Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity Levels Research Articles

The Effect of Holder Pasteurization and Different Variants on Breast Milk Antioxidants.

After birth, breast milk (BM) is a known essential source of antioxidants for infants. We analyzed the non-enzymatic total antioxidant capacity (TAC), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and glutathione, calcium, transferrin, and total protein levels of human breast milk before and after Holder pasteurization (HoP). The collected donor BM samples were pasteurized with HoP. HoP decreased TAC (-12.6%), ORAC (-12.1%), transferrin (-98.3%), and total protein (-21.4%) levels; HoP did not influence the glutathione concentration, and it increased the total calcium (+25.5%) concentration. Mothers who gave birth via Cesarean section had significantly lower TAC in their BM. TAC and glutathione levels were elevated in the BM of mothers over the age of 30. BM produced in the summer had higher glutathione and calcium levels compared to BM produced in the winter. The glutathione concentration in term milk samples was significantly higher in the first two months of lactation compared to the period between the third and sixth months. The transferrin level of BM for female infants was significantly higher than the BM for boys, and mothers with a BMI above 30 had increased transferrin in their samples. Antioxidant levels in human milk are influenced by numerous factors. Environmental and maternal factors, the postpartum age at breast milk collection, and Holder pasteurization of the milk influence the antioxidant intake of the infant.

Antioxidant Resveratrol Increases Lipolytic and Reduces Lipogenic Gene Expression under In Vitro Heat Stress Conditions in Dedifferentiated Adipocyte-Derived Progeny Cells from Dairy Cows.

Heat stress (HS) induces oxidative stress by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the polyphenol resveratrol (RSV) has been shown to have antioxidant properties by reducing ROS. Hence, we aimed to examine the effects of RSV, HS and their interaction on bovine adipocytes. We generated bovine dedifferentiated adipocyte-derived progeny (DFAT) cells from subcutaneous adipose tissue and examined the effects of RSV (100 µM), heat conditions: isothermal (ISO-37 °C), short heat (SH-41.2 °C for 1 h) and long HS (LH-41.2 °C for 16 h), and their interaction on gene expression in DFAT-cells. In medium of DFAT-cells treated with RSV, malondialdehyde levels were reduced and oxygen-radical absorbance-capacity levels were increased compared to control. Treating DFAT-cells with RSV increased the relative mRNA expression of stress-induced-phosphoprotein-1 (STIP1) and the expression of hormone-sensitive-lipase (LIPE) and perilipin-1 (PLIN1), whereas it reduced the expressions of fatty-acid-synthase (FASN) and of pro-inflammatory chemotactic-C-C-motif-chemokine-ligand-2 (CCL2) also under HS. Moreover, reduced protein abundance of FASN was found in RSV-treated DFAT-cells compared to controls. Molecular docking of RSV with FASN confirmed its possible binding to FASN active site. This work demonstrates that RSV has an antioxidant effect on bovine DFAT cells and may induce adipose lipolysis and reduce lipogenesis also under in vitro HS conditions.

Microbiological and Nutritional Analysis of Lettuce Crops Grown on the International Space Station.

The ability to grow safe, fresh food to supplement packaged foods of astronauts in space has been an important goal for NASA. Food crops grown in space experience different environmental conditions than plants grown on Earth (e.g., reduced gravity, elevated radiation levels). To study the effects of space conditions, red romaine lettuce, Lactuca sativa cv ‘Outredgeous,’ plants were grown in Veggie plant growth chambers on the International Space Station (ISS) and compared with ground-grown plants. Multiple plantings were grown on ISS and harvested using either a single, final harvest, or sequential harvests in which several mature leaves were removed from the plants at weekly intervals. Ground controls were grown simultaneously with a 24–72 h delay using ISS environmental data. Food safety of the plants was determined by heterotrophic plate counts for bacteria and fungi, as well as isolate identification using samples taken from the leaves and roots. Molecular characterization was conducted using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to provide taxonomic composition and phylogenetic structure of the community. Leaves were also analyzed for elemental composition, as well as levels of phenolics, anthocyanins, and Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC). Comparison of flight and ground tissues showed some differences in total counts for bacteria and yeast/molds (2.14 – 4.86 log10 CFU/g), while screening for select human pathogens yielded negative results. Bacterial and fungal isolate identification and community characterization indicated variation in the diversity of genera between leaf and root tissue with diversity being higher in root tissue, and included differences in the dominant genera. The only difference between ground and flight experiments was seen in the third experiment, VEG-03A, with significant differences in the genera from leaf tissue. Flight and ground tissue showed differences in Fe, K, Na, P, S, and Zn content and total phenolic levels, but no differences in anthocyanin and ORAC levels. This study indicated that leafy vegetable crops can produce safe, edible, fresh food to supplement to the astronauts’ diet, and provide baseline data for continual operation of the Veggie plant growth units on ISS.

