Dietary Supplements Research Articles

A Review of the Nutritional Composition, Storage Challenges, Processing Technology and Widespread Use of Bamboo Shoots

Bamboo shoots, as the young bamboo stems, are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, as well as many bioactive substances beneficial to health, and are gaining in importance worldwide as a healthy food and dietary supplement. However, fresh bamboo shoots lignify rapidly after harvesting and contain cyanogenic glycosides, limiting the safe and healthy consumption of bamboo shoots. To this end, based on the changes in nutritional composition and the physiological properties of fresh and post-harvest bamboo shoots, factors affecting the preservation of post-harvest bamboo shoots are emphasized, including a series of physical and chemical regimes and various processing methods for post-harvest preservation. Furthermore, a systematic biorefinery approach for using bamboo shoot processing residue to prepare value-added products is also discussed. Finally, the article also discusses issues related to sustainable development, safeguarding food security, and addressing potential health impacts in order to provide a scientific basis for researchers to further develop and increase the added value of bamboo shoots.

Mitigation of Oxidized Oil Effects on Production Performances and Meat Quality of Broilers by Dietary Supplementation of Allicin

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary oxidized oil and allicin (two different dietary sources) as natural antioxidants on the growth performance and meat quality of broilers. A total of 200 one-day-old Ross 308 broilers were randomly divided into four dietary groups (50 birds/group). The experimental groups (OO—oxidized oil; OOA—oxidized oil and allicin; OOG—oxidized oil and garlic leaves) differed from the control one by the presence of oxidized oil in their dietary structure (peroxide value 9.07 (OO, OOA and OOG groups) vs. 1.70 (C group) meq active oxygen/kg). The diets given to the experimental groups differed from each other by the presence of allicin (100 mg/kg inclusion rate as extract (OOA) and 0.5% as garlic leaf powder (OOG)). At the end of the experiment, six animals/group were slaughtered, meat samples (breast and thigh) were collected, and nutritional value was established. The results showed that the allicin included in the experimental diet did not influence the proximate composition of breast meat (crude protein, fat, ash, and dry matter). The fatty acid profile was determined for each group of samples; a significant decrease in omega 3 FAs was noticed between the C group and the E groups (3.27% vs. 1.46%, 1.60%, and 1.56%) in breast meat samples, and a corresponding increase was noticed in saturated fatty acid (SFA) concentrations. Health indices with implications for atheroma and thrombus formation and cholesterol level were negatively affected by the presence of oxidized oil in the experimental diets, but the allicin extract supplement appeared to mitigate its influence. A positive influence of the dietary supplement was noticed on antioxidant capacity and polyphenol concentrations determined in breast and thigh samples under allicin supplement influence. The results of the current study revealed that the use of low oxidized oil in broilers diets did not affect productive performance. The nutritional quality of meat (breast and thigh) was negatively influenced by the presence of oxidized oil, but allicin supplements (extract or garlic leaves) improved lipid quality indices and antioxidant potential.

Valorizing sardine scales: a circular approach to sustainable collagen for cosmetics and nutrition applications

Background and ObjectiveIn recent years, the consumption of fish products has led to a worrying trend where approximately two-thirds of the total amount of fish is discarded as waste. At the same time, scientific interest in exploring natural collagen sources for cosmetics and dietary supplements has increased. This study explores the potential of valorizing sardine scales (Sardina pilchardus), a by-product of the canning industry, through the extraction of collagen for potential use in dermocosmetic formulations and food supplements.MethodsCollagen from sardine scales was obtained though acid and enzymatic extraction. The collagen extracts were characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The collagen was hydrolysed with papain to small peptides. Subsequently, the biological activities of acid-soluble collagen as well as the collagen peptides in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activity were evaluated. Furthermore, the capacity of collagen peptides to permeate the intestinal barrier, simulated with caco-2 cells, was evaluated.ResultsPurified collagen extracts were obtained from sardine scales, with enzymatic extraction method having a yield three times higher than the acid method. The SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the extraction of type I collagen as well as its hydrolysis into small fragments (25–12 kDa). In terms of biological activities, collagen and collagen peptides have not demonstrated antimicrobial activity. However, regarding antioxidant activity, collagen peptides showed three times more capacity compared to non-hydrolyzed collagen. Meanwhile, in 6 h, about 6.37% of collagen peptides could permeate the intestinal barrier.ConclusionThis work represents a continuous effort to advance our understanding and utilization of Portuguese marine waste resources, with focus on the valorization of sardine co-products for the development of food supplement or cosmetic formulations, contributing to the sustainable evolution of the circular blue economy.

