bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Glycemic and Insulinemic Responses Related to the Consumption of Enzymatically Reduced Glycemic Index Wheat Flour in Murine Model
Authors: Plazas Carolina G , Cabrera‐Chavez Francisco , Ochoa‐Acosta Alicia , Vergara‐Jimenez Marcela J
Published: November 2023

Metabolic chronic diseases represent the major public health problem in the world and are mostly related to unhealthy diet and lifestyle. Food products made from cereals are our main source of starch and its digestibility and absorption rate influence the glycemic and insulinemic responses to the consumers. The structural modification of these starches by different techniques to turn them into slowly digestible and resistant starches could be and effective tool to reduce the glycemic index of food‐containing starch products and the postprandial glycemic and insulinemic responses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the glycemic and insulinemic responses related to the consumption of enzymatically reduced glycemic index wheat flour using a murine model. 30 healthy female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into five groups (n=6) with different diets: a rodent food commercialized diet (control), conventional wheat flour bread (CWFB), conventional wheat flour cookies (CWFC), modified wheat flour bread (MWFB) and modified wheat flour cookies (MWFC). Postprandial glucose and insulin concentrations were measured in all groups at different time points: fasting (0) and 15, 30, 60, 90 and 120 min after the meal. Glucose and insulin absorption kinetics and the under the curve area were plotted. The MWFC group had a significantly higher glycemic response compare to the CWFB, CWFC and MWFB groups. MWFB had significantly decrease insulin response compare to the CWFB and MWFC. MWFC significantly decrease insulin concentrations compared to the CWFB (P<0.05). These results suggest that, slowly digestible starches and resistant starches have a positive influence on glycemic and insulinemic control, and they could be used for the prevention and treatment of metabolic chronic diseases.

Support or Funding Information

PROFAPI 2014 from Universidad Autonoma de Sinaloa
Impact of Fiber‐Bound Polyphenols on Gut Microbiome Metabolism is Influenced by Background Diet
Authors: Jackson Matthew Irick , Jewell Dennis E
Published: November 2023

Dietary fiber, source of numerous metabolites produced by commensal gut microbiota, is a diverse mixture of polysaccharides, and in less‐processed forms also contains plant secondary metabolites (e.g. polyphenols) bound in this matrix. Typically, some of the fibers and polyphenols are not bioavailable in the upper gastrointestinal tract of animals consuming these fibers. However, commensal gut microbiota can catabolize fiber to liberate fiber‐bound polyphenols, and enzymatically convert both to postbiotics with health benefits. We sought to gain insight into the degree to which background diets impacted the production of microbiota postbiotics in canines. Two Test diets were formulated to contain equal amounts of sources of fiber and bound‐polyphenols, but to differ in their background composition to be representative of a typical hydrolyzed (HDT) or grain‐rich (GRT) diet. Further, two Control diets were produced to serve as controls for the hydrolyzed (HDC) and grain‐rich (GRC) diets. In these control diets, the fiber sources were removed and replaced with the main source of starch otherwise present in the Test diets. A single group of dogs was used to perform subsequent trials with washout periods separating them. Each trial was a randomized, crossover design with every dog consuming both Test and Control diets. Differences in endpoints were compared between each Test and Control diet after 4 week feeding periods, and then comparisons drawn between effects of fiber on either diet type. Dogs were housed in pairs, provided daily group exercise in outdoor grassy runs and had access to natural light that varied with season. Health was monitored via clinical and physical indices. Blood and fecal collections were carried out under IACUC approved protocols. Endpoints included serum and fecal metabolome and targeted chemical analyses, clinical measures and fecal microbiome. In general, the inclusion of fiber‐bound polyphenols into both hydrolyzed and grain‐rich diets improved fecal stool quality, acidified feces, increased saccharolytic postbiotics while decreasing microbial putrefaction, and increased levels of microbial taxa associated with production of beneficial postbiotics. Fecal bile acids were altered by Test diets, with increased fecal tauro‐conjugates and urso‐forms of these metabolites in feces. Fecal polyamines were decreased by fiber‐bound polyphenols, in a manner that indicated potential for increased bacterial catabolism. There was also a general decrease in fecal indoles, although HDT consumption intriguingly increased fecal levels of the benefical indoles‐indolelactate, indolepropionate and indoleacetate. In total, there was a difference in the degree to which the fiber‐bound polyphenols could impact these endpoints, which varied by background diet; be it hydrolyzed or grain‐rich.

