Improved Blood Lipid Profile Research Articles

Effect of PCSK9 inhibitors on major cardiac adverse events and lipoprotein-a in patients with coronary heart disease: a meta-analysis.

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease due to its unique apo(a) component and its association with atherosclerosis and thrombogenesis. This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of PCSK9 inhibitors on major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and Lp(a) levels in patients with coronary heart disease. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were systematically searched in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and other databases. Stata 15.1 software was used for data analysis, and a random- or fixed-effects model was selected based on inter-study heterogeneity. Egger's test was applied to detect publication bias. A total of 12 RCTs were included, involving 48 116 patients with a mean age of 62 years, comprising 65% males and diverse ethnic backgrounds. The results showed that compared with the control group, PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (WMD = -1.24 mmol/L, 95% confidence interval (CI): -1.28 to -1.20), total cholesterol, triglycerides, and Lp(a) levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. In terms of safety, there was no increased risk of adverse reactions other than injection site reactions. For MACE, PCSK9 inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary revascularization events (RR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.84-0.89). PCSK9 inhibitors not only significantly improve blood lipid profiles and reduce Lp(a) levels but also reduce the risk of MACE in patients with coronary heart disease. Therefore, PCSK9 inhibitors offer an effective and safe treatment option for these patients.

Comparative effectiveness of five Chinese patent medicines for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

BackgroundNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolically stressed liver injury closely related to insulin resistance and genetic susceptibility and has become the leading chronic liver disease in China. PurposeTo analyze the effectiveness of five Chinese patent medicines used alone or in combination with western medications (WM) for NAFLD using Bayesian network meta-analysis. MethodsSearches were conducted in Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang Database, VIP, and SinoMed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on Danning tablets, Huazhi Rougan granules, Dangfei Liganning capsules, Kezhi capsules, and Qianggan capsules, either alone or in combination with WM for NAFLD, up to January 10, 2024. This study was screened based on pre-designed inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane ROB2 tool. The primary outcome was clinical efficacy rate, while secondary outcomes included levels of Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Triglycerides (TG), and Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). These data will be analyzed using WinBUGS 1.4.3 and then visualized using Stata 14.0 software. ResultsA total of 77 RCTs involving 7770 patients were included. The results indicated that Huazhi Rougan granules combined with WM (OR = 0.13, 95 % CI 0.05 ∼ 0.26) had a SUCRA probability value of 81.7 %, ranked first in clinical efficacy and significantly improved blood lipids levels including TG, High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), and LDL-C, Total cholesterol (TC). For the Chinese patent medicines alone, Danning tablets led with a 75.3 % clinical efficacy rate. Huazhi Rougan granules significantly increased levels of ALT (96.2 %) and AST (MD = -14.48, 95 % CI -23.38 ∼ -5.32). Dangfei Liganning capsules demonstrated significant efficacy in improving TG (73.1 %) and TC (83 %) levels. ConclusionIn the treatment of NAFLD, the combination of Huazhi Rougan granules and WM demonstrated significant clinical effectiveness and improvement in blood lipid profiles. For different outcome indicators, Danning tablets used alone showed the highest clinical efficacy, while significant improvement in liver function indicators was best achieved with Huazhi Rugan granules used alone.

Exploring the Effects of Whole Food-Based Dragon Fruit on Metabolic Disorders in High-Fat Diet-Induced Mice.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) significantly contributes to premature mortality, with obesity being a major risk factor. Dragon fruit, cultivated globally, exhibits bioactivity in preventing obesity-related diseases. Traditional studies using organic solvents for extraction do not align with actual consumption patterns. This study evaluates whole red dragon fruit's effectiveness in ameliorating metabolic disorders using a high-fat diet-induced obesity model in mice for 20 weeks. The experimental groups include the supernatant (RS), precipitate (RP), and pomace (PO) of red dragon fruit juice, compared to the supernatant of white dragon fruit juice (WS). The study finds that dragon fruit extracts reduced adipose tissue weight, body fat percentage, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improved blood lipid profiles. RP is the most effective, reducing body weight by 4.33g, improving lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis, and altering gut microbiota to enhance beneficial bacteria and short-chain fatty acids. RP's efficacy in preventing MetS and obesity is attributed to its bioactive components. These findings advocate for using whole fruits in developing functional products, amplifying the agricultural economic value of red dragon fruit.

Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Intestinal Microbiota and Fatty Acid Binding Protein 4 in Overweight and Obese Individuals.

Intermittent fasting is a nutritional strategy that focuses on when to eat, rather than what to eat. Although the effectiveness of intermittent fasting practices in many metabolic diseases is known, its effect on microbiota and its underlying mechanism has not yet been clarified. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Ramadan fasting, one of the intermittent fasting practices, on gut microbiota and fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4). The study involved 10 male volunteers, 6 of whom were overweight and 4 were obese. They fasted for an average of 14-15 hours daily from dawn to sunset during the 29-day Ramadan month between 23 March - 20 April 2023 and met the inclusion criteria. The participants' nutritional and physical activity status before and during Ramadan, as well as their anthropometric measurements before and after Ramadan, intestinal microbiota, transaminases, gamma-glutamyl transferase, C reactive protein, total cholesterol (C), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) C, low-density lipoprotein C, triglycerides (TG), and FABP4 levels, were evaluated within the scope of the study. The study found a statistically significant increase in both alpha and beta diversity in the intestinal microbiota following Ramadan fasting (p<0.05). The F/B ratio, Firmicutes phylum, Clostridia class, Clostridiales order, and Ruminococcaceae family exhibited statistically significant decreases, while the Bacteroidetes and Proteobacteria phyla, Bacteroidia, Alphaproteobacteria, and Erysipelotrichi classes, Bacteroidales, Erysipelotrichales, and Actinomycetales orders, Erysipelotrichaceae family and Prevotella genus, demonstrated statistically significant increases (p<0.05). Participants who achieved an average weight loss of 2.3±0.99 kg at the end of Ramadan showed a significant increase in HDL-C and a significant decrease in TG levels (p<0.05). Although FABP4 levels decreased after fasting, this difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Ramadan fasting induces weight loss, modifies gut microbiota, and improves blood lipid profile and FABP4 levels, suggesting the need for more extensive studies.

Effects of insect consumption on exercise performance, body composition and metabolism: a review

Abstract Insects contain a number of beneficial macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds that play crucial roles for optimal bodily functions and exercise. This review aims to consolidate information from studies involving humans and animals that investigated the effect of insect consumption, either alone or in combination with exercise, on exercise performance, body composition, and metabolism. In humans, insect supplementation with exercise could improve strength. Insect supplementation, with or without exercise, could also improve body composition. However, the lack of dietary and physical activity control may have influenced these findings. Insect consumption alone caused increased blood amino acids, followed by activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex-1 (mTORC1) signalling and increased muscle protein synthesis, which is further elevated when combined with resistance exercise. In animals, insect consumption alone could improve endurance and fatigue biomarkers. It could also reduce fat mass and increase muscle mass. The reduction in fat mass was attributed to improvements in blood lipid profiles, while the increase in muscle mass is attributed to elevated blood amino acids and mTORC1. Interestingly, in combination with exercise, greater changes in these variables were observed, including increases in energy metabolism. Findings from animal studies, such as changes in muscle mass and protein metabolism, have been validated in humans, while outcomes regarding endurance, fat mass, and blood lipids have not been validated in humans. This encourages future research to focus on these parameters. Due to ethical constraints and impracticality, there has been a reliance on animal studies to elucidate certain mechanisms and parameters in humans. Overall, insect consumption, with or without exercise, in both humans and animals showed promising results in improving exercise performance, body composition, and metabolism and thus, could function as an alternative exercise supplement. Additionally, utilizing animal models has allowed researchers to better understand the key mechanisms behind these improvements.

