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Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) Jan 2024The potential positive interaction between intermittent fasting (IF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on cognitive function has been widely discussed. This... (Review)
Review
The potential positive interaction between intermittent fasting (IF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on cognitive function has been widely discussed. This systematic review tried to assess the efficacy of interventions with different IF regimens on BDNF levels and their association with cognitive functions in humans. Interventions with different forms of IF such as caloric restriction (CR), alternate-day fasting (ADF), time-restricted eating (TRE), and the Ramadan model of intermittent fasting (RIF) were targeted. A systematic review was conducted for experimental and observational studies on healthy people and patients with diseases published in EMBASE, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases from January 2000 to December 2023. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statements (PRISMA) for writing this review. Sixteen research works conducted on healthy people and patients with metabolic disorders met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Five studies showed a significant increase in BDNF after the intervention, while five studies reported a significant decrease in BDNF levels, and the other six studies showed no significant changes in BDNF levels due to IF regimens. Moreover, five studies examined the RIF protocol, of which, three studies showed a significant reduction, while two showed a significant increase in BDNF levels, along with an improvement in cognitive function after RIF. The current findings suggest that IF has varying effects on BDNF levels and cognitive functions in healthy, overweight/obese individuals and patients with metabolic conditions. However, few human studies have shown that IF increases BDNF levels, with controversial results. In humans, IF has yet to be fully investigated in terms of its long-term effect on BDNF and cognitive functions. Large-scale, well-controlled studies with high-quality data are warranted to elucidate the impact of the IF regimens on BDNF levels and cognitive functions.
Topics: Humans; Caloric Restriction; Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor; Intermittent Fasting; Obesity; Cognition
PubMed: 38276070
DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010191 -
Health and Quality of Life Outcomes Jan 2024Nutrition care can positively affect multiple aspects of patient's health; outcomes are commonly evaluated on the basis of their impact on a patient's (i)... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Nutrition care can positively affect multiple aspects of patient's health; outcomes are commonly evaluated on the basis of their impact on a patient's (i) illness-specific conditions and (ii) health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Our systematic review examined how HRQoL was measured in studies of nutritional interventions. To help future researchers select appropriate Quality of Life Questionnaires (QoLQ), we identified commonly-used instruments and their uses across populations in different regions, of different ages, and with different diseases.
METHODS
We searched EMCare, EMBASE, and Medline databases for studies that had HRQoL and nutrition intervention terms in the title, the abstract, or the MeSH term classifications "quality of life" and any of "nutrition therapy", "diet therapy", or "dietary supplements" and identified 1,113 studies for possible inclusion.We then reviewed titles, abstracts, and full texts to identify studies for final inclusion.
RESULTS
Our review of titles, abstracts, and full texts resulted in the inclusion of 116 relevant studies in our final analysis. Our review identified 14 general and 25 disease-specific QoLQ. The most-used general QoLQ were the Short-Form 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36) in 27 studies and EuroQol 5-Dimension, (EQ-5D) in 26 studies. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of life Questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ), a cancer-specific QoLQ, was the most frequently used disease-specific QoLQ (28 studies). Disease-specific QoLQ were also identified for nutrition-related diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and dysphagia. Sixteen studies used multiple QoLQ, of which eight studies included both general and disease-specific measures of HRQoL. The most studied diseases were cancer (36 studies) and malnutrition (24 studies). There were few studies focused on specific age-group populations, with only 38 studies (33%) focused on adults 65 years and older and only 4 studies focused on pediatric patients. Regional variation in QoLQ use was observed, with EQ-5D used more frequently in Europe and SF-36 more commonly used in North America.
CONCLUSIONS
Use of QoLQ to measure HRQoL is well established in the literature; both general and disease-specific instruments are now available for use. We advise further studies to examine potential benefits of using both general and disease-specific QoLQ to better understand the impact of nutritional interventions on HRQoL.
