Weight Loss Program Research Articles

Cecum microbiota composition, fermentation characteristics, and immunometabolic biomarkers of Yunshang black goat fed varying dietary energy and protein levels

IntroductionRuminants including goats have diverse microcosms of microbiota involved in diet digestion, absorption, and assimilation. Moreover, it is well known that changes in dietary regimens including nutrient levels result in varied gut microbiota composition, and ultimately, the performance and health of these animals.MethodsThe current study examined the effects of varying dietary energy and protein levels on the cecal fermentation, immune biomarkers, and microbiota characteristics of 80 male Yunshan Black Goats (6 months, ~35.82 ± 2.79 kg), divided into four diets: 1) High Energy-High Protein (HEHP), 2) High Energy-Low Protein (HELP), 3) Low Energy-High Protein (LEHP), and 4) Low Energy-Low Protein (LELP). Twenty goats (five from each treatment group) were randomly slaughtered after a 50-day feeding trial, and cecal digesta and tissue were sampled for microbial analysis.ResultsThe cecal content revealed that the high-energy groups (HEHP, HELP) had lower pH levels than the LEHP group (p < 0.05) and significantly higher valeric and isovaleric acid concentrations in HEHP. Although species richness (Chao1 index) remained consistent, the HEHP group showed higher diversity (Shannon and Simpson indices) than LEHP (p < 0.05). Dominant phyla included Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes; LEHP and LELP had significantly higher Bacteroidetes abundance than HELP, while HELP had higher Firmicutes abundance than LEHP (p < 0.05). Verrucomicrobia abundance was lower in LEHP than in HELP and LELP (p < 0.05). At the genus level, 311 genera were identified, with Clostridium, Prevotella, unidentified_BS11, and others showing significant variation. The HELP group had lower unidentified_BS11 than LEHP and LELP, and higher unidentified_Ruminococcaceae, Clostridium, and Lachnospiraceae than LEHP (p < 0.05). VFA metabolism, absorption, cytokine expression, and tight junction protein mRNA in cecal tissue were also analyzed. Genes like MCT-1 and SLC16A4, linked to VFA absorption, positively correlated with Paludibacter, which was associated with immune markers (TLR-3, TLR-4, IFN-γ) and Occludin expression. In contrast, VFA-related genes and tight junction proteins negatively correlated with unidentified Fibrobacterales, suggesting a microbial role in adaptive immunity.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that dietary energy and protein levels significantly influenced cecal fermentation, immune biomarkers, and microbiota composition in Yunshan Black Goats.

The Twin Cycle Hypothesis of type 2 diabetes aetiology: From concept to national NHS programme.

The development of magnetic resonance methods for quantifying intra-organ metabolites has permitted advances in the understanding of fasting and post-prandial carbohydrate and lipid handling in people with and without type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance in the liver was shown to be related to excess intra-organ fat and was able to be returned to normal by weight loss. The practical effect of having muscle insulin sensitivity in the lower part of the wide normal range resulted in the obligatory shunting of carbohydrates via de novo lipogenesis into saturated fat. These observations provided the basis for the Twin Cycle Hypothesis of the aetiology of type 2 diabetes. Subsequent studies on people with type 2 diabetes confirmed the postulated pathophysiological abnormalities and demonstrated their reversibility by dietary weight loss of 10-15kg. Overall, the fundamental understanding of the mechanisms causing type 2 diabetes has bridged physiological and clinical perspectives. Large population-based randomised controlled trials confirmed the practical clinical application of the method of achieving substantial weight loss, and an NHS programme is now in place offering potential remission to people within 6 years of diagnosis.

Knowledge and attitude to dietary regimen among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: implication for glycemic control.

Diabetic patients frequently face difficulty in identifying and adhering to dietary regimen, including its quality and quantity. This study assessed the knowledge and attitude to dietary regimen among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, as implication for glycemic control. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the knowledge on dietary regimen, assess the attitude to dietary regimen among diabetic patients, and determine the relationship between the knowledge and attitude to dietary regimen among diabetic patients. Descriptive survey design was used for the study. Convenience sampling technique and a sample size of 150 were used. Self-developed questionnaire was administered. Data was collected, analyzed, and presented in tables. Findings from the study shows that 80% of the respondents have knowledge on adherence to dietary regimen while 61.3% of the respondents finds keeping to dietary regimen for managing diabetes difficult. Meanwhile, highest responses were attributed to family support, this was followed by support group and enlightenment programs, while the least measure was found in mass campaign. It therefore shows that although there is high knowledge base on dietary regimen, diabetic patients often find difficulty in adhering to the prescribed regimen. Hence, it is important that measures to promote positive attitude to dietary regimen among diabetic patients be devised to enhance management outcomes.