Effect of Partial or Complete Replacement of Dietary Inorganic Trace Minerals Supplement with an Advanced Chelated Source on Nutrient Digestibility in Sheep

The delicate balance of trace mineral supplementation is critical for optimizing rumen function and overall ruminant health. This study evaluated the solubility of an advanced chelate technology-based supplement and assessed its impact on rumen degradability and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) when replacing inorganic sources. The solubility of the advanced trace minerals supplement (ACTM) was assessed at pH 5 and pH 2. In situ ruminal degradability of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and fiber fractions was evaluated using two fistulated rams fed diets supplemented with either ACTM or inorganic trace minerals. ATTD was determined in 6 lambs fed diets supplemented with 100% ACTM, 50% ACTM, and 50% inorganic (50% ACTM), or 100% inorganic sources in a Latin square design. Results showed solubilities ranging from 6.75% to 11.81% at pH 5, increasing to 69.24% to 80.47% at pH 2. ACTM supplementation significantly enhanced the rumen degradability of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) at 6 h of incubation (p ≤ 0.05). The 100% ACTM treatment significantly decreased rumen pH (p = 0.051) and improved DM, OM, NDF, and ADF digestibility, as well as trace mineral absorbability compared to 100% inorganic (p ≤ 0.05). These findings highlight the potential of ACTM supplementation to enhance ruminal degradability, promote better trace mineral absorption, and improve the ATTD of nutrients compared to inorganic sources.

Rheological Characteristics of Concrete Mixtures Modified with Urease Additives

Statement of the problem. Rheological characteristics of concrete samples made with the use of various bioadditives are studied. Results. The results of experimental studies of the rheological properties of concrete, taking into account the effect of dietary supplements based on the following strains of bacteria B.subtilis, Ps.aeruginosa, with urease activity, are presented. Conclusions. The values of the cone sediment of concrete mixtures made using various grades of Portland cement were obtained, the values of conditional viscosity were also established, and the limiting shear stress and compressive strength of the obtained concrete cube samples made using urease bioadditives were determined. It was found that the use of dietary supplements leads to a decrease in the conditional viscosity of the mixture by 2 times, as well as to an increase in compressive strength by at least 15 %. Thus, it has been established that bioadditives improve the quality of the bond between the components of concrete, making it more durable and resistant to loads, as well as its rheological characteristics.

Comparing fermented food and vitamin E on exercise-mediated Nrf2/ARE activation in middle-aged/ elderly: A randomized, double-blind clinical study

Objective: This study investigated the effects of fermented papaya preparation (FPP®) and vitamin E on gene expression in middle-aged/elderly individuals, leveraging FPP’s established antioxidant and immune-regulatory benefits. Methods: Graded Exercise Walking Test was administered twice weekly for 6 months. Total Antioxidant capacity (TAC) and gene expression (Nrf2, NQO1, HO-1) in PBMC were measured monthly. Results: Throughout the 6-month study, routine biochemistry and BMI remained stable. Both treatments significantly improved Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), Vitamin E exhibiting earlier effects (3 months). Notably, FPP® supplementation led to sustained over-expression of nuclear Nrf2 in all subjects, surpassing Vitamin E’s effects. NQO1 gene expression was rapidly and consistently upregulated in the FPP group, exceeding baseline and Vitamin E levels throughout the study. HO-1 gene expression was upregulated by FPP at 1 month in younger age quartiles (Q1-2) and at 3 and 6 months in all subjects, regardless of age and gender. In contrast Vitamin E did not significantly impact Nrf2, NQO1, or HO-1 gene expression. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that FPP, unlike Vitamin E, potentiates Nrf2 signaling, triggering a downstream epigenetic cascade. Notably, our clinical data reveal that physical exercise combined with functional food supplementation partially restores impaired Nrf2 signaling in elderly individuals.

