittent fasting protocol, has been shown to be effective in enhancing body composition and exercise performance in athletes. In this study, TRE was employed as a dietary regimen to improve body composition and exercise performance and address ED attitudes and behaviors in DanceSport dancers. Twenty female DanceSport dancers were recruited and divided into two groups: TRE (n = 10) and normal diet (ND) (n = 10). The TRE group consumed their self-selected necessary energy intake exclusively between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. (utilizing a 16-hour fasting and 8-hour eating window) for 6 weeks, while the ND group maintained their regular dieting patterns. The consumption of water, black tea, or coffee without added sugar or milk was not restricted. Physical activity and calorie intake were systematically recorded during the TRE intervention. Body composition, aerobic and anaerobic performance, and ED attitudes and behaviors were assessed before and after the TRE intervention. The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry under the identifier ChiCTR2200063780. The fixed effects tests (p < 0.0001) and estimates for the intercept (p < 0.0001) of hunger level indicated a noticeable effect on the initial state of hunger during TRE. No significant differences were observed in ED attitudes or behaviors (p > 0.05). TRE resulted in a reduction in hip circumference (p = 0.039), fat mass (kg) (p = 0.0004), and body fat percentage (p = 0.0005), with no significant decrease in fat-free mass (p > 0.05). No significant improvement was observed in aerobic performance (p > 0.05). The average power (AP) (p = 0.01) and AP/Body weight ratio (p = 0.003) significantly increased. Additionally, the power drop decreased significantly (p = 0.019). Group-by-time interactions were observed for fat mass (kg) (p = 0.01), body fat percentage (p = 0.035), and AP/Body weight (p = 0.020). TRE can be considered a feasible nutritional strategy for DanceSport dancers, facilitating improvements in body composition without compromising aerobic and anaerobic exercise performance or exacerbating ED attitudes and behaviors. Moreover, TRE may facilitate more favorable physiological adaptations, potentially contributing to improved exercise performance.

Concentration and health risk assessment of 16 rare earth elements in six types of tea in China

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) have been implicated in potential health effects. However, the health risk of REE exposure among tea drinkers in China remains poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the concentration of REEs in different tea categories and evaluate the associated health risks for tea consumers in China. By analyzing the content of 16 REEs in 4326 tea samples from China, the exposure level of REEs to the general population was estimated. The content of these 16 REEs was similar across six types of tea, with oolong tea exhibiting the highest levels. The concentration of light rare earth elements (LREEs) in six types of tea was higher than that of heavy rare earth elements (HREEs). The daily mean and 95th percentile (P95) exposure to REEs from tea for the general population in China were 0.0328 μg/kg BW and 0.1283 μg/kg BW, respectively, which are significantly lower than the temporary acceptable daily dose (tADI). Our findings suggest that REEs from tea do not pose a known health risk to Chinese consumers.

Examining the Attitudes of Hypertension Patients Toward Using Complementary Treatments.

The present study was conducted in a cross-sectional and descriptive design to examine the attitudes of hypertension patients toward using complementary treatments. The study was conducted with 173 patients who had the diagnosis of hypertension who applied to the Cardiology Clinics of a University Health Practice and Research Hospital between 15.12.2021 and 10.03.2022. Before starting the study, permission was obtained from the ethics committee, institution, and patients. The data of the study were collected through face-to-face interviews, a questionnaire, and the Attitude Scale Toward Using Complementary Treatments (ASUCT). The score to be obtained from the scale varies between 0 and 39 and a high score indicates a positive attitude toward complementary treatments. One-Sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to evaluate the homogeneity of the data. The Student t, Mann-Whitney U test, correlation, and ANOVA tests were also used to evaluate the data, and P <.05 was considered statistically significant. It was found that 55.0% of the patients were women, 31.2% were between the ages of 44 to 56, 63.0% had other chronic diseases, and 68.2% preferred herbal applications in the management of hypertension. It was also found that the mean ASUCT score of hypertensive individuals was 21.13±2.99, and there was a statistically significant relationship between the mean ASUCT score of the patients and their gender, education level, and reasons for applying to herbal therapy (P <.05). Patients frequently preferred the consumption of pomegranate syrup (43.4%), garlic (36.4%), and quince leaf tea (30.8%) as non-drug applications in the management of hypertension. It was found that the attitudes of the hypertension patients toward using complementary treatments were at a "moderate" level and there was a relationship between their level of attitude toward using complementary treatments and gender, education, and the reasons for applying herbal therapy. In this respect, it is recommended to evaluate the attitudes of hypertension patients toward using complementary treatments, to learn the practices they prefer for disease management through patient-health care professional interaction, and to support patients for hypertension management.