Different Long-Term Nutritional Regimens of Drosophila melanogaster Shape Its Microbiota and Associated Metabolic Activity in a Sex-Specific Manner

The dietary habits of fruit flies profoundly influence their fitness, morphology, and physiology yet the mechanisms underlying these effects remain incompletely understood. To address this gap, the relationship between dietary regimens and the composition and function of adult Drosophila melanogaster microbiota was investigated in the present study. The adult fly microbiota communities that were reared for long time on five different diets were characterized by means of 16S rRNA sequencing. Obtained results revealed distinct community structures associated with each dietary regimen, which was additionally corroborated through machine learning-based analysis. In general, sugar-rich diets correlate with microbial ecosystems of higher richness/diversity. Dominance of the phyla Proteobacteria and Firmicutes in the microbiota was confirmed irrespective of diet, with the varying proportions of the most abundant families: Acetobacteraceae, Lactobacillaceae, Moraxellaceae, Bradyrhizobiaceae, and Leucostonocaceae. Bacterial families of lower abundance also emerged as differentially present among the studied fly groups. Additionally, functional prediction provided initial clues into how nutrient availability might modulate the metabolic traits of adult fly microbiota in a sex-specific manner to meet host metabolic needs. Overall, the presented findings highlight the intricate interplay between diet, microbiota composition, and host phenotype in fruit flies, underscoring the importance of diet as a determinant of host-microbiota interactions.

Effect of Weight-Loss Diet Combined with Taurine Supplementation on Fasting Levels of Fibroblast Growth Factors19, 21, and β -klothoCo-Receptor in Obese Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Taurine (Tau) is naturally synthesized in the body from cysteine. It plays a crucial role in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, increasing energy consumption, reducing inflammation, and controlling appetite. Some research suggests that obesity may be associated with decreased serum Tau levels. This study is the first randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a Tau supplement in combination with a weight loss intervention on fibroblast growth factors (FGF) 19, 21, and β-Klotho co-receptor in obese women. Methods: Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: a standard weight-loss group receiving 3 g/day of Tau capsules for 8 weeks (n=20) and a standard weight-loss group receiving placebo capsules for 8 weeks (n=18). The weight loss intervention aimed to reduce 30% of the total energy consumed by the participants.A paired t-test and an independent sample t-test were employed to assess parametric continuous data within and between the groups. Analysis of covariance was utilized to control for confounding variables. Results: At post-intervention, there was a significant reduction in mean changes of β-Klotho (P=0.01) in Tau group, compared to the control group. However, there were no significant differences in mean changes of FGF 19 and FGF 21 between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion:This study suggests that Tau supplementation alongside a weight loss diet may lead to a reduction in serum levels ofβ-Klothoco-receptor, which could serve as an alternative marker of obesity.

Abdominal myosteatosis measured with computed tomography predicts poor outcomes in patients with glioblastoma.

Alterations in cellular metabolism affect cancer survival and can manifest in metrics of body composition. We investigated the effects of various body composition metrics on survival in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). We retrospectively analyzed patients who had an abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scan performed within 1 month of diagnosis of GBM (178 participants, 102 males, 76 females, median age: 62.1 years). Volumetric body composition metrics were derived using automated CT segmentation of adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and aortic calcification from L1 to L5. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were performed separately in males and females using known predictors of GBM overall survival (OS) as covariates. A sex-specific composite score of predisposing and protective factors was constructed using the relative importance of each metric in GBM OS. Higher skeletal muscle volume and lower skeletal muscle fat fraction were associated with better OS in the entire dataset. A robust and independent effect on GBM OS was seen specifically for fraction of inter/intramuscular adipose tissue to total adipose tissue after correction for known survival predictors and comorbidities. Worse OS was observed with increased abdominal aortic calcification volume in both sexes. There was a significant difference in GBM OS among participants stratified into quartiles based on sex-specific composite predisposing and protective scores. The relationship between body composition and GBM OS provides an actionable advancement toward precision medicine in GBM management, as lifestyle and dietary regimens can alter body composition and metabolism and from there GBM survival.

