Weight Loss Program Research Articles

Resistant starch's effect on blood glucose levels in individuals with prediabetes and diabetes mellitus: A systematic review

<p><strong><em>Background: </em></strong><em>Diabetes ranks among the ten leading causes of mortality. Patients with diabetes who do not effectively manage their condition run the risk of developing severe complications. An appropriate dietary regimen is considered a fundamental aspect of effectively managing diabetes. One potential treatment option for diabetics is resistant starch (RS), which is supposed to control blood glucose levels. </em></p><p><strong><em>Objectives: </em></strong><em>The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of resistant starch on food items characterized by a high glycemic index.</em><em></em></p><p><strong><em>Methods: </em></strong><em>The methodology employed in this scholarly article is a systematic review. A comprehensive search was conducted across five prominent academic databases, namely EBSCO, PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The search strategy involved utilizing specific keywords, The presentation of the findings in this article adheres to the established guidelines and principles outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review (PRISMA). </em></p><p><strong><em>Results:</em></strong> <em>A total of eight statistically significant findings were observed, indicating that the consumption of starches effectively reduced blood sugar levels</em>. The papers utilized genuine experimentation and quasi-experiment approaches within the past five years. <em>Numerous interventions involving resistant starch have demonstrated efficacy in the reduction of blood glucose levels. These interventions include the retrogradation of rice, the consumption of natural starch found in bananas and whole grains, as well as the addition of oil during the cooking process of rice. </em></p><p><strong><em>Conclusions: </em></strong><em>The inclusion of different forms of resistant starch in the dietary regimen of individuals with diabetes may be a viable option. However, it is important to acknowledge the significance of incorporating complementary food items in addition to the primary staple foods that are consumed. The utilization of resistant starch has been found to be an effective strategy for reducing blood glucose levels among individuals with diabetes.</em><em></em></p>

Aerobic Exercise Improved Cardiac Inflammation Through Regulate <i>PKR</i>/<i>TLR </i>Pathway in Obese Rat

Background: Obesity is a direct contributor to cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiac failure. Objectives: The goal of this study was to examine how aerobic training impacts cardiac biomarkers by analyzing the protein kinase R (PKR)/toll-like receptor (TLR) gene expression in an obesity model induced by a high-fat/fructose diet. Methods: In this study, we used 24 Wistar rats with a weight range of 204 ± 11.3 grams. They were divided into three groups: A standard diet group, a high-fat diet (HFD) with fructose group (60% fat and 25% fructose), and an obese rats group with aerobic exercise. At the end of the study, the Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A (Lp-PLA2), cystatin C, and PKR/TLR gene expression were measured in all groups. Results: Compared to the control group, the HFD with fructose increased the Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, Lp-PLA2, and cystatin C. The expression levels of TLR (P ≤ 0.001) and PKR (P ≤ 0.01) genes in the cardiac tissue of obese rats were significantly higher than those in the control group. The obese rats showed a significant decrease in PKR gene expression when following the high-fat/fructose diet plus aerobic exercise regimen. However, the obese group did not exhibit a significant difference in TLR4 gene expression compared to the HFD plus aerobic exercise rats. Conclusions: Based on the data, aerobic exercise was found to affect the PKR/TLR pathway, leading to improved cardiovascular inflammatory biomarkers in obese rats.

Obesity and Weight Loss Diets in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients: What Physicians Should Know.

Nutritional approach has been intensely investigated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, but, despite many sparse reports, at present, there is not a universally accepted specific diet. In fact, nutritional requirements and, therefore, the ideal diet, may vary according to disease type, extension and activity. Among nutritional related issue in IBD, obesity has become a relevant one. In fact, obesity and IBD are both increasing in prevalence in last decades, and more and more IBD patients are overweight or obese. These two conditions present common metabolic pathways, leading to dysbiosis and mucosal barrier dysfunction, but the real clinical relationship and the potential reciprocal relative influences are not clear. In order to control weight, many IBD patients follow different weight loss diets, often without any specialized medical advice. Among those, low carb, intermittent fasting, paleolithic, and low-fat diets are some of the most popular, and plant based and Mediterranean diet, even though they are not just strictly weight loss diets, are followed by many IBD patients even for weight control. All the diets mentioned above have been effectively associated with weight loss, reduction in waist circumference and body mass index. However, there are still conflicting data regarding safety in IBD patients and potential experimental and clinical anti-inflammatory effect. In the present review, we described potential relations between obesity and IBD, and we analysed available evidence on efficacy and safety of weight loss diets in IBD patients, in order to provide a practical guide to physicians.