Association of lifestyle and occupational exposure factors with human semen quality: a cross-sectional study of 1060 participants

The incidence of male infertility (MI) is rising annually. However, the lifestyle and occupational exposure factors contributing to MI remain incompletely understood. This study explored the effects of self-reported lifestyle and occupational exposure factors on semen quality. Among 1060 subjects invited to participate, 826 were eligible. The participants’ general characteristics, lifestyle, and occupational exposure factors were collected immediately before or after semen evaluation through an online questionnaire. Initially, univariate analysis was used to investigate the relationship between the abovementioned factors and semen quality. The results indicated significant associations between low semen quality and various factors, including age, BMI, infertility type and duration, abstinence time, semen and sperm parameters, smoking, alcohol consumption, irregular sleep habits, and frequent exposure to high temperatures and chemicals at work (p < 0.05). Then, multivariate analysis was conducted to identify factors independently associated with low semen quality. Adjustment for relevant confounders was achieved by including factors with a p-value < 0.25 from univariate analyses as covariates in the binomial and ordered logistic regression models. The results suggested that alcohol consumption was a positive factor for sperm concentration (odds ratio [OR] = 0.60; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.36–0.99; p = 0.045). The groups with a BMI ≥ 24 and <28 kg/m2 showed a significant decrease in sperm progressive motility when compared to the reference group (BMI < 24 kg/m2) (OR = 0.63; 95% CI = 0.46–0.87, p = 0.005). In addition, the groups that drank green tea <1 time/week (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.05–2.2) and 1–4 times/week (OR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.02–2.54) exhibited significantly increased sperm DFI values compared with the group that drank green tea 5–7 times/week. In conclusion, these findings underscore the importance of maintaining a normal weight and regularly consuming green tea for men.

The Multidisciplinary Approach in the Management of Patients with Kidney Stone Disease-A State-of-the-Art Review.

Kidney stone disease has a multifactorial etiology, and evolving dietary habits necessitate continuous updates on the impact of dietary components on lithogenesis. The relationship between diseases influenced by lifestyle, such as obesity and diabetes, and kidney stone risk underscores the need for comprehensive lifestyle analysis. Effective management of kidney stones requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration among nutritionists, urologists, nephrologists, and other healthcare professionals to address the complex interactions between diet, lifestyle, and individual susceptibility. Personalized dietary therapy, based on each patient's unique biochemical and dietary profile, is essential and necessitates comprehensive nutritional assessments. Accurate dietary intake evaluation is best achieved through seven-day, real-time dietary records. Key factors influencing urinary risk include fluid intake, dietary protein, carbohydrates, oxalate, calcium, and sodium chloride. Personalized interventions, such as customized dietary changes based on gut microbiota, may improve stone prevention and recurrence. Current research suggests individualized guidance on alcohol intake and indicates that tea and coffee consumption might protect against urolithiasis. There is potential evidence linking tobacco use and secondhand smoke to increased kidney stone risk. The effects of vitamins and physical activity on kidney stone risk remain unresolved due to mixed evidence. For diseases influenced by lifestyle, conclusive evidence on targeted interventions for nephrolithiasis prevention is lacking, though preliminary research suggests potential benefits. Management strategies emphasize lifestyle modifications to reduce recurrence risks, support rapid recovery, and identify predisposing conditions, highlighting the importance of these changes despite inconclusive data.

Effects of Herbal Tea (Non-Camellia sinensis) on Glucose Homeostasis and Serum Lipids in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia increase the risk for diabetes and its complications, atherosclerosis, heart failure, and stroke. Identification of safe and cost-effective means to reduce risk factors is needed. Herbal teas may be a vehicle to deliver antioxidants and polyphenols for prevention of complications. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to evaluate and summarize the impact of herbal tea (non-Camellia sinensis) on glucose homeostasis and serum lipids in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). PubMed, FSTA, Web of Science, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception through February 2023 using relevant keyword proxy terms for diabetes, serum lipids, and "non-Camellia sinensis" or "tea." Data from 14 randomized controlled trials, totaling 551 participants, were included in the meta-analysis of glycemic and serum lipid profile end points. Meta-analysis suggested a significant association between drinking herbal tea (prepared with 2-20 g d-1 plant ingredients) and reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG) (P = .0034) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c; P = .045). In subgroup analysis based on studies using water or placebo as the control, significant reductions were found in serum total cholesterol (TC; P = .024), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; P = .037), and triglyceride (TG; P = .043) levels with a medium effect size. Meta-regression analysis suggested that study characteristics, including the ratio of male participants, trial duration, and region, were significant sources of FBG and HbA1c effect size heterogeneity; type of control intervention was a significant source of TC and LDL-C effect size heterogeneity. Herbal tea consumption significantly affected glycemic profiles in individuals with T2D, lowering FBG levels and HbA1c. Significance was seen in improved lipid profiles (TC, TG, and LDL-C levels) through herbal tea treatments when water or placebo was the control. This suggests water or placebo may be a more suitable control when examining antidiabetic properties of beverages. Additional research is needed to corroborate these findings, given the limited number of studies.