Potential antidiabetic activity of probiotic and Garcinia kola-yoghurt and its role in regulation of male fertility-stimulating hormones in high-fat diet/low dose streptozotocin-treated rats

Garcinia kola Heckel seed is widely used in the African traditional medicine as a aphrodisiac and male fertility enhancer. Probiotics can reestablish glucose homeostasis and improve blood lipid profiles by altering the composition of the intestinal flora. The study was planned to assess the efficacy of co-administration of Garcinia kola seed aqueous infusion and probiotic yoghurt in the management of diabetes and associated male fertility-stimulating hormones abnormalities. G. kola seed infusion was prepared, assessed for radical scavenging capacity, total phenolic content and phenolic profile using HPLC. Fermented yoghurt was prepared and inoculated with probiotic mixture. Rats were given a high-fat diet for four weeks and received an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg) to induce type 2 diabetes. Diabetic rats were received 200 mg/kg freeze-dried infusion of G. kola seed, probiotics yoghurt, and probiotic yoghurt mixed with G. kola once a day for four weeks. The levels of glucose, insulin, testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, inflammatory indicators, oxidative markers, lipid profiles and liver as well as kidney biochemical indicators were measured. The administration of G. kola seed, probiotic yoghurt, or their combination to diabetic rats demonstrated potential anti-diabetic effects as evidenced by the down-regulation in glucose, insulin, lipid profile, oxidative markers, and inflammatory markers simultaneously with an up-regulation in testosterone, FSH, and LH levels compared to diabetic rats. G. kola seed, probiotic yoghurt, or their combination increased testosterone, FSH, and LH levels and are thought to have therapeutic promise for T2DM and its related oxidative stress.Graphical

Effects of the combination of red yeast rice-containing commercial Chinese polyherbal preparation with statins for dyslipidemia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Significant challenges are associated with the pharmacological management of dyslipidemia, an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Limited reliable evidence exists regarding the efficacy of red yeast rice (RYR)-containing commercial Chinese polyherbal preparation (CCPP), despite their widespread use in China. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of RYR-containing CCPPs combined with statins in treating dyslipidemia. Eight databases were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from database inception date to November 2023. Outcome measures, including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), clinical efficacy, and adverse reactions, were assessed. The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions was used for quality evaluation, and the meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 and Stata 15.1. Thirty-three studies involving 4,098 participants were included. The combination of RYR-containing CCPP, such as Xuezhikang (XZK), Zhibitai (ZBTAI), or Zhibituo (ZBTUO) with statins had a significant effect on the increase in clinical efficacy [RR:1.16, 95%CI (1.13, 1.19), p < 0.00001]. In addition, they also improved blood lipid profile parameters by increasing HDL-C levels [MD:0.21, 95%CI(0.17, 0.25), p < 0.00001], and decreasing TC [MD: 0.60, 95%CI(-0.76, -0.45), p < 0.00001], TG [MD: 0.33, 95%CI(-0.39, -0.26), p < 0.00001] and LDL-C levels [MD: 0.45, 95%CI(-0.54, -0.36), p < 0.00001]. No significant adverse reactions was observed in the RYR-containing CCPPs. Notably, ZBTAI and XZK significantly reduced the incidence of gastrointestinal disturbances and muscular adverse reactions. However, subgroup analyses suggested that the type of CCPPs, dose, and treatment duration might affect the efficacy of RYR-containing CCPPs. RYR-containing CCPPs combined with statins appears to improve lipid profiles and clinical efficacy in patients with dyslipidemia. However, due to the poor quality of the included studies, and some studied showing negative findings was unpublished. The results should be interpreted with caution until further confirmation by well-designed RCTs. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=487402, identifier CRD42023487402.

The effects of aerobic and resistant exercises on the lipid profile in healthy women: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Exercise can have a wide range of health benefits, including improving blood lipid profiles. For women to achieve optimal cardiovascular health, it is vital to determine the effect of exercise on their health and whether different exercise intensities can affect their blood lipid profile. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to examine the effects of exercise on improving the lipid profile of healthy women. A database search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science from inception until July 2, 2021, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating exercise's effects on healthy women's blood lipid profiles. A total of 10 eligible articles (or 17 trials) with 576 participants were identified as eligible for the study. Overall, the meta-analysis shows that physical activity significantly improved total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) levels: TC [WMD = -5.77mg/dL, 95% CI: -10.41, -1.13, P < 0.01]; TG [WMD = -5.60mg/dL, 95% CI: -8.96, -2.23, P < 0.01]; HDL [WMD = 4.49mg/dL, 95% CI: 0.33, 8.65, P = 0.03]. Additionally, sub-group analyses indicated that combined exercise training improved TG and TC (p 0.05), and aerobic exercise significantly increased HDL. In this study, physical activity appears to be one of the most effective non-pharmacological means for improving HDL, TG, and TC in healthy women. In terms of TG and TC, CT was the most effective.

