Very Low Calorie Diet Research Articles

Impacts of winter crop choice and ewe body condition score change on whole farm profitability and production

Variations in body condition score (BCS) in ewes influences lamb survival, ewe survival and ewe lactation performance. Feeding a low protein diet such as fodder beet to ewes in mid-to-late pregnancy increases lamb losses and reduces lamb weaning weight even further. However, using high yielding forages such as fodder beet can reduce the area of winter crop required, introducing potential whole-farm benefits which may alter profitability. We analysed the effects of winter crop choice (brassica or fodder beet) and BCS (maintaining or reducing) on whole-farm production and profitability, using a targeted supplement to offset the impacts of fodder beet feeding. Eight farms were selected to represent low or high rainfall (590 and 1090 mm/annum respectively) regions of the South Island. Impacts of changing BCS on ewe and lamb survival at lambing, and lamb liveweight gain to weaning were calculated when fed either adequate (brassica) or low protein (fodder beet) diets in mid-to-late pregnancy. Production statistics and profitability were calculated using Farmax. Whole farm profitability was analysed using BCS change and winter forage crop as main treatments, blocked by low or high rainfall. Applying the effects of BCS and low protein diets on reproductive performance from prior published studies resulted in variation of 102 to 141 lambs weaned per 100 ewes mated, with the lowest value when the low protein, fodder beet only diet was used. Greatest number of lambs weaned was achieved when BCS was maintained through winter through provision of a balanced supplement, regardless of winter forage diet (P<0.05). Lamb sale dates were later when fodder beet was used, due to lower lamb weaning weights, resulting in marginally higher prices due to changes in pricing schedule. Farm profitability was increased by 25% when BCS was maintained though winter (P<0.05) irrespective of the diet used. Use of fodder beet must be accompanied by targeted supplementation to avoid ewe BCS loss increased lamb losses and the negative effects on wastage and animal welfare. Extra profitability could only be generated by opportunities to sell surplus feed during the summer. These responses were similar in both high and low rainfall environments. This study is unique in testing measured responses of BCS and targeted nutritional supplementation under specific physiological conditions on whole-farm profitability. Farmer decisions on feed utilisation and sale also have a significant influence on the potential to mitigate the effects of variations in winter forage choice.

Assessment of Food Preferences, Eating Practices, and Nutritional Status Among In-school Able and Disabled Adolescents of Ages 10 - 19 Years in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria

Background: Malnutrition affects school-age children's health, growth, and academic performance. Adolescents often consume unhealthy fast foods and follow crash diets influenced by peers, media, and cultural norms. Adolescents with disabilities, including physical, intellectual, sensory, developmental, and mental health disabilities, may face additional challenges in accessing and maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet as they may face additional barriers. Understanding the unique needs and challenges faced by adolescents with disabilities is crucial in promoting their overall health and well-being. Objectives: The study aimed to compare the nutritional status of able and disabled adolescents in Government Vocational and Technical College and Niger State School of Special Education in Minna, as well as their food preferences, eating practices, and the factors affecting their nutritional status. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional design, administering 400 questionnaires to disabled and able students. The responses were 100% collected using self-administered structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed, and results were presented utilizing tables and figures, with a statistical significance level set at P < 0.05. The IBM statistical product and service solutions (IBM SPSS statistics), version 27.0 software was employed for data analysis to explore and understand the food preferences, eating practices, and nutritional status of in-school adolescents with disabilities in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria. This approach allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the diverse factors influencing the dietary habits and nutritional well-being of adolescents with disabilities in the study. Results: The study involved 400 participants, with 12.8% aged over 12 years, 50.3% aged 12 - 15 years, and 37.0% above 15 years. Females made up 51.0% of the participants. About 40% of disabled participants had inadequate dietary patterns, compared to 10% of able participants. There was a significant difference in the distribution of BMI groups between the able and disabled subjects (x2 = 26.984, df = 3, P = 0.000). Socio-demographic of the participants based on age and gender showed a significant association with the nutritional status of able adolescents at (χ2 = 44.593, P = 0.000) and (χ2 = 4.650, P = 0.031) respectively and among disabled at (χ2 = 18.303, P = 0.000) and (χ2 = 23.925, P = 0.000) respectively. Conclusions: The study revealed disabled adolescents often skip meals, consume fast foods, and have poor dietary habits. Interventions like education and increased access to healthy food options are needed.