Industrial Production of Functional Foods for Human Health and Sustainability

Functional foods significantly affect social stability, human health, and food security. Plants and microorganisms are high-quality chassis for the bioactive ingredients in functional foods. Characterised by precise nutrition and the provision of both nutritive and medicinal value, functional foods serve a as key extension of functional agriculture and offer assurance of food availability for future space exploration efforts. This review summarises the main bioactive ingredients in functional foods and their functions, describes the strategies used for the nutritional fortification and industrial production of functional foods, and provides insights into the challenges and future developments in the applications of plants and microorganisms in functional foods. Our review aims to provide a theoretical basis for the development of functional foods, ensure the successful production of new products, and support the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, including no poverty, zero hunger, and good health and well-being.

Forced stability studies and estimation of encapsulated ellagic acid in nano-formulations using UV-spectroscopy

Abstract There is a growing interest in dietary materials to explore their therapeutic activities. Ellagic acid is considered as a dietary supplement and is naturally present in fruits and other foods. It has anticancer, antimalarial, antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. These activities can be enhanced with nanoformulations, which can increase its oral bioavailability. However, there is a need for an economical, simple, sensitive, and robust analytical method for the estimation of entrapped ellagic acid in the nanoformulations. Therefore, the present study presents the development and validation of a UV–visible spectroscopy method for the estimation of EA in nanoformulations. The phosphate buffer (pH 7.2) and the detection wavelength of 253.5 nm were used for the method development, and its validation was performed according to the ICH Q2A (R1) guidelines. The coefficient of determination value of the developed method was found to be 0.9988 in the concentration range of 1 μg mL−1 to 6 μg mL−1. The method was found to be linear, precise, sensitive, and robust. This method can be used for the estimation of EA in nanoformulations, bulk dosage forms, and other pharmaceutical formulations.

The Perceptions of Overweight and Obese Individuals Regarding Weight-Loss Dietary Supplement Advertisements: A Pilot Cross-Sectional Survey

Introduction: The negative health consequences of overweight and obesity underscore the importance of weight loss in mitigating these issues. Weight-loss dietary supplements (DS) are highly sought-after by overweight or obese individuals, with widespread advertisements promoting their use. This study aimed to investigate the perceptions of overweight and obese individuals regarding weight-loss DS advertisements. Methods: Over a six-week period from 5th April to 17th May 2023, an online pilot cross-sectional study was conducted targeting overweight and obese individuals in Malaysia. The study utilized a convenience sampling method to recruit participants. Results: Of the 146 participants, most were female (82.9%), 53.4% were overweight, and 46.6% were obese. Most respondents believed that weight-loss DS advertisements often contained exaggerated, unverified, and misleading information. Nearly 90% acknowledged that exaggerated advertisement claims might influence consumers, and about 85% believed that people are influenced to buy frequently advertised weight-loss DS. Despite these perceptions, about 40% reported purchasing a weight-loss DS after seeing such a product in an advertisement, while less than 50% of those who purchased weight-loss DS sought information from healthcare professionals. Conclusion: The study found that almost 40% of the respondents had purchased a weight-loss DS after seeing such products being advertised. Individuals with higher income, married people, and older respondents appeared more likely to purchase a weight-loss DS. These findings underscore the necessity for stricter regulatory frameworks and comprehensive consumer education initiatives to protect consumers from misleading information and unethical marketing tactics within the weight-loss DS industry. Implementing targeted public health interventions could further safeguard consumers from the risks associated with exaggerated product claims.

Smoked Fish Salam: Development and Sensory Analysis

Objective: The aim of this study is to develop smoked salamis (cold and hot) from mechanically separated meat (MSM) of tilapia, and to evaluate their acceptance through sensory analysis. Theoretical Framework: With the increase in fish production, large quantities of fish by-products are also generated, such as carcasses, heads, fillets, among others with high nutritional value that can be used in human and animal nutrition. Method: The methodology adopted for this research includes a control formulation subjected to smoking (cold and hot), and two others with the inclusion of 10 and 20% of CMS in natura, totaling four treatments. In the dehydration process, the salamis were weighed and subjected to pre-drying in a forced ventilation oven for three hours at 55ºC. Then, they were placed in a stainless steel smoker that produced smoke by burning sawdust (4h/55ºC). The cold smoking process was carried out using 20% of liquid smoke/volume of water, where the salamis were immersed for 15 minutes, drained and taken to the oven (4h/55ºC). At the end of the process, the weight loss of the sausages was calculated and sensory analyses were performed, where 50 untrained judges evaluated the products in terms of acceptance and purchase intention. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that total losses ranged from 16.71 to 32.79%. The type of smoking influenced the acceptance of the salamis (p<0.05), where color and aroma were the parameters that presented the highest values for hot-smoked salamis, as observed for purchase intention. Research Implications: Fish salamis enriched with fish protein sources are an excellent alternative for human nutrition, as they represent an excellent nutritional source for people who are concerned about healthy foods. There are several studies using animal protein sources such as fish to prepare healthy and easy-to-prepare foods, since due to people's fast-paced routines today, they need quick and healthy foods. Originality/value: this study contributes to the literature by highlighting the supplementation of food with processed fish by-products and enhanced in the form of fish sausages.

