Search Weight Loss Topics:

Page 13«..10..12131415..2030..»

Home » Diet » Page 13

Dietary thiamine (vitamin B1) intake was linked with cognition in older adults, a longitudinal analysis in China suggested.

Over a median follow-up of 5.9 years, cognitive decline risk was minimal at dietary thiamine intake levels of 0.60 to 1.00 mg/day, reported Xianhui Qin, MD, of Southern Medical University in Guangzhou, and co-authors.

However, a J-shaped association emerged between intake of dietary thiamine and 5-year cognitive decline, with an inflection point at 0.68 mg/day (95% CI 0.56-0.80), the researchers wrote in General Psychiatry.

Before the inflection point of 0.68 mg/day, thiamine intake was not significantly associated with cognitive decline. After the inflection point, each daily 1.0-mg increase in thiamine intake was associated with a drop of 4.24 points in global cognitive scores (95% CI 2.22-6.27) and 0.49 standard units in composite cognitive scores (95% CI 0.23-0.76) within 5 years (P<0.001 for both). Global cognitive scores could range from 0 to 27.

The association of dietary thiamine intake with cognitive decline beyond the inflection point appeared stronger in people with obesity or hypertension and in non-smokers, Qin and colleagues noted. After multiple test correction, the effect of hypertension and smoking became non-significant.

Food sources of thiamine include whole grains, meat, and fish. In the U.S., common thiamine sources are cereals and bread. Several observational studies -- including a recent cross-sectional analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data -- have reported a linear relationship between dietary thiamine and cognitive function in older adults.

In animal models, thiamine deficiency produces many Alzheimer's-like changes, noted Gary Gibson, PhD, of the Burke Neurological Institute of Weill Cornell Medicine in White Plains, New York, who wasn't involved with the study.

"Evidence suggests that the decline is related to a reduced ability to transport thiamine," Gibson told MedPage Today. "Thus, brains of Alzheimer's disease patients and animal models can be thiamine-deficient despite normal intake."

In 2021, an exploratory clinical trial led by Gibson suggested that pharmacological-grade benfotiamine, a thiamine prodrug not available commercially, may help people with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease. A larger phase II study that randomizes people with early Alzheimer's disease to benfotiamine or placebo is underway.

In their analysis, Qin and co-authors used data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey. In 1997, 2000, 2004, and 2006, cognitively healthy participants ages 55 and older had assessments of mental acuity. Information about diet was collected in each survey round, supplemented by detailed data about dietary intake over 24 hours on 3 consecutive days, which were collected in person by trained investigators.

The study included 3,106 participants capable of completing repeated cognitive function tests who had at least two rounds of survey data. Mean age was 63, and the average dietary thiamine intake was 0.93 mg/day.

Cognitive decline was defined as the 5-year decline rate in global or composite cognitive scores based on a subset of items from the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status-modified (TICS-m), which can be administered by phone or in-person. The test included immediate and delayed recall of a 10-word list, counting backward from 20, and serial seven subtraction five times from 100 to evaluate verbal memory, attention, and calculation, respectively. Higher scores in each item indicated better function. The researchers also determined a composite score by averaging z scores of the test components.

Compared with participants with thiamine intake of 0.60 to less than 1.00 mg/day, for 5-year decline rates in the composite cognitive score was 0.13, 0.15, and 0.33 in those with daily intake of less than 0.60 mg, 1.00 mg to less than 1.20 mg, and 1.20 mg or more, respectively. "Similar patterns were observed for the global cognitive scores," Qin and colleagues noted. "Moreover, multiple test correction had no significant effect on the results."

Other variables -- age, sex, alcohol consumption, and dietary intake of fat, protein, or carbohydrate -- did not significantly change the findings, the researchers added.

The analysis relied on dietary intake recalled over 24-periods, which may not be fully accurate, Qin and co-authors acknowledged. It assessed data about cognitively healthy older adults in China only and findings might not apply to others.

Judy George covers neurology and neuroscience news for MedPage Today, writing about brain aging, Alzheimers, dementia, MS, rare diseases, epilepsy, autism, headache, stroke, Parkinsons, ALS, concussion, CTE, sleep, pain, and more. Follow

Disclosures

This study was funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Qin and co-authors reported no conflicts of interest.

Gibson reported relationships with the National Institute on Aging.

Primary Source

General Psychiatry

Source Reference: Liu C, et al "J-shaped association between dietary thiamine intake and the risk of cognitive decline in cognitively healthy, older Chinese individuals" Gen Psychiatr 2024; DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2023-101311.