Topics: Humans; Deglutition Disorders; Europe; Malnutrition; Quality of Life
PubMed: 38267976
DOI: 10.1186/s12955-024-02229-y -
Nutrients Jan 2024The prevalence of sleep disorders, characterized by issues with quality, timing, and sleep duration is increasing globally. Among modifiable risk factors, diet quality... (Review)
Review
The prevalence of sleep disorders, characterized by issues with quality, timing, and sleep duration is increasing globally. Among modifiable risk factors, diet quality has been suggested to influence sleep features. The Mediterranean diet is considered a landmark dietary pattern in terms of quality and effects on human health. However, dietary habits characterized by this cultural heritage should also be considered in the context of overall lifestyle behaviors, including sleep habits. This study aimed to systematically revise the literature relating to adherence to the Mediterranean diet and sleep features in observational studies. The systematic review comprised 23 reports describing the relation between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and different sleep features, including sleep quality, sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, and insomnia symptoms. The majority of the included studies were conducted in the Mediterranean basin and reported a significant association between a higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet and a lower likelihood of having poor sleep quality, inadequate sleep duration, excessive daytime sleepiness or symptoms of insomnia. Interestingly, additional studies conducted outside the Mediterranean basin showed a relationship between the adoption of a Mediterranean-type diet and sleep quality, suggesting that biological mechanisms sustaining such an association may exist. In conclusion, current evidence suggests a relationship between adhering to the Mediterranean diet and overall sleep quality and different sleep parameters. The plausible bidirectional association should be further investigated to understand whether the promotion of a healthy diet could be used as a tool to improve sleep quality.
Topics: Humans; Diet, Mediterranean; Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders; Sleep; Sleep Quality; Risk Factors; Observational Studies as Topic
PubMed: 38257175
DOI: 10.3390/nu16020282 -
Medicine Jan 2024Omega-3 supplements are endorsed for heart failure (HF) patients to reduce hospitalizations and mortality, offering anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective benefits.
BACKGROUNDS
Omega-3 supplements are endorsed for heart failure (HF) patients to reduce hospitalizations and mortality, offering anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective benefits.
METHODS
A comprehensive search was conducted in various databases until November 2022. Eligible studies included clinical trials on patients with HF. Data extraction covered study details, omega-3 specifics, outcomes, and limitations. The JADAD scale was used to assess the risk of bias in randomized controlled trials.
RESULTS
The review process involved 572 records from database searches, resulting in 19 studies after eliminating duplicates and screening. These studies assessed the impact of omega-3 on various clinical outcomes, such as mortality, hospitalization, cardiac function, and quality of life. Studied duration varied from weeks to years. Omega-3 supplementation demonstrated potential benefits such as improved heart function, reduced inflammation, and decreased risk of cardiovascular events.
CONCLUSION
Omega-3 supplementation could benefit heart disease treatment, potentially reducing therapy duration and improving outcomes. Starting omega-3 supplementation for HF patients seems favorable.
Topics: Humans; Clinical Trials as Topic; Dietary Supplements; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Heart Diseases; Heart Failure; Quality of Life
PubMed: 38241565
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000036804 -
Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome Jan 2024To evaluate the impact of carbohydrate quantity and quality on maternal and pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the impact of carbohydrate quantity and quality on maternal and pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus.
METHODS
Using a pre-defined search strategy, two researchers systematically searched MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, and PubMed for randomized controlled trials comparing low-carbohydrate, low-glycaemic index, or low-glycaemic load diets with usual care in gestational diabetes mellitus. Mean differences and risk ratios were extracted.
RESULTS
Thirteen studies with 877 participants were included. Low-carbohydrate diet did not significantly differ from usual care for fasting blood glucose (3 studies; mean difference: 1.60 mmol/L; 95 % confidence interval: -1.95, 5.15), insulin requirement (2 studies; risk ratio: 1.01; 95 % confidence interval: 0.31, 3.05), birthweight (4 studies; mean difference: -0.23 kg; 95 % confidence interval: -1.90, 1.45), caesarean delivery (5 studies; risk ratio: 1.11; 95 % confidence interval: 0.66, 1.85), macrosomia (3 studies; risk ratio: 0.35; 95 % confidence interval: 0.00, 2130.64), large-for-gestational-age (2 studies; risk ratio: 0.46; 95 % confidence interval: 0.03, 7.20), and small-for-gestational-age infants (2 studies; risk ratio: 0.94; 95 % confidence interval: 0.00, 231.18). Low-glycaemic index diet did not significantly differ from usual care for the above outcomes either. However, low-glycaemic load diet reduced macrosomia risk (2 studies; risk ratio: 0.51; 95 % confidence interval: 0.43, 0.59).