Black Soldier Fly Larvae's Optimal Feed Intake and Rearing Density: A Welfare Perspective (Part II).

The large-scale insect rearing sector is expected to grow significantly in the next few years, with Hermetia illucens L. (black soldier fly, BSF) playing a pivotal role. As with traditional livestock, it is essential to improve and ensure BSF welfare. A starting point can be an adaptation of the Five Freedoms framework. Feed availability must be optimized to meet larvae nutritional needs (freedom from hunger) while maximizing substrate conversion efficiency. Similarly, rearing density needs to be optimized to ensure well-being, particularly in large-scale operations. In this study, Control (commercial laying hen feed) and Omnivorous substrates (vegetable and meat) were used as dietary regimes. In the first trial, three feeding rates were tested: 50, 100, and 200 mg feed/larva/day; in the second trial, three rearing densities were evaluated: 5, 10, and 15 larvae/cm2. Performance parameters, including final larval weight, final frass biomass, growth rate, substrate reduction, feed conversion ratio, larval length, survival rate, larvae chemical composition, and process optimization, were studied. Our results show that a feeding rate of approximately 90 mg feed/larva/day in the Omnivorous diet and 175 mg feed/larva/day in the Control diet, along with a rearing density of 5 and 7.57 larvae/cm2, respectively, in the Omnivorous and Control diets, produced optimal growth performances ensuring larval well-being. This outcome offers valuable insights for implementing good welfare practices in the insect farming sector and optimizing rearing management and efficiency.

Association between dietary intake of macro-nutrient and type 2 diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, has emerged as a major public health concern worldwide. From among, type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is the most common type, accounting for 90% of all diabetes cases, and the prevalence is the highest of middle-aged group, but has increased in young adults. Its pathophysiology is multifaceted, but mainly characterized by altered function of pancreatic -cells for insulin production and diminished response of insulin by peripheral tissues. The reasons are heterogeneous, such as family history and age, however, unhealthy diet, inactivity and obesity act as the major modifiable risk factor in onset of the disease. The relationship between dietary factors and type 2 diabetes has been extensively studied, summarizing the components of macronutrients help to modulate insulin balance and glucose homeostasis. So, an effective regulation of dietary intervention is robust related to dieticians and related staff help patients to mitigate insulin balance, T2DM, and several complications. This essay reviews the relationship between intake of major macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein) and related diet regimen on insulin and glucose regulation. Insight into nutrigenetic interactions will aid in uncovering molecular mechanisms of T2DM and enable practical application of precision nutrition plan for T2DM patients.

Comparative Impact of Alternate-Day Fasting and Time-Restricted Feeding on Placental Function and Fetal Development in Maternal Obesity

Background: Maternal obesity detrimentally affects placental function and fetal development. Both alternate-day fasting (ADF) and time-restricted feeding (TRF) are dietary interventions that can improve metabolic health, yet their comparative effects on placental function and fetal development remain unexplored. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effects of ADF and TRF on placental function and fetal development during maternal consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD). Methods: One hundred 8-week-old female mice were assigned to one of four dietary regimens: (1) normal diet with ad libitum feeding (NA); (2) HFD with ad libitum feeding (HA); (3) HFD with ADF (HI); and (4) HFD with TRF (HT), administered both before and during pregnancy. On gestational day 18.5, serum and placental samples were collected from both mothers and fetuses to examine placental function and fetal development. Results: During gestation, both ADF and TRF substantially alleviated the metabolic impairments caused by an HFD in obese maternal mice. TRF mice demonstrated enhanced placental nutrient transport and fetal development, associated with reduced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammatory responses. In contrast, ADF markedly intensified placental stress and inflammatory responses, diminished placental nutrient transport efficiency, and consequently induced fetal growth restriction. Conclusions: Both ADF and TRF during pregnancy significantly mitigated metabolic impairments in obese dams on an HFD. TRF mice demonstrated enhanced placental nutrient transport and fetal development, associated with reduced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inflammatory responses. In contrast, ADF markedly intensified placental stress and inflammatory responses, diminished placental nutrient transport efficiency, and consequently induced fetal growth restriction.

