Excessive Caloric Intake Research Articles

Interrelationships between affective disorders in the form of depression and obesity and overweight - A systematic review

Both depression and obesity are significant health, social and economic problems. Depressive disorders were the second most common psychiatric disorder in 2017 after anxiety disorders. According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects about 280 million people worldwide, which is about 3.8 percent of the population. The etiology of depressive disorders is very complex and still not fully understood. The theories described so far complement each other. The factors underlying the development of depressive disorders can be divided into biological, psychological and other factors. Eating disorders in the form of overweight and obesity result from a loss of balance between anabolic and catabolic processes. This is most often led by insufficient physical activity and excess caloric intake. Hormonal disorders, genetic factors and environmental factors may also play an important role in the pathogenesis of obesity. The steadily increasing number of people suffering from depression and obesity prompts the search for links between these two seemingly unrelated disease entities. According to current knowledge, these diseases are bi-directionally linked by genetic, psychological, metabolic and social factors. Depression is associated with an increase in the risk of obesity by about 37% relative to those without depression. Obesity is associated with an increase in the risk of depressive disorders by about 18%. Understanding the links that exist between depressive disorders and obesity enables the search for new therapeutic options. The most important conclusion from the scientific research conducted so far is the advantage of simultaneous treatment of obesity and depression over treating these disease entities individually.

Regional and ethnic factors of obesity and diabetes mellitus in women of re-productive age in the Pribaikal region

Introduction. Overweight is currently one of the leading global medical problems. Overweight and obesity contribute significantly to the development of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorder and can also cause premature death. Obesity has a negative impact on reproductive function; almost a quarter of women of childbearing age are overweight and about a third of them are obese.Aim. To study the characteristics of carbohydrate metabolism, hormonal indicators, and clinical-metabolic profiles, as well as to assess the potential risk of developing diabetes mellitus in women of fertile age with overweight and obesity residing in the Baikal region.Materials and methods. The study involved 60 overweight and obese women of reproductive age in the Pribaikalye region, including 33 women of Russian nationality (group 1) and 27 women of Buryat nationality (group 2). Anthropo-metric, sociodemographic and behavioural criteria were analysed, as well as questionnaires using the FINDRISC Scale. General clinical analyses of blood and urine were performed, lipid profile parameters, glucose, insulin, creatinine, transaminases, estradiol, thyroid hormone, leptin levels in blood plasma were studied. In addition, an oral glucose tolerance test was performed and the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated.Results. In the group of Buryat women with lower body weight as compared to Russians, higher levels of leptin, HOMA- IR index, and larger waist circumference are observed. In Buryat women, low physical activity makes a significant contribution to the development of overweight and obesity, while for Russian women, excessive caloric intake is more important. In accordance with the results of the FINDRISC scale survey, the greatest contribution to the potential development of diabetes mellitus in the Russian group is body mass index (weight), and in the Buryat group, in addition to these indicators, waist circumference and reduced physical activity.Conclusions. The results of the study will be of great help in the development of pro-grammes for the prevention of diabetes and obesity, taking into account regional and ethnic differences among the population.

Effect of tea consumption on the development of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.

The effect of tea consumption on conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity has attracted significant global interest. However, the results of various studies on this topic have been mixed and somewhat contentious. Therefore, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal relationships between tea consumption and the aforementioned health conditions. A bidirectional two-sample MR analysis was used to systematically explores the associations between tea consumption and hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. MR-Egger regression, weighted median, inverse variance weighted, and weighted mode methods were used to evaluate the potential causal associations. Leave-one-out sensitivity test was used to check the robustness of the IVW estimates. MR analysis indicated that genetically predicted tea consumption is associated with a protective effect against hypertension, with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.78 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 0.64 to 0.95. Additionally, tea consumption appeared to have a potential protective effect on type 2 diabetes and obesity related to excessive calorie intake, influenced by specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), namely "rs57462170" and "rs17685." No causal link was observed between the consumption of green or herbal tea and hypertension, diabetes, or obesity. However, there was a marginal negative association between type 2 diabetes and tea consumption and (OR = 0.99; 95% CI: 0.97-1.00) and a significant negative correlation between obesity due to excessive calorie intake and green tea consumption (OR = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.16-0.78). This study demonstrates a protective causal relationship between the consumption of tea (including black and green teas) and reduced risk of hypertension. Furthermore, our results suggest that tea intake may also have a protective effect on type 2 diabetes and obesity. The results recommend further research to verify or refine these findings.