Home-based circuit training improves blood lipid profile, liver function, musculoskeletal fitness, and health-related quality of life in overweight/obese older adult patients with knee osteoarthritis and type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundThere is strong evidence showing the association between obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and knee pain resulting from osteoarthritis. Regular exercise has been reported as a foundational piece of the preventive therapy puzzle for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients. Nonetheless, evidence-based exercise protocols for people with comorbidities, such as obesity, T2DM, and KOA are limited. Therefore, the present trial aimed to assess the effectiveness of a 12-week home-based circuit training (HBCT) protocol on various indices related to cardiometabolic health, musculoskeletal fitness, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among overweight/obese older adult patients with KOA and T2DM during the COVID-19 lockdown.MethodsThis is a randomized controlled trial study registered at the National Medical Research Register (ID: RSCH ID-21-01180-KGTNMRR ID-21-02367-FUM) and obtained approval on December 9, 2021. Seventy overweight or obese patients with KOA and T2DM (62.2 ± 6.1 years; 56% female) were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n = 35, HBCT) or the no-exercise control group (n = 35, CON). HBCT performed a 12-week progressive protocol (seven exercises; 15–30 repetitions per exercise, 1 min passive rest between exercises; 2–4 rounds per session; 20–60 min total session duration). Blood samples were collected, and assays were performed to assess the lipid profile, liver function, and fasting blood glucose (FBG). In addition, the 30-s Chair Stand Test (30CST) was used to evaluate lower body muscular strength and endurance while the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test was used to evaluate lower limb function, mobility, and the risk of falls for all the participants. HRQoL was assessed using the Osteoarthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life (OAKHQoL). All the assessments were conducted at pre-, mid-, and post-training stages during the application or practice of the exercise protocol, rather than during the training sessions themselves.ResultsHBCT significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, FBG and knee pain (p < 0.05). Furthermore, HBCT induced meaningful increases in high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), lower body muscular strength, endurance, function, mobility, and HRQoL in overweight/obese older adults with T2DM and KOA (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe present outcomes recommend that an injury-free HBCT program may improve various indicators related to cardiometabolic health, musculoskeletal fitness, and HRQoL in elderly with overweight/obesity, T2DM and KOA. These findings offer valuable insights for clinicians and practitioners seeking evidence-based exercise interventions tailored for patients managing substantial metabolic and musculoskeletal health challenges in clinical practice.

Effectiveness of the Therapeutic Lifestyle Change Diet Intervention to Improve Biochemical Markers of Cardiovascular Diseases in HIV-Infected Patients with Dyslipidemia

Introduction: This randomized controlled trial study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of therapeutic lifestyle change (TLC) diet intervention by the registered dietitians. Methods: Eighty-two people living with HIV (PLHIV) with dyslipidemia were randomly allocated to the intervention group as well as another 82 PLHIV with dyslipidemia to the control group. Participants in the intervention group were instructed to meet the registered dietitians every 2 weeks at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, and 12 (a totally of 12 weeks) to receive individual medical nutrition therapy according to the TLC diet principles, while the participants in the control group only received routine health care service. Results: Triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol of the intervention group were significantly lower than those of the control group at the endpoint (p < 0.05). In addition, these biomarkers and C-reactive protein of the intervention group were significantly lower when compared with their baseline (p < 0.05). The overall dietary habits of participants in the intervention group were significantly improved at the end of the study (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The medical nutrition therapy intervention based on the TLC diet is effective in improving blood lipid profiles among PLHIV with dyslipidemia.