Attitudes, beliefs and preferences surrounding home-based exercise programs in endometrial cancer patients receiving treatment.

Despite recommendations, exercise participation among endometrial cancer survivors remains low. Previous interventions focused on weight loss or in-person programs with limited reach. Regular exercise, regardless of weight change, reduces mortality risk and improves functionality. Home-based programs could address participation barriers. We conducted a qualitative study with inactive survivors to identify key factors for future home-based exercise programs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten on-treatment endometrial cancer survivors who reported low physical activity levels. Interviews, conducted via Zoom or telephone, were recorded with consent. Transcripts were coded using MAXQDA to identify attitudes, knowledge, barriers, interests, and preferences regarding home-based exercise programs. The interviews yielded four major themes, the first being the understanding survivors have of what exercise is and the perceived benefits of exercise. Second, participants were acutely aware of the barriers to exercise which included: health issues, treatment-related concerns, access to resources, limited strength, lack of support, and past negative experiences. The third theme focused on motivational factors to exercise including guidance, support systems, access to resources including technology, and a desire to be healthy as motivators towards changing exercise behaviors. Finally, participants expressed interest in exercise that incorporated fun with low impact and accessibility. Interestingly, all the participants preferred home-based exercise programs. The role of the provider/oncologist was often identified as central to the discussion or suggestion of exercise in our sample. Understanding patient needs and preferences is crucial for creating accessible and sustainable exercise programs for endometrial cancer survivors. Our study guides the development of future home-based exercise programs for this population.

Applying the Social Cognitive Theory to Design a Health Education Program on Weight-Loss Behaviors Among Police Officers: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Being overweight/having obesity is a prevalent condition not only among the general population but also among individuals with special occupations such as police officers, where fitness is often a necessity. The present study's aim was to assess how much a psychoeducational intervention based on social cognitive theory (SCT) would be helpful for encouraging weight loss behaviors among police officers. In a randomized control trial, 102 police officers who were overweight or had obesity voluntarily registered for a weight loss program and were assigned to either an intervention or control group. Participants in the intervention group took part in a health education program comprising six face-to-face 60-80minute sessions over a 6-week period that was designed based on SCT principles. The control group participated in routine worksite health promotion programs comprising weekly one-hour sessions on lifestyle-related topics and optional individual nutrition consultations. At baseline and 3months after the intervention, both groups were examined in terms of SCT's measures and weight control strategies as the primary outcomes, as well as para-clinical variables such as blood lipid profile and body mass index (BMI) as secondary outcomes. Analysis of covariance was used to assess changes from baseline to follow-up between groups. All SCT measures indicated significant improvements among those in the intervention group compared with the control group. Outcome expectancy (F=445; p<0.001) and self-efficacy (F=366; p<0.001) were the two most influential factors. Although both intervention and control groups reported significant changes in weight control behaviors, all behavioral scores in the intervention group were considerably greater than those in the controls. The dietary choice component showed the greatest change from baseline to follow-up (F=267; p<0.001). All indices of blood lipid profile also indicated significant improvements in the intervention group compared with the control group. Weight decreased significantly more from baseline to follow-up among those in the intervention group compared with those in the control group (F=69.0, p<0.001). BMI was reduced in the intervention group, while in the control group showed a slight increase (mean difference: -0.4 [CI: -0.4 to -0.3] versus 0.1 [CI: 0.0 to 0.1]). An education program based on SCT may contribute to weight loss among police officers who are overweight/have obesity. Assessment of the program's effects in other settings and occupational populations is warranted.

The Role of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: Modulating Signaling Pathways From Inflammation to Metastasis.