Modulatory potentials of nitric oxide in obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction

Obesity is caused by a significant increase in adipose tissue due to excessive caloric intake that exceeds energy expenditure. Obesity has emerged as a significant public health issue in both poor resource and economic developed nations, owing to its increased incidence and links to chronic diseases, such osteoarthritis, hypertension, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It is believed that uncoupled eNOS, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases, xanthine oxidase, lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase, microsomal P-450 enzymes, and pro-oxidant heme molecules are responsible for the drastic decrease in NO production and the relative increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) secretion, which are considered as the molecular mechanisms associated with obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction. Vascular endothelium defines a monolayer of cells, which lies between the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and the vessel lumen. It performs a number of protective actions facilitated by the release of nitric oxide (NO), a soluble gas that is generated in endothelial cells by the amino acid L-arginine through the action of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). The maintenance of vascular homeostasis is facilitated by various biological actions of NO, such as modulation of vascular dilator tone, control of local cell growth, and protection of the endothelium from the harmful effects of cellular components in blood circulation, while maintaining normal endothelial functions. Decreased peripheral arterial endothelium-dependent dilation (EDD) in response to mechanical (intravascular shear) or chemical (acetylcholine) stimuli suggests that decreased NO bioavailability has been recognised as major molecular mechanisms associated with the progress and development of obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction. In this review, the modulatory effects of NO in obesity-induced endothelial dysfunction will be discussed.

Balance or Quality: Impact of Part-Time Farming on the Nutrition and Health of Rural Residents

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between part-time farming and the nutrition and health of rural residents, test the possible effects through two potential pathways—income effect and time effect—and further analyze the family heterogeneity characteristic of downward intergenerational support. Using the ordered probit model and cross-sectional data from the China Rural Revitalization Comprehensive Survey (CRRS), which provide information on household income, health conditions, and nutritional caloric intake, this study estimates the relationship between part-time farming and the nutritional health of rural residents. The effects are decomposed into income (measured by dietary diversity scores and food consumption expenditures) and time effects (measured by excess caloric intake), with additional analysis on family heterogeneity concerning downward intergenerational support. Part-time farming positively correlates with rural residents’ nutritional health through two pathways: income effect (improved dietary diversity and increased food consumption) and time effect (negative impact of excessive caloric intake). Downward intergenerational support mitigates the negative time effect. This paper highlights the often-overlooked impact of part-time farming on rural nutrition and health, emphasizing non-linear effects and the significant role of downward intergenerational support, thus filling a gap in existing research.

Malnutrition in patients with obesity: An overview perspective.

Malnutrition in patients with obesity presents a complex and often overlooked clinical challenge. Although obesity is traditionally associated with overnutrition and excessive caloric intake, it can also coincide with varying degrees of malnutrition. The etiopathogenesis of obesity is multifaceted and may arise from several factors such as poor diet quality, nutrient deficiencies despite excess calorie consumption, genetics, and metabolic abnormalities affecting nutrient absorption and utilization. Moreover, a chronic low-grade inflammatory state resulting from excess adipose tissue, commonly observed in obesity, can further exacerbate malnutrition by altering nutrient metabolism and increasing metabolic demands. The dual burden of obesity and malnutrition poses significant risks, including immune dysfunction, delayed wound healing, anemia, metabolic disturbances, and deficiencies in micronutrients such as vitamin D, iron, magnesium, and zinc, among others. Malnutrition is often neglected or not given enough attention in individuals with obesity undergoing rapid weight loss through aggressive caloric restriction, pharmacological therapies, and/or surgical interventions. These factors often exacerbate vulnerability to nutrition deficiencies. We advocate for healthcare practitioners to prioritize nutrition assessment and initiate medical intervention strategies tailored to address both excessive caloric intake and insufficient consumption of essential nutrients. Raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the general population about the critical role of adequate nutrition in caring for patients with obesity is vital for mitigating the adverse health effects associated with malnutrition in this population.