How to reduce the adverse effects of weight stigma on the quality of life: a preferred reported items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA).

Obesity, affecting 38% of adults globally, carries economic burdens and health risks like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Weight-loss programs often face challenges due to stigma and poor body image, impacting individuals' quality of life. Research on interventions targeting weight stigma is lacking, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches addressing psychological and behavioral aspects for effective care. A systematic literature review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched into three databases (PubMed, APA PsycArticles/PsycInfo, and Web of Science) articles published between 1975 and 2024. Studies were eligible if they involved people living with overweight or obesity who participate in a psychological program targeting, or not, weight stigma and if at least one outcome was related to weight stigma. We selected 24 studies published between 2009 and 2022, the majority concerning English-speaking countries. Reduction in weight stigma was observed in 23/24 studies, particularly through cognitive-behavioral techniques (18/24 studies), while others studies emphasized individual predispositions and the need for longer, and denser interventions. Three relevant characteristics emerged from the studies analysed: content, duration and tools. Cognitive-behavioral techniques were central, aiding participants in managing their condition and coping with stigma. Interventions reducing Weight Bias Internalization (WBI) led to improved psychosocial determinants, yet the mechanisms remain unclear. Future research should address intervention duration, participant involvement, and the association between WBI and psychosocial factors to enhance outcomes and understanding.

Diet and lifestyle related knowledge among sample of autoimmune arthritis Egyptian patients

Abstract Background An unhealthy diet, characterized by elevated consumption of fats and sugars, has detrimental effects on the incidence, progression, and treatment outcomes of arthritis. However, adherence to healthy dietary regimens among these patients remains low. This study aims to assess the knowledge of healthy diet and lifestyle among a cohort of autoimmune arthritis Egyptian patients. Methods We conducted this cross-sectional study on 502 patients diagnosed with autoimmune arthritis, using 302 online and 200 printed questionnaire forms. The questionnaire comprised sections on socioeconomic status (five questions), information on autoimmune diseases (three questions), nutrition (15 questions), and lifestyle habits (four questions). Results A total of 502 respondents were enrolled, with 64.5% having rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Only 26.9% of patients were aware of the lifestyle and dietary impact on their disease symptoms. Most patients (89.6%) had good knowledge about the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and 63.3% knew that consuming fish is beneficial. However, 55.7% were aware of the benefits of physical activity. The total knowledge score was 57.8%. Responses were classified as poor in 217 patients, primarily those unemployed and living in rural areas; moderate in 150 patients; and good in only 135 patients. Additionally, younger individuals demonstrated better knowledge scores. Conclusions Egyptian patients with autoimmune arthritis exhibited fair to moderate knowledge regarding the impact of anti-inflammatory diets and exercise on the symptoms of autoimmune arthritis and the influence of nutrients on immunity and inflammation. It is essential to prioritize the therapeutic role of nutrition in proactive medical management, signifying the fundamental shift in healthcare management.

The combined effect of medicinal plant extract and sulfonylurea agent: a preliminary study to evaluate anti-diabetic potential in experimental animals

Chronic metabolic diseases like diabetes mellitus have a huge terrible effect on a society's health and monetary system. because there are various issues with the treatment this is now available. it is important to search for trade remedies. A aggregate of natural and allopathic remedy can be an effective remedy as an possibility to available treatment. therefore, the purpose of this take a look at have turn out to be to take a look at the combination anti-diabetic outcomes of Glibenclamide and “aloe vera” extract in experimental animals. The antihyperglycemic pastime turned into assessed using an oral glucose tolerance take a look at and diabetes brought about using manner of the use of streptozotocin (STZ) & excessive fat weight loss plan (HFD) version in rats. Wister rats were divided into 5 organizations. business enterprise I was dealt with with a normal pallet diet regime. group II come to be given HFD and streptozotocin. employer III has come to be given HFD &Streptozotocin and treated with Glibenclamide. organization IV was modified into given HFD & Streptozotocin and dealt with with “aloe vera” extract. agency V modified into given HFD & Streptozotocin and handled with a way containing “aloe vera” extract and Glibenclamide. Physiological parameters which incorporate body weight and biochemical parameters consisting of blood glucose, HbA1c level, lipid profiles, and oxidative strain parameters collectively with glutathione (GSH) & malondialdehyde (MDA) degree were used to assess the antidiabetic potential of a method containing “aloe vera” extract and glibenclamide. approach containing “aloe vera” extract and Glibenclamide. device containing “aloe vera” extract and Glibenclamide has a good-sized effect in controlling blood glucose ranges. lower in HbA1c degree, and lipid profiles (besides HDL stage)verify effective anti-diabetic remedy of the test system. similarly, massive adjustments in GSH & MDA tiers propose a functionality synergistic anti-oxidant impact of the mixed remedy. the existing take a look at observed out that a technique containing “aloe vera” extract and Glibenclamide confirmed a good sized antidiabetic ability, via the reversing of hyperlipidemia, and oxidative pressure fame in non-diabetic & diabetes rats.