Sulforaphane Ameliorates High-Fat-Diet-Induced Metabolic Abnormalities in Young and Middle-Aged Obese Male Mice.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is still a fast-growing health problem globally. It is evident that chronic insulin resistance (IR) and progressive loss of β-cell mass and function are key features of T2D etiology. Obesity is a leading pathogenic factor for developing IR. The aim of the present study was to determine whether sulforaphane (SFN), a natural compound derived from cruciferous vegetables, can prevent (prevention approach) or treat (treatment approach) obesity and IR in mouse models. We show that dietary intake of SFN (0.5 g/kg of HFD) for 20 weeks suppressed high-fat diet (HFD)-induced fat accumulation by 6.04% and improved insulin sensitivity by 23.66% in young male mice. Similarly, dietary provision of SFN (0.25 g/kg) significantly improved blood lipid profile, glucose tolerance, and insulin sensitivity of the middle-aged male mice while it had little effects on body composition as compared with the HFD group. In the treatment study, oral administration of SFN (40 mg/kg) induced weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity and plasma lipid profile in the diet-induced-obesity (DIO) male mice. In all three studies, the metabolic effects of SFN administration were not associated with changes in food intake. In vitro, SFN increased glucose uptake in C2C12 myotubes and increased fatty acid and pyruvate oxidation in primary human skeletal muscle cells. Our results suggest that SFN may be a naturally occurring insulin-sensitizing agent that is capable of improving the metabolic processes in HFD-induced obesity and IR and thereby may be a promising compound for T2D prevention.

Physiological and psychological determinants of long-term diet-induced type 2 diabetes (T2DM) remission: A narrative review.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a highly prevalent metabolic disease, causing a heavy burden on healthcare systems worldwide, with related complications and anti-diabetes drug prescriptions. Recently, it was demonstrated that T2DM can be put into remission via significant weight loss using low-carbohydrate diets (LCDs) and very low-energy diets (VLEDs) in individuals with overweight and obesity. Clinical trials demonstrated remission rates of 25-77%, and metabolic improvements such as improved blood lipid profile and blood pressure were observed. In contrast, clinical trials showed that remission rate declines with time, concurrent with weight gain, or diminished weight loss. This review aims to discuss existing literature regarding underlying determinants of long-term remission of T2DM including metabolic adaptations to weight loss (e.g., role of gastrointestinal hormones), type of dietary intervention (i.e., LCDs or VLEDs), maintaining beta (β)-cell function, early glycemic control, and psychosocial factors. This narrative review is significant because determining the factors that are associated with challenges in maintaining long-term remission may help in designing sustainable interventions for type 2 diabetes remission.

Can daily consumption of enriched fatty acids diet be effective in improving metabolic syndrome? An attractive paradox for walnut kernel.

Imagine consuming a daily diet rich in fatty acids to help treat diseases such as hypertension and obesity. This concept presents an attractive paradox. In particular, consuming walnut kernels is beneficial for treating diseases associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia, and obesity. Different parts of the Juglans regia tree (family Juglandaceae), including its leaves, green husks, bark, and septum, have shown promising effects on pathological conditions related to MetS. The therapeutic advantages of consuming walnut kernels for MetS can be attributed to the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids and polyphenolic compounds such as juglone and ellagic acid. Diets enriched with walnut kernel have a positive impact on MetS complications by reducing diastolic blood pressure, improving blood lipid profiles, lowering fasting blood sugar levels, and increasing insulin sensitivity. The potential cellular mechanisms responsible for these benefits involve activating the cholesterol hemostasis pathway by inhibiting sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBPs), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), and cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP). Furthermore, other by-products of walnuts, such as leaves and green husks, have also demonstrated effectiveness in managing MetS. These findings highlight the potential of incorporating walnut-based products into our diets as a natural approach to combating MetS and its complications.

Prolonged Supplementation of Ozonated Sunflower Oil Bestows an Antiaging Effect, Improves Blood Lipid Profile and Spinal Deformities, and Protects Vital Organs of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) against Age-Related Degeneration: Two-Years Consumption Study.