Improved qualities of cod-rice dual-protein gel as affected by rice protein: Insight into molecular flexibility, protein interaction and gel properties

Blending plant-based proteins with animal-based proteins to achieve adequate dietary protein intake is a strategy to address dietary deficiencies in the elderly. This research systematically investigated the effect of the ratio of cod protein/rice protein (21:0, 21:1.5, 21:3, 21:4.5, 21:6, 21:7.5, and 21:9) on the gelation properties of dual-protein gels and the underlying dual-protein interaction mechanisms. The results indicated that the myosin heavy chain (MHC) of cod and the glutelin in rice protein are primarily linked by hydrogen bonds, particularly involving Tyr residues, as evidenced by molecular docking and fluorescence quenching results. The addition of rice protein in cod protein promoted α-helix transforming into β-sheet, β-turn and random coil of the original protein solution, which was significantly correlated with molecule flexibility increasing. The decrease in the dual-protein particle size, and rice protein uniformly distributed in a cod protein-based gel network, which promoted the compactness and density of the gel structure. It was found that the hardness and springiness of 21:6 cod-rice protein gel increased by 73.96% and 17.28% compared to single cod gel, respectively. This study provides theoretical basis to the mechanism of dual-protein interaction affecting gel properties from the molecular level.

Calorie restriction modulates mitochondrial dynamics and autophagy in leukocytes of patients with obesity

Although it is established that caloric restriction offers metabolic and clinical benefits, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether caloric restriction can modulate mitochondrial function and remodelling and stimulate autophagic flux in the PBMCs of patients with obesity. This was an interventional study of 38 obese subjects (BMI > 35 kg/m2) who underwent 6 months of dietary therapy, including a 6-week very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) followed by an 18-week low-calorie diet (LCD). We determined clinical variables, mitochondrial function parameters (by fluorescence imaging of mitochondrial ROS and membrane potential), and protein expression of markers of mitochondrial dynamics (MNF1, MFN2, OPA, DRP1 and FIS1) and autophagy (LC3, Beclin, BCL2 and NBR1) by western blot. Caloric restriction induced an improvement in metabolic outcomes that was accompanied by an increase in AMPK expression, a decrease of mitochondrial ROS and mitochondrial membrane potential, which was associated with increased markers of mitochondrial dynamics (MFN2, DRP1 and FIS1) and activation of autophagy as evidenced by augmented LC3 II/I, Beclin1 and NBR1, and a decrease in BCL2. These findings shed light on the specific molecular mechanisms by which caloric restriction facilitates metabolic improvements, highlighting the relevance of pathways involving energy homeostasis and cell recovery, including mitochondrial function and dynamics and autophagy.

Protocol for a feasibility multi-centre randomised controlled trial of a pre-operative two-week very low-calorie diet to reduce steatosis prior to liver resection (RESOLVE)

BackgroundHepatic steatosis (HS) increases morbidity and mortality associated with liver surgery (LS). Furthermore, patients with HS are more likely to require a blood transfusion, which is associated with worse short and long-term outcomes. Patients with HS requiring LS receive no specific dietary treatment or advice. A very low-calorie diet (VLCD) is commonly used before gallbladder and bariatric surgery to reduce liver volumes and associated intraoperative morbidity. These diets typically provide 800–1200 kcal/day over a 2–4-week period. Limited evidence suggests that a VLCD in patients with LS may result in better outcomes.MethodsThis study aims to test the feasibility of delivering a multi-centre randomised clinical trial to compare a dietary intervention (VLCD plus motivational instructions) versus treatment as usual (TAU) in people with HS having LS. This study will provide high-quality data to estimate screening rates, recruitment, randomisation, retention, and intervention adherence. The study will also determine the definitive trial’s most clinically relevant primary outcome. The study will also estimate resource use and costs associated with the delivery of the intervention. Seventy-two adults ≥ 18 who are scheduled to undergo elective LS and have a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified HS will be recruited. Acceptability to the dietary intervention will be evaluated with food diaries and focus groups. Clinical and patient-reported outcomes will be collected at baseline, pre- and post-surgery, day of discharge, plus 30- and 90-day follow-up.DiscussionThis feasibility study will provide data on the acceptability and feasibility of a dietary intervention for patients with HS having LS. The intervention has been developed based on scientific evidence from other clinical areas and patient experience; therefore, it is safe for this patient group. Patients with experience of LS and VLCDs have advised throughout the development of the study protocol. The findings will inform the design of a future definitive study.Trial registrationISRCTN Number 19701345. Date registered: 20/03/2023. URL: https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN19701345.