EFFECT OF DIETARY MEAL PLAN ON ANTHROPOMETRIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL INDICES AMONG OVERWEIGHT WOMEN PRACTICING ZUMBA

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary meal plan on anthropometric and physiological indices such as body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences, percentage of fat and blood pressure among overweight women practicing Zumba. The participants consisted of 20 overweight women who were aged 18 until 55 years old, which were not involved in weight loss program, not on medication, do not have any chronic diseases and did not consume any weight loss supplement or meal replacement. Body weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, percentage of fat and diastolic and systolic blood pressure were measured at the end week 1, week 4 and week 8. All participants received Zumba exercise along with dietary meal plan interventions and data were collected using a 24-hour dietary recall and a 3-days food diary. The effects of Zumba exercise with applied meal plan were analyzed by using one-way repeated measures MANOVA. The results showed that Zumba exercise combined with dietary meal plan showed a significant different in body weight (p<.001), BMI (p<.001), hip circumference (p<.001), waist circumference (p<.001), and percentage of fat (p<.001) after 8-week intervention. However, there was no significant difference in the systolic blood pressure (p<.05) after 8 weeks of intervention. Interestingly, these data show a significant difference between week 1 vs week 4 (p < .001) in this study. This study concludes that meal plan and Zumba exercise provide significant effects on body weight, BMI, hip and waist circumference, percentage of fat and systolic blood pressure (week 1 vs week 4) thus may improve anthropometric and physiological indices among overweight women.

Advancements of AI in healthcare: a comprehensive review of ChatGPT's applications and challenges.

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence into healthcare has introduced transformative possibilities and challenges. The current narrative review was planned to explore diverse applications of Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) across medical domains, ranging from dietary planning and disease management to medical education and clinical decision support. A comprehensive analysis of ChatGPT's healthcare applications was conducted between July and September 2023, reviewing literature from prominent medical journals and databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library and the Cumulated Index in Nursing and Allied Health Literature. The studies revealed notable limitations, including inaccuracies, bias and potential safety concerns. Quantitative data highlighted ChatGPT's high accuracy rates in disease detection, nutrient sufficiency in ChatGPTgenerated diet plans and various medical scenarios. The predominantly quantitative evaluations might overlook nuanced qualitative aspects, such as users' perceptions, experiences and ethical concerns. Studies often focus on specific domains, potentially limiting generalisability. Evolving artificial intelligence technology warrants longterm impact assessment, including ChatGPT's contextual appropriateness and accommodation of individual preferences. ChatGPT shows promise in healthcare, but needs specialised training for medical use. Ethical concerns, data quality and interpretability require thorough investigation for responsible implementation.