Antihypertensive and antioxidant activities of enzymatic wheat bran protein hydrolysates.

Bioactive peptides from plant protein sources have been continuously identified as nutrient supplements for low toxicity but multiple physiological activities such as antihypertensive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. In this study, wheat bran protein isolate was digested with alcalase to produce wheat bran protein hydrolysate (WPH) that was then separated into different peptide fractions (<1, 1-3, 3-5, and 5-10kDa) by membrane ultrafiltration. WPH and the peptide fractions were evaluated for in vitro activities such as antioxidant, renin inhibition, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition. In addition, the blood pressure-lowering effects of WPH and the<1kDa peptides were determined by oral administration to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Results showed that the ACE and renin inhibitions were significantly (p<.05) higher for the<1kDa fraction (84.25%±2.45%, 75.19%±1.75%, respectively) when compared to the WPH and>1kDa fractions. The<1kDa fraction also showed significantly (p<.05) higher oxygen radical antioxidant activity with 2044.73±37.45 (μM TE/g protein) when compared to lower values obtained for the>1kDa membrane fractions and WPH. Oral administration (100mg/kg body weight) of the<1kDa membrane fraction to SHRs resulted in a better decrease (-35mmHg) in the systolic blood pressure when compared to the WPH (-20mmHg) after 6hr. And seven peptides (NL, QL, FL, HAL, AAVL, AKTVF, and TPLTR) were identified and amino acid sequence was determined by tandem mass spectrometry. We conclude that the WPH could be considered as a suitable natural antihypertensive and antioxidant resource. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The results of the present study indicate that WPH and its ultrafiltration fractions possess potential as a source of antihypertensive and strong antioxidant peptides. It has been proved that wheat bran has a good blood pressure lowering and antioxidation and other biological activities, and the<1kDa fraction showing high oxygen radical absorbance capacity level also has better in vitro ACE inhibition and renin-inhibitory activity. The higher antihypertensive efficiency of the<1kDa fraction may be because the peptides can be better absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract or an increased ability to interact with the enzyme (ACE or renin) protein structure to change the active conformation and lead to decreased catalysis. The results of this study indicate that WPH, especially<1kDa peptide, can be used as a component in formulating antihypertensive functional foods and nutraceuticals, thus improving the industrial production efficiency and bioavailability of wheat bran.

Sodium Selenite Alleviates Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema Independent of Antioxidant Defense System.