Therapeutic potential and agricultural benefits of curcumin: a comprehensive review of health and sustainability applications

AbstractTurmeric (Curcuma longa L.), the plant from which curcumin is derived, is renowned for its wide range of therapeutic and agricultural benefits. Curcumin, the key bioactive compound, is highly valued for its potent anti-provocative, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, which contribute to its effectiveness in treating various human diseases and improving plant resilience to environmental stresses. The therapeutics potential of curcumin is notable owing its abilities to combat microbes act as an oxidant and reduce inflammation. Its effectiveness in treating a range of human disease such as tumor, cardiac problems, and brain degenerative ailments stems from its ability to modulate various cellular process and signaling pathways. Despite its low bioavailability, innovations in delivery system such as nanoparticles and liposomal formulations, have enhanced its therapeutic efficacy by improving solubility and systemic absorption. In agriculture, curcumin's antimicrobial properties provide a natural alternative to chemical pesticides, offering protection against pathogens and enhancing plant resilience to specific environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, and oxidative stress. Nanotechnology applications have furthered these benefits by facilitating the efficient uptake and distribution of curcumin within plant tissues, promoting growth and stress tolerance. This review also highlights curcumin's nutritional benefits, including its impact on gut health and metabolic syndrome. Synergistic interactions with dietary nutrients can amplify its health benefits, making it a valuable dietary supplement. However, ongoing research is needed to fully understand curcumin's mechanisms of action and long-term safety. Overall, curcumin holds promise as a versatile agent in both medical and agricultural fields, supporting sustainable practices and advancing health outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing curcumin formulations and translating preclinical findings into clinical successes. Graphical abstract

Precise regulating the specific oxygen consumption rate to strengthen the CoQ10 biosynthesis by Rhodobater sphaeroides

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is the most consumed dietary supplement and mainly biosynthesized by aerobic fermentation of Rhodobacter sphaeroides (R. sphaeroides). Oxygen supply was identified as a bottleneck for improving CoQ10 yield in R. sphaeroides. In this study, a precise regulation strategy based on dielectric spectroscopy (DS) was applied to further improve CoQ10 biosynthesis by R. sphaeroide. First, a quantitative response model among viable cells, cell morphology, and oxygen uptake rate (OUR) was established. DS could be used to detect viable R. sphaeroides cells, and the relationship among cell morphology, CoQ10 biosynthesis, and OUR was found to be significant. Based on this model, the online specific oxygen consumption rate (QO2) control strategy was successfully applied to the CoQ10 fermentation process. QO2 controlled at 0.07 ± 0.01 × 10− 7mmol/cell/h was most favorable for CoQ10 biosynthesis, resulting in a 28.3% increase in CoQ10 production. Based on the multi-parameters analysis and online QO2 control, a precise online nutrient feeding strategy was established using conductivity detected by DS. CoQ10 production was improved by 35%, reaching 3384 mg/L in 50 L bioreactors. This online control strategy would be effectively applied for improving industrial CoQ10 production, and the precise fermentation control strategy could also be applied to other fermentation process.

Maternal EGCG intervention mitigates chronic hypertension during pregnancy in spontaneously hypertensive rats without adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes

Background: Chronic hypertension during pregnancy is a significant concern, associated with increased risks of maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound known for its cardioprotective properties, has gained attention as a potential health supplement due to its favorable safety profile. Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of maternal EGCG supplementation on elevated blood pressure and pregnancy outcomes in a rodent model of chronic hypertension, specifically using spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Furthermore, the study explores the influence of maternal EGCG supplementation on the blood pressure of SHR offspring during early postnatal development. Methods: SHR dams received oral EGCG at 30 mg/kg body weight. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) monitored weekly throughout gestation period and until postpartum day 21. Pregnancy outcomes - litter size, pup viability, and birth weights - were recorded. SBP in weaned SHR offspring was monitored from 5 to 13 weeks of age to assess long-term effects of maternal EGCG treatment. Daily cage-side observations evaluated general health, behavior, and signs of toxicity. Plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), urea, and creatinine were analyzed to evaluate liver and kidney function. Results: EGCG treatment in SHR dams progressively reduced maternal SBP throughout gestation and the postpartum period. However, EGCG administration did not affect pregnancy outcomes (gestation duration, litter size, and birth weights). Markers of liver and kidney function (ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine) showed no signs of organ injury in EGCG-treated groups. Contrary to expectations, SBP in SHR offspring exposed to perinatal EGCG did not decrease compared to control groups, indicating maternal EGCG did not alter the offspring's hypertension predisposition. Conclusion: Maternal EGCG supplementation effectively lowered blood pressure in hypertensive dams without compromising pregnancy outcomes or causing liver and kidney damage. These findings suggest that EGCG may be a safe cardioprotective supplement during pregnancy. However, perinatal EGCG exposure did not alter the inherent genetic predisposition to hypertension in SHR offspring. Keywords: Theaceae; Camellia sinensis; green tea; catechins, EGCG; hypertension, pregnancy outcomes, perinatal, spontaneously hypertensive rats, chronic hypertension during pregnancy

An assessment of the content of antenatal care provided by obstetricians in Lebanon: A cross-sectional study.

Quality and timely antenatal care is a vital component of pregnancy care for the well-being of mothers and babies. The aim of this study of to assess self-reported obstetricians' adherence to national and international antenatal care guidelines in Lebanon. This cross-sectional study approached all obstetricians registered with the Lebanese Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Lebanese Order of Physicians to participate in an online and telephone-based survey. The study tool included all of the items from the World Health Organization and national guidelines for antenatal care. Obstetricians' self-reported adherence was assessed across five modules including dietary interventions, dietary supplements, antenatal care assessment, fetal growth assessment, and antenatal care preventive measures. A total of 134 obstetricians completed the survey. Overall, adherence was high for most antenatal care guidelines except for providing nutrition services to undernourished pregnant women, screening for intimate partner violence, and providing tetanus vaccines. The number of recommended antenatal care visits (≥8 vs. <8 visits) was higher among obstetricians in Mount Lebanon or Beirut compared to other areas in Lebanon (72.7%vs.48.6%; p-value <0.01). Provision of tetanus or diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP) vaccination was lower for obstetricians who provide care for women who pay out-of-pocket compared to obstetricians who provide care to women who use other payment methods (25.3%vs.45.7%; p-value = 0.024). Group B streptococcus screening test and the provision of at least five ultrasounds were higher among obstetricians who provide care in private clinics or clinics in private hospitals compared to clinics in public hospitals or primary healthcare centers (88.8%vs.66.7%; p-value = 0.023) and (83.6%vs.55.6%; p-value = 0.011), respectively. Reinforcing the adherence to all antenatal care guidelines by continuous monitoring of health facilities is crucial for best practice. Subsidies for essential services may be required for those who are unable to afford components of antenatal care.

Phenolics in soymilk manufactured from black and Proto soybeans by two continuous-ultrahigh-temperature-processing technologies inhibit DU145-prostate cancer cell proliferation through apoptosis.