Problematic behaviors at mealtimes and the nutritional status of Brazilian children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The aim of this study was to explore problematic behaviors and their association with the food consumption and nutritional status of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This is a cross-sectional study which enrolled 90 Brazilian children (aged 2-10 years) with ASD. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the ASD Eating Behavior Assessment Scale, and the 24-h recall were used. Age, height, total body weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI) were accessed to estimate nutritional status (BMI/Age). Consumption of fruits, vegetables, total calories, macro and micronutrients (calcium, iron, zinc, omega 3 and omega 6), and Body Mass Index (BMI) were assessed. The regression models were adjusted for covariates (prevalence ratio - PR, α = 0.05). All studied children presented problematic behaviors at mealtimes, with a predominance of food selectivity (57.8%), followed by changes in mealtime skills (34.4%), changes in masticatory motor skills (25.6%), oppositional eating behaviors (20.4%), and rigid eating behaviors (20.0%). Food selectivity was associated with excess body weight (PR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.08-3.51) and absence of vegetable consumption (PR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.46-0.81). Rigid eating behaviors was associated with low consumption of fiber (PR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.15-1.75) and zinc (PR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.33-3.45), and with excessive caloric (PR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.02-1.29) and lower calcium intake (PR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.29-0.91). Selectivity and rigidity behaviors have different relationships with food consumption and are associated with a higher prevalence of inadequacies, which may lead to nutritional risks for children. Further studies may investigate the influence of problematic behaviors and excess body weight in ASD.

Normal caloric intake with high-fat diet induces metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and dyslipidemia without obesity in rats

Excessive caloric intake and obesity due to high-fat (HFD) and high-disaccharide (HDD) diets have been recognized as major contributing factors to dyslipidemia and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). However, the effect of HFD and HDD without excessive caloric intake is obscure. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of physiological caloric intake delivered through HFD and HDD on liver and lipid profiles. The study was performed on 6-week-old male and female (50/50%) Sprague Dawley rats, receiving either a standard (controls, n = 16), HFD (n = 14) or HDD (n = 14) chow. All groups received the same, standard daily calorie rations, titrated weekly to the age of growing rats, for 12 weeks. A panel of metabolic in vivo measurement were performed, followed by histological, biochemical and molecular biology assays on tissues harvested from sacrificed rats. There was no significant difference between the groups in body weight. In contrast to controls, HFD and HDD groups showed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) characterized by liver steatosis, inflammation, ballooning of hepatocytes and fibrosis. These changes were more pronounced in the HFD than in the HDD group. The HFD group showed significantly higher serum LDL than controls or HDD rats. Furthermore, the HFD group had higher liver protein levels of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) but lower plasma levels of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) than the controls or HDD group. There were no differences between sexes in evaluated parameters. The excessive caloric intake and obesity are not prerequisites for the development of MASH and dyslipidemia in rats. The liver changes induced by the HFD and HDD diets exhibit differences in severity, as well as in the expression patterns of LDLR and PCSK9. Notably, these effects are independent of the sex of the rats.

Obesidad y sobrepeso

Obesity is a chronic, recurrent, heterogeneous, complex disease. It arises from an energy imbalance due to a sedentary lifestyle, excess calorie intake, or both, to which various genetic, social, behavioral, psychological, metabolic, cellular, and molecular factors must be added. This condition is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of adipose tissue. This increases the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, with important biological, psychological, and social implications. Its prevalence has increased globally, affecting all demographic groups. Multidisciplinary treatment focuses on lifestyle changes and is sometimes supplemented with medication. In extreme cases, bariatric surgery can improve the metabolic profile. This update will also focus in general on how excess weight behaves in pregnant patients, older adult patients, and patients with type 1 diabetes.

Ultra-Processed Food Intake and Increased Risk of Obesity: A Narrative Review.

The prevalence of obesity has become a global health concern, with significant impacts on quality of life and mortality rates. Recent research has highlighted the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in driving the obesity epidemic. UPFs undergo extensive processing, often containing high levels of sugars, fats, and additives, while lacking essential nutrients. Studies have linked UPF consumption to obesity and cardiometabolic diseases, underscoring the importance of dietary patterns rich in whole foods. Thus, the aim of this narrative review is to elucidate the correlation between ultra-processed foods and the increased trend of obesity and its related complications. These foods, prevalent in modern diets, contribute to nutritional deficiencies and excessive caloric intake, exacerbating obesity rates. Lifestyle factors such as busy schedules and quick meal management further drive UPF consumption, disrupting hunger regulation and promoting overeating. UPF consumption correlates with adverse health outcomes, including dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance. Promoting whole, minimally processed foods and implementing school-based nutrition education programs are crucial steps. Also, numerous challenges exist, including unequal access to healthy foods, the industry's influence, and behavioral barriers to dietary change. Future research should explore innovative approaches, such as nutrigenomics and digital health technologies, to personalize interventions and evaluate policy effectiveness. Collaboration across disciplines and sectors will be vital to develop comprehensive solutions and improve public health outcomes globally.