Long-term surveillance is necessary to identify patients at risk of developing secondary lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. We assessed how sodium selenite supplementation would affect breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) symptoms and parameters in association with antioxidant effects. A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial was conducted on 26 participants with clinical stage II to III BCRL. The control group (CTRL, n = 12) and selenium group (SE, n = 14) underwent five sessions of 0.9% saline and 500 μg sodium selenite (Selenase®) IV injections, respectively, within 2 weeks. All patients were educated on recommended behavior and self-administered manual lymphatic drainage. Clinical diagnosis on lymphedema by physicians, bioimpedance data, blood levels of oxidative markers, including glutathione (GSH), glutathione disulfide (GSSG), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase activity (GSH-Px), and serum oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) levels, were investigated at timelines defined as baseline, 2-week, and follow-up. Sodium selenite increased whole blood selenium concentration in the SE group. Compared to the baseline, at 2 weeks, 75.0% of participants in clinical stage showed improvement, while there was no change in the CTRL group. At follow-up, 83.3% and 10.0% of the SE and CTRL, respectively, showed stage changes from III to II (p = 0.002). Extracellular water (ECW) ratios were significantly reduced at 2 weeks and follow-up, only in the SE group. Blood GSH, GSSG, GSH/GSSG ratio, MDA, and ORAC levels did not change by selenium supplementation. Sodium selenite improved diagnostic stages of BCRL along with ECW ratios, although the beneficial effect might not be related to its antioxidant activity. Selenite’s effect on lymphedema may be associated with non-antioxidant properties, such as anti-inflammation and immune function. Further mechanistic research using a larger population is needed.

Maternal c-reactive protein and oxidative stress markers as predictors of delivery latency in patients experiencing preterm premature rupture of membranes.

To evaluate the usefulness of maternal serum c-reactive protein (CRP), lipid peroxide, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), to predict the interval between membrane rupture and delivery in patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). The present prospective study included patients with singleton pregnancies experiencing PPROM at earlier than 34weeks of pregnancy who underwent spontaneous vaginal delivery between August 1, 2010 and July 31, 2013 at Chonnam National University Hospital, Republic of Korea. Patients were categorized based on whether delivery occurred within 3days of PPROM or after. CRP levels, lipid peroxide (using malondialdehyde levels), ORAC, protein carbonyl, and other potential risk factors were compared between the groups. There were 72 patients included. Maternal serum CRP levels, malondialdehyde levels, and Bishop Score were higher in patients who underwent delivery within 3days (all P<0.05); ORAC levels were lower among these patients (P=0.002). A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that CRP, malondialdehyde, and ORAC levels were predictive of delivery within 3days after PPROM. Maternal serum CRP, malondialdehyde, and ORAC levels at admission were useful in predicting the latent period in patients with PPROM.

Relationship between NADPH and Th1/Th2 ratio in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma who have been exposed to pesticides

The effect of pesticides on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen (NADPH), including its level and relationship with the T helper 1 (Th1)/Th2 ratio, in patients suffering from non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) was investigated. One hundred newly diagnosed patients with aggressive NHL (53 men, 47 women) and 40 healthy age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched controls (23 men, 17 women), exposed or not to pesticides, were recruited for a cross-sectional study conducted at the Clinical Hematology Departments of Tlemcen and Sidi Bel-Abbès University Medical Centers in the northwest of Algeria. NADPH levels were significantly increased in patients compared with controls; and in exposed patients compared with those not exposed, and controls (one-way analysis of variance; P=0.000). Albumin, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase activity, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity levels were significantly decreased in patients compared with in the control group. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity levels were significantly decreased in exposed patients compared with in unexposed patients; however, malondialdehyde levels were significantly increased in exposed patients when compared with controls and unexposed patients. Protein carbonyl and xanthine oxidase levels were significantly increased in exposed patients compared with controls; meanwhile, there were no significant differences between the two patient groups or between unexposed patients and controls. The Th1/Th2 ratio was significantly decreased in patients when compared with controls; the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was significantly increased (for both comparisons, P<0.001). In addition, NADPH was strongly associated with NHL (Mantel–Haenszel common odds ratio estimate =5.55; 95% confidence interval, 2.22–13.88; P=0.000). Moreover, NADPH levels were significantly negatively related to the Th1/Th2 ratio, either in exposed patients or in unexposed patients (respectively, r=−0.498 [P=0.004] and r=−0.327 [P=0.006]). In conclusion, pesticide exposure was strongly associated with NADPH alteration in NHL. The relationship between NADPH and Th1/Th2 ratio should focus on new therapeutic strategies for the disease.

Feeding activity and xenobiotics modulate oxidative status in Daphnia magna: implications for ecotoxicological testing.