CONCLUSIONS
Low-carbohydrate and low-glycaemic index diets do not differ from usual care for most maternal and foetal outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus. But low-glycaemic load diet may reduce macrosomia risk.
Topics: Pregnancy; Female; Humans; Diabetes, Gestational; Pregnancy Outcome; Fetal Macrosomia; Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted; Weight Gain; Carbohydrates
PubMed: 38218096
DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2024.102941 -
International Journal of Molecular... Dec 2023The objective of this review is to systematically analyze the potential correlation between gut microbiota and osteoarthritis (OA) as well as to evaluate the feasibility... (Review)
Review
The objective of this review is to systematically analyze the potential correlation between gut microbiota and osteoarthritis (OA) as well as to evaluate the feasibility of microbiota-targeted therapies for treating OA. Studies conducted from October 2013 to October 2023 were identified via a search on electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, following established PRISMA statement standards. Two reviewers independently screened, assessed, and extracted relevant data, and then they graded the studies using the ROBINS I tool for non-randomized interventions studies and SYRCLE's risk-of-bias tool for animal studies. A search through 370 studies yielded 38 studies (24 preclinical and 14 clinical) that were included. In vivo research has predominantly concentrated on modifying the gut microbiota microenvironment, using dietary supplements, probiotics, and prebiotics to modify the OA status. are the most thoroughly examined with found to effectively reduce cartilage damage, inflammatory factors, and pain. Additionally, inhibits the development of OA by preventing high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity and protecting cartilage from damage. Although there are limited clinical studies, certain compositions of intestinal microbiota may be associated with onset and progression of OA, while others are linked to pain reduction in OA patients. Based on preclinical studies, there is evidence to suggest that the gut microbiota could play a significant role in the development and progression of OA. However, due to the scarcity of clinical studies, the exact mechanism linking the gut microbiota and OA remains unclear. Further research is necessary to evaluate specific gut microbiota compositions, potential pathogens, and their corresponding signaling pathways that contribute to the onset and progression of OA. This will help to validate the potential of targeting gut microbiota for treating OA patients.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Osteoarthritis; Microbiota; Databases, Factual; Lactobacillus; Pain
PubMed: 38203314
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010143 -
Iranian Biomedical Journal Nov 2023The present systematic review of animal studies on long-term fructose intake in rodents revealed a significant decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes due to a...
The present systematic review of animal studies on long-term fructose intake in rodents revealed a significant decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes due to a fructose-rich diet. The reduced activity of these enzymes led to an increase in oxidative stress, which can cause liver damage in rodents. Of eight studies analyzed, 5 (62.5%) and 1 (12.5%) used male and female rats, respectively, while 2 studies (25%) used female mice. Moreover, half of the studies used HFCS, but the other half employed fructose in the diet. Hence, it is essential to monitor dietary habits to ensure public health and nutrition research outcomes.
Topics: Animals; Female; Male; Mice; Rats; Antioxidants; Fructose; Liver; Diet, Carbohydrate Loading
PubMed: 38193285
DOI: 10.52547/ibj.3965 -
Neurology India 2023Disease-modifying agents like Pioglitazone have shown promising effects on neuroinflammation and homeostasis of amyloid plaques, but there is a lack of research papers... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Drug Repositioning of Pioglitazone in Management and Improving the Cognitive Function among the Patients With Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
BACKGROUND
Disease-modifying agents like Pioglitazone have shown promising effects on neuroinflammation and homeostasis of amyloid plaques, but there is a lack of research papers providing conclusive evidence.
OBJECTIVES
This study is aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of Pioglitazone in improving cognitive function in patients with mild-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Trials published in the last 12 years were identified from PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central, and other trial registries. Five hundred twenty-five records were obtained, from which five studies were included for quantitative analysis. Studies comparing Pioglitazone with a suitable placebo or other oral hypoglycemic agent were considered for review. Data was extracted using a pretested form, which was followed by a risk of bias assessment (ROB) with Cochrane's ROB assessment tool.
