Dietary Supplement Intake Research Articles

Plasma Glutaminyl-Peptide Cyclotransferase Mediates Glucosamine-Metabolism-Driven Protection Against Hypertension: A Mendelian Randomization Study

Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for morbidity and mortality worldwide. In this study, Mendelian randomization was utilized to investigate how dietary supplement intake can impact hypertension based on circulating plasma metabolite genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets, protein quantitative trait loci (pQTLs) of plasma proteins, and multiple public summary-level GWAS data. Pathway enrichment analysis combined with the results of inverse variance weighted Mendelian randomization revealed that a lower risk of hypertension was associated with the dietary intake of glucosamine, an anti-inflammatory supplement: odds ratio (OR) (95% CI): 0.888 (0.824–0.958). Additionally, glucosamine 6-phosphate N-acetyltransferase was identified as a protective factor against hypertension, OR (95% CI): 0.995 (0.992–0.998), shedding light on the potential protective mechanism of glucosamine. Mediation Mendelian randomization indicated that the protective effect of glucosamine metabolism was mediated by glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase, with a mediation proportion of 12.1% (5.9–18.2%), p < 0.05. This study offers new insights into preventive strategies for individuals with hypertension risk.

Effects of selected dietary supplements on migraine prophylaxis: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

The existing evidence on the effect of dietary supplements for preventing migraines has generated conflicting results. We assessed alterations in migraine clinical features corresponding to the intake of dietary supplements. Our main outcomes included the frequency (number of attacks), duration (in hours), the severity (intensity) and the monthly migraine days. Using a dose-response meta-analysis, we estimated the dose-dependent impact. The certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE tool. Finally, twenty-two trials were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Magnesium supplementation reduced migraine attacks (mean difference (MD) = -2.51), severity (MD = -0.88), and the monthly migraine days (MD = -1.66) compared with the control group. CoQ10 decreased the frequency (MD = -1.73), severity (MD = -1.35), and duration of migraine (MD = -1.72). Riboflavin decreased attack frequency (MD = -1.34). Alpha-lipoic acid decreased attack frequency (MD = -1.24) and severity (MD = -0.38). Probiotics decreased the frequency (MD = -1.16), severity (MD = -1.07) and the monthly migraine days (MD = -3.02). Vitamin D reduced migraine frequency (MD = -1.69) and the monthly migraine days (MD = -2.41). In adults, compared with placebo, these supplements did not significantly affect other outcomes, and omega-3 supplementation did not yield a statistically significant reduction in any of these outcomes. The use of certain dietary supplements has resulted in a significant decrease in migraine prophylaxis. Further clinical trials of high quality appear to be beneficial.

Association between dietary inflammatory index and all-cause mortality in US adults with dermatitis: a population-based cohort study.

While dermatitis management is primarily symptomatic, the role of diet in symptom exacerbation and improvement is increasingly recognized. The dietary inflammatory index (DII), a quantitative assessment tool for dietary inflammatory potential, has been associated with various chronic diseases but remains understudied in dermatitis. This cohort study investigated the association between DII scores and all-cause mortality among patients with dermatitis. The study included 1,074 patients with dermatitis and complete dietary intake records from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999-2004. The DII scores were calculated using two 24-h dietary recalls and dietary supplement intakes and the consumption of 28 foods with known pro- or anti-inflammatory properties. All-cause mortality information was from the National Death Index, censored on December 31, 2019. Multivariable Cox hazards regression models, restricted cubic spline (RCS) models, and subgroup analyses were employed to evaluate the association of DII with all-cause mortality, adjusting for potential confounders. The 1,074 patients were divided into DII tertiles (T1: n = 358, median age 40 years, DII -3.91, 0.06; T2: n = 296, median age 40 years, DII 0.06, 1.88; T3: n = 237, median age 39 years, DII 1.88, 4.39). The study revealed a positive correlation between higher DII scores and increased all-cause mortality risk among patients with dermatitis (fully-adjusted model, HR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.02, 1.27, p = 0.026). This association was more pronounced in adults over 45 years, with the highest DII tertile indicating a 2.42-fold increased mortality risk (95% CI 1.15, 5.07, p = 0.019) compared with the lowest tertile. The RCS model confirmed a linear dose-response trend (p for non-linear = 0.183), validating the relationship. Elevated DII scores are associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality in patients with dermatitis, suggesting that the dietary inflammatory potential may impact health outcomes in this population. The findings underscore the importance of dietary interventions in dermatitis management, especially for middle-aged and older adults. Future research with larger cohorts and a longer follow-up is warranted to validate the findings.