To apply biomarkers of oxidative stress in laboratory and field settings, an understanding of their responses to changes in physiological rates is important. The evidence is accumulating that caloric intake can increase production of reactive oxygen species and thus affect background variability of oxidative stress biomarkers in ecotoxicological testing. This study aimed to delineate effects of food intake and xenobiotics on oxidative biomarkers in Daphnia magna. Antioxidant capacity measured as oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and lipid peroxidation assayed as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were measured. Food intake was manipulated by varying food densities or by exposing the animals to chemicals inhibiting feeding rate (pharmaceutical haloperidol and pesticide lindane). Feeding rate proved to affect both protein, ORAC, and TBARS in unexposed daphnids. However, there was no significant effect of feeding rate on the protein-specific ORAC values. Both substances affected individual protein and ORAC levels and changed their relationship to feeding rate. Our results show that inhibition of feeding rate influenced the interpretation of biomarker response and further emphasize the importance of understanding (1) baseline variability in potential biomarkers due to variations in metabolic state and (2) the contribution of feeding rate on toxic response of biomarkers.

Spices and Herbs May Improve Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) include high blood low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes. Family history and inflammatory factors also affect CVD risk. Diet therapy for treating and managing patients with CVD and for reducing risk among healthy individuals focuses on consuming a diet containing vegetables and fruits; eating whole-grain breads and cereals; choosing poultry, fish, nuts, legumes, and low-fat dairy foods; and limiting the intake of saturated fat, trans-fat, sweets, sugar-sweetened beverages, and red meats. 1 Because spices and herbs are rich in potentially bioactive compounds, clinical studies have examined their effects on blood insulin, blood lipids, and inflammation. EFFECTS OF A SPICE BLEND ON POSTPRANDIAL INSULIN, TRIGLYCERIDES, AND ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY We designed a pilot study to determine whether a single, large dose (14 g) of a high-antioxidant spice blend incorporated into a test meal caused postprandial blood changes. 2 Six overweight men aged 30 to 65 years were recruited, baseline blood samples were taken, and the men were randomized to 2 test conditions: a control meal consisting of a dessert biscuit, coconut chicken, and cheese bread, or the same control meal with an added spice blend that included black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, garlic powder, ginger, oregano (Mediterranean), paprika, rosemary, and turmeric. Participants could not be blinded to the test condition because of the relatively large amount of spice blend used. Postprandial blood samples were taken immediately after the meal and every 30 minutes thereafter until 8 samples were collected. Blood lipids, glucose, and insulin were measured. The plasma was analyzed for hydrophilic, lipophilic, and total oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) to provide information about its antioxidant potential. A higher total antioxidant capacity may reflect reduced oxidative stress, which is an underlying cause of many chronic diseases. 3 Addition of spices and herbs to the test meal significantly decreased postprandial insulin area under the curve by 21% (P = .004) and triglycerides area under the curve by 31% (P = .048), as shown in the Figure. Hydrophilic ORAC levels were 13% higher (P = .02) following the spice test meal than following the control meal, whereas lipophilic and total ORAC levels did not differ between the meals. Total blood cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and glucose levels were not affected by meal condition. These findings suggest that a blend of spices and herbs may help improve levels of postprandial insulin and triglyceride concentrations after a high-fat meal while alsoenhancingthe antioxidative capacity of blood.

Black Currant Nectar Reduces Muscle Damage and Inflammation Following a Bout of High-Intensity Eccentric Contractions

ABSTRACTThis investigation determined the efficacy of black currant nectar (BCN) in reducing symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). Sixteen college students were randomly assigned to drink either 16 oz of BCN or a placebo (PLA) twice a day for eight consecutive days. A bout of eccentric knee extensions (3 × 10 sets @ 115% of 1RM) was performed on the fourth day. Outcome measures included muscle soreness (subjective scale from 0 to 10) and blood markers of muscle damage (creatine kinase, CK), inflammation (interleukin-6, IL-6), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Although there were no differences in reported soreness between groups, consumption of BCN reduced CK levels at both 48 (PLA = 82.13% vs. BCN = −6.71%, p = .042) and 96 h post exercise (PLA = 74.96% vs. BCN = −12.11%, p = .030). The change in IL-6 was higher in the PLA group (PLA = 8.84% vs. BCN = −6.54%, p = .023) at 24 h post exercise. The change in ORAC levels was higher in the treatment group (BCN = 2.68% vs. PLA = −6.02%, p = .039) at 48 h post exercise. Our results demonstrate that consumption of BCN prior to and after a bout of eccentric exercise attenuates muscle damage and inflammation.