Cross-Sectional Assessment of Nutritional Status, Dietary Intake, and Physical Activity Levels in Children (6-9 Years) in Valencia (Spain) Using Nutrimetry.

The aims of this research were to evaluate the current nutritional status, dietary intake, and level of physical activity and assess the need for intervention. This was a cross-sectional study with 2724 participating children aged 6-9 years old. Nutritional status was assessed using nutrimetry, dietary intake with a 3-day food-recall questionnaire and physical activity with an ad hoc questionnaire. The nutricode with the highest prevalence was healthy weight/normal stature, with 51.3% of the sample. For the BMI for age Z-score, those in the overweight/obesity category represented 37.5% of the sample, while the thinness category included 7.6%. Intake of calories, proteins, sugar, lipids, SFA, MUFA, and cholesterol were significantly higher than recommended. The thinness groups consumed a significantly higher amount of excess calories while the overweight/obesity groups had the lowest mean excess calorie intake. Children in the thinness category presented the highest rates at both ends of the spectrum for sedentary activities. This study showed the high prevalence of malnutrition in schoolchildren. The results for the risk of thinness and overweight/obesity according to individual nutrient intake should be carefully interpreted. Lifestyle is a fundamental aspect to consider when combating malnutrition, especially at the level of dietary and physical activity habits, to combine various methods of intervention to improve nutritional status.

Abstract Tu090: P21-activated kinase 1 safeguards cardiac function from impairment during fasting

Excessive calorie intake poses a heightened risk for cardiovascular disease, while caloric restriction and intermittent fasting have demonstrated benefits in enhancing cardiovascular health and improving cardiometabolic risk profiles. Despite this knowledge, the precise mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effects of these dietary regimens remain inadequately understood. P21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is a serine/threonine protein kinase known to play a crucial role in promoting cardiomyocyte survival in response to various stressors. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of PAK1 in maintaining cardiac function during fasting, utilizing mice with modified PAK1 activity in the heart. Under normal feeding conditions, heart function exhibited no discernible differences among wild type (WT), transgenic (TG), and knockout (KO) mice, as evidenced by consistent fractional shortening (FS), ejection fraction (EF), E/A ratio, and isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT). After a one-day fast, systolic contractile function remained robust across all groups of mice. However, the E/A ratio decreased in KO mice, and IVRT was prolonged in KO mice, while shortened in TG mice, highlighting the crucial role of PAK1 in maintaining diastolic cardiac function. Upon a two-day fast, systolic function was compromised in both WT and KO mice, whereas TG mice exhibited preserved function, as evidenced by FS and EF measurements, emphasizing PAK1's equal significance in sustaining systolic cardiac function. Furthermore, fasting accelerated mitophagy, a process eliminating dysfunctional mitochondria through lysosomal degradation, as observed by mitochondria-associated LC3-II and a dual fluorescent mitophagy reporter. Additionally, we established PAK1 as a positive regulator of mitophagy, suggesting its potential protective role in the heart during fasting via mitophagy modulation. In summary, PAK1 emerges as a critical mediator of cardiac function during fasting, presenting promising avenues for therapeutic interventions aimed at improving cardiovascular health.