Support or Funding Information

Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. Science and Technology Center, Topeka, KS 66601
Effect of Mexican Oregano on Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Lee Sun‐Ok , Ward Peyton , Brownmiller Cindi Renee
Published: November 2023

Oregano is an important spice with increasing demand in the USA. Mexican and Mediterranean oregano are the most common types, though their botanical and physical characteristics are substantially different. Our preliminary work has shown that Mexican oregano contains more total phenolics (119±7 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) g−1) compared to Mediterranean oregano (40±3 mg GAE g−1). The major polyphenolics of Mexican oregano, Lippia graveolens, were quercetin 3‐O‐galactoside (12.5±0.6 mg g−1), pentahydroxyflavanone‐A‐hexoside (10.5±0.3 mg·g−1), and luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside (8.6±0.7 mg g−1). The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of Mexican Oregano extract on cell proliferation in human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (Caco‐2). The extract was applied at 200, 300, and 400 μg/mL concentrations to Caco‐2 cells. The cell proliferation was measured in treatment times of 0‐hr, 24‐hr, and 48‐hr by reading absorbance at 490nm. Cell proliferation was reduced in a dose‐dependent manner. Treatment of cells with Mexican Oregano extract for 48 hours significantly reduced cell proliferation by 33–67% (P<0.05). The findings suggest that the extract of Mexican oregano has a potential for use as functional food and warrants further examination to clarify which phenolic compounds of Mexican oregano are responsible for a colon‐cancer suppressive component.
Dose Response Effects of a Blueberry‐Enriched Diet on Net Bone Calcium Retention in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Rodriguez Maria Maiz , Henry Courtney , Lachcik Pamela Jean , Ferruzzi Mario , McCabe George , Lila Mary Ann , Weaver Connie M.
Published: November 2023

Background

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been associated with increased bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. This association is mainly attributed to anthocyanin rich fruits such as berries, grapes and plums. A blueberry‐enriched diet has been shown to have bone health effects in animal models, not only in the adult postmenopausal model by attenuating bone loss, but also in the young rats by increasing accrual during growth. The effect of blueberry on calcium metabolism has not been elucidated. Our objective was to determine the effective dose of blueberry consumption to increase bone net calcium retention in ovariectomized rats.

Methods

Twenty 4‐month old ovariectomized Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were administered a single dose of Ca‐45 to pre‐label their bones. After a 1‐month equilibration period, the rats were put on a polyphenol free diet to determine baseline Ca‐45 and total Ca excretion. Following baseline, rats went through four 10‐day treatment periods on a blueberry‐enriched diet (2.5%, 5%, 10% or 15% blueberry diet) in a random order. Each treatment period was followed by a 10‐day washout period on a polyphenol free diet. 24h urinary Ca‐45 excretion and total calcium were determined through beta scintillation counting and atomic absorption spectrometry, respectively. These values were used to create a Ca‐45: Total Calcium ratio and plotted against time to determine changes in calcium excretion due to treatment versus non‐treatment periods.

Results

Of the four different doses, only the 5% BB diet had a significant effect (p‐value = 0.0426) on net bone calcium retention increasing it by 25.6%. The 2.5% BB increased net bone calcium retention by 24%, but failed to reach significance (p‐value=0.054). Interestingly, the higher doses of 10% and 15% BB did not have an effect on bone Ca retention, suggesting lower doses are more effective at increasing bone ca retention.

Conclusion

This study shows that a 5% blueberry diet increases bone net Ca retention by 25.6%. Higher doses did not have an effect on bone Ca retention. These results will serve to inform a chronic blueberry feeding study to determine the effects of blueberry on calcium balance and bone health in ovariectomized SD rats.

Support or Funding Information

This project was funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
Effects of Flaxseed Supplementation on Intestinal Tight Junction Protein and TNF‐alpha Gene Expression in Obese Mice
Authors: Silvernagel Kelsie , Mann Michael , Wiltgen Ashton , Rhee Yeong
Published: November 2023

Increased gut permeability may lead to lipopolysaccharides translocation to the blood and causes endotoxemia and inflammation. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the health promoting compounds of flaxseed on intestinal tight junction permeability by measuring intestinal tight junction protein (ZO‐1) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α expression. Sixty C57BL/6J male mice were randomly assigned into one of the following diet groups and fed for eight weeks: 1) 45% Kcal fat; 2) 45% Kcal fat, 10% whole flaxseed; 3) 45% Kcal fat, 6% defatted flaxseed; 4) 45% Kcal fat, 4% flaxseed oil; and 5) 16% Kcal fat. ZO‐1 and TNF‐α gene expression in mouse intestine samples were determined by real‐time quantitative PCR. The fold change in ZO‐1 and TNF‐α expression was calculated using 2−ΔΔCT method. TNF‐α expression was significantly decreased in whole flaxseed, defatted flaxseed, or flaxseed oil diet group compared to the high fat diet group (p<0.05). ZO‐1 expression was significantly decreased in defatted flaxseed, flaxseed oil, or low fat diet group compared to the high fat diet group (p=0.0034). The results indicated that health promoting compounds of flaxseed down‐regulate ZO‐1 and TNF‐α expression. The specific mechanisms of down regulation of ZO‐1 and TNF‐α expression or gut permeability regulation by flaxseed and its health promoting compounds are unknown and need further study.