Seasonal variations in phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity ofCornus stoloniferaplant material: Applications in agriculture

Isaak, C. K., Petkau, J. C., O, K., Ominski, K., Rodriguez-Lecompte, J. C, and Siow, Y. L. 2013. Seasonal variations in phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of Cornus stolonifera plant material: Applications in agriculture. Can. J. Plant Sci. 93: 725–734. The present study was carried out to establish the antioxidant capacity of plant material of Cornus stolonifera (syn. Cornus sericea, Red Osier Dogwood) grown in Manitoba, by measuring total phenolic content and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) over a 3-yr period. The presence and concentrations of flavonoids that might account for antioxidant abilities were investigated using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and a total anthocyanins assay. Both ORAC levels and phenolic content increased during the spring, peaked during the summer months (1631.65±166.30 µmol trolox equivalents g−1DW in July 2011, 220.38±2.29 mg gallic acid equivalents g−1DW in August 2012), and then declined during the fall in all 3 yr. Analysis of individual flavonoids in 2010 samples revealed that high levels of rutin, a glycoside of quercetin, were present ranging from 7.46±0.09 (July 2010) to 18.77±0.23 mg g−1dried sample (October 2010). Anthocyanin content was high in the spring, very low in the summer months, and increased in the fall over all 3 yr. Although polyphenolic and antioxidant content in Cornus spp. plants have been largely attributed to their berries, results from this study demonstrate that other plant material may also be an abundant source of these compounds.

Short (GT)n Microsatellite Repeats in the Heme Oxygenase-1 Gene Promoter Are Associated with Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Status in Mexican Pediatric Patients with Sepsis

An adequate immune and antioxidant response is a key to the resolution of sepsis. Heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX1) is a stress protein with a polymorphic (GT)n repeat in its gene promoter that regulates its expression in response to oxidative injury, such as that present in sepsis. HMOX1 is the rate-limiting enzyme of heme degradation, and the heme breakdown products, CO, Fe, and bilirubin, are considered to be biologically active metabolites with direct or indirect antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the inflammatory and antioxidant response and the relationship with the HMOX1 levels and HMOX1 polymorphism in Mexican septic pediatric patients. In a case-control pilot study, we enrolled 64 septic patients and 72 hospitalized control patients without a diagnosis of sepsis. DNA extracted from buffy coat was genotyped for HMOX1 (GT)n polymorphism by PCR and markers of antioxidant and inflammatory status were quantified in plasma by analysis of the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), protein carbonyl (PC), interleukin (IL) 6, IL10, and HMOX1 levels. In septic children, oxidative and inflammatory markers were elevated, and HMOX1 levels were positively correlated with IL10 levels. Genotypic and allelic distribution of HMOX1 polymorphism showed no difference between groups. HMOX1 short-allele septic carriers (< 25 GT repeats) presented favorable ORAC, PC and IL10 levels. This study confirms that an active response against pediatric sepsis involves the expression of HMOX1 and IL10, suggesting that the high antioxidant status associated with HMOX1 short-allele septic carriers might provide a beneficial environment for sepsis resolution.

Antioxidant properties of lutein contribute to the protection against lipopolysaccharide-induced uveitis in mice.