Obesity in Adults: Causes, Health Consequences, and Treatment Methods

Introduction Obesity is defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat that can negatively affect a person's physical as well as mental health. It results not only from excessive caloric intake relative to energy expenditure, but also from a myriad of genetic, metabolic, environmental and behavioral factors. Obesity poses the risk of a number of chronic diseases that impair quality of life and increase the risk of death. Understanding the causes of obesity, the consequences it brings, and learning about treatments can help improve health and public awareness. Aim of the Study This study aims to analyze the causes, health consequences, and available treatment methods for obesity in adults, providing a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on the subject. Materials and Methods This review utilized data from recent literature published over the last 15 years, sourced primarily from PubMed. The focus was on identifying and synthesizing information related to the epidemiology, risk factors, health consequences, and treatment strategies for adult obesity. Keywords such as "obesity," "adult," "treatment," "epidemiology," and "health consequences" were used to search relevant studies. Conclusions Obesity in adults is a multifaceted issue requiring a comprehensive approach to treatment. Addressing this epidemic necessitates a combination of dietary changes, increased physical activity, behavioral therapies, pharmacological interventions, and surgical options when necessary. Ongoing support and monitoring are essential for achieving long-term success in weight management and improving overall health outcomes.

In Vivo Glycemic Response of Fruit-Based Mango (Mangifera indica) and Pineapple (Ananas comosus) Bars in In Vitro and In Silico Enzyme Inhibitory Effects Studies.

The habitual consumption of snacks has the potential to enrich or harm the diet. They can contribute to excessive caloric intake and hyperglycemia. Thus, there is an increasing interest in snacks with health-promoting properties. This study aimed to demonstrate the beneficial effect of two fruit-based bars on glucose levels through in vitro, in vivo, and in silico assays. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) and pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) bars (MB and PB) were prepared, and chemical composition, postprandial glycemic response, glycemic index (GI), and glycemic load (GL) were evaluated. The inhibitory effect of fruit bar extracts on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity and their respective molecular docking was assessed. MB and PB showed the lowest postprandial glycemic response vs. the control bar (p < 0.005), a lower GI (CB: 64.20, PB: 53.20, MB: 40.40), and a GL of 10.9 (CB), 7.9 (PB), and 6.1 (MB), (p < 0.05). MB and PB showed the highest inhibition % of α-amylase (61.44 and 59.37%, respectively) and α-glucosidase (64.97 and 64.57%). Naringenin (-1692.5985 and -2757.674 kcal/mol) and ferulic acid (-1692.8904 and -2760.3513 kcal/mol) exhibited more favorable interaction energies against α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity. The presence of polyphenols from the fruit influenced enzymatic inhibition. Likewise, the dietary fiber in the bars evaluated allowed us to observe a positive effect that favors glycemic control, making them a healthy alternative for snacking.

P38α MAPK Coordinates Mitochondrial Adaptation to Caloric Surplus in Skeletal Muscle.

Excessive calorie intake leads to mitochondrial overload and triggers metabolic inflexibility and insulin resistance. In this study, we examined how attenuated p38α activity affects glucose and fat metabolism in the skeletal muscles of mice on a high-fat diet (HFD). Mice exhibiting diminished p38α activity (referred to as p38αAF) gained more weight and displayed elevated serum insulin levels, as well as a compromised response in the insulin tolerance test, compared to the control mice. Additionally, their skeletal muscle tissue manifested impaired insulin signaling, leading to resistance in insulin-mediated glucose uptake. Examination of muscle metabolites in p38αAF mice revealed lower levels of glycolytic intermediates and decreased levels of acyl-carnitine metabolites, suggesting reduced glycolysis and β-oxidation compared to the controls. Additionally, muscles of p38αAF mice exhibited severe abnormalities in their mitochondria. Analysis of myotubes derived from p38αAF mice revealed reduced mitochondrial respiratory capacity relative to the myotubes of the control mice. Furthermore, these myotubes showed decreased expression of Acetyl CoA Carboxylase 2 (ACC2), leading to increased fatty acid oxidation and diminished inhibitory phosphorylation of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), which resulted in elevated mitochondrial pyruvate oxidation. The expected consequence of reduced mitochondrial respiratory function and uncontrolled nutrient oxidation observed in p38αAF myotubes mitochondrial overload and metabolic inflexibility. This scenario explains the increased likelihood of insulin resistance development in the muscles of p38αAF mice compared to the control mice on a high-fat diet. In summary, within skeletal muscles, p38α assumes a crucial role in orchestrating the mitochondrial adaptation to caloric surplus by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and regulating the selective oxidation of nutrients, thereby preventing mitochondrial overload, metabolic inflexibility, and insulin resistance.

Glycolipid Metabolic Disorders, Metainflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Cardiovascular Diseases: Unraveling Pathways.