Diabetes and Dietary Proteins-Protein Supplement Intake

Diabetes is a growing global health issue, with diet playing a crucial role in prevention and management. Protein, an essential nutrient for growth, repair, and metabolism, can significantly influence diabetes risk and control. High-protein diets, especially those rich in animal proteins, have been linked to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, while plant-based proteins may offer protective benefits. Studies suggest that excessive animal protein intake, particularly from red and processed meats, can increase diabetes risk due to higher saturated fat content. Conversely, plant-based proteins, such as soy, tofu, and nuts, are associated with improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation. Protein supplements—especially whey and soy proteins—are known to help maintain muscle mass and improve metabolic indicators. However, the evidence supporting these benefits remains limited, and excessive protein intake may increase risks of other negative effects, such as impaired kidney function. Therefore, caution is advised when using these supplements. A balanced approach that emphasizes plant-based proteins while moderating animal protein intake is recommended for diabetes prevention and management. Future research should focus on personalized dietary strategies for optimal health outcomes.

Association of dietary behavior patterns of middle-aged and older adults with their obesity metabolic phenotype: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMiddle-aged and elderly individuals are the most susceptible groups for metabolic diseases, with their dietary behaviors being significant influencing factors. Exploring the association between overall dietary behaviors and obesity metabolic phenotypes is crucial for early prevention and control of chronic diseases, precision treatment and personalized interventions.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study of 15,160 middle-aged and older adults between June 2019 and August 2021 to collect information on their body mass index (BMI), biochemical indices and disease history. The population was classified into four categories by the criteria of obesity metabolic phenotypes: metabolically healthy non-obesity (MHNO), metabolically unhealthy non-obesity (MUNO), metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO). Scores were calculated based on compliance with healthy eating behavior patterns (appropriate or light dietary taste, moderately soft and hard food, slightly hot food temperature, medium or slow eating speed, daily intake of dietary supplements and eating with others), and the population was categorized into subgroups 0–2 (did not meet and met only 1 or 2), 3–4 (met 3 or 4), 5–6 (met 5 or 6). The relationship between dietary behavior patterns and different obesity metabolic phenotypes in middle-aged and elderly people were analyzed by multi-categorical logistic regression model.ResultsCompared with the 5–6 subgroup, the dietary behavior patterns of 0–2 and 3–4 scores were risk factors for MUNO, MHO and MUO (P < 0.05), and the lower the scores of the dietary behavior patterns, the higher the multiplicity of the occurrence of MUNO, MHO and MUO, especially for females and adults between 45–60 years old. Appropriate or light dietary taste, moderately soft and hard food, and slightly hot food temperature were protective factors for MUNO and MUO (P < 0.05); medium or slow eating speed and daily intake of dietary supplements were protective factors for MUNO, MHO and MUO (P < 0.05).ConclusionDietary behavior patterns in middle-aged and older adults are associated with different obesity metabolic phenotypes, and healthy dietary behaviors may be beneficial for the prevention and control of MUNO, MHO and MUO.