Support or Funding Information

NDSU HDE College and HNES Department
Wheat Germ Supplementation Alleviates Insulin Resistance and Cardiac Mitochondrial Dysfunction in an Animal Model of Diet‐Induced Obesity
Authors: Ojo Babajide , Simenson Ashley J , O'Hara Crystal , Wu Lei , Guo Xin , Peterson Sandra K , Lin Daniel , Smith Brenda J , Lucas Edralin A
Published: November 2023

Obesity is strongly associated with insulin resistance (IR), along with mitochondrial dysfunction in metabolically active tissues and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Foods rich in antioxidants such as wheat germ (WG), are thought to protect tissues from damage due to ROS and modulate some negative effects of obesity‐induced IR. This study examined the effects of WG supplementation on insulin resistance, mitochondrial substrate metabolism and innate antioxidant markers in two metabolically active tissues (i.e. liver and heart) of C57BL/6 mice fed a high fat (HF) diet. Six‐week‐old male C57BL/6 mice were randomized into four dietary treatment groups (n=12 mice/group): control (C, 10% fat kcal), control + 10% WG (C+WG), high fat (HF, 60% fat kcal), or HF+WG. After 90 days of treatment, one‐way ANOVA results indicate that HF+WG mice had significantly less visceral fat (−11%, P=0.0012), were less hyperinsulinemic (P=0.0091), and less insulin resistant (−57%, P=0.011) compared to the HF group. Addition of WG to the control diet showed no considerable effect. HF feeding compared to the control diet, significantly elevated (45%, P=0.008) cardiac mitochondrial oxygen consumption in complex 2, suggesting increased metabolic stress, while WG supplementation in the HF diet stabilized this effect to the level of control. Consequently, genes which mediate antioxidant defense and mitochondrial biogenesis (Sod2 and Pgc1a, respectively) were significantly reduced (P<0.05) in the heart of the HF group compared to control while WG supplementation tended to upregulate both genes. These effects of WG were not observed in the liver. Put together, these results showed that WG supplementation in HF diet reduced insulin resistance and improved metabolic functions of the cardiac mitochondria.

Support or Funding Information

Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station and College of Human Sciences, Oklahoma State University
Indomethacin, a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, enhanced brown fat activity in vitro and in vivo
Authors: HAO LEI , Kearns Jamie , Zhao Ling , Wang Shu
Published: November 2023

Obesity is a major public health problem. Activating brown adipose tissue (BAT) can increase energy expenditure through thermogenesis. BAT has been considered as an innovative therapeutic target for combating obesity and its comorbidities. Indomethacin, a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID), has the capacity to induce white adipocyte differentiation. But its effects on pre‐brown adipocytes differentiation, on animal BAT activation, and obesity are unknown. The objectives of this project are to determine indomethacin's activities in regulating brown adipocyte differentiation in vitro, and to investigate its anti‐obesity activities and underlying mechanisms in male C57BL/6 mice. The murine brown fat cells were treated with indomethacin (2, 5, 10, 20, 50 μM) or the vehicle control DMSO for 5 days. Oil‐Red‐O staining showed that indomethacin enhanced pre‐brown adipocytes differentiation into adipocytes compared to the vehicle control. Data from real‐time PCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated that indomethacin increased both mRNA and protein expression of brown specific marker genes, such as UCP‐1 and PGC1α, in a dose‐dependent manner. Mechanistically, we found that indomethacin significant activated PPARγ. Male C57BL/6 mice became obese after feeding them with a high fat diet for 9 weeks. Implantation of ALZET osmotic mini‐pumps allowed targeted delivery of vehicle or indomethacin (36 μg/day) to BAT for additional 4 weeks while they were maintained on the high fat diet. Indomethacin treatment did not change food intake, body weight, and total fat mass, while there was a trend towards less epididymal white adipose tissue mass in indomethacin‐treated as compared to vehicle‐treated mice. In addition, indomethacin significantly decreased BAT mass, fasting blood glucose levels and plasma TG levels. H&E staining showed that brown adipocytes of indomethacin‐treated mice contained numerous smaller droplets compared with that of control mice, suggesting that BAT in indomethacin‐treated mice was more active than them in control mice. Moreover, indomethacin significantly increased UCP1 and PGC‐1α mRNA expression in BAT. We conclude that indomethacin increases brown fat activity in pre‐brown adipocytes and mice, suggesting that indomethacin may also be used to treat obesity and its related complications.

Support or Funding Information

NIH 1R15AT008733
High Fat Diet Impairs Mitochondrial ADP Sensitivity and Attenuates Respiration in the Presence of Submaximal, but Not Maximal, ADP Concentrations
Authors: Miotto Paula M , Holloway Graham P
Published: November 2023