Read more here:
Dietary Thiamine Linked With Cognition | MedPage Today - Medpage Today

The dairy industry has been telling us for decades that cows milk is essential for healthy bones and helping children grow. Its also a message backed by the federal government, which says that eating or drinking dairy is important for building and maintaining strong bones.

But is cows milk really essential to a childs growth? Should adults be drinking it for stronger bones too? How much milk and calcium do our bodies really need?

We spoke with experts about the role of dairy in bone growth and overall health. They agree that plain milk is a far more nutritional beverage than many flavored drinks offered to children. But experts say that dairy milk isnt as essential to overall health as many people believe. For adults or children who dont like milk or have an intolerance to it, removing dairy from a healthy and varied diet is unlikely to cause any health issues.

Read more from the original source:
Do we really need to consume dairy for bone health? We asked the experts. - The Washington Post

Its hard to keep track of every health craze that takes society by storm, but the fermented milk beverage kefir might deserve some recognition for nutrition.

With the consistency of a thin yogurt and a somewhat sour, tangy punch, kefir accompanies other probiotic powerhouses like the trendy fermented tea, kombucha on supermarket shelves.

But this drink didnt just pop up out of nowhere; kefir has a history as rich as its taste. People from the Caucasus region and all around western Eurasia have consumed kefir for centuries, but it didnt start spreading to other parts of the world until the 20th and 21st centuries.

Kefir is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains living colonies of yeasts and bacteria that almost look like little clumps of cauliflower. Based on temperatures, the type of milk, and the fermentation time, the properties in kefir can change. The traditional version of this drink can easily be made at home with the grains; the nutritional impact of store bought kefir is not as strong since it contains less bacterial strains.

If youre thinking of revamping your diet, you might want to consider adding kefir to your fridge. Here are 10 health benefits that will convince you to give it a chance:

Various studies have demonstrated the potential for kefir to prevent excessive weight gain, control appetite, and increase metabolism.

In one animal study comparing the effects of kefir on body weight, four mice groups were each given a separate diet: Normal diet (ND), high-fat diet (HFD), HFD supplemented with 1 percent kefir powder (LK), and HFD supplemented with 2 percent kefir powder (HK).

Results showed that the LK- and HK- fed mice had 10 and 24 percent lower body weights than the HFD-fed mice. The HK-fed mice also had the same body weight as ND-fed mice, meaning obesity was essentially prevented.

Some human studies on weight control through kefir have been conducted, such as one in which drinking kefir led to reduced weight, BMI, and waist circumference in overweight premenopausal women. But it appears that more research on this effect is needed.

Also, be wary of drinking too much kefir this may result in weight gain, especially depending on the type of milk used.

Read More: 5 Things That Will Help Keep Your Microbiome Healthy

Kefir can also regulate several factors often associated with diabetes and metabolic syndrome (a group of conditions that precedes diabetes). The drink has been shown to decrease patients blood pressure, fasting glycemia, and bad LDL cholesterol.

Kefir also causes a significant decline in HbA1C (glucose attached to hemoglobins, causing hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar).

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) often paired with obesity or diabetes occurs when too much fat accumulates on the liver; over time, it can inflict serious liver damage.

Kefir can keep the liver at a healthy size and condition, as shown by a 2023 study. Researchers proved the drinks ability to regulate fat and improve inflammation in the livers of rats with diet-induced NAFLD.

Read More: Fermented Foods: Japan's Secret to Good Health?

Kefir supports the most vital organs in our bodies, including the heart. Since Kefir reduces blood pressure, it can lower the risk of cardiovascular issues.

In certain cases, hypertension may be linked to a lack of diversity in the gut microbiome, sometimes defined by dysbiosis, an imbalance in bacterial composition within the gut. Given the probiotic nature of Kefir, drinking it will likely enrich the gut microbiota and reverse any imbalances, potentially lowering hypertension risks.

Kefir enhances functions that serve as immune responses, hindering inflammation in organs and even alleviating seasonal allergies.

In multiple animal and in vitro cellular studies, consuming kefir has resulted in antagonism against parasites and bacterial organisms, proving that it can assist in protecting the body from outside invaders. Kefir may even promote faster wound healing.

In addition to bolstering your physical health, drinking Kefir may also have an impact on mental health.

One study administered nicotine to groups of rats and then examined how kefir affected the anxiety and depression induced by nicotine withdrawal. Tests yielded decreased anxiety and depression in the kefir-treated rats, as well as improvements in learning and memory.

The presence of Lactobacillus, one of the most common microorganisms found in kefir and other probiotic foods, plays a role in managing stress in the body.