Punica granatum, commonly known as pomegranate, is a traditional medicinal agent owing to its antiquity. The scientific literature has shown that pomegranate extracts exhibit favorable modulation of diverse signaling pathways. These pathways encompass those implicated in inflammation, angiogenesis, hyperproliferation, cellular transformation, tumorigenesis initiation, and ultimately, a reduction in advanced metastasis and tumorigenesis. Pomegranate extracts in this context can be attributed to their high polyphenol content, which has been observed to possess inhibitory properties toward specific signaling pathways associated with cancer. As a formidable pathology, cancer is the most significant cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular disease. The annual incidence of cancer-related mortality has increased progressively. Modifying one's dietary patterns, engaging in regular physical exercise, and maintaining an optimal body mass index are three straightforward measures that an individual may undertake to mitigate their susceptibility to cancer. Incorporating diverse vegetables and fruits into one's dietary regimen exhibits promising potential for preventing a minimum of 20% cancer incidence and approximately 200,000 cancer-related mortalities annually. Vegetables and fruits contain high levels of minerals and phytochemicals, which help alleviate and prevent the harmful effects of cancer. These substances are safe and exhibit minimal toxicity in biological systems. Furthermore, they exhibit antioxidant properties and have garnered extensive approval for their use as nutritional supplements. Pomegranates are used in ancient cultures to prevent and treat various diseases. Extensive research on pomegranate extract, fruit, oil, and juice has revealed promising findings regarding their potential anti-proliferative, anti-tumorigenic, and anti-inflammatory properties through the modification of various signaling pathways related to cancer, thus demonstrating their potential as drugs to prevent and treat cancer. Emerging research indicates that pomegranate can potentially prevent and treat different cancers, including prostate, bladder, breast, skin, lung, and colon cancer.

Clinical, Etiological, and Therapeutic Profile of Early-Onset Absence Seizures: A Case Series Analysis

Typical absence seizures represent a distinctive form of epileptic activity typically observed in pediatric populations, predominantly manifesting between the ages of 4 and 10, constituting Childhood Absence Epilepsy (CAE). However, a subset of patients presents with Early-onset Absence Epilepsy (EOAE), characterized by seizure onset before the fourth year of life, often displaying favorable outcomes with antiseizure medication. Conversely, atypical absence seizures exhibit prolonged duration and frequently entail tonic, atonic, or myoclonic motor elements, suggesting a more severe clinical course, commonly associated with epileptic encephalopathies of childhood onset.Recent genetic investigations have highlighted the involvement of specific genes, notably the SLC1A2 mutation, identified in 10% of EOAE cases, underlying the GLUT1 deficiency syndrome. Timely recognition of such genetic anomalies facilitates tailored interventions, including ketogenic dietary regimes, shown to ameliorate epileptic symptomatology and neurocognitive sequelae.This retrospective study aimed to delineate the distinct features of EOAE and early-onset atypical absence seizures, facilitating prompt diagnosis, particularly emphasizing genetic aberrations, and initiating precision therapeutic approaches to optimize patient outcomes. Evaluation of 23 patients with absence epilepsy onset within the first four years of life, conducted at the Neuropediatrics Outpatient Clinic of the Policlinico of Modena, revealed that children with atypical absences often exhibit a complex clinical and electroencephalographic phenotype, frequently associated with genetic abnormalities. Notably, neurocognitive prognosis appears less favorable in this subgroup, with half of the patients displaying pharmacoresistance. In contrast, all EOAE cases demonstrated seizure freedom, corroborating previous literature suggesting a relatively benign clinical course in these individuals.

Assessing intention to use mobile phone-based self-management support among adults with type 2 diabetes in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study.

The use of mobile phone technology for chronic illness self-management is growing, and it may help people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Innovative methods are needed to improve patient involvement and disease management in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia due to the high incidence of T2DM. The purpose of this study was to explore how the T2DM patients in KSA utilizes their mobile phones for self-management. A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2025 among T2DM patients who were attending endocrinologists for their diabetes management in the Northern Border region (Rafha and Arar) and the Central region (Riyadh) in KSA using a validated questionnaire. This study included a total of 267 participants with T2DM. Nearly all participants (99.3%) possess a cellphone, with 94.8% having daily internet access. The majority of the patients reported to have an intention to use mobile phones and the internet for managing diabetes, with 78.3% for dietary planning, 79.4% for physical activity planning, and 78.7% for text messages as reminders. Factors such as female (p = 0.008), younger age (p = 0.001), and duration of diabetes (p = <0.001) were significantly associated with the intention to use mobile apps for managing their diabetes. This study demonstrates a significantly higher inclination of participants toward mobile phone technology for diabetes self-management vs. face-to-face consultations. These findings highlight the promising role of mobile phone technology for enhancing diabetes self-management among T2DM patients, thus highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