Ozonated sunflower oil (OSO) is renowned for its diverse therapeutic benefits. Nonetheless, the consequences of extended dietary intake of OSO have yet to be thoroughly investigated. Herein, the effect of 2-year dietary supplementation of OSO was examined on the survivability, obesity, skeletal deformities, swimming behavior, and liver, kidney, ovary, and testis function of zebrafish. Results showed that the zebrafish feed supplemented with 20% (wt/wt) OSO for 2 years emerged with higher survivability and body weight management compared to sunflower oil (SO) and normal diet (ND)-supplemented zebrafish. Radio imaging (X-ray)-based analysis revealed 2.6° and 15.2° lower spinal curvature in the OSO-supplemented groups than in the SO and ND-supplemented groups; consistently, OSO-supplemented zebrafish showed better swimming behavior. The histology analysis of the liver revealed the least fatty liver change and interleukin (IL)-6 generation in the OSO-supplemented group. Additionally, a significantly lower level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptotic, and senescent cells were observed in the liver of the OSO-supplemented zebrafish. Also, no adverse effect on the kidney, testis, and ovary morphology was detected during 2 years of OSO consumption. Moreover, lower senescence with diminished ROS and apoptosis was noticed in the kidney and ovary in response to OSO consumption. The OSO supplementation was found to be effective in countering age-associated dyslipidemia by alleviating total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoproteins (LDL-C) and elevating high-density lipoproteins (HDL-C)/TC levels. Conclusively, prolonged OSO consumption showed no adverse effect on the morphology and functionality of vital organs; in fact, OSO supplementation displayed a protective effect against age-associated detrimental effects on spinal deformities, vital organ functionality, cell senescence, and the survivability of zebrafish.

Fat and fatty acids - a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023.

Two de novo NNR2022 systematic reviews (SRs) as well as 21 qualified SRs (qSRs) were available. A literature search yielded an additional ~70 SRs, meta-analyses and biomarker papers. Diets lower in total fat are associated with reductions in body weight and blood pressure compared with diets higher in total fat in adults. Partial replacement of saturated fatty acid (SFA) with n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) improves blood lipid profile, decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), improves glucose-insulin homeostasis and may decrease the risk of total mortality. Long-chain n-3 PUFAs (eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA] and docosahexaenoic acid [DHA]) decrease triglycerides and are associated with lower risk of CVD. Dietary PUFAs, both n-3 and n-6, may be associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). There is inconclusive evidence to suggest that the type of dietary fat is associated with blood pressure, risk of hypertension or musculoskeletal health. Higher intake of total PUFA is associated with lower mortality from any cancer. Long-chain n-3 PUFA is associated with reduced risk of breast cancer, whereas biomarker levels of n-6 PUFA are associated with lower risk of any cancer. Intake of long-chain n-3 PUFA during pregnancy increases length of gestation and child birth weight and reduces the risk of preterm delivery, but there is inconclusive evidence to suggest that it may influence child neurodevelopment, growth or development of allergic disease. In studies with higher versus lower dietary cholesterol intake levels, total blood cholesterol increased or were unaffected by the dietary cholesterol, resulting in inconclusive results. Trans fatty acid (TFA), regardless of source, impairs blood lipid profile compared to unsaturated fat. In observational studies, TFA is positively associated with CVD and total mortality but whether associations differ by source is inconclusive. Ruminant TFA, as well as biomarker levels of odd-chain fatty acids, might be associated with lower risk of T2D.

Short-Term Cocoa Supplementation Influences Microbiota Composition and Serum Markers of Lipid Metabolism in Elite Male Soccer Players.

Dietary strategies to improve arachidonic acid:eicosapentaenoic acid (AA:EPA) ratios are of interest due to potential reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress following exercise. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of a novel dietary intervention, that is, the ingestion of 30g of dark chocolate, on blood lipid profiles and gut microbiota composition in elite male soccer players. Professional male soccer players were randomly assigned to the experimental group (DC) provided with 30g of dark chocolate or to the control group (WC), provided with 30g of white chocolate, for 30days. Before and after intervention, blood, fecal sample, and anthropometry data were collected. For each outcome, two-way repeated-measure analysis of variance was used to identify differences between baseline and endpoint (Week 4), considering treatment (dark chocolate, white chocolate) as intersubjects' factors. Metagenomic analysis was performed following the general guidelines, which relies on the bioBakery computational environment. DC group showed increased plasma polyphenols (from 154.7 ± 18.6μg gallic acid equivalents/ml to 185.11 ± 57.6μg gallic acid equivalents/ml, Δ pre vs. post = +30.41 ± 21.50) and significant improvements in lipid profiles: total cholesterol (Δ -32.47 ± 17.18mg/dl DC vs. Δ -2.84 ± 6.25mg/dl WC, Time × Treatment interaction p < .001), triglycerides (Δ -6.32 ± 4.96mg/dl DC vs. Δ -0.42 ± 6.47mg/dl WC, Time × Treatment interaction p < .001), low-density lipoprotein (Δ -18.42 ± 17.13mg/dl vs. Δ -2.05 ± 5.19mg/dl WC, Time × Treatment interaction p < .001), AA/EPA ratio (Δ -5.26 ± 2.35; -54.1% DC vs. Δ -0.47 ± 0.73, -6.41% WC, Time × Treatment interaction p < .001) compared with WC group. In addition, 4weeks of intervention showed a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein concentration in DC group (Δ + 3.26 ± 4.49mg/dl DC vs. Δ -0.79 ± 5.12mg/dl WC). Microbial communities in the DC group maintained a slightly higher microbial stability over time (exhibiting lower within-subject community dissimilarity). Ingesting 30g of dark chocolate over 4weeks positively improved AA:EPA ratio and maintained gut microbial stability. Dark chocolate ingestion represents an effective nutritional strategy to improve blood lipid profiles in professional soccer players. What Are the Findings? Ingesting 30g of dark chocolate for 4weeks positively influences blood lipid AA: EPA ratio while maintaining gut microbial stability. What This Study Adds? Dietary intake of specific foods such as dark chocolate represents an alternative strategy to support the health and recovery of elite soccer players. What Impact Might This Have on Clinical Practice in the Future? From a clinical and translational perspective, dark chocolate ingestion positively modulates favorable blood lipid profiles and polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism while maintaining gut microbial stability. Dark chocolate ingestion may be considered as an effective nutritional strategy in elite sport environments during periods of high-intensity training and congested competitions. Further research is required to determine functional outcomes associated with the observed improvements in blood lipid profiles.