Very-low-calorie diet-based intensive lifestyle intervention for remission of type 2 diabetes: Real-world experience in a South Asian population.

Very low-calorie diet (VLCD) can induce weight loss and diabetes remission (DR) amongst people with obesity and recent-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D). We aimed to determine the effectiveness and acceptability of VLCD in achieving DR amongst Sri Lankan adults with T2D. A retrospective analysis was conducted in a diabetes practice where VLCD-based Diabetes Remission Programme (VDRP) was offered for adults (>18 years) with T2D for <3 years and body mass index over 25 kg/m2. VLCD (~800 kcal/day, provided with/without diet replacement formula) was offered for 8-12 weeks, followed by gradual food reintroduction and exercise. DR was defined as HbA1c <6.5% at least 3 months after stopping glucose-lowering medications. A total of 170 participants who enrolled in the VDRP (mean age 38.4 years [±11.1], men 68%, mean baseline HbA1c 86.9 [±18.1] mmol/mol (10.1 [±2.1]%), median duration of T2D 2 years [IQR 1-2]) and 87 (51%) of them followed the programme (attended at least one follow-up visit). Amongst the individuals who followed the VDRP, 40.2% achieved DR (35/87), compared with 2.4% (2/83) amongst those who did not follow the VDRP (aHR 9.3, 95% CI 2.2-16.4, p = 0.002). The proportion achieving normoglycaemia (HbA1c < 6.5%) but continued to take glucose-lowering medication was 20/87 among VDRP followers and 20/85 amongst VDRP non-followers. The commonest reasons for not following the VDRP were too restrictive dietary quantity (92%) and difficulties in finding recommended food items (67%). Majority (79%) would recommend VDRP to others. VDRP is effective in achieving T2D remission amongst Sri Lankan adults with recently diagnosed T2D and obesity. Over half of the participants followed the programme and over 75% would recommend it to others, indicating good acceptability.

The latest evidence and clinical guidelines for use of meal replacements in very-low-calorie diets or low-calorie diets for the treatment of obesity.

Obesity is a complex chronic disease with increasing prevalence across the globe. Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is an important component of obesity treatment, and low-calorie diets (LCDs) and very-low-calorie diets (VLCDs) are part of the MNT toolbox. This narrative review focuses on the latest evidence and clinical guidelines regarding the use and impact of meal replacements (MRs) as part of LCDs/VLCDs for the treatment of obesity and some associated complications. MRs can be used in conjunction with food as partial diet replacement (PDR) or can be used exclusively to serve as the sole source of dietary energy (total diet replacement [TDR]). Use of MR may be associated with better control of cravings and hunger typically observed during reduced calorie intake through effects of ketosis or stimuli narrowing, although the exact mechanisms for these effects remain unclear. Several clinical guidelines have endorsed the use of MRs as a part of MNT for obesity, primarily based on evidence that shows an average weight reduction of ~10 kg or more with TDR over at least 12 months in large, randomized controlled trials. When compared to usual care controls, these effects are 6-8 kg greater, and when compared to food-based diets, the effects are nearly twice the effect of a food-based diet. MR-based diets have been found to be safe and associated with improvements in quality of life. These diets are also effective for improving key cardiometabolic health outcomes, including dysglycaemia, blood pressure, lipids, and metabolic associated fatty liver. The effectiveness, safety, and associated health improvement makes MRs use a valuable strategy for several higher risk clinical scenarios where weight reduction is indicated.

The Effects of Caloric Restriction and Clinical Psychological Intervention on the Interplay of Gut Microbial Composition and Stress in Women.