Bioaccessibility and bioavailability of Pb and Cd in rice is affected by propolis and its extracts and Fe intervention

Increasing the intake of dietary supplements containing antioxidant components can reduce the oral bioavailability of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) and benefit human health. In this study, the effects of propolis and its extracts (kaempferol (KAE), quercetin (QR), and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE)) in conjunction with proanthocyanidins (PA) on Pb and Cd bioaccessibility (BAC) and the relative bioavailability (RBA) in brown and polished rice are investigated. The results of in vitro tests showed that propolis and its extracts were effective in reducing Pb BAC in both brown and polished rice. A medium dose of PA had a significant reduction effect on Cd BAC (76 %) and RBA in both brown and polished rice. Based on mouse bioassays, the supplementation of propolis and its extracts significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the Pb-RBA in brown rice, resulting in a decrease in Pb RBA from 25 % in the control group to 16.5–17.6 %. The results showed that the BAC and RBA of Pb in brown rice with dietary supplements decreased significantly, which may be related to the enhanced inhibitory effect of high Fe. It was also found that the Pb RBA was negatively correlated with the Fe content in mice kidneys. This result provided evidence that antioxidants better inhibit the bioavailability of heavy metals, highlighting that propolis and PA may be alternative dietary supplements for intervening in human Pb and Cd exposure.

Use of Dietary Supplements among Polish Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Two-Center Pilot Study.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). These diseases are characterized by inflammation, which may be a consequence of changes in the intestinal microbiota and lead to mineral and vitamin deficiencies. The aims of this study were to determine the level of dietary supplement intake in children with IBD and to determine the influence of factors such as sex, nutritional status, diet, and other comorbidities on supplement intake. The study was conducted from May 2022 to September 2023 and was a prospective study. The group of children with IBD that ultimately qualified for the study numbered 96, and the control group numbered 30. The children who participated in the study were aged 4-18 years. Most parents of children with IBD (81.4%) declared that they use supplementation for their children, while 75% of parents of children without IBD declared giving their children nutritional supplements. Vitamins in both groups were most often given to children as dietary supplements (p = 0.018), including vitamin D. Depending on the diet used, the intake of vitamin B6 (p = 0.018), vitamin E (p = 0.040) and iron (p = 0.006) was significantly different among children with IBD. Statistical significance (p = 0.021) was observed for supplementation use and disease stage among children with IBD. For 80.2% of parents of children with IBD, the main reason for using supplements was a doctor's recommendation. In the control group, 43.3% of parents indicated that the main reason for using supplements was to correct nutritional deficiencies. Supplementation was common in both groups, but attention should be paid to other current diseases in children with IBD and to nutritional status. In our opinion, educating parents about supplementation is important, especially among parents of children with IBD.

Knowledge, Prevalence, and Consequences of Dietary Supplements Intake among Iranian Bodybuilders

BackgroundThis study investigated the nutritional knowledge and prevalence of dietary supplements (DSs) among Iranian bodybuilders. MethodsThis cross-sectional research study involved sampling 648 bodybuilding clubs in Iran. A researcher distributed questionnaires among clubs in various regions and analyzed categorical variables, DS, nutritional knowledge, and sports nutrition data from 160 bodybuilders aged 18 and above in Iran. The analysis was conducted using the results obtained from a quantitative questionnaire. ResultsThere was a significant relationship between DS use and gender (P = 0.001, r = 0.330, males > females), bodybuilding history (P = 0.045; r = 0.158), and exercise sessions/wk (P = 0.050, r = 0.156). Whey protein (45.6%) and branched-chain amino acid (33.7%), vitamin D (50%), caffeine (34.3%), and generally vitamin C (56.2%) were the most common DS used. The most information sources for bodybuilders regarding DS were fitness coaches (35.6%) and registered dietitians/nutritionists (34.3%). Drug stores (36.7%) and fitness coaches (19.3%) were the most prominent sources for purchasing DS. Increasing performance (54.3%), increasing the need for DS through exercise (53.6%), preventing injury, and improving recovery (36.2%) were the most important reasons to consume DS. Skin problems (21.0%), increased liver enzymes (10.8%), and hair loss (9.4%) were the most common side effects of DS use. Total nutritional knowledge (macronutrients, micronutrients, and sports nutrition) was 58.6%. ConclusionsThis study concluded that fitness coaches and registered dietitians/nutritionists were the most common information sources for bodybuilders. It also revealed a moderate level of nutrition knowledge among bodybuilders. The most commonly used DS were vitamins C, D, and whey protein. Also, gender, bodybuilding history, and exercise sessions had a significant relationship with the prevalence of DS. However, the study also revealed some concerning findings; bodybuilders commonly experienced adverse side effects such as skin rashes, increased liver enzymes, and hair loss.