The consumption of a high fat (HF) diet is a major contributor of ectopic lipid accumulation in skeletal muscle and insulin resistance. While the underlying mechanisms are not well‐defined, mitochondrial dysfunction, including lower ADP sensitivity through the voltage dependent anion channel (VDAC)/adenine nucleotide transport (ANT) axis, has been implicated in this process. It is currently unknown how a HF diet impairs mitochondrial function, however, lipid moieties (palmitoyl‐CoA; P‐CoA) have been shown to inhibit ANT and reduce ADP sensitivity in situ. Therefore, lipid accumulation following a HF diet could promote inhibition on ANT, explaining these mitochondrial abnormalities and possibly insulin resistance. Since we have previously shown mitochondrial creatine kinase (Mi‐CK) knockout (KO) mice have greater ADP sensitivity through the VDAC/ANT axis when challenged by exercise, a situation that also increases intramuscular lipid supply, we determined whether this would be protective against HF‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and insulin resistance. Mi‐CK wildtype (WT) and KO mice were fed a control (CON) or HF diet (60% fat) for 4 weeks. High‐resolution respirometry was used to assess ADP sensitivity in the presence or absence of P‐CoA in permeabilized muscle fibres, glucose‐tolerance tests were performed, and western blotting was used to determine VDAC and ANT protein content. Our results show on a CON diet that ADP sensitivity in the absence of P‐CoA was not affected by ablating Mi‐CK, while in contrast these mice displayed attenuated P‐CoA‐mediated inhibition of ADP sensitivity. Therefore, we determined if KO mice would be protected from HF diet impairments in ADP sensitivity, and insulin resistance, through improved ADP transport. However, regardless of genotype, consumption of a HF diet resulted in modest reductions in ADP sensitivity in the absence of P‐CoA, which corresponded with reduced insulin sensitivity. This occurred in the absence of altered VDAC or ANT protein content, highlighting external regulation of these proteins following a HF diet. While Mi‐CK KO mice were not protected from HF diet‐induced insulin resistance, this may occur because the improved ADP sensitivity in the presence of P‐CoA was lost during the HF diet. Altogether, these data demonstrate that reductions in ADP sensitivity may be an early event contributing to insulin resistance, while an increase in intramuscular P‐CoA concentrations and an improved sensitivity to P‐CoA inhibition may exacerbate this response.

Support or Funding Information

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada; Canadian Foundation for Innovation/Ontario Research Fund.
The Effect of Red Raspberry on Satiety
Authors: Huang Leailin , Xiao Di , Park Eunyoung , Edirisinghe Indika , Burton‐Freeman Britt
Published: November 2023

Red raspberries contain relatively higher amounts of dietary fibers compared to other fruits, suggesting they may have an advantage in producing greater satiety than other commonly consumed fruits. The objective of this study was to explore and characterize the potential satiating value of red raspberries included in a breakfast meal. The analysis was ancillary to a larger study examining the metabolic health benefits of red raspberry in individuals with pre‐diabetes (PreDM). The study recruited two groups of people: individuals with impaired fasting glucose and hyperinsulinemia (PreDM) and individuals with normo‐glycemia and insulinemia (Reference). Twenty‐three subjects (PreDM (n=13) and Reference (n=10)) contributed to this analysis. The study was a randomized, 3‐arm, single‐blinded, within subject cross‐over design. Subjects were asked to come to the center on three different occasions and consume three different equicaloric meals containing 0 g frozen red raspberry, 125 g frozen red raspberry, or 250 g frozen red raspberry. Subject's satiety (hunger, fullness, desire to eat, and amount want to eat) was assessed through Appetite visual analog scale (VAS) for 24 h, of which the first 6 h included no other food intake. The results are based on the 6 h satiety responses to the breakfast meal varying in red raspberry content. The preliminary analysis suggests a treatment by group interaction (p<0.05) whereby the meal with 250 g red raspberry significantly suppressed hunger (P<0.05) and to the amount people wanted eat (P<0.05) compared to the 0 g / Control meal in Reference subjects with higher baseline hunger and prospective consumption scores. Subjects' desire to eat was not influenced by PreDM or Reference status, but the Control and 250 g raspberry meal both reduced desire to eat significantly from baseline and the intermediate raspberry containing meal (p<0.05). In contrast, the subjects in the PreDM group who reported the highest level of hunger at baseline experienced greater satiety after the Control meal compared to both raspberry containing meals (p<0.05). The Control meal also produced the highest glycemic response in all subjects (p<0.05) suggesting the relationship between glycemia and satiety differ depending on the physiological status of the population. Given the beneficial metabolic outcomes on glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity with red raspberry intake in PreDM and Reference group individuals (Xiao et al, EB 2017), research to understand their satiating value and placement in the diet will be important for success long‐term dietary adoption.

Support or Funding Information

Funding: National Processed Raspberry Council and Various donor funds (Burton‐Freeman/Edirisinghe)
Safety and Efficacy of Furosap, a novel Trigonella foenum‐graecum seed extract, in Enhancing Testosterone Level and Improving Sperm Profile in Male Human Volunteers
Authors: Bagchi Manashi , Swaroop Anand , Preuss Harry G , Bagchi Debasis
Published: November 2023