Both mental and metabolic disorders are steadily becoming more prevalent, increasing interest in non-pharmacological lifestyle interventions targeting both types of disorders. However, the combined effect of diet and psychological interventions on the gut microbiome and mental health outcomes remains underexplored. Thus, in this study, we randomized 41 women into two caloric restriction (CR) dietary groups, namely very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) and F.X. Mayr diet (FXM). The patients were then further randomized to either receive clinical psychological intervention (CPI) or no CPI. Blood and fecal samples were collected before and after two weeks of CR. Psychometric outcomes were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Brief Symptom Index (BSI), and Burnout Dimension Inventory (BODI). Stool samples underwent 16S-rRNA sequencing. Upon two weeks of CR, α-diversity decreased overall and longitudinal PERMANOVA models revealed significant shifts in β-diversity according to diet, CPI, age, and body-mass-index. Furthermore, Agathobacter, Fusicatenibacter, and Subdoligranulum decreased in abundance. However, the Oscillibacter genus was enriched solely in FXM. CPI had a negligible effect on the microbiome. Dimension reduction models revealed clusters of taxa which distinctly associated with psychometric outcomes. Members of the Oscillospiraceae family were linked to favorable psychometric outcomes after two weeks of CR. Despite α-diversity reductions after CR, enrichment of Oscillospiraceae spp., solely seen in FXM, correlated with improved psychometric outcomes. This study suggests a promising direction for future interventions targeting mental health through gut microbial modulation.

Effects of Very Low-Calorie Diet versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery on Body Composition in Patients with Obesity.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the most effective treatment for severe obesity. A very low-calorie diet (VLCD) is another effective dietary intervention to treat obesity. This study evaluated the effect of a VLCD versus RYGB on weight reduction, changes in body composition and the resolution of comorbidities during a 12-week period. Individuals with obesity at the obesity clinic, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 37.5 kg/m2 or ≥32.5 kg/m2 with obesity-related complications were recruited. Treatment options, either RYGB or VLCD, were assigned depending on patients' preferences and physicians' judgment. The analysis included 16 participants in the RYGB group and 15 participants in the VLCD group. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups; nevertheless, the participants in the VLCD group were significantly younger than those in the RYGB group. The number of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) was slightly higher in the RYGB group (43.8% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.552). Additionally, patients in the RYGB group had a longer duration of T2D and were treated with anti-diabetic agents, while VLCD patients received only lifestyle modifications. At 12 weeks, total and percentage weight loss in the RYGB and VLCD groups, respectively, were as follows: -17.6 ± 6.0 kg vs. -15.6 ± 5.1 kg (p = 0.335) and -16.2% ± 4.3% vs. -14.1% ± 3.6% (p = 0.147). Changes in biochemical data and the resolution of comorbidities were similar between the groups at 12 weeks. A 12-week VLCD resulted in similar weight loss and metabolic improvement compared with RYGB. Large-scale studies with long follow-up periods are needed to elucidate whether VLCD is a viable alternative treatment to bariatric surgery.

Dietary Protein and Physical Exercise for the Treatment of Sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia is a multifactorial age-related disorder that causes a decrease in muscle mass, strength, and function, leading to alteration of movement, risk of falls, and hospitalization. This article aims to review recent findings on the factors underlying sarcopenia and the strategies required to delay and counteract its symptoms. We focus on molecular factors linked to ageing, on the role of low-grade chronic and acute inflammatory conditions such as cancer, which contributes to the onset of sarcopenia, and on the clinical criteria for its diagnosis. The use of drugs against sarcopenia is still subject to debate, and the suggested approaches to restore muscle health are based on adequate dietary protein intake and physical exercise. We also highlight the difference in the amount and quality of amino acids within animal- and plant-based diets, as studies have often shown varying results regarding their effect on sarcopenia in elderly people. In addition, many studies have reported that non-pharmacological approaches, such as an optimization of dietary protein intake and training programs based on resistance exercise, can be effective in preventing and delaying sarcopenia. These approaches not only improve the maintenance of skeletal muscle function, but also reduce health care costs and improve life expectancy and quality in elderly people.

Safety and efficacy of very low calorie diet in patients receiving haemodialysis therapy.

Very low calorie diets (VLCDs) are an obesity treatment option in the general population, but their efficacy and safety in patients on haemodialysis (HD) is unknown. Prospective single arm study of VLCD in haemodialysis patients. All participants received 2.5-3.3MJ/day for 12weeks. Weekly assessment of VLCD, pre- and post-dialysis weight, inter-dialytic weight gain, and blood electrolytes occurred for the first 4 weeks, then fortnightly for another 8 weeks. Linear mixed models compared the change in weight over time as well as biochemical outcomes including potassium. Twenty-two participants [nine home HD (HHD) and 13 satellite HD (SHD)] enrolled with 19 completing the 12-week intervention. Mean post-dialysis weight declined from 121.1kg at baseline to 109.9 at week 12 resulting in average decline of 0.88kg per week (95% C.I. 0.71, 1.05, P<.001) with 12-week mean percentage weight loss9.3% (SD 3.5). Mean post-dialysis body mass index declined from 40.9kg/m2 at baseline to 37.1kg/m2 at week 12 (95% C.I. 0.25, 0.35, P<.001). Serum potassium rose from week 1 to 3, stabilized during weeks 4 to 6, and fell from week 8, returning near baseline by week 12. Six of the nine (66.6%) HHD participants and seven of the 13 (70%) SHD participants had at least one episode of hyperkalaemia (K>6mmol/l). There were no clinical changes in serum sodium, corrected calcium, or phosphate levels during the study. VLCD with dietitian supervision was effective in producing significant weight reduction, with an acceptable safety profile in patients treated with haemodialysis.