Plant genotypes and processing technologies affect health properties of foods. How thermal processes with different sterilization values influence polyphenols in soymilk manufactured from different genotypes, particularly black soybean has not been well characterized. This study's aims were to investigate how one- and two-phase ultrahigh temperature (UHT) processing technologies, with wide differences of lethality (F0 158.5 and 6.35, respectively), affected anti-prostate cancer DU145-cell properties of black soymilk compared to light-yellow-Proto soymilk. Phenolics were extracted from soymilk and used for chemical, cell cycle and apoptosis analyses. Total isoflavones and genistein in black soymilk were significantly higher than Proto soymilk by either processing methods. Compared to one-phase processing, two-phase produced higher gallic acid in both soybeans, and higher oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) in black soymilk. Soymilk processed from both genotypes by both UHT methods inhibited DU145 cells. Two-phase-UHT processed black soymilk was more effective than one-phase UHT-processed soymilk. IC50 values (mg/mL) of black and yellow soy extracts against prostate cancer cells differed only by 11%-25%, which were lower than the differences of total isoflavone (29%-33%) or genistein (>50% between two beans). The mechanism by which soymilk inhibited DU145 cell proliferation was through apoptosis as evidenced by cell cycle analyses and expressions of caspase-3, Bcl-2, and PARP-1 proteins. Antioxidant properties, isoflavones, and phenolic acids were negatively correlated with prostate-cancer-cell inhibition IC50 (p<0.05) with ORAC having the highest coefficient (r=-0.98). Overall, two-phase-UHT processing of soybean would produce soymilk products with a higher health benefit than a one-phase UHT method. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study characterized the potential prostate cancer prevention effect of soymilk's phenolic extract in black soybean and compared with yellow soybean. The crude extract can be prepared much less costly than purified isoflavones and has potential to be developed into a dietary supplement. This study shows differences of soymilks made by continuous high-temperature processing of two soybean types and can serve as a scientific foundation for future clinical research and commercialization.

Probiotic-rich fermented milk from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IIA-1A5: Effects on pregnancy health in the animal model

Previous studies of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IIA-1A5 have shown its potential as a probiotic in modulating gut microbiota and providing health benefits; however, its effects during pregnancy remain underexplored. The aim of this study was to assess the safety of fermented milk enriched with L. plantarum IIA-IA5 in pregnant mice. An experimental study was conducted at Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia. Two groups of pregnant mice (Mus musculus L.) were used, each with six mice. The control group received sterilized milk (10 mL/kg body weight (BW)), while the intervention group was given fermented milk containing L. plantarum IIA-1A5 (107 colony forming unit (CFU)/mL). The evaluated outcomes included maternal weight changes, fetal counts and measurements, and assessments of fetal morphology and skeletal development. Results indicated that the morphology of fetuses showed no significant differences between the control and intervention groups; both groups demonstrated normal development with no detected resorption sites, growth retardation, or hemorrhage. For skeletal development, both groups had the same bone counts, including frontal, parietal, intraparietal, exoccipital, supraoccipital, nasal, pre-maxilla, mandibular, thoracal, lumbar, sternum, and extremities. This study highlights that L. plantarum IIA-1A5-enriched fermented milk was safe, as no significant morphological or bone developmental abnormalities were observed, indicating its potential as a dietary supplement to support pregnancy health. However, further studies involving larger sample sizes may be needed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of its outcomes and safety.

Double-Edge Effects of Leucine on Cancer Cells

Leucine is an essential amino acid that cannot be produced endogenously in the human body and therefore needs to be obtained from dietary sources. Leucine plays a pivotal role in stimulating muscle protein synthesis, along with isoleucine and valine, as the group of branched-chain amino acids, making them one of the most popular dietary supplements for athletes and gym-goers. The individual effects of leucine, however, have not been fully clarified, as most of the studies so far have focused on the grouped effects of branched-chain amino acids. In recent years, leucine and its metabolites have been shown to stimulate muscle protein synthesis mainly via the mammalian target of the rapamycin complex 1 signaling pathway, thereby improving muscle atrophy in cancer cachexia. Interestingly, cancer research suggests that leucine may have either anti-cancer or pro-tumorigenic effects. In the current manuscript, we aim to review leucine’s roles in muscle protein synthesis, tumor suppression, and tumor progression, specifically summarizing the molecular mechanisms of leucine’s action. The role of leucine is controversial in hepatocellular carcinoma, whereas its pro-tumorigenic effects have been demonstrated in breast and pancreatic cancers. In summary, leucine being used as nutritional supplement for athletes needs more attention, as its pro-oncogenic effects may have been identified by recent studies. Anti-cancer or pro-tumorigenic effects of leucine in various cancers should be further investigated to achieve clear conclusions.