Body image victimization and eating distress in young adult females

Abstract Context: Eating distress syndrome (EDS) is characterized by distressing and conflicting thoughts about the body shape and eating behaviors accompanied by self-imposition of strict dietary and/or exercise regimes in the absence of any significant weight loss. EDS has a prevalence of nearly 11% and is associated with psychological distress, internalizing and externalizing problems, lesser well-being, and reduced quality of life. Aims: The study aimed to assess the relationship between eating-related messages and body image victimization with EDS in young adult females. Settings and Design: Purposive sampling was employed to approach an estimated sample size of 151 young adults (18–26 years). The data were collected online using e-consent through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram through Google Form (GF). Materials and Methods: There were a total of 403 respondents to GF comprising of Caregiver Eating Messages Scale, Body Image Victimization Experience Scale, and Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire Short. A total of 151 participants were recruited from 403 as per defined criteria. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis were used to tests the findings. Results: Restrictive or critical messages had a positive relationship and accounted 12% chance of occurrence of EDS. The frequency of experiences of body image victimization from peers (6%) had a greater predictive value than that from the parents (3%). Similarly, the impact of body image victimization by peers (9%) contributed more than that from the parents (4%) in the occurrence of EDS. Conclusion: Remarks or comments related to eating and appearance tend to determine how an individual perceived oneself and the course of one’s food habits or choices.

Influence of nutritional status on rehabilitation efficacy of patients after stroke—a scoping review

Stroke patients are susceptible to malnutrition as a result of dysphagia, neurological impairments, and altered levels of consciousness. The nutritional status of individuals post-stroke is a critical determinant influencing the efficacy of rehabilitation outcomes. Therefore, there is great interest in the possible role of nutrients in promoting recovery after stroke. This article examines the enhancement of rehabilitation outcomes through the improvement of nutritional status. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase databases. Articles relevant to this topic, published from the inception of each database until November 2024, were identified. The selection was restricted to randomized controlled clinical trials, irrespective of language or publication date. The search specifically targeted studies involving stroke patients, encompassing both hemorrhagic and ischemic types, and interventions that combined nutritional supplementation with rehabilitation therapy. Studies with a focus on stroke prevention were excluded. Full-text articles that met the inclusion criteria were retrieved from the aforementioned sources. In instances where both a full report and a conference abstract were available for the same study, only the full report was considered. A total of 751 studies were considered for inclusion in this scoping review. Following a rigorous screening process, 13 studies were selected for detailed analysis. All selected studies were randomized controlled clinical trials. The findings indicate that supplementation with nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, essential amino acids, and antioxidants can enhance activities of daily living, improve balance function, and reduce neurological deficits in post-stroke patients. This review aims to synthesize current evidence regarding the effects of various nutrients and dietary regimens on limb rehabilitation in post-stroke patients, with the goal of providing new insights to facilitate the accelerated recovery of this population.

Identifying Dietary Triggers Among Individuals with Overweight and Obesity: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study

Background/Objectives: Excess adiposity, affecting 43% of the global adult population, is a major contributor to cardiometabolic diseases. Lifestyle behaviours, specifically dietary habits, play a key role in weight management. Real-time assessment methods such as Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) provide context-rich data that reduce recall bias and offer insights into dietary triggers and lapses. This study examines dietary triggers among adults with excess adiposity in Singapore using EMA, focusing on factors influencing dietary adherence and lapses. Methods: A total of 250 participants with a BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2 were recruited to track dietary habits for one week, at least three times a day, using the Eating Behaviour Lapse Inventory Survey Singapore (eBLISS) embedded within the Eating Trigger Response Inhibition Program (eTRIP© V.1) smartphone app. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of dietary adherence. Results: Of the 4708 responses, 76.4% of the responses were indicative of adherence to dietary plans. Non-adherence was primarily associated with food accessibility and negative emotions (stress, nervousness, and sadness). Factors such as meals prepared by domestic helpers and self-preparation were significantly associated with adherence. Negative emotions and premenstrual syndrome were identified as significant predictors of dietary lapses. Conclusions: EMA offers valuable insights into dietary behaviours by identifying real-time triggers for dietary lapses. Future interventions can utilise technology-driven approaches to predict and prevent lapses, potentially improving adherence and weight management outcomes.