Evaluating women’s knowledge about dietary supplement use during pregnancy

PurposeDietary supplements are important in improving maternal health and birth outcomes during pregnancy. This study aims to assess women’s knowledge about the benefits, sources and proper intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy.Design/methodology/approachThis cross-sectional study was conducted among women at Jordan University Hospital in Amman, Jordan from July to October 2023.FindingsA total of 448 women completed the questionnaire. Analysis of the results showed that among all questions, participants perceived sufficient knowledge about dietary supplements' beneficial effects. Around 50% of the participants did not recognize the importance of vitamin B12 and vitamin A. Most participants identified that iron supplements should not be taken with dairy products, coffee, tea, calcium and antacids. Most participants did not know the source of vitamin A (82.1%), and only 44% knew the correct source of vitamin B12. Less than half of the participants recognized the appropriate administration time for each dietary supplement.Originality/valueThe knowledge level of the interaction between iron and food, natural sources of vitamins and their benefits was high, less than half of the participants showed poor knowledge about the proper time to take the dietary supplement. Patient education and counseling is important to improve health outcomes.

Classification-Predictive Model Based on Artificial Neural Network Validated by Histopathology and Direct Immunofluorescence for the Diagnosis of Oral Lichen Planus.

The diagnosis of oral lichen planus (OLP) poses many challenges due to its nonspecific clinical symptoms and histopathological features. Therefore, the diagnostic process should include a thorough clinical history, immunological tests, and histopathology. Our study aimed to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of OLP by integrating direct immunofluorescence (DIF) results with clinical data to develop a multivariate predictive model based on the Artificial Neural Network. Eighty patients were assessed using DIF for various markers (immunoglobulins of classes G, A, and M; complement 3; fibrinogen type 1 and 2) and clinical characteristics such as age, gender, and lesion location. Statistical analysis was performed using machine learning techniques in Statistica 13. The following variables were assessed: gender, age on the day of lesion onset, results of direct immunofluorescence, location of white patches, locations of erosions, treatment history, medications and dietary supplement intake, dental status, smoking status, flossing, and using mouthwash. Four statistically significant variables were selected for machine learning after the initial assessment. The final predictive model, based on neural networks, achieved 85% in the testing sample and 71% accuracy in the validation sample. Significant predictors included stress at onset, white patches under the tongue, and erosions on the mandibular gingiva. In conclusion, while the model shows promise, larger datasets and more comprehensive variables are needed to improve diagnostic accuracy for OLP, highlighting the need for further research and collaborative data collection efforts.

Urinary concentrations of mineral elements and their predictors in pregnant women in Jinan, China