BackgroundLutein is an important eye-protective nutrient. This study investigates the protective effects and mechanisms of lutein on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced uveitis in mice.MethodsLutein, suspended in drinking water at a final concentration of 12.5 and 25 mg/mL, was administered to mice at 0.1 mL/10 g body weight for five consecutive days. Control and model group received drinking water only. Uveitis was induced by injecting LPS (100 mg per mouse) into the footpad in the model and lutein groups on day 5 after the last drug administration. Eyes of the mice were collected 24 hours after the LPS injection for the detection of indicators using commercial kits and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.ResultsLPS-induced uveitis was confirmed by significant pathological damage and increased the nitric oxide level in eye tissue of BALB/C mice 24 hours after the footpad injection. The elevated nitric oxide level was significantly reduced by oral administration of lutein (125 and 500 mg/kg/d for five days) before LPS injection. Moreover, lutein decreased the malondialdehyde content, increased the oxygen radical absorbance capacity level, glutathione, the vitamin C contents and total superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities. Lutein further increased expressions of copper-zinc SOD, manganese SOD and GPx mRNA. Conclusion The antioxidant properties of lutein contribute to the protection against LPS-induced uveitis, partially through the intervention of inflammation process.

Treatments with sodium selenate or doxycycline offset diabetes-induced perturbations of thioredoxin-1 levels and antioxidant capacity

Diabetes is associated with increased oxidative stress and impaired antioxidant defenses. Thioredoxin-1 (TRX-1) is a cytosolic thiol antioxidant and redox-active protein which plays a vital role in the maintenance of reduced intracellular redox state. In this study, the authors examined whether 4-week treatments with sodium selenate and doxycycline--a metalloproteinase-2 inhibitor which also has antioxidant-like effects--offset perturbations in oxidative stress and antioxidant protection in rat liver and skeletal muscle in streptozotocin-induced diabetes (SID) model. Experimental diabetes decreased TRX-1 levels in skeletal muscle and liver. On the other hand, SID increased oxidative stress marker protein carbonyl levels and decreased oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), an indicator of antioxidant capacity, in liver. A 4-week treatment of sodium selenate to diabetic rats decreased blood glucose levels moderately, while doxycycline treatment caused a reduction in weight loss of diabetic rats. Both doxycycline and sodium selenate prevented diabetes-induced decrease of TRX-1 levels in skeletal muscle, whereas only doxyxycline was effectively preventing diabetes-induced decrease of TRX-1 in liver. Furthermore, both treatments prevented diabetes-induced altered levels of protein carbonyls and ORAC in liver, and restored free and total protein thiol levels in both skeletal muscle and liver. In conclusion, the data of this study provides further evidence that sodium selenate and doxycycline treatments may control oxidative stress and improve antioxidant defense in diabetes.

Effect of Ambrotose AO® on resting and exercise-induced antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress in healthy adults

BackgroundThe purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of a dietary supplement (Ambrotose AO®) on resting and exercise-induced blood antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress in exercise-trained and untrained men and women.Methods25 individuals (7 trained and 5 untrained men; 7 trained and 6 untrained women) received Ambrotose AO® (4 capsules per day = 2 grams per day) or a placebo for 3 weeks in a random order, double blind cross-over design (with a 3 week washout period). Blood samples were collected at rest, and at 0 and 30 minutes following a graded exercise treadmill test (GXT) performed to exhaustion, both before and after each 3 week supplementation period. Samples were analyzed for Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC), Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and nitrate/nitrite (NOx). Quality of life was assessed using the SF-12 form and exercise time to exhaustion was recorded. Resting blood samples were analyzed for complete blood count (CBC), metabolic panel, and lipid panel before and after each 3 week supplementation period. Dietary intake during the week before each exercise test was recorded.ResultsNo condition effects were noted for SF-12 data, for GXT time to exhaustion, or for any variable within the CBC, metabolic panel, or lipid panel (p > 0.05). Treatment with Ambrotose AO® resulted in an increase in resting levels of TEAC (p = 0.02) and ORAC (p < 0.0001). No significant change was noted in resting levels of MDA, H2O2, or NOx (p > 0.05). Exercise resulted in an acute increase in TEAC, MDA, and H2O2 (p < 0.05), all which were higher at 0 minutes post exercise compared to pre exercise (p < 0.05). No condition effects were noted for exercise related data (p > 0.05), with the exception of ORAC (p = 0.0005) which was greater at 30 minutes post exercise for Ambrotose AO® compared to placebo.ConclusionAmbrotose AO® at a daily dosage of 4 capsules per day increases resting blood antioxidant capacity and may enhance post exercise antioxidant capacity. However, no statistically detected difference is observed in resting or exercise-induced oxidative stress biomarkers, in quality of life, or in GXT time to exhaustion.