CC genotype at TCF7L2 diabetes risk locus rs7903146 directs a coordinated fatty acid response to a Mediterranean diet intervention: a randomized controlled trial.

Previous studies identified genetic links between the TCF7L2 C/T variant rs7903146, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and obesity. We wished to deepen our understanding of how specific diets interact with this variant to affect blood metabolites, an aspect not previously investigated. Hence, we conducted a controlled study where individuals with different genotypes followed a Mediterranean (Med) or low-fat (LF) diet for one week. Participants were recruited from the Boston, MA (USA) area. Anthropometric and clinical measures were taken. Genotypes at rs7903146 were ascertained, with homozygous carriers of the more common and protective CC or risk TT genotype invited to participate. Participants followed both diets (LF or Med) for one week with ~10 days' washout between diets. Blood samples taken at the beginning and end of each diet period underwent metabolomics analysis using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We evaluated how the diet affected different metabolites based on genetic profile. The cohort of 35 persons was 43% female, aged 18 to 70 y, with BMI between 26.4 to 33.9 kg/m2. Focusing on fatty acids (FAs) and other lipid metabolic factors (n = 23), we observed a greater number and stronger correlations among these factors in the CC genotype-Med diet group than the other three genotype-diet combinations. An aggregate of 11 factors, each negatively correlating with delta saturated fatty acids (SFA), showed a significant genotype-Med diet interaction on delta-SFA in CC individuals on the Med diet (p = 0.0046). A similar genotype-Med diet interaction was observed for delta-monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) (p = 0.0078). These interactions were not statistically significant at the end of the LF intervention. Our findings suggest that the Mediterranean diet has stronger influence on regulating lipid factors in individuals with the CC genotype at TCF7L2 variant rs7903146. This diet-genotype interaction may have significant implications for understanding the inter-individual variation of metabolic response on specific dietary regimens.

Owners’ perceptions of dog treat management in Western Romania

IntroductionWithin the broader-than-ever palette of pet foods, dog treats are an assortment sustained by powerful marketing tools and compelling advertising. The wide range and availability of these products often pair with the fondness of owners for their companions, leading to overfeeding them with rewards.MethodsThis study explored owner treat provision behaviors among 890 voluntarily participating dog owners in Western Romania through an online survey conducted between June and November 2023.ResultsThe majority of respondents were women (72%) and younger adults aged 18–24 (39%). Emotional attachment was the primary motivation for providing treats (52%), followed by perceived health benefits (35%) and training purposes (25%). However, 84% of respondents did not account for the caloric value of treats in their dogs' daily diet, and only 16% adjusted their dogs' main meals to compensate for treat provision. Preferences leaned toward treats with dental benefits (58%) and biscuits (52%). Many owners reported offering treats multiple times daily, highlighting the role of treats in owner-dog bonding. Chi-square tests of independence, with Bonferroni-adjusted post-hoc pairwise comparisons, revealed significant associations between treat provision frequency, owner demographics, and dog characteristics. Younger owners (18–24 years) were significantly more likely to provide treats at higher frequencies, with 31.8% giving treats 'multiple times daily' compared to 7.1% of older owners (&amp;gt;55 years) (p&amp;lt;0.002). Similarly, single owners provided treats more frequently, with 31.9% giving treats 'once daily' and 42.1% 'multiple times daily', compared to 7.1% and 22.4%, respectively, among owners in committed relationships (p&amp;lt;0.005). Owners who provided treats less frequently, 'seldom' (80.7%) or 'a few times a week' (87.8%), were more likely to have dogs with an ideal weight, while higher treat frequencies – 'once daily' (40.0%) or 'multiple times daily' (52.7%), were significantly associated with overweight or obese dogs (p&amp;lt;0.003).DiscussionThese findings underscore the importance of educating dog owners on aligning treat provision with caloric requirements and promoting responsible feeding practices. Veterinarians play a critical role in guiding owners toward balanced feeding strategies that incorporate treats into comprehensive dietary plans. Addressing treat provision behaviors is essential to mitigating health risks, improving canine nutrition, and promoting overall well-being.