Association of protein intake with neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in adult critically ill patients

Nutritional support is very important for critically ill individuals considering that in this condition there are quite large metabolic changes. The American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition recommends an adequate protein diet in the early stages of severe illness. Critically ill patients experience inflammation and organ failure, resulting in elevated levels of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL). NGAL has gained significant attention for its potential utility as an early predictor of specific organ injury and response to inflammation. Therefore, this narrative review aims to comprehensively explore the existing literature regarding the association of protein intake with NGAL levels in adult critically ill patients. The literature study method with online-based scientific databases on research engines, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Nature, and ScienceDirect, is used in this study. From this investigation, it was found that adequate protein consumption was linked to considerably lower hospital mortality rates, duration of hospitalization, and may lower NGAL levels in patients in critical condition. Based on the review of data in previous studies, it was shown that a lower protein intake at the beginning and at the mid-end of treatment may be beneficial, providing actionable insights for the care of critically ill patients.

Metabolic effects of very-low calorie diet, Semaglutide, or combination of the two, in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background & AimsVery-low calorie diets (VLCD) and the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP1RA) Semaglutide induce significant weight loss and improve glycaemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This pilot study was conducted to explore the comparative short-term effects of these interventions individually, and in combination, on weight, body composition and metabolic outcomes. MethodsThirty individuals with T2D (age 18-75 years, BMI 27-50kg.m-2) were randomly assigned to receive Semaglutide (SEM), 800 kilocalorie/day VLCD (VLCD), or both in combination (COMB) for 12 weeks. Measurement of weight and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, and intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTT) were performed at baseline and post-intervention. Diet diaries were utilised to assess compliance. Insulin first phase response during IVGTT provided a marker of pancreatic beta-cell function, and insulin sensitivity was estimated using HOMA-IR. ResultsSignificantly greater reductions in body weight and fat mass were observed in VLCD and COMB, than SEM (p<0.01 v both). VLCD and COMB resulted in a 5.4 and 7 percentage-point greater weight loss than SEM, respectively. HbA1c and fasting glucose reduced significantly in all groups, however fasting insulin and HOMA-IR improved in VLCD and COMB only. Insulin first phase response during IVGTT increased in SEM and COMB, and this increase was significantly greater in COMB than VLCD (p<0.01). ConclusionVLCD elicited greater short-term losses of weight and fat mass than Semaglutide. Adding VLCD to Semaglutide stimulated further weight loss than Semaglutide alone. The combination did not yield any additive effects on weight and body composition above VLCD alone, but did provoke greater improvements in pancreatic beta-cell function. Thus, combination of Semaglutide and VLCD warrants further exploration as a novel approach to T2D management.

Effect of Low-Fat Diet on Depression Score in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials.

Current evidence on the effect of a low-fat (LF) diet on depression scores has been inconsistent. To explore the effect of an LF diet on depression scores of adults by systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and CENTRAL databases were searched from inception to June 7, 2023, to identify trials investigating the effect of an LF diet (fat intake ≤30% of energy intake) on the depression score. Random-effects meta-analyses were used to estimate pooled summary effects of an LF diet on the depression score (as Hedges g). Finding from 10 trials with 50 846 participants indicated no significant change in depression score following LF diets in comparison with usual diet (Hedges g = -0.11; 95% CI, -0.25 to 0.03; P = 0.12; I2 = 70.7% [for I2, 95% CI, 44%, 85%]). However, a significant improvement was observed in both usual diet and LF diets when the content of protein was 15-20% of calorie intake (LF, normal protein diet: n = 5, Hedges g = -0.21, 95% CI, -0.24 to -0.01, P = 0.04, I2 = 0%; usual, normal protein diet: n = 3, Hedges g = -0.28, 95% CI, -0.51 to -0.05, P = 0.01, I2 = 0%). Sensitivity analysis also found the depression score improved following LF diet intervention in participants without baseline depression. This study revealed that LF diet may have small beneficial effect on depression score in the studies enrolled mentally healthy participants. Moreover, achieving to adequate dietary protein is likely to be a better intervention than manipulating dietary fat to improve depression scores. However, it is not clear whether this effect will last in the long term. Conducting more studies may change the results due to the low-certainty of evidence. CRD42023420978 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO).