Antioxidant responses to an acute ultra-endurance exercise: impact on DNA stability and indications for an increased need for nutritive antioxidants in the early recovery phase

Antioxidant requirements have neither been defined for endurance nor been defined for ultra-endurance athletes. To verify whether an acute bout of ultra-endurance exercise modifies the need for nutritive antioxidants, we aimed (1) to investigate the changes of endogenous and exogenous antioxidants in response to an Ironman triathlon; (2) to particularise the relevance of antioxidant responses to the indices of oxidatively damaged blood lipids, blood cell compounds and lymphocyte DNA and (3) to examine whether potential time-points of increased susceptibility to oxidative damage are associated with alterations in the antioxidant status. Blood that was collected from forty-two well-trained male athletes 2 d pre-race, immediately post-race, and 1, 5 and 19 d later was sampled. The key findings of the present study are as follows: (1) Immediately post-race, vitamin C, α-tocopherol, and levels of the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, the ferric reducing ability of plasma and the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays increased significantly. Exercise-induced changes in the plasma antioxidant capacity were associated with changes in uric acid, bilirubin and vitamin C. (2) Significant inverse correlations between ORAC levels and indices of oxidatively damaged DNA immediately and 1 d post-race suggest a protective role of the acute antioxidant responses in DNA stability. (3) Significant decreases in carotenoids and γ-tocopherol 1 d post-race indicate that the antioxidant intake during the first 24 h of recovery following an acute ultra-endurance exercise requires specific attention. Furthermore, the present study illustrates the importance of a diversified and well-balanced diet to maintain a physiological antioxidant status in ultra-endurance athletes in reference to recommendations.

Effect of Blended Antioxidant Supplement on Resting and Exercise-Induced Antioxidant Capacity and Oxidative Stress

BACKGROUND: The in vivo ability to cope with the potentially damaging effects of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species through dietary interventions is of great interest to both scientists and consumers. PURPOSE: To determine the effects of a proprietary lipid and water soluble antioxidant blend on resting and exercise-induced blood antioxidant capacity and oxidative stress biomarkers in men and women. METHODS: 25 subjects (12 men; 13 women) received an antioxidant supplement or a placebo for 3 weeks in a random order, double blind, cross-over design (with a 3 week washout period). Blood samples were collected at rest, and at 0 and 30 minutes following a graded exercise treadmill test (GXT), both before and after each 3 week supplementation period. Blood samples were analyzed for Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC), Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and nitrate/nitrite (NOx). RESULTS: Treatment with the supplement resulted in a significant increase in resting levels of blood TEAC (p=0.02) and ORAC (p=0.04). Although values for MDA and H2O2 were slightly lower, and values for NOx were slightly higher post intervention with the supplement, no statistically significant change was noted in resting levels of MDA, H2O2, or NOx (p>0.05). Exercise resulted in an increase in TEAC, ORAC, MDA, and H2O2 (p<0.05), all which were higher at 0 minutes post exercise compared to pre-exercise (p<0.05). No condition effects or condition interactions were noted for any variable in relation to the exercise bout (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: The antioxidant supplement significantly increased resting blood antioxidant capacity, with no statistically detected differences noted in resting oxidative stress biomarkers or in exercise-induced antioxidant capacity or oxidative stress biomarkers. Supported by Mannatech Inc.