Assessing early tubular protective effects of SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin against type 2 diabetes mellitus using functional magnetic resonance imaging.

To observe the alterations in functional magnetic resonance imaging parameters in normoalbuminuric type 2 diabetic patients undergoing SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin treatment and investigate the early tubular protective effects of the inhibitor. This study was performed in normoalbuminuric type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (UACR < 30mg/g, eGFR ≥ 60 ml/min/1.73m2). The patients were divided into the intervention group (empagliflozin) and the control group (27 cases each). The intervention group was treated with 10mg/day empagliflozin tablets orally, while the control group had adjustments to their basic treatment stage. The patients were treated for 6 weeks. The baseline clinical data of the two groups were comparable (P˃0.05). The intervention group exhibited better improvements in blood lipid profiles and more significant reductions in blood uric acid levels compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The two groups had No significant difference in blood pressure changes (P˃0.05). Notably, the intervention group demonstrated a greater reduction in UACR and a more substantial decline in eGFR than the control group (P < 0.05). Regarding functional magnetic resonance imaging parameters, the MD value of the renal medulla region in the intervention group increased after treatment, while the MR2* value of the renal medulla region decreased (P < 0.05). SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin can reduce UACR and eGFR levels in early type 2 diabetic patients with normal proteinuria. Moreover, empagliflozin therapy led to an increase in the MD value and a decrease in the MR2* value of the renal medulla, evidencing the early tubular protective effects of this therapy.

The Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on the Lipid Profile and Cardiovascular Markers Following Downhill Running in Long-Distance Runners.

Exercise-induced injury may intensify inflammatory response and reduce the cardiovascular protection mechanisms of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω 3 PUFA). Therefore, this study aimed to determine the erythrocyte content of fatty acids (ω 3 and ω 6), the levels of cardiac damage markers (CKMB, hsTnT, H - FABP), the concentration of inflammation mediators (IL-6, TNF α) in long distance runners supplemented with ω 3 PUFA. Twenty-four male long distance runners, who were randomly assigned to a placebo group (GrP) or a group supplemented (GrSuppl) with a daily dose of 3,000 mg of ω 3 PUFA for three weeks, participated in the study. Participants performed a downhill running exercise test. Blood samples were collected at rest and after the exercise protocol to analyse the levels of cardiac markers and inflammatory cytokines. The erythrocyte membrane content of EPA and DHA in the GrSuppl at the 3rd week of supplementation was significantly higher than at the baseline (p < 0.001). The erythrocyte membrane content of ω 3 PUFA in the GrSuppl was significantly higher at the completion of supplementation (p < 0.001). Supplementation with ω 3 PUFA improved blood lipid profiles and reduced the concentration of inflammation mediators measured after the eccentric exercise tests. The increased ω 3 PUFA content in the erythrocyte membrane and lower blood concentrations of cardiac damage markers and inflammation mediators in distance runners supplemented for three weeks with ω 3 PUFA suggest that the cardiovascular function has been improved.