A very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) intervention for the management of prediabetes and early Type 2 diabetes mellitus in a multi-ethnic cohort in Aotearoa New Zealand: The PROGRESS NZ feasibility study.

Very-low calorie diets (VLCD) achieve weight loss and remission of Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), but efficacy and acceptability in non-European populations is less clear. This feasibility study examines the impact of 10% weight loss through VLCD on metabolic and body composition outcomes in a multi-ethnic cohort of Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) men with prediabetes/early T2DM, and VLCD tolerability/cultural acceptability. Participants followed a VLCD intervention (mean energy 3033kJ/day) until achievement of 10% weight loss. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), hyperinsulinaemic isoglycaemic clamp with stable isotopes, hood calorimetry and dual-energy Xray absorptiometry (DXA) were undertaken before and after intervention. Qualitative data on VLCD tolerability/cultural acceptability were collected. Fifteen participants were enrolled; nine achieved 10% weight loss. In this group, mean HbA1c reduced by 4.8mmol/mol (2.4-7.1) and reverted to normoglycaemia in n=5/9; mean body weight reduced by 12.0 kg (11.0-13.1) and whole-body glucose disposal improved by 1.5 mg kgFFM-1 min-1 (0.7-2.2). Blood pressure and fasting triglycerides improved significantly. No changes in hepatic glu-cose metabolism were found. In all participants who attended completion testing, HbA1c reduced by 3.4mmol/mol (SD 3.5) and total weight by 9.0kg (SD 5.7). The intervention was highly tolerable/culturally acceptable however challenges with fulfilment of cultural obligations were described. Results support VLCD use in AoNZ however further work to investigate ethnic differences in physiological response to VLCDs and to optimise protocols for multi-ethnic populations are required.

Long-Term Outcomes of Recipients of Liver Transplants from Living Donors Treated with a Very Low-Calorie Diet.

The increasing prevalence of steatotic liver disease (SLD) in potential living donors is concerning, as it limits donor's availability amid rising demand. OPTIFAST very low-calorie diet (VLCD), a meal replacement product, effectively reduces weight and hepatic steatosis before transplantation. However, data on the outcomes of recipients of VLCD-treated donors are lacking. We conducted a single-center, retrospective study on 199 living donor liver transplant recipients at Toronto General Hospital, Canada, between January 2015 and January 2020. We compared the 1-year posttransplant outcomes between recipients who received organs from donors treated with VLCD (N = 34) for either weight loss or steatosis reduction, with those who did not require treatment (N = 165). Our analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in the rates of postoperative complications (23% vs 32.4%, p=0.3) or intensive care unit stays (70.9% vs 70.6%, p=1) between recipients of non-VLCD and VLCD grafts. Following adjusted multivariate logistic regression, receipt of VLCD grafts was not associated with increased hospital length of stay. In addition, one-year mortality did not differ between the two groups (4.2% non-VLCD recipients vs 2.9% VLCD recipients, p=0.6). OPTIFAST VLCD treatment for liver donors demonstrates positive and safe outcomes in recipients, expanding the pool of potential living donors for increased organ availability.

Addition of very low calorie diet (VLCD) during initiation of semaglutide in individuals with type 2 diabetes – interim results

Addition of very low calorie diet (VLCD) during initiation of semaglutide in individuals with type 2 diabetes – interim results

Tailoring the high-protein texture-modified foods for the dysphagia elderly by heating whey protein isolate-pectin complexes