Read More: Gut Bacteria's Role in Anxiety and Depression: Its Not Just In Your Head

Kefir hosts a variety of nutrients required to fuel the physiological functions of your body. It contains essential macroelements such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium, which all facilitate cell growth and energy production.

It is also a good source of microelements such as iron, zinc, and copper, important for cellular metabolism and blood production.

The idea of consuming a drink with bacteria might sound a bit frightening, but dont worry Kefir, like other probiotics, is chock-full of friendly bacteria that boost your gut health and make digestion easier.

Generally, all probiotics tend to relieve issues like diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain if taken long term. They produce short-chain fatty acids, which keep the colon healthy. However, introducing a large amount of a new probiotic into your system might temporarily induce digestive complications.

Read More: Stomachache? Your Gut Bacteria Might Be to Blame

Kefir reinforces bone density, ultimately lowering the risk of fractures. Not only is it a great source of calcium, but it also provides Vitamin K2; this vitamin is needed to activate osteocalcin, a protein that fosters bone metabolism.

One study showed that osteoporosis patients who consume kefir may experience quicker bone remodeling and less bone resorption (when bone tissue is broken down, which at higher rates can weaken bones).

Studies have indicated that kefir could possibly deter cancer in some cases. It may help curb certain cancers like colorectal cancer and breast cancer by impeding the growth of tumor cells or inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death that, when properly functioning, is meant to get rid of mutated cancer cells).

These 10 potential benefits make kefir a unique, healthy drink. On your next trip to the supermarket, consider adding it to your shopping cart. Or even better, buy some kefir grains and make your own. It might take a little while to get used to the taste, but your brain, heart, and gut will be thankful.

Read More: New Clues to Chronic Diseases Turn Up in the Gut

Our writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:

Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic Minute: What is kefir?

Applied Sciences. Traditional Grain-Based vs. Commercial Milk Kefirs, How Different Are They?

Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. Kefir prevented excess fat accumulation in diet-induced obese mice

European journal of nutrition. Kefir drink leads to a similar weight loss, compared with milk, in a dairy-rich non-energy-restricted diet in overweight or obese premenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial

Iranian journal of public health. Effect of Probiotic Fermented Milk (Kefir) on Glycemic Control and Lipid Profile In Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Scientific Reports. Iranian journal of public health

Cellular Physiology and Biochemistry. Mechanisms of Action of Kefir in Chronic Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases

Cureus. The Effects of Kefir and Kefir Components on Immune and Metabolic Physiology in Pre-Clinical Studies: A Narrative Review

Advanced biomedical research. Kefir protective effects against nicotine cessation-induced anxiety and cognition impairments in rats

Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. Lactobacillus from the Altered Schaedler Flora maintain IFN homeostasis to promote behavioral stress resilience

Saudi pharmaceutical journal : SPJ : the official publication of the Saudi Pharmaceutical Society. Role of Probiotics in health improvement, infection control and disease treatment and management

Nutrients. The Many Faces of Kefir Fermented Dairy Products: Quality Characteristics, Flavour Chemistry, Nutritional Value, Health Benefits, and Safety

PLOS ONE. Short-Term Effects of Kefir-Fermented Milk Consumption on Bone Mineral Density and Bone Metabolism in a Randomized Clinical Trial of Osteoporotic Patients

Journal of Functional Foods. An insight into the anticancer effects of fermented foods: A review

Originally posted here:
10 Reasons Why You Should Add Kefir to Your Diet - DISCOVER Magazine

Most of us have tried and failed to change something in our diet, from simply eating healthier food to going vegan. Americans have been encouraged to reduce sugar and meat intake and eat more of a plant-based diet. I discovered theres very little information available about the pitfalls to avoid if you want to be successful in maintaining a 100% plant-based diet. With all of the misinformation out there telling you why a 100% plant-based diet might not work, its amazing that anyone manages to stick with it. Its actually pretty easy to be very healthy and satisfied eating plant-based if you know what to watch out for, and this seasoned vegans superpower has been making mistakes you can learn from. Lets have some fun with it.

Weve heard new reasons over the last few years to consider adopting a plant-based diet. Its no longer just about our individual health. Recent studies, including Modern Diets and the Health of Our Planet in the National Library of Medicine, show a significant connection between the health of the environment and what we eat. Theres been a renewed societal awareness of the impact of eating animalson the animals. Eight years ago, I felt armed with many reasons to convert to a plant-based diet, yet a major obstacle I faced was not giving in to the doubt created by the saturation of animal products, advertising and false, non-scientific information provided by friends, family and social media. Youve likely heard that changing to a plant-based diet will either save the earth or turn you into a protein-deprived, sickly neo-hippy wannabe, usually the latter. Ultimately, its up to