Can exercise as a complementary technique manage inflammatory markers in women with breast cancer who are overweight and obese? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Inflammation can result in the development of breast cancer in women with overweight and obese, and also affects the outcome and prognosis of breast cancer patients, thereby decreasing the cure and survival rates of breast cancer patients. Exercise may benefit breast cancer patients as a supplement to conventional treatments. However, research on the effects of exercise on inflammatory markers in women with breast cancer who are overweight and obese remains incomplete. A systematic review and meta-analysis were used to study the effects of exercise on inflammatory markers in women with breast cancer who are overweight and obese. Literature up to May 2024 was searched from databases such as Cochrane, Embase, Pubmed, Web of Science, and EBSCO, and English-language randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that met the inclusion criteria were screened. The screening criteria were as follows (A) written in English; (B) RCT; (C) studied in women with overweight obese and breast cancer; (D) outcome measures: inflammatory markers; (E) the duration of the exercise intervention was unlimited. A total of 14 articles and 1064 participants were included. Exercise significantly reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) (MD: -0.52, 95 % CI: -0.94 to -0.11; p = 0.01; heterogeneity p < 0.1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (MD: -0.87, 95 % CI: -1.62 to -0.11; p = 0.02; heterogeneity p < 0.1), and leptin (MD: -0.92, 95 % CI: -1.71 to -0.13; p = 0.02; heterogeneity p < 0.1) levels and exercise significantly increased adiponectin levels (MD: 0.89, 95 % CI: 0.03-1.75, p = 0.04; heterogeneity p < 0.1) but had no effect on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (MD: -0.26, 95 % CI: -0.82-0.29; p = 0.35; heterogeneity p < 0.1) and IL-10 (MD: 0.14, 95 % CI: -0.17-0.45; p = 0.37; heterogeneity p = 0.45) were not significant. In addition, subgroup analyses suggest that combination training (CE) may be the most recommended type of exercise to decrease pro-inflammatory markers, and increase anti-inflammatory markers in women with overweight obesity, and have breast cancer. Exercise significantly reduced CRP, IL-6, and leptin levels and overall increased adiponectin levels in women with overweight obese, and breast cancer. However, the effects on TNF-α and IL-10 levels were not significant. CE may be the most recommended type of exercise for reducing pro-inflammatory factors and increasing anti-inflammatory factors. Therefore, this study considers exercise as an effective complementary approach to managing inflammatory markers in women with breast cancer who are overweight and obese. Future researchers may consider exploring the combined effects of exercise and dietary control, weight loss, and other factors, and formulate a comprehensive treatment plan accordingly.

Beyond Hunger: A Connection Between Diet and Gonadal Development of a Ladybird Beetle.

Food availability shapes morphology, physiology, growth, reproduction, and overall fitness of insects. Countless research in coccinellids reported the effect of diet in terms of quality and quantity on reproductive output. But fewer studies have reported the direct effects of food on the gonadal development in both sexes. In nature, ladybird beetle Cheilomenes sexmaculata exhibit food preference, favouring Aphis craccivora (nutritious prey) over Aphis nerii (poor prey). We hypothesized that beetles consuming nutritious prey in abundant quantity will have larger and heavier gonads. The current study assessed the effect of food preferred and its fluctuations on the gonadal development of C. sexmaculata. First instars were collected randomly from experimental stock and reared on two different diet regimes for a lifetime. After eclosion, beetles from each dietary regime were dissected daily to assess gonadal development until maturity. Here, we documented total developmental duration, body weight, weight of gonads, GSI, total area of gonads, length, and number of testicular lobules/ovarioles across different treatments. Both quality and quantity of diet significantly affected development period, body weight, and gonadal parameters in both sexes except for GSI in males and number of ovarioles in females that reared on varied diet quality, which were found to be similar. Aphis craccivora in abundant supply positively affected the growth and development of the gonads in C. sexmaculata. Beetles reared on the abundant supply of nutritious prey with larger and heavier gonads than those reared on limited supply or poor prey. This study improves our understanding of the development of gonads in ladybird beetles, which may be helpful in improving the mass rearing of ladybird beetles.

Momoridica charantia and fermented Momoridica charantia with Leuconostoc mesenteroides MKSR change intestinal microbial diversity indices and compositions in high-fat and high-cholesterol diet-fed C57BL/6 male mice.

This study explores the impact of 4% Momordica charantia (MC) and 4% fermented Momordica charantia (FMC) on gut microbiota and obesity-related health outcomes in male C57BL/6 mice, a model relevant to veterinary sciences for understanding metabolic and gut health disorders in animals. Mice were assigned to four dietary regimens, including control, high-fat and high-cholesterol diet (POS), POS with 4% MC, and POS with 4% FMC (fermented with Leuconostoc mesenteroides MKSR) over 12 weeks. Fecal samples were collected for 16S rRNA sequencing to evaluate microbial diversity and composition, key factors influencing animal health. Both MC and FMC groups exhibited significant alterations in gut microbial communities, with FMC inducing a distinct shift in beta diversity indices. Changes in microbial taxa such as Bacteroidetes, Verrucomicrobia, and Firmicutes were observed, along with enhancement in the 'L-glutamate and L-glutamine biosynthesis' pathway. These shifts were associated with reduced body weight gain and liver weights. The findings suggest that MC and FMC have potential benefits for managing diet-induced metabolic disorders and protecting against obesity by modulating gut microbiota and improving gut metabolism.