Adequate dietary protein intake is an effective way to combat muscle wasting disorders in the elderly, who are highly susceptible to dysphagia due to declining physiological functions. Herein, whey protein isolate (WPI) and pectin electrostatic complexes were chosen to prepare texture-modified foods with high protein (15%, w/v) for dysphagia elderly. Firstly, the region of soluble complex formation was initially identified as pH 4.2–5.5 by determination of the zeta potential of both biopolymers. Following this, it was found that the stability of WPI-pectin complexes was significantly dependent on the increase in the amount of pectin (from 1.0 to 2.0 %, w/v). However, the viscoelasticity and the degree of WPI aggregation of these complexes after heat treatment (90 °C, 20 min) both showed the lowest level at pH 4.6 (it was fluid state) regardless of the pectin content, and the degree of protein aggregation weakened with the increase of pectin content. Additionally, the shear viscosity, yield stress, and tribological properties of the thermal complexes were also positively correlated with the degree of protein thermal aggregation. Moreover, based on the dietary texture classes developed by the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI), unlike pure WPI thermally-induced gels that are attributed to level 6, the WPI-pectin thermal complexes can achieve texture class coverage from level 3 to level 6. These findings suggest that by modulating the electrostatic binding strength and positive-negative charge balance between WPI and pectin, tailored design of high-protein diets for elderly people with varying degrees of dysphagia may be achieved.

Ketogenic Diet Alleviates Mechanical Allodynia in the Models of Inflammatory and Neuropathic Pain in Male Mice.

Inflammation is involved in the induction of chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Moreover, the ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate, and adequate protein diet, has an anti-inflammatory effect. Thus, we hypothesized that a ketogenic diet has a therapeutic effect on both types of chronic pain. In the present study, we investigated the effect of a ketogenic diet on mechanical allodynia, a chronic pain symptom, in formalin-induced chronic inflammatory pain and nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain models using adult male mice. Formalin injection into the hind paw induced mechanical allodynia in both the injected and intact hind paws, and the ketogenic diet alleviated mechanical allodynia in both hind paws. In addition, the ketogenic diet prevented formalin-induced edema. Furthermore, the diet alleviated mechanical allodynia induced by peripheral nerve injury. Thus, these findings indicate that a ketogenic diet has a therapeutic effect on chronic pain induced by inflammation and nerve injury.

Effect of Preoperative Very Low-Calorie Diets on Hepatic Steatosis, Fibrosis, and Perioperative Outcomes of Bariatric Surgery.

Introduction: Preoperative weight loss through a very low-calorie diet (VLCD) has been shown to reduce liver volume and technical difficulty in patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). However, the effect of preoperative VLCD on liver histology and other outcomes is not well demonstrated. Our study aimed to explore the effect of a 2-week preoperative VLCD, compared with no-dietary intervention, on hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, weight loss, and other postoperative outcomes of MBS. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Chulalongkorn Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. The medical records of patients with severe obesity (body mass index ≥50 kg/m2) attending the clinic from January 2005 to December 2020 were reviewed. Clinical data and laboratory investigations were collected at baseline and at each follow-up visit, up to 5 years postoperatively. Hepatic steatosis and fibrosis were assessed by liver biopsy intraoperatively. Results: A total of 181 patients were included in this study. Preoperative VLCD was prescribed in 65 patients (VLCD group) and 116 patients received their usual diet (control group). Mean preoperative weight loss was 9.1 ± 6.1 kg in the VLCD group versus 0.0 ± 0.0 kg in the control group (P = .000). The VLCD group had significantly less number of patients with moderate and severe liver steatosis from the liver biopsy specimens (16.2% versus 46.3%; P = .008). However, there was no significant difference in fibrosis grade between those with VLCD and control (≥F2-fibrosis; 2.7% versus 7.5%; P = .118). Moreover, preoperative VLCD could reduce operating time in patients who underwent both laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB; VLCD 163.4 ± 38.2 minutes versus control 215.1 ± 67.4 minute, P = .000) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG; VLCD 110.8 ± 20.0 minutes versus control 131.0 ± 38.1 minutes, P = .004). During the 5-year follow-up, there were a significant difference of HbA1C between the VLCD and the control group (coefficient: -0.24 with 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.44 to -0.04, P = .019), particularly in patients who underwent LRYGB (Coefficient: -0.26 with 95% CI: -0.49 to -0.03, P = .028), but not LSG. However, long-term weight loss outcomes and other biochemical outcomes were not different between the VLCD and the control group. Conclusion: Preoperative VLCD was associated with reduced liver steatosis and operative time in patients who underwent LRYGB and LSG. Moreover, preoperative VLCD significantly decreased HbA1C during a 5-year follow-up period. Therefore, it should be considered in patients with severe obesity, who will undergo MBS.