We have developed Furosap, an innovative, patent‐pending 20% protodioscin‐enriched extract from fenugreek seeds, which effectively increased testosterone levels, and significantly improved sperm profile, mental alertness, cardiovascular health, mood, libido and quality of life in male volunteers. Testosterone has also been demonstrated to attenuate lean body mass and stronger bones. Institutional Review Board (IRB) and other regulatory approvals were obtained for our study. This one‐arm, open‐labelled study was conducted in 50 male volunteers (age: 35 to 65 years) over a period of 12 weeks to determine the efficacy of Furosap (500 mg/day/subject). This study examined the testosterone levels, sperm profile, sperm morphology, libido and erectile dysfunction, mood and mental alertness and broad spectrum safety parameters. Free testosterone levels were improved up to 46% in 90% of the study population. 85.4% of the study population showed improvements in sperm counts. Sperm morphology improved in 14.6% of volunteers. Majority of the subjects enrolled in the study demonstrated improvements in mental alertness and mood. Furthermore, cardiovascular health and libido were significantly improved. Extensive safety parameters were evaluated which included blood chemistry data. No significant changes were observed in serum lipid function, cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL and LDL levels, hemogram (CBC), hepatotoxicity, cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Results demonstrate that Furosap, enriched in 20% protodioscin, is safe and effective in attenuating testosterone levels, healthy sperm profile, mental alertness, cardiovascular health and overall performance in human subjects.

Support or Funding Information

This study was funded by Cepham Inc, Piscataway, NJ
Influence of Sports Drink Taste Preference on Consumption in Adult Male Soccer Players
Authors: Mistry Anahita M , Molavi Kiarash
Published: November 2023

The manufacture of sports drinks has become a multi‐billion dollar industry. Sports drinks provide nutrients that improve athletic performance by providing fuel, hydrating the body, and by replenishing minerals lost through sweat. Ingredients in them include simple carbohydrates such as sugar, electrolytes such as potassium and sodium, water and flavoring agents that enhance taste. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a preference in taste leads to an increased consumption of a sports drink prior to and after an endurance event in athletes. Twenty five, adult male amateur soccer players, aged 29 to 58 years were recruited for the study. After a brief training session, they first participated in a blind sensory evaluation to determine their taste preference for two (designated as Drink A and Drink B) similarly flavored sports drinks. They rated the drinks for sweetness, saltiness and palatability. There were no significant differences between the taste perceptions of sweetness, saltiness of either drinks but all subjects distinctly preferred either Drink A or Drink B. Subjects were divided into groups based on their taste preference for either drink. They then participated in nine soccer matches on multiple days and were presented with ad libitum amounts of either Drink A, Drink B, or water (3 trials each) before and after matches. Volumes of drinks voluntarily consumed were measured and averaged. Both groups consumed similar amounts of either Drink A or Drink B, before and after matches. Although subjects had distinct preferences for Drink A or Drink B, there were no significant differences between consumption levels of Drink A and Drink B between subjects who preferred the taste of either Drink A or Drink B. Taste preference for a drink did not influence the amount of a sports drink that athletes consumed pre‐ or post‐ exercise. The thirst mechanism may be a stronger factor for drink consumption, independent of taste preference.

Support or Funding Information

Eastern Michigan University, College of Health and Human Services
Sports Nutrition Knowledge Among Japanese Coaches
Authors: Miyazaki Shiho , Okamura Koji , Okumura Yuka
Published: November 2023

Coaches are the main sources of information regarding nutrition for young athletes. Therefore, coaches need to have correct knowledge about sports nutrition to guide their athletes properly. The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge of sports nutrition among coaches in Japan. Three hundreds and forty coaches completed a questionnaire consisting of 33 items related to sports nutrition in the following 5 categories: nutrition (17), pre‐event (4), weight (5), hydration (5) and supplements (2) (valid response rate: 92.1%). The percentage of questions answered correctly (score) was compared based on the sex of the coaches, sex of their trainees, type of sport, education status, experience participating in the sport, whether they had received nutrition advice themselves, the level of self‐evaluated nutrition knowledge and whether or not they cared about the dietary habits of their trainees. The major source of sports nutrition information was the Internet (70.9%), followed by television (65.2%) and a seminar/course (54.0%). The average score for all items was 59.0%. Twelve questions received scores lower than 50%: 9 questions regarding nutrition and 1 each for hydration, pre‐event and supplement. The scores for the pre‐event category were higher in males than in females. The scores of the coaches of strength & power sports were higher in the pre‐event category than those among other sport coaches (p<0.05) and in the supplement category than the coaches of team sports (p<0.05). The scores in the nutrition, all items pre‐event and weight categories were higher in coaches with high self‐evaluated knowledge than in those with low self‐evaluated knowledge (p<0.05). Coaches who had cared about nutrition for more than six months showed a higher total score than those who never or only sometimes cared (p<0.05) and a higher score in the pre‐event category than coaches who only sometimes cared (p<0.05). The scores did not significantly differ based on the sex of trainees, education status, experience participating in the sport or whether or not they had received nutrition advice themselves. Coaches with high self‐evaluated nutrition knowledge and who cared about the dietary habits of their trainees appeared to have a correct understanding of sports nutrition. However, we noted no obvious effects of trainee sex, education status, experience participating in the sport and whether or not the coaches had received nutrition advice themselves.
Frequency of consuming foods predicts changes in cravings for those foods during weight loss: The POUNDS Lost Study
Authors: Apolzan John W , Myers Candice A , Champagne Catherine M , Beyl Robbie A , Raynor Hollie A , Anton Stephen A , Williamson Donald A , Sacks Frank M , Bray George A , Martin Corby K
Published: November 2023

Objective

Food cravings are thought to be the result of conditioning or pairing hunger (or other stimuli) with consumption of certain foods. We hypothesize that changes in the frequency of consuming certain foods will be associated with changes in cravings for those foods.