Sulfur Amino Acid Restriction Mitigates High-Fat Diet-Induced Molecular Alterations in Cardiac Remodeling Primarily via FGF21-Independent Mechanisms.

Background/Objectives: Dietary sulfur amino acid restriction (SAAR) elicits various health benefits, some mediated by fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). However, research on SAAR's effects on the heart is limited and presents mixed findings. This study aimed to evaluate SAAR-induced molecular alterations associated with cardiac remodeling and their dependence on FGF21. Methods: Male C57BL/6J wild-type and FGF21 knockout mice were randomized into four dietary regimens, including normal fat and high-fat diets (HFDs) with and without SAAR, over five weeks. Results: SAAR significantly reduced body weight and visceral adiposity while increasing serum FGF21 levels. In the heart, SAAR-induced molecular metabolic alterations are indicative of enhanced lipid utilization, glucose uptake, and mitochondrial biogenesis. SAAR also elicited opposing effects on the cardiac gene expression of FGF21 and adiponectin. Regarding cellular stress responses, SAAR mitigated the HFD-induced increase in the cardiac expression of genes involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, while upregulating antioxidative genes. Structurally, SAAR did not induce alterations indicative of cardiac hypertrophy and it counteracted HFD-induced fibrotic gene expression. Overall, most alterations induced by SAAR were FGF21-independent, except for those related to lipid utilization and glucose uptake. Conclusions: Altogether, SAAR promotes cardiac alterations indicative of physiological rather than pathological remodeling, primarily through FGF21-independent mechanisms.

CLINICAL EVALUATION OF JATIPHALADI LEPA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF MUKHADUSHIKA: INSIGHTS FROM YOGARATNAKARA

Background: Mukhadushika (acne vulgaris) is a prevalent dermatological condition described in Ayurveda as resulting from the vitiation of Vata, Kapha, and Rakta. Effective management necessitates treatments with Vata-Kapha pacifying and Rakta-shodhana (blood-purifying) properties. Jatiphaladi Lepa, an Ayurvedic formulation, was selected for its potential to address these factors. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Jatiphaladi Lepa in managing Mukhadushika and its ability to restore homeostasis of Vata, Kapha, and Rakta. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 subjects with Mukhadushika were divided into two groups: Group A (trial group, 30 subjects) received Jatiphaladi Lepa with a prescribed diet, while Group B (control group, 30 subjects) followed the diet plan alone. In Group A, Jatiphaladi Lepa was applied once daily for 30 days, with follow-ups every 15 days. Group B adhered only with the diet chart with similar follow-ups. Results: The trial group significantly reduced symptoms, especially in managing Yuvan Pidaka (acne lesions). The formulation effectively restored the balance of Vata, Kapha, and Rakta. Conclusion: Jatiphaladi Lepa is an effective Ayurvedic treatment for Mukhadushika. It offers significant im-provements by addressing the condition's root causes, as described in Ayurveda.

Delving into the dietary delights of cucurbits: A nutritional and therapeutic exploration

For a well-balanced diet, vegetables are essential, especially as a source of minerals, dietary fiber, vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, B9, C, D and E) and phytonutrients which are vital to human nutrition. They constitute a sizable percentage of the diet and nutrition. The Cucurbitaceae family of plants include a wide variety of vegetables that have been valued for their nutritional and culinary versatility. They are been grown for commercial purposes round the year. Cucurbits are preferred by many people and can be eaten raw or cooked because of its high water content and low fat content, they facilitate for weight management and hydration. They are utilized in a balanced diet since they have good nutrient profile and little calories. Cucurbits have been shown to be high in dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals, making them suitable for intake by persons of all ages. They have strong antioxidant activity as well as a number of therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antitumour, anti-diabetic and anti-ulcer qualities. Understanding the nutritional characteristics of cucurbits is imperative to make aware about the most of their health benefits and including them into diet plans that aim to improve overall health and well-being. Cucurbit nutrition, emphasizing key nutrients, health-promoting qualities and possible effects on human health are the topic taken for discussion in this review.