BackgroundThe essential mineral elements play important roles in proper growth, development and maintenance of physiological homeostasis of an organism. Women are at greater risk of mineral deficiency during pregnancy. However, the predictors of mineral element levels in pregnant women remain unclear. This study was conducted to determine the urinary levels of calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and selenium (Se) in women during early pregnancy and to explore the predictors of urinary exposure to each mineral element and high co-exposure to mineral element mixture. Methods298 pregnant women in first trimester were recruited when they attended antenatal care in a hospital in Jinan, Shandong Province, China. We collected their spot urine samples and questionnaire data on their sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, food and dietary supplement intake, and residential environment. The concentrations of Ca, Fe, Cu, Mn and Se in all urine samples were measured. LASSO regression, multiple linear regression and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the predictors affecting mineral element levels. ResultsThe geometric means of creatinine-corrected Ca, Fe, Cu, Mn and Se concentrations were 99.37 mg/g, 1.75 µg/g, 8.97 µg/g, 0.16 µg/g and 16.83 µg/g creatinine, respectively. Factors that influenced the concentrations of individual mineral element were as follows: (1) Se and Ca concentrations increased with maternal age; (2) women taking tap water as family drinking water had higher Ca levels and those taking polyunsaturated fatty acids intermittently had higher Cu levels; (3) Fe was adversely related to consumption frequency of barbecued foods; (4) Pregnant women with more frequent consumption of shellfish/shrimp/crab and living near green spaces or parks had higher Mn exposure, and those with higher frequency of meat consumption had lower Mn exposure. In addition, maternal age and the frequency of egg consumption were associated with odds of exposure to a mixture of high Ca, Fe, Cu and Se. ConclusionsThe pregnant women in this study had comparable concentrations of urinary Cu and Se but lower concentrations of Ca, Fe and Mn compared with those in other areas. Predictors of urinary mineral elements included maternal age (Se and Ca), type of domestic drinking water (Ca), consumption frequency of barbecued food (Fe), polyunsaturated fatty acid use (Cu), the presence of urban green spaces or parks near the home and frequency of meat and shellfish/shrimp/crab intake (Mn). Moreover, maternal age and egg consumption frequency were significant predictors of high-level co-exposure to urinary Ca, Fe, Cu and Se.

Impact of urolithin A supplementation, a mitophagy activator on mitochondrial health of immune cells (MitoIMMUNE): A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in healthy adults.

e14562 Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction and stem cell exhaustion are hallmarks of aging, driving inflammation and limiting immune function. Likewise, cancer is characterized by repression of mitochondrial dynamics in tumor-infiltrating leukocytes that fosters terminal T cell exhaustion. Yet, interventions to reliably improve immune function are still lacking. Urolithin A (UA) is a postbiotic known to improve muscle function in aged adults upon oral intake. We have recently shown that UA induces mitophagy in human CD8+ cells to induce formation of T memory stem cells, while sensitizing murine cancer to immunotherapy. Methods: In this double-blind, prospective, placebo-controlled trial (NCT05735886) we sought to characterize for the first time the effects of UA on the human immune system. Fifty healthy participants aged 45-70 years were randomized (1:1) to an intervention of single-dose (1000mg) UA or placebo per day for a study duration of 28 days. Randomization was performed based on age, gender and BMI. Exclusion criteria were prior medical conditions, BMI &gt;35 kg/m2, smoking, and intake of prescription medication or other dietary supplements. The primary end points of the study were changes in peripheral CD3+ cells, as well as alterations in mitochondrial activity in select immune populations of the peripheral blood as assessed by flow cytometry. Results: Intake of UA was safe and well-tolerated in the intervention cohort of 25 participants. After the study period, total peripheral lymphocytes and circulating NK cells were expanded in the UA group. Performing a complete immunophenotyping via spectral flow cytometry, we found that UA elicits immune remodeling characterized by broad changes of immune surface markers and mitochondrial measurements. CD8+ cells of participants in the intervention arm displayed greater mitochondrial mass, while preferably taking on a naive phenotype and expressing more Ki67. In addition, circulating monocytes exhibited a less inflammatory signature. UA intake reduced plasma levels of several proinflammatory cytokines. Conclusions: Collectively, our study constitutes an unprecedented intervention-based assessment of immune aging that globally characterizes the effect of UA on the immune system, proposing validation in future confirmatory studies and potential combination with cancer immunotherapy. Clinical trial information: NCT05735886 .

Association between dietary supplements and frailty: a cross-sectional study using national survey data in South Korea

We aimed to examine the association between the use of specific types of dietary supplements and frailty using cross-sectional, nationally representative survey data. Adults aged ≥50 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2018–2020 were included. We calculated a 46-item frailty index to assess frailty. In total, 27,384 older adults were included (mean age: 62.47 years; median frailty index: 0.12). Among them, 72% used at least one dietary supplement. The prevalence of dietary supplement use was higher among women than among men and in participants with higher socioeconomic status. Compared to non-users, users of dietary supplements had a healthier diet and nutrient intake, and lower levels of frailty. After adjusting for socioeconomic and dietary factors, users of vitamin C, red ginseng or calcium were found to be significantly less frail. Our findings indicate promising results concerning dietary supplement intake in managing frailty among older Korean adults.