Methods

In a two‐year weight loss trial, participants were randomized to one of four energy restricted diets (energy deficit 750 kcal/d) that varied in macronutrient content. The Food Craving Inventory (FCI) was used to measure cravings at baseline, 6, and 24 months. Also, food intake was measured at those time points. To measure free‐living consumption of food items measured in the FCI, items on the FCI were matched to the foods consumed at each time point from the food intake assessments. Secondarily, we analyzed the amount (kcal) of food consumed on food intake assessments from foods on the FCI.

Results

A total of 429 participants who were overweight and obese were included in the analyses. There was an association between change from baseline FCI item consumption and the change in cravings at months 6 (B 0.032 ± 0.010; Effect Size (ES) 0.060; p < 0.001) and 24 (B 0.027 ± 0.011; ES 0.043; p < 0.05). However there was no difference between changes at month 6 and 24 (p = 0.65). There was no association between change from baseline amount of energy (kcals) consumed per FCI item and the change in cravings at months 6 and 24 and no difference between changes at months 6 and 24.

Conclusions

Altering frequency of consuming craved foods is positively associated with cravings for those food items; however, changing the amount (kcal) of foods consumed does not appear to alter cravings. These results support the conditioning model of food cravings and provides guidance on how to reduce food cravings.

Support or Funding Information

National Institutes of Health HL 073286, RR‐02635, F32 HL123242, P30 DK072476, and U54 GM104940.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract inhibits the lipid droplet accumulation and expression of adipogenic transcription factors in 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes
Authors: Kim Hee jeong , Mun Eun‐Gyung , Oh Jung‐Hee , Cha Youn‐Soo
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigated the effects of ginger extract on the inhibition of adipogenesis and it's possible mechanism of action in 3T3‐L1 cells. Cell viability was analyzed using the MTT assay. After treatment with various concentrations of the ginger extract in differentiation medium for 8 days, the morphological changes were visualized by staining of lipid with Oil‐Red O stain. The differentiated 3T3‐L1 cells were lysed and measured for triglyceride contents. Detection of mRNA levels of adipocyte‐specific transcription factors were analyzed using RT‐PCR. Ginger extract suppressed oil droplet accumulation in the cells and gene expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα. The increased levels of mRNA in ACC, GLUT4, aP2, FAS in control cells were decreased upon treatment with ginger extract, suggesting that ginger prevented lipid accumulation by reducing lipogenesis. These results suggest that ginger extract would have antiobesity effects which needs to be further studied in rodents.

Support or Funding Information

[This research was supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA), through the 2015 Healthy Local Food Branding Project of the Rural Resources Complex Industrialization Support Program]
Perilla frutescens var acuta inhibits differentiation of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes by downregulation of lipogenic pathway
Authors: Thomas Shalom Sara , Kim Mina , Ro Jai Youl , Cha Youn‐Soo
Published: November 2023

Condiments are substances which are used to add flavors in foods and they have also been used in traditional medicines in various parts of the world. Perilla is one of the widely used condiments in Asian countries including China, Japan and South Korea. Previous studies reported that Perilla frutescens var britton (Green perilla) have antioxidant, antiallergic, antiobesity and neuroprotective effects. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Perilla frutescens var acuta (purple perilla) leaves on differentiation of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. The sample did not show any cytotoxicity. After inducing differentiation, with or without different concentrations of the sample for a period of eight days, the cells were extracted for quantification of triglycerides and mRNA expression of adipogenic transcription factors and enzymes. Treatment with perilla extract reduced the triglyceride accumulation dose dependently which was evident from the TG quantification as well as Oil Red O staining of lipid droplets. The mRNA expressions of transcription factors like PPARγ, C/EBPα and lipogenic enzymes like ACC, FAS, aP2 were significantly reduced in treated cells. GPDH activity assay also showed similar results. In conclusion, the results of this study elucidated that perilla leaf extract prevents accumulation of lipid and differentiation of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes by downregulation of lipogenic pathway. Further studies are to be conducted to find the potential antiobesity effect of purple perilla on rodents.

Support or Funding Information

[This research was financially supported by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE), Korea, under the “Regional Specialized Industry Development Program” supervised by the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT)]
Low Manganese May Increase the Risk of Diabetes in Chinese Adults
Authors: Liu Liping , Du Shufa , Wang Huijun , Mendez Michelle A , Popkin Barry M
Published: November 2023

Background

Diabetes has rapidly increased in past two decades in China. Recent studies reported that manganese may help regulate glucose metabolism, while little is known about the relationship between manganese concentrations and the risk of diabetes.