The opinion of pharmacists about the pharmaceutical category of herbal medicines. Survey of pharmacy retail employees

Abstract. The category of herbal medicines is represented in the domestic pharmaceutical market in the form of two main groups of pharmacy product assortment – herbal medicinal preparations (HMP) and dietary supplements (DS). They often have similarities in terms of composition, dosage form, and scope of application. Hence, attitude of professional specialists that influence consumer demand and choice, to these groups of pharmacy products is important to be considered. Aim. The purpose of the study is to assess the level of knowledge, prevailing ideas, differences in the perception of HMP and DS among pharmacists working in pharmacy retail. Materials and methods. The survey of pharmacists was conducted using a specially designed questionnaire using the Google forms electronic resource. 162 specialists with at least 1 year of experience in the pharmacy sector participated in the study. The study was conducted on the basis of the “Evalar Pharmacy” pharmacy network, specializing in the sale of herbal medicines. Results. The majority of the surveyed specialists noted urological (54.0%) and neurological diseases (52.1%) as therapeutic areas where herbal medicines have real clinical value. The leading role of retail pharmacists in the choice of products by consumers was noted by 40.1% of respondents. The possibility of replacing HMP with DS in 38.0% of cases is completely denied by them, in 50.0% and 12,0% it is allowed if desired by the patient himself or in any case respectively. 59.3% of specialists point out the difference in the regulatory status of HMP and DS to consumers in their practice. In the majority of cases, they need reliable information about clinical trials on efficacy (73.6%), as well as the quality and safety of products (52.1%). Conclusions. The results of the survey show that pharmaceutical specialists are well aware of the scope, advantages and disadvantages of the phytopreparation category, see differences in HMP and DS, but in their professional activities they are more guided by the opinion of consumers.

Fermented Gold Kiwi Improves Gastrointestinal Motility and Functional Constipation: An Animal Study and Human Randomized Clinical Test

Constipation is a functional disorder of the gastrointestinal system characterized by difficult bowel movements, infrequent defecation, reduced water content, and hard stools. This study aims to evaluate the preventive effects of fermented gold kiwis (FGK) on loperamide-induced constipation in rats and investigate its efficacy in improving constipation symptoms in human patients through a randomized clinical trial. In the animal study, FGK was administered orally at doses of 50, 125, and 250 mg/kg to constipated rats for two weeks, resulting in significant improvements in constipation parameters. FGK increased serum serotonin and acetylcholine levels and suppressed increases in serum dopamine concentration. FGK also upregulated mRNA expression of the serotonin-synthesizing receptors 5-HT3R and 5-HT4R and suppressed the expression of the dopamine 2-receptor (D2R) in the duodenum. Furthermore, FGK inhibited inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6. In the clinical trials, the improvement in constipation symptoms was evaluated using the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS). Clinical trial participants reported significant improvements in constipation symptoms after receiving FGK. These findings suggest that FGK effectively relieves constipation in both animals and humans, indicating its potential as an effective dietary supplement.

Prevention of iron deficiency conditions in obese children

Background. Due to the progressive increase in childhood obesity, the effect of iron levels in the body on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism disorders and the relationship between these conditions are actively studied. It is proven that obesity in children is often associated with dysregulation of iron metabolism. The correlation between the body mass index and iron deficiency (ID) in children and adolescents was reported. Therefore, implementing preventive measures to correct the iron deficiency state (IDS), including the enrichment of the diet with foods containing easily digestible iron, is relevant and can be considered as one of the principles of an integrated approach to the treatment of obesity in childhood. Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements "Kidz Tasty iron" for IDS prevention in obese children. Materials and methods. Thirty children aged 7–14 with exogenous constitutional obesity were followed up, 14 (47%) females and 16 (53%) males. All patients received a dietary supplement (DS), "Kidz Tasty iron," 10 mL once daily with meals according to the label for 1 month. The follow-up included data on signs and symptoms, medical history, evaluation of anthropometric data, evaluation of current nutrition status with the software "Optimal Nutrition 5.0", bioimpedance analysis of body composition, questionnaire on the assessment of ID symptoms and quality of life, general hematology and blood chemistry tests, validated for childhood. Results. The diets of obese children in the study had low iron content (33.3% of patients), which justifies the need for additional iron supplementation. While taking the dietary supplement "Kidz Tasty Iron," there was a positive clinical trend: decreased symptoms related to ID and clinical signs of ID, improved overall well-being, and increased quality of life. The improvement of the body composition of the studied children was represented by preservation and an increase (20% of patients) in the active cell mass in the studied children. Laboratory tests of iron metabolism improved in 9 children (30%). Most children reported the good organoleptic properties of the product. Adherence to the DS was 96.7%. Conclusion. The study results show the "Kidz Tasty iron" dietary supplement to be tolerable, safe, and effective, supporting its use in the complex therapy of children and adolescents with obesity, including for IDS prevention.