Effect of the Different Dietary Supplements on the Average Surface Roughness and Color Stability of Direct Restorative Materials Used in Pediatric Dentistry.

Increased surface roughness and discoloration of the direct restorative materials used in pediatric patients affect the longevity of restorations and impair children's oral health. Many factors can alter these properties. One of these factors is the intake of dietary supplements. It is crucial to predict the properties of restorative materials when exposed to dietary supplements to maintain the dental care of children. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effect of various syrup-formed dietary supplements on the average surface roughness and color stability of current restorative materials used in pediatric dentistry. Seven different restorative materials (conventional glass ionomer [Fuji IX GP], resin-modified glass ionomer, [Fuji II LC], zirconia-reinforced glass ionomer [Zirconomer Improved], polyacid-modified composite resin [Dyract®XTRA], bulk-fill glass hybrid restorative [Equia Forte HT Fill], conventional resin composite [Charisma Smart], and resin composite with reactive glass fillers [Cention N]) were tested. The specimens prepared from each type of restorative material were divided into five subgroups according to dietary supplements (Sambucol Kids, Resverol, Imunol, Umca, and Microfer). These specimens were immersed daily in supplement solution over a period of 28 days. Surface roughness and color difference measurements were performed at baseline and at the 7th and 28th days. The color difference and Ra values showed that there was an interaction among the type of restorative material, type of dietary supplement, and immersion time factors (p < 0.05). Whereas lower Ra values were found in the composite resin group, the highest Ra values were found in the conventional glass ionomer group. All supplements caused increasing color difference values, and Resverol and Umca showed higher discoloration values above the clinically acceptable threshold. The intake of dietary supplement type, the immersion time of the dietary supplement, and the restorative material type affected the surface roughness and color stability of the tested direct restorative materials. All of the experimental groups showed higher Ra values than clinically acceptable surface roughness values (0.2 µm). The color difference values also increased with the immersion time.

Re-Esterified Triglyceride ω-3 Fatty Acids in Dry Eye Disease With Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Taking ω-3 supplements has been associated with a reduction in symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). However, a recent relatively large clinical trial concluded that treating DED with ω-3 consumption was ineffective, potentially warranting additional investigations. To investigate the effect of re-esterified triglyceride (rTG) ω-3 fatty acid supplementation on DED associated with MGD. This double-masked, parallel-group, randomized clinical trial was conducted at 7 institutions from September 2020 to January 2023. Patients with DED associated with MGD were included and randomly assigned to the ω-3 group (received 1680 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid and 560 mg of docosahexaenoic acid), whereas those in the grape-seed group received 3000 mg of grape-seed oil daily. rTG ω-3 Fatty acid supplementation vs grape-seed oil. The primary end point was the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks. The safety parameters were visual acuity and intraocular pressure change. A total of 132 patients (mean [SD] age, 50.6 [13.8] years; 103 female [78.0%]) were included in this study. The mean (SD) baseline OSDI scores of the ω-3 and grape-seed groups were 43.5 (16.5) and 44.1 (16.6), respectively. A total of 58 patients (87.9%) and 57 patients (86.4%) in the ω-3 and grape-seed groups, respectively, completed 12 weeks of follow-up. There were no differences in compliance with the dietary supplement intake between groups (ω-3, 95.8% and grape-seed, 95.4%). The OSDI (SD) change from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks was -20.5 (16.0) and -22.7 (15.7), respectively, in the ω-3 group and -15.1 (20.2) and -18.8 (21.7), respectively, in the grape-seed control group (difference at 6 weeks = -5.4; 95% CI, -12.15 to 1.33; P = .12 and at 12 weeks = -3.9; 95% CI, -10.90 to 3.13; P = .28). There were no changes in safety parameters or adverse events related to taking the dietary supplement in either group. This randomized clinical trial did not show a benefit of the rTG form of ω-3 for ameliorating symptoms of DED associated with MGD, although fewer than 60 participants were evaluated in each group. Any secondary outcomes from this study should be considered for hypothesis generation of future evaluations of the effect of the rTG form of ω-3 on DED associated with MGD. CRIS Identifier: KCT0004927.

Dietary supplement intake in women with breast cancer before and after diagnosis: results from the SUCCESS C trial

BackgroundThere is little evidence that dietary supplements are beneficial for patients with breast cancer; therefore, they are usually not recommended by treatment guidelines. The aim of the present analysis was to assess the prevalence of dietary supplement (DS) intake among women before and after a breast cancer diagnosis.MethodsParticipants in the SUCCESS C lifestyle intervention study, a randomized controlled trial in women with newly diagnosed intermediate- to high-risk breast cancer, completed two questionnaires on dietary supplement intake 24 months (QS1) and 48 months (QS2) after beginning the lifestyle intervention. The study was registered on 12.17.2008 under the EU Clinical Trials Register https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/, trial registration number: 2008-005453-38. The questionnaires collected data on DS intake during the 5-year period prediagnosis (QS1) and in the period postdiagnosis (QS2). Multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to examine differences in DS intake between the two intervention groups. The groups were then pooled to examine differences in DS use between the prediagnostic and postdiagnostic period.ResultsA total of 320 questionnaires from 58.5% of intervention group completers and 416 questionnaires from 46.6% of low-level intervention group completers were included in the analysis. Overall, 20.2% of all respondents reported taking DS prior to their diagnosis. After a cancer diagnosis, the percentage of women taking DS significantly increased to 56.4% (p for time effect < 0.0001). No differences in DS intake between the intervention groups were observed. Single or combined preparations of vitamins and minerals/trace elements were the most frequently reported supplements. Notably, a 9-fold increase in vitamin D intake was reported postdiagnosis, where the proportion of women increased from 3.8 to 34.5%.ConclusionA 3-fold increase in the reported intake of dietary supplements was seen in women after a breast cancer diagnosis. These observations underscore the need to incorporate patient education surrounding the use of dietary supplements in a treatment care plan, particularly addressing the negligible benefits as well as the potential risks and treatment interactions.

Approaching the gateway to doping hypothesis through personality analysis

The relation between dark personality traits and fraudulent behaviour like doping in sports is empirically well established. However, the factors that lead athletes to start using illegal substances are less known. The gateway to doping hypothesis posits that widespread dietary supplement usage among athletes could potentially desensitise them, increasing the inclination towards doping use. To examine this hypothesis, the personality structure of athletes using dietary supplements for diverse motives is examined, aiming to identify patterns indicative of doping propensity, including dark traits, perfectionism, ego and task orientation and attitude towards doping. The final sample comprises 687 athletes (479 women; mean age = 26.06 ± 9.21 years). The findings suggest that the overall use and frequency of dietary supplement intake are not significantly predicted by personality traits indicative of a predisposition towards doping. While athletes that use supplements to enhance performance, regeneration, and body shape display a slightly more favourable attitude towards doping, dark traits exhibit an inverse link across all motives (except body shape enhancement) with substantial effect sizes. Although doping usage is not assessed in this study, the outcomes indicate that personality structures associated with doping do not predict dietary supplement use, thus challenging the gateway to doping hypothesis.

Association of Combining Diet and Physical Activity on Sarcopenia and Obesity in Elderly Koreans with Diabetes.

This study aimed to identify the combined factors of physical activity and diet associated with non-sarcopenic non-obese status in 1586 diabetic patients aged ≥65 years from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016 to 2019). Participants were categorized into non-sarcopenic non-obesity (NSNO), sarcopenia non-obesity (SNO), non-sarcopenic obesity (NSO), and sarcopenic obesity (SO) groups. NSNO had lower insulin, HOMA-IR, and triglycerides compared to NSO and SO. NSNO had lower perceived stress, higher nutrition education and dietary supplement intake. As assessed by the Korean Healthy Eating Index, NSNO scored higher total than SNO and SO, in breakfast and energy balance compared to SO, and in the adequacy of vegetables and meat/fish/egg/bean compared to SNO. NSNO had significantly higher energy and protein intake and physical activity, with BMI/waist circumference lower than NSO, SO, and comparable to SNO. Physical activity was positively associated with NSNO. Low Total KHEI score and protein intake level reduced the odds ratio (OR) of NSNO, particularly when physical activity was insufficient, with OR = 0.38 for KHEI Q1 and OR = 0.32 for protein T1. In conclusion, physical activity, diet quality, and protein intake are associated with NSNO prevalence in Korean elderly with diabetes, and energy balance through active intake and expenditure may be effective.

Sociodemographics, playing Habits, adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern, dietary supplements intake, physical activity level, and degree of Internet gaming disorder of Portuguese chess players

Introduction: Lifestyle and gaming habits may influence chess players' adhesion to healthy dietary patterns. This study aims to characterize Portuguese chess players sociodemographics, playing traits, adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD), dietary supplement (DS) consumption, physical activity level, degree of internet gaming disorder (IGD) and to study predictors of adherence to the MD. Methods: Data was gathered using an online survey disseminated through social networks, which included questions regarding sociodemographics, chess playing habits, the PREDIMED questionnaire, DS consumption, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale. Results: The 192 respondents (93.8 % males) had a mean of 41 years (SD = 14), high education (mean = 15.1 y, SD = 1.7), and played chess for 6.3 hours (SD = 9.7) a week. Most (58.9 %, n = 113) reported moderate adherence to the MD, 30.2 % (n = 58) ingested DS, 64.1 % (n = 123) adhered to the WHO Physical Activity Recommendations, and no subject was classified with IGD. Higher Elo scores correlated with higher red/processed meat consumption (OR = 4.935, p = 0.005). A greater volume of chess play related to higher consumption of pastries and sweets (OR = 3.127, p = 0.007). Higher IGD scores were associated with lower adhesion to the MD (OR = 1.067, p = 0.019). Conclusions: The most dedicated chess players may be less concerned with maintaining a balanced diet and may require supervision from health professionals. Funding: None to disclose.

The Association Between Daily Intake of Dietary Supplements and Self-Reported Endometriosis: A NHANES-Based Study.

Dietary supplements are gaining recognition as potential influencers of female reproductive health, but their connection to endometriosis risk remains underexplored. This study addressed this gap, examining the impact of daily dietary supplement intake on the initiation and progression of endometriosis. To explore this, a cross-sectional study was conducted involving 3950 participants representative of the US population from the 1999-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Infertility was determined by a question on year-long attempts to become pregnant. Unweighted and weighted multivariate logistic regression analyses assessed the association between dietary supplements and endometriosis risk. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on the participants' body mass index (BMI). The results revealed intriguing patterns. Specifically, higher dietary fiber content (Q4 vs Q1: OR = 0.56, 95% CI = (0.37,0.84), P = 0.0062) and density (Q4 vs Q1: OR = 0.55, 95% CI = (0.38,0.81), P = 0.0035) were linked to reduced risk of endometriosis. Protein content (Q4 vs Q1: OR = 0.47, 95% CI = (0.31,0.74), P = 0.0011) and density (Q4 vs Q1: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = (0.45,0.88), P = 0.0096) similarly exhibited a negative association with endometriosis risk. Interestingly, when stratified by BMI, these effects were pronounced in normal-weight women, whereas they were not evident in the overweight and obese subgroup. Protein content and density showed no significant associations across subpopulations. In conclusion, this study established a negative relationship between dietary fiber and endometriosis, particularly notable in normal-weight women. Future research is essential to validate these findings and establish a causal link between dietary fiber and endometriosis.