Methods

We used a subsample (n=5,587 adults aged 18 – 65 years) who provided blood and toenail samples in 2009 from the China Health and Nutrition Survey, a study covering 9 provinces varying in environment and urbanization in China. We measured manganese on toenail samples with inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP‐MS), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) on fresh whole blood samples with high performance liquid chromatography, insulin on serum samples with radioimmunology method, and glucose on serum samples with Hitachi 7600 Auto‐analyzer. We estimated the association between manganese concentrations and diabetes by using logistic regression models in which we controlled for age, gender, body mass index, education, social‐economic status, residential region (urban/rural), and urbanization index.

Results

The median manganese concentration was 3.86 mg/kg with a range of 0 – 60.58 mg/kg. The prevalence of diabetes defined as HbA1c ≥ 6.5% was 8.15%, 6.88%, 6.20%, and 4.36% from the 1st to 4th quartile of manganese concentration (p trend <0.001), respectively, and the average prevalence was 6.38%. Compared to the 1st quartile, the odds ratio of diabetes from 2nd to 4th quartile was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.59 – 1.11), 0.83 (95% CI: 0.60 – 1.17), and 0.58 (95% CI: 0.40 – 0.84), respectively. The average serum glucose was 95.87 mg/dL. Serum glucose decreased with increased manganese, but it was significantly lower in the 4th quartile only, compared to the 1st quartile (94.06 vs. 97.68 mg/dL, p trend =0.01).

Conclusion

Manganese is an important element for human health. Our findings suggest that low manganese may increase the risk of diabetes. Manganese may play an important role in preventing the development diabetes.

Support or Funding Information

This study is supported by the NIH (R01‐HD30880) and the NIH Fogarty International Center (D43 TW009077)
Female Wistar Han® Outbred Rats as a Model of Obesity When Fed High Fat Diets
Authors: Flowers Jessica , Horn Mandy Jayne
Published: November 2023

This study describes the development of a new rodent model of diet induced obesity utilizing non‐ovariectomized, virgin female Wistar Han® rats. At 3 wk of age, rats were allowed ad libitum access to either high fat (HF‐1; 60% kcal from fat) or control (CON; 13% kcal from fat) diet for a period of 30 wk. A third cohort was started on the same high fat diet (HF‐2) at 8 wk of age for a period of 22 wk. Body weight was measured weekly. At 33 wk of age, food intake was recorded and body composition and energy expenditure were measured. Clinical chemistry parameters were assessed and plasma hormone levels were analyzed. At 33 weeks of age body weight was significantly greater (P < 0.05) in HF compared to CON but not between HF groups (HF‐1, 335 g, HF‐2, 315 g, CON, 260 g). Percent body fat was also significantly greater in rats maintained on high fat compared to control diets but did not differ due to age at high fat diet initiation (HF‐1, 27%, HF‐2, 25%, CON, 13%). Leptin levels were significantly elevated in obese rats consistent with the increased proportion of body fat; all other clinical chemistry and hormone levels measured were within normal range for rats. Total energy intake during the monitoring period was approximately 11% higher in HF rats compared to CON (HF‐1, 47.4 ± 3.1, HF‐2, 45.1 ± 2.6, CON, 41.6 ± 2.8 total kcal). During the dark cycle, HF rats were approximately 20% less active than CON (HF‐1, 15,667 ± 607, HF‐2, 15,662 ± 1095, CON, 18,535 ± 1023 total beam breaks). In conclusion, these female rats became obese with increased energy intake and reduced activity in the absence of surgical or genetic modification, suggesting a potential model for further evaluation of the interplay between leptin and estrogen on energy regulating pathways. Additionally, the rats are non‐diabetic despite a significant degree of obesity. This diet‐induced obesity model may have utility for testing novel anti‐obesity compounds to assess how gender specific hormonal differences may influence weight loss/gain outcomes.

Support or Funding Information

This research was privately funded by Envigo.
Can Bone Regulating Hormones and Nutrients Characterize the Metabolically Healthy Obese Phenotype?
Authors: Cheung May , Becker Kendra , Samantha Diamond , Rita Duszak , Lisa McNamee , Wojciechowicz Christine , Aditi Suresh , Abeer Aljahdali , Margaret‐Claire Chenuit , Sukumar Deeptha
Published: November 2023