Nutrition peculiarities and level of awareness in the issues of rational nutrition of the working population of the Sverdlovsk region

Introduction. The peculiarities of the culture of food consumption and the level of awareness in matters of nutrition of the working population of the Sverdlovsk region have been analyzed, the trends contributing to the formation of irrational nutrition have been noted, and recommendations for preventive work have been formulated.The purpose of the study: to identify the peculiarities of food consumption culture and to determine the level of awareness of nutrition among the working population of the Sverdlovsk region.Materials and methods. A quantitative method was used – an online survey using Computer Assisted WEB Interviewing (CAWI) technology with 2,500 respondents. Quota sampling by gender and age of respondents, with the definition of the territory of residence was calculated.Results. The number of meals inappropriate to the recommendations, predominance of carbohydrate component in breakfasts and low representation of vegetables and fruits at any meal were revealed. The tendency to prepare food at home remains. A high level of awareness of working residents of the Sverdlovsk region on issues of rational nutrition was revealed – 73%, with a low level of awareness of the impact of dietary intake on the risk of chronic non-infectious diseases – 48%.Conclusion. It is recommended to disseminate information on the relationship between nutrition and the risk of occurrence and development of chronic non-communicable diseases. Emphasis is placed on the importance of reading information on food labels to identify “hidden” sugar and salt. At the same time, the importance of informing about the norms of consumption of fruits and vegetables, fish, salt and sugar, as well as about the benefits of following the recommended dietary regimen was emphasized. The authors note the need for a deeper analysis of the reasons for the discrepancy between the criteria “know” and “apply” in the issues of rational nutrition among the working population of the Sverdlovsk region.

Genome-Wide Association Mapping of Macronutrient Mineral Accumulation in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Grain

The focus on increasing wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain yield at the expense of grain quality and nutrient accumulation can lead to shortages in macronutrient minerals, which are dangerous for human health. This is important, especially in nations where bread wheat is used in most daily dietary regimens. One efficient way to guarantee nutritional security is through biofortification. A genome-wide association mapping approach was used to investigate the genetic basis of the differences in macronutrient mineral accumulation in wheat grains. N, P, K, Na, Ca, and Mg concentrations were measured after a panel of 200 spring wheat advanced lines from the Wheat Association Mapping Initiative were cultivated in the field. The population exhibited a wide range of natural variations in macronutrient minerals. The minerals were found to have strong positive correlations except for magnesium, which had negative correlation patterns with N, P, and K. Furthermore, there were negative correlations between N and each of Ca and Na. Remarkably, genotypes with large yields contained moderate levels of critical metals. Of the 148 significant SNPs above −log10(P) = 3, 29 had −log10(P) values greater than 4. Four, one, and nineteen significant SNPs with a −log10(P) between 4 and 5.8 were associated with N and mapped on chromosomes 1A, 1B, and 1D, respectively. Three significant SNPs on chromosome A3 were associated with K. Two significant SNPs were associated with Ca and Na and mapped on chromosomes B3 and A4, respectively. Our findings offer crucial information about the genetic underpinnings of nutritional mineral concentration augmentation, which can guide future breeding research to enhance human nutrition.

Effects of a One-Year Intensified Weight Loss Program on Body Composition Parameters in Patients with Severe Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Studies focusing on the effects of lifestyle strategies on patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that go beyond body weight and explore body composition are currently scarce and inconclusive. Objectives/Methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 12-month intensive life intervention program (ILI), based on a hypocaloric Mediterranean diet, on changes in the body composition parameters as assessed by abdominal computed tomography (CT) and the cardiorespiratory profile of patients with severe OSA and grade I-II obesity, compared to patients receiving standard care. Resultts:Thirty-four patients (30 males and four females) were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) (n = 18) or a control group (CG) (n = 16). We observed an improvement in OSA severity following the intervention. Patients in the IG lost 8.2% of their body weight compared to 0.1% of the patients in the CG (p < 0.001), and this loss was primarily due to reductions in total body fat, visceral adipose tissue index (VATI) [IG -19.4 (18.1) cm2/m2 versus CG 2.32 (11.6) cm2/m2, p < 0.001], and a tendency toward lower intramuscular adipose tissue index (IMATI) [IG -0.69 (0.85) cm2/m2 versus CG 0.04 (1.3) cm2/m2, p = 0.098]. These changes were associated with an improvement in patients' metabolic and inflammatory profile. Younger age and a higher degree of obesity at baseline were associated with greater weight loss. Conslusions: In conclusion, the ILI was effective in reducing 8.2% of body weight at 12 months, leading to favorable changes in patients' body composition profile that resulted in healthier metabolic and inflammatory parameters.