RESULTS
This meta-analysis included studies where Pioglitazone (15-30 mg) was compared to other oral hypoglycemic agents, placebo, or diabetic diet for a minimum duration of 6 months. Pioglitazone did not show a statistically significant improvement in Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) scores [mean difference (MD): -1.16; 95% confidence interval (CI): -4.14-1.81]. By conducting sensitivity analysis with the removal of one study, significant efficacy was obtained [MD: -2.75; 95% CI: -4.84--0.66]. The Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised logical memory I (WMS-R) scores had a significant improvement in the Pioglitazone group [MD: 2.02; 95% CI: 0.09-3.95].
CONCLUSION
Pioglitazone is a safe medication that has a promising effect in slowing the advancement of AD.
Topics: Humans; Alzheimer Disease; Pioglitazone; Drug Repositioning; Cognition
PubMed: 38174446
DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.391397 -
BMJ Open Dec 2023Overweight and obesity are growing public health problems worldwide. Both diet and physical activity have been the primary interventions for weight reduction over the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
INTRODUCTION
Overweight and obesity are growing public health problems worldwide. Both diet and physical activity have been the primary interventions for weight reduction over the past decade. With increasing rates of overweight and obesity, it is evident that a primary focus on diet and exercise has not resulted in sustained obesity reduction within the global population. There is now a case to explore other weight management strategies, focusing on psychological factors that may underpin overweight and obesity. Psychological therapy interventions are gaining recognition for their effectiveness in addressing underlying emotional factors and promoting weight loss. However, there is a dearth of literature that has mapped the types of psychological interventions and the characteristics of these interventions as a means of achieving weight reduction and sustained weight reduction in adults with overweight or obesity.
METHODS AND ANALYSIS
The review will combine the methodology outlined by Arksey and O'Malley with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. A total of six databases will be searched using a comprehensive search strategy. Intervention studies will be included if participants are 18 years and over, classified as overweight or obese (body mass index ≥25 kg/m), and have received a psychological therapy intervention. The review will exclude studies that are not available in English, not full text, none peer reviewed or combine a lifestyle and/or pharmacological intervention with a psychological intervention. Data will be synthesised using a narrative synthesis approach.
ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION
Ethical approval is not required to conduct this scoping review. The findings will be disseminated through journal publication(s), social media and a lay summary for key stakeholders.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Humans; Body Mass Index; Obesity; Overweight; Psychosocial Intervention; Weight Loss
PubMed: 38149427
DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075364 -
Global Heart 2023Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular condition, with excessive sodium intake being a significant risk factor. Various studies have investigated measures to reduce... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Effects of Behavioral Interventions for Salt Reduction on Blood Pressure and Urinary Sodium Excretion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular condition, with excessive sodium intake being a significant risk factor. Various studies have investigated measures to reduce salt intake, including integrated lifestyle interventions and health education. However, the effectiveness of behavioral interventions focused solely on salt reduction remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effects of a behavioral intervention based on salt reduction on blood pressure and urinary sodium excretion. A comprehensive search of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science was conducted to identify relevant literature. Study and intervention characteristics were extracted for descriptive synthesis, and the quality of the included studies was assessed. A total of 10 studies, comprising 4,667 participants (3,796 adults and 871 children), were included. The interventions involved the provision of salt-restriction spoons or devices, salt-reduction education, self-monitoring devices for urinary sodium, and salt-reduction cooking classes. Meta-analysis results showed that behavioral interventions focused on salt reduction significantly reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP) (-1.17 mmHg; 95% CI, -1.86 to -0.49), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (-0.58 mmHg; 95% CI, -1.07 to -0.08) and urinary sodium excretion (-21.88 mmol/24 hours; 95% CI, -32.12 to -11.64). These findings suggest that behavioral change interventions centered on salt reduction can effectively lower salt intake levels and decrease blood pressure levels. However, to enhance effectiveness, behavioral interventions for salt reduction should be combined with other salt-reduction strategies.
Topics: Adult; Child; Humans; Blood Pressure; Sodium; Sodium Chloride, Dietary; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Hypertension; Diet, Sodium-Restricted
PubMed: 38143483
DOI: 10.5334/gh.1281