Microwave-assisted extraction of phenolic antioxidant compounds from peanut skins

A microwave-assisted extraction system was used to extract phenolic antioxidants from peanut skins. The effects of microwave power (10%, 50%, 90% nominal), irradiation time (30, 90, 150 s) and sample mass (1.5, 2.5, 3.5 g) on total phenolic content (TPC), ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) level and resveratrol content of peanut skin extracts (PSE) were investigated. Peanut skins were extracted with 37.5 ml of 30% ethanol (EtOH) in water. A response surface method was used to estimate optimum extraction conditions, based on TPC, ORAC level and resveratrol content. The maximum predicted TPC, under the optimised conditions (90% microwave power, 30 s irradiation time and 1.5 g skins), was 143.6 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g skins. The highest ORAC value was 2789 μmol trolox equivalents (TE)/g skins, which occurred at 90% power, 150 s and 1.5 g of skins. Resveratrol was identified in PSE by LC–MS–MS analysis.

Anthocyanin, Carotenoid Content, and Antioxidant Values in Native South American Potato Cultivars

Tubers of 38 native potato cultivars of different taxonomic groups from South America were analyzed to determine the total anthocyanins, total carotenoids, and antioxidant values. Total anthocyanin ranged from zero to 23 mg cyanidin equivalents/100 g fresh weight (FW). Total carotenoid ranged from 38 to 2020 μg zeaxanthin equivalents/100 g FW. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) was measured for the anthocyanin (hydrophilic) and carotenoid (lipophilic) extracts. The hydrophilic ORAC ranged from 333 to 1408 μm Trolox equivalents/100 g FW. The lipophilic ORAC ranged from 4.7 to 30 nM α-tocopherol equivalents/100 g FW. The cultivars consisted of 23 diploids, seven triploids, and eight tetraploids. Total carotenoids was negatively correlated with total anthocyanins. Total anthocyanins was correlated with hydrophilic ORAC. Among clones with less than 2 mg cyanidin equivalents/100 g FW, total carotenoid and lipophilic ORAC were correlated, but this was not true for analysis of all 38 clones. Although total anthocyanins or hydrophilic ORAC values reported here were not outside of the ranges found in North American and other breeding materials, total carotenoids and lipophilic ORACs are higher than previously reported, suggesting that native cultivars of South America with high levels of total carotenoids and high lipophilic ORAC are a unique germplasm source for introgression of these traits into specific potato cultivars outside the center of origin.

The effects of high walnut and cashew nut diets on the antioxidant status of subjects with metabolic syndrome

Nut consumption is associated with a protective effect against coronary heart disease, partly due to its high antioxidant content. It is hypothesized that the inclusion of nuts in the diet will improve the antioxidant status of subjects with metabolic syndrome who may be vulnerable to impaired antioxidant status. The effects of high cashew nut and high walnut diets on the antioxidant status of subjects with metabolic syndrome are investigated. Sixty-four volunteers (29 male and 35 female, 45 +/- 10y) with metabolic syndrome (diagnosed by using the ATP III criteria) received a prudent control diet, prepared in the metabolic kitchen of the North-West University, Potchefstroom campus (NWU-PC) for a period of 3 weeks (run-in). The participants were grouped according to gender and age and randomized into three groups, receiving either the walnut, cashew nut or the control diets for 8 weeks, while maintaining a stable body weight. Nuts provided 20% of daily energy intake. Fasting blood samples were taken after the run-in period (baseline) and at the end of the intervention period and analyzed for various antioxidant capacity markers. The oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of the walnut and cashew nut diets were significantly higher than the control diet. Despite this, the walnut and cashew nut diets had no significant effects on serum ORAC, reduced (GSH), oxidized (GSSG) glutathione, GSH:GSSG or diacron reactive metabolites (dRom) (total oxidant status) levels compared to the control group. However, all three groups showed significant improvements in antioxidant status from baseline to end (GSSG and dRom levels decreased; GSG:GSSG ratio and ORAC levels increased). This may be due to a general increased antioxidant intake from the prudent diet compared to the habitual diets. Although the inclusion of walnuts and cashew nuts into a prudent diet resulted in an increased antioxidant capacity (ORAC) of the nut diets, compared to the control diet, it did not improve the serum antioxidant profiles of subjects with metabolic syndrome.