Optimal domain-specific physical activity and sedentary behaviors for blood lipids among Japanese children: a compositional data analysis

BackgroundOptimizing childhood domain-specific physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) for blood lipid profile is not well understood. We aimed to (1) determine the associations between accelerometer-measured PA and SB for each domain (school time and out-of-school time) with blood lipid profile and (2) estimate predicted changes in blood lipid profile with hypothetical time-reallocation between domain-specific SB and PA among Japanese children using compositional data analysis (CoDA).MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 284 children (147 boys and 137 girls) aged 9–12 years (mean age [years]: 10.1 ± 1.2 for boys, 10.0 ± 1.1 for girls; mean body mass index: 18.2 ± 3.2 for boys, 17.5 ± 2.5 for girls). Time spent in domain-specific SB, light-intensity PA (LPA), moderate-intensity PA (MPA), and vigorous-intensity PA (VPA) was assessed using accelerometry. The non-fasting lipid profile considered measures of triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-HDL-C levels. CoDA and isotemporal substitution model were performed to examine the associations of domain-specific PA and SB with blood lipids.ResultsTime spent in out-of-school VPA relative to the other behaviors was negatively associated with non-HDL-C (boys: βilr1 = − 0.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] = − 0.19 to − 0.01), TG (boys: βilr1 = − 0.45, 95% CI = − 0.68 to − 0.22), and positively associated with HDL-C (girls: βilr1 = 0.09, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.16) after adjusting for age, body mass index, and time spent in SB, LPA, and MPA. During the out-of-school period, a replacement of 1 min of any other behavior with VPA was associated with decreases in LDL-C in boys (predicted changes [95% CI] − 0.03 mmol/L [− 0.05 to − 0.00] for LPA), non-HDL-C in boys (predicted changes [95% CI] − 0.03 mmol/L [− 0.06 to − 0.01] for SB and LPA) and TG in boys (predicted changes [95% CI] − 0.04 mmol/L [− 0.06 to − 0.02] for SB and LPA, − 0.05 mmol/L [− 0.07 to − 0.02] for MPA) and in girls (predicted changes [95% CI] − 0.02 mmol/L [− 0.04 to − 0.00] for LPA), and increases in HDL-C in girls (predicted changes [95% CI] 0.02 mmol/L [0.00 to 0.04] for SB and LPA, 0.03 mmol/L [0.00 to 0.05] for MPA).ConclusionsIncreasing out-of-school VPA might be an effective approach to improve blood lipid profiles among Japanese children.

Effectiveness of Shuxuening injection in coronary heart disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) poses a serious threat to public health, and the current medical management still faces significant challenges. Reliable evidence on the efficacy of Shuxuening injection (SXNI) in CHD is still lacking, even though it is widely used in China. Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of SXNI combination therapy in treating CHD. Methods: A systematic search of eight databases was conducted to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the inception of each database until June 2023. ROB 2.0, RevMan 5.4, and Stata 15.1 were used for quality evaluation and data analysis. The Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the quality of evidence. Results: A total of 3,779 participants from 39 studies were included. The results showed SXNI combination therapy increased the clinical efficacy and decreased the frequency and duration of angina. Furthermore, SXNI combination therapy improved cardiac function of patients by decreasing LVEDD, and increased CI, CO, and LVEF. It also improved blood lipid profiles by increasing HDL, decreasing TC, TG, and LDL. The thrombosis factors of patients were also improved by decreasing FIB, PV, HCT, and HS. Moreover, SXNI combination therapy was superior to the conventional treatment in improving CRP levels, increasing ECG efficacy and BNP. However, due to the limited safety information, reliable safety conclusions could not be drawn. Furthermore, the levels of evidence ranged from very low to moderate due to publication bias and heterogeneity. Conclusion: SXNI can effectively improve angina symptoms, clinical efficacy, cardiac function, blood lipid indicators, and thrombosis factors of patients with CHD. However, more multi-center and large-sample studies are needed to confirm the conclusions due to the limitations of this study. Registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=399606; Identifier: CRD42023433292.