Glycolipid metabolic disorders (GLMDs) are various metabolic disorders resulting from dysregulation in glycolipid levels, consequently leading to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, liver dysfunction, neuromuscular complications, and cardiorenal vascular diseases (CRVDs). In patients with GLMDs, excess caloric intake and a lack of physical activity may contribute to oxidative stress (OxS) and systemic inflammation. This study aimed to review the connection between GLMD, OxS, metainflammation, and the onset of CRVD. GLMD is due to various metabolic disorders causing dysfunction in the synthesis, breakdown, and absorption of glucose and lipids in the body, resulting in excessive ectopic accumulation of these molecules. This is mainly due to neuroendocrine dysregulation, insulin resistance, OxS, and metainflammation. In GLMD, many inflammatory markers and defense cells play a vital role in related tissues and organs, such as blood vessels, pancreatic islets, the liver, muscle, the kidneys, and adipocytes, promoting inflammatory lesions that affect various interconnected organs through their signaling pathways. Advanced glycation end products, ATP-binding cassette transporter 1, Glucagon-like peptide-1, Toll-like receptor-4, and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) play a crucial role in GLMD since they are related to glucolipid metabolism. The consequences of this is system organ damage and increased morbidity and mortality.

How much does overnutrition weigh? The environmental and social impacts of Metabolic Food Waste in Italy

Excess Food Energy Intake (EFEI), namely Metabolic Food Waste (MFW) corresponds to excess calorie intake related to overconsumption of food and is responsible for overweight (OW) and obesity (OB) conditions. Identifying its causes and impacts could be important, so that it can be prevented and reduced, generating health, environmental and societal benefits. Therefore, this research quantifies MFW among OW and OB adult populations (18–75 years) in Italy and its environmental and social implications. Life cycle assessment (LCA) through the Simapro 9.5 software was used and then, the results were monetized according to the Environmental Price Handbook to understand the real environmental cost. Finally, Social LCA (S-LCA) was considered following the Product Social Impact Assessment (PSILCA) guidelines to understand the potential social risks behind the food that ends up on our plates. The results highlight the amount of MFW in Italy is 2696 billion kcal/year corresponding to 1.59 Mtons over-consumed food/year, while the impacts are mainly related to global warming (8.78 Mtons CO2 eq/year, or 2.29 % of the total Italian CO2 emissions), terrestrial ecotoxicity (843,451 tons 1.4-DCB/year), freshwater ecotoxicity (222,483 tons 1.4 DCB eq/year), and land consumption (8 million m2a eq/year), mostly due to the meat, fats and oils and sweets overconsumption. Impacts monetization also shows that MFW could induce an environmental price of € 1340/per capita/year, and finally, the S-LCA reveals how overconsumption of food has the potential to affect gender discrimination, water depletion, trade union, and social discrimination due to the high proportion of labor migrants in the agricultural sector.

High-fat diet-negative impact on female fertility: from mechanisms to protective actions of antioxidant matrices.

Excessive calorie intake poses a significant threat to female fertility, leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive challenges. Overconsumption of unhealthy fats exacerbates ovarian dysfunction, with an overproduction of reactive oxygen species causing oxidative stress, impairing ovarian follicle development and leading to irregular ovulation and premature ovarian failure. Interest in biological matrices with high antioxidant properties to combat diet-related oxidative stress has grown, as they contain various bioactive factors crucial for neutralizing free radicals potentially preventing female reproductive health. This systematic review evaluates the female reproductive impact of biological matrices in mitigating oxidative damages induced by over calory habits and, in particular, high fat diets. A comparative approach among mammalian models was utilized to interpret literature available data. This approach specifically investigates the antioxidant mechanisms of biological matrices on early and late ovarian folliculogenesis, under physiological and hormone-induced female reproductive cycle. Adhering to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, only English-language publications from peer-reviewed international indexes were considered. The analysis of 121 publications meeting the inclusion criteria facilitated the identification of crucial components of biological matrices. These components, including carbocyclic sugars, phytonutrients, organosulfur compounds, and vitamins, were evaluated for their impact on ovarian follicle resilience, oocyte quality, and reproductive lifespan. The detrimental effects of oxidative stress on female fertility, particularly exacerbated by high saturated fat diets, are well-documented. In vivo studies across mammalian preclinical models have underscored the potential of antioxidants derived from biological matrices to mitigate diet-induced conditions. These antioxidants enhance steroidogenesis and ovarian follicle development, thereby improving oocyte quality. Additionally, discussions within these publications emphasized the clinical significance of these biological matrices, translating research findings into practical applications for female health. Further research is essential to fully exploit the potential of these matrices in enhancing female reproduction and mitigating the effects of diets rich in fatty acids. This requires intensified in vitro studies and comprehensive collection of in vivo data before clinical trials. The promotion of ovarian resilience offers promising avenues for enhancing understanding and advancing female reproductive health world-wide.