Effectiveness of RESET care program: A real-world-evidence on managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease through digital health interventions.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) management requires sustainable lifestyle modifications. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the RESET care plan, a comprehensive program that is an integrated personalized diet, exercise, and cognitive behavior therapy, delivered via MyTatva's digital health application enabled through a body composition analyzer (BCA) and smartwatch. To evaluates the effectiveness of the comprehensive program delivered via MyTatva's digital health app enabled through internet of thing devices. This retrospective observational study analyzed deidentified data from 22 participants enrolled in the MyTatva RESET care program. Participants were divided into three groups: Group A, diet plan; Group B, diet + exercise plan; and Group C, diet + exercise + cognitive behavioral therapy plan. Participants were provided with a BCA and smartwatch for continuous monitoring of anthropometric parameters. Statistical analysis, including one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test, was conducted to compare mean changes in anthropometric parameters across the groups. All intervention groups showed significant improvement across all anthropometric parameters. Group C showed the most significant improvements, with mean weight reduction of 7% or more (6.99 ± 2.98 kg, 7.00% ± 3.39%; P = 0.002) from baseline, a benchmark associated with improved NAFLD conditions. Post-hoc analysis revealed that Group C had significantly greater improvements than Groups A and B. Weight reduction was observed in 85.7% of Group A participants, 77.8% of Group B participants, and 100% of Group C participants. The comprehensive RESET care plan achieved a 7% weight reduction in 12 weeks, demonstrating its effectiveness in managing NAFLD. These results support adopting digitally supported, patient-centric approaches for NAFLD treatment.

Effects of Silibinin on Delaying Aging in Drosophila melanogaster

Aging is an inevitable physiological process, but delaying aging has always been an enduring human pursuit. Silibinin (SIL), derived from the seeds of the milk thistle plant, exhibits a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties, including anti-tumor effects, liver protection, inhibition of apoptosis, and alleviation of inflammation. However, whether it has anti-aging effects remains unclear. The SIL dietary supplement to Drosophila melanogaster prolonged lifespan, improved climbing ability, ameliorated age-associated intestinal barrier disruption, enhanced the resistance to oxidative stress, and increased the enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, RNA-seq results showed that SIL addition significantly upregulated 74 genes and downregulated 50 genes compared with the control. KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes) analysis demonstrated that these differentially expressed genes were primarily involved in the Toll signaling pathway and endoplasmic reticulum proteins processing, six among which, including IM2, IM3, Drsl3, CG7556, GCS1, and TRAM, were particularly involved in the regulation by SIL supplementation. The results indicate that SIL exhibits anti-aging effects by enhancing antioxidant capacity and regulating aging-related signaling pathways. Therefore, SIL shows a potential application in anti-aging dietary regimens.

Optimized Diet Plans for Indian Adults Engaged in Regular Exercise

Optimized Diet Plans for Indian Adults Engaged in Regular Exercise

Evaluation of an online Cardiometabolic and Weight Loss Program. A mixed methods study.

Risk factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) can be addressed through behavior modification, including changes in diet and physical activity. In 2021, The Wellness Institute (WI), located at Seven Oaks General Hospital, created a virtual cardiometabolic risk reduction program in response to COVID-19 pandemic public health restrictions, encompassing virtual health coaching and lifestyle education. The objective was to evaluate the acceptability, adherence, efficacy and engagement of the WI online cardiometabolic and weight loss program. The study followed a mixed methods quasi-experimental design. A total of 93 participants enrolled. Quantitative measures including anthropometrics, blood chemistry, and lifestyle were assessed for changes via paired t-tests at baseline and 16 weeks. Qualitatively, short answer questionnaires and three focus groups were completed to understand participants' experiences and program acceptability. We combined qualitative and quantitative data for analysis. Seventy-three participants (64 female, 87.7%) completed the final study visit (age 58 ± 11 years, weight 98 ± 20.9 kg). Of those, 98% attended all coaching sessions, would recommend the program, and reported the coaching sessions helped them stay motivated. A reduction in weight (5 ± 9 kg, p<0.001), systolic blood pressure (6 ± 10 mmHg, p<0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (4 ± 8 mmHg, p<0.001) were observed. Lifestyle factors also improved, including increases in physical activity (p<0.05). Most participants adhered to the program and found it acceptable. Completion was associated with an improvement in weight and blood pressure. These findings highlight the potential of virtual programming to contribute to improving lifestyle and health. Clinicaltrials.gov (ID# NCT04784624CT).