The term Metabolically healthy obese (MHO) phenotype has been used to describe those who present with a benign metabolic profile despite excess adiposity. These individuals are obese but are either completely free of metabolic abnormalities or have less than three components of metabolic syndrome. Previous studies suggest that bone regulating hormones and nutrients, such as parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), estrogen, osteocalcin, vitamin D, calcium and magnesium (Mg) influence overall energy metabolism. In this study, we aim to determine whether bone regulating hormones and nutrients can help characterize the MHO phenotype. We hypothesize that adequate Mg status, higher serum 25OHD and lower serum PTH concentrations are variable that could be included in the characterization of the MHP phenotype. A total of 27 overweight or obese adults (BMI 25–40 kg/m2) were recruited. Measurements were obtained for ionized Mg, serum 25OHD, serum PTH, body fat percentage, trunk fat percentage, total fat mass, blood pressure, glycemic indices, lipid profile, and pro‐inflammatory cytokines in order to determine the metabolic factors differentiating MHO vs metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) in this sample. Based on the presence of metabolic abnormalities, participants were classified as MHO (n=13) or MUO (n=14). Results showed no significant difference in mean age between the MHO group and MUO group (Mean age : 32.6 ± 9.2 yr). As expected, serum insulin concentrations and diastolic BP were lower in the MHO group compared to the MUO group (p < 0.04). In addition, triglyceride and c‐reactive protein concentrations did not differ between groups. Dietary Mg intake tended to be higher in the MHO group (270.4 ± 181.7 mg/day) than the MUO group (195.4 ± 88.9 mg/day). Ionized Mg concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.04) in the MHO group than in the MUO group. Serum 25OHD concentrations did not differ between groups, while serum PTH concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.02) in the MUO group (61.8 ± 25.9 pg/mL) than the MHO group (40.2 ± 11.5 pg/mL). Serum osteocalcin and serum c‐telopeptide collagen concentrations also tended to be higher in the MHO compared to the MUO group. In summary the MHO phenotype had a better magnesium status, lower serum PTH levels and higher serum levels of bone turnover markers, some of which have shown to regulate energy metabolism. Early recognition of the alterations in these bone regulating hormones and nutrients can be a potential target for intervention or prevention of metabolic abnormalities in the obese population.

Support or Funding Information

American Heart Association‐ Scientist Development Grant‐ 16SDG27050002 to Deeptha Sukumar
Effects of Low Calorie Sweetener D‐psicose on Lipid Metabolism in Rats
Authors: Chen Jingjing , Huang Weilai , Jiang Bo
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect of new generation low calorie sweetener D‐psicose on body weight management and lipid metabolism of rats compared with other traditional dietary carbohydrates. Five groups of Wistar rats were administrated with diets containing 5% of glucose, fructose, cellulose and D‐psicose for 4 weeks, respectively. After sacrifice, blood lipid profile, tissue morphology and related genes participated in lipid metabolism were examined. Our results indicated rats supplemented with D‐psicose had minimum body weight gain, less epididymal fat and smaller adipose cell size. The blood lipid profile and antioxidant level of rats fed with D‐psicose was improved. D‐psicose was shown to regulate lipid metabolism by increasing lipid metabolism related enzymes such as succinated dehydrogenase in serum and liver, as well as hepatic lipase. D‐psicose could prevent fat accumulation by suppressing the expression of lipogenesis related genes including ACCα (Acetyl‐CoA carboxylase), FAS (fatty acid synthase) and SREBP‐1c (sterol regulatory element binding proteins), while stimulating the expression of fatty acid oxidation related genes including AMPKα2 (AMP‐activated protein kinase), HSL (hormone sensitive lipase) and PPARa (peroxisome proliferator activated receptors). In conclusion, as a promising new generation low calorie sweetener, D‐psicose may be used to regulate lipid metabolism and prevent obesity.
Acute metabolic and satiety responses to ingestion of molasses versus sucrose in healthy adults
Authors: Kern Mark , Orduna Osiris , Roberts Traci
Published: November 2023

Added sugars are widely consumed and several studies have suggested that some less refined sweeteners promote more favorable metabolic responses during both chronic and acute feeding in comparison to more refined sweeteners. Molasses is a complex, less refined sweetener, and we hypothesized that its consumption would yield “healthier” acute metabolic responses than sucrose. Fourteen healthy (BMI 23.0 ± 0.5) women (n=11) and men (n=3) 30.0±1.8 years of age participated in a two‐trial cross‐over study performed in random order. Following overnight fasting, subjects reported to the lab to consume 25 grams of carbohydrate as either sucrose or molasses in 200 ml of water within 10 minutes. Fingerstick blood samples were collected prior to consumption and 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min after consumption of the sweetener for analysis of glucose and total antioxidant capacity. Breath gases were collected for measurement of hydrogen and methane at baseline and every 30 minutes. Appetite was assessed every 15 minutes with 100 mm visual analog scales. When compared to sucrose, the postprandial glucose response was significantly lower during the molasses trial compared to sucrose. Molasses generally promoted lower ratings of hunger, desire to eat and prospective food consumption and higher ratings of fullness. Breath hydrogen concentration progressively increased throughout the testing period after molasses consumption, but remained unchanged after ingestion of sucrose. Molasses tended to increase antioxidant capacity relative to sucrose. Overall, in comparison to sucrose, molasses promoted more favorable metabolic and appetitive responses. Greater breath hydrogen suggests that a component of molasses is escaping digestion by human enzymes and serving as a fuel source for gut microbes. Future research should explore the components responsible for the differing responses to molasses. Furthermore, results suggest that molasses may be a potential substitute for more refined added sugars in food products in which it is suitable.