Semaglutide in the Treatment of Diabetes and Associated Obesity

Introduction and objective: Diabetes represents one of the most significant healthcare challenges of the 21st century. The disease is frequently asymptomatic, with patients often remaining undiagnosed for extended periods and failing to seek assistance from healthcare professionals. A sedentary lifestyle, excessive caloric intake, and a lack of physical activity contribute to the development of obesity, which in turn leads to carbohydrate metabolism disorders. In this study, we will examine the relationship between diabetes and obesity, and discuss the drug semaglutide, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes and also promotes weight loss. Review methods: Review and summary of research studies available in open-source format on Google Scholar, PubMed. Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge: Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of semaglutide in improving lipid profiles and promoting weight loss. This effect is believed to be mediated by the drug's ability to slow gastric emptying. It is evident that semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue, exerts a beneficial effect on carbohydrate parameters and helps to delay the occurrence of complications associated with diabetes. Summary: A review of clinical reports and conducted studies indicates that semaglutide has the potential to enhance parameters that directly or indirectly impact the quality of life of patients with diabetes. However, the utilisation of the aforementioned pharmaceutical is associated with adverse effects, which may impede patient-physician collaboration and potentially precipitate the development of new health complications in patients. One of the effects of semaglutide treatment is a reduction in appetite, which contributes to weight loss. This property of the drug makes it suitable for use in patients with excessive body weight.

Unraveling the mystery: a Mendelian randomized exploration of gut microbiota and different types of obesity.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the influence of gut microbiota on the development of obesity. In this study, we utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the gut microbiota characteristics among different types of obese patients, aiming to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and provide novel insights for obesity treatment. Two-sample multivariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was employed to assess causal relationships between gut microbiota and various obesity subtypes. Gut microbiota data were obtained from the international consortium MiBioGen, and data on obese individuals were sourced from the Finnish National Biobank FinnGen. Eligible single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected as instrumental variables. Various analytical methods, including inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger regression, weighted median, MR-RAPS, and Lasso regression, were applied. Sensitivity analyses for quality control included MR-Egger intercept tests, Cochran's Q tests, and leave-one-out analyses and others. Mendelian randomization studies revealed distinct gut microbiota profiles among European populations with different obesity subtypes. Following multivariable MR analysis, we found that Ruminococcaceae UCG010 [Odds Ratio (OR): 0.842, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.766-0.926, Adjusted P value: 0.028] independently reduced the risk of obesity induced by excessive calorie intake, while Butyricimonas [OR: 4.252, 95% CI: 2.177-8.307, Adjusted P value: 0.002] independently increased the risk of medication-induced obesity. For localized adiposity, Pasteurellaceae [OR: 0.213, 95% CI: 0.115-0.395, Adjusted P value: <0.001] acted as a protective factor. In the case of extreme obesity with alveolar hypoventilation, lactobacillus [OR: 0.724, 95% CI: 0.609-0.860, Adjusted P value: 0.035] reduced the risk of its occurrence. Additionally, six gut microbiota may have potential roles in the onset of different types of obesity. Specifically, the Ruminococcus torques group may increase the risk of its occurrence. Desulfovibrio and Catenabacterium may serve as protective factors in the onset of Drug-induced obesity. Oxalobacteraceae, Actinomycetaceae, and Ruminiclostridium 9, on the other hand, could potentially increase the risk of Drug-induced obesity. No evidence of heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy among SNPs was found in the above studies (all P values for Q test and MR-Egger intercept > 0.05). Gut microbiota abundance is causally related to obesity, with distinct gut microbiota profiles observed among different obesity subtypes. Four bacterial species, including Ruminococcaceae UCG010, Butyricimonas, Pasteurellaceae and lactobacillus independently influence the development of various types of obesity. Probiotic and prebiotic supplementation may represent a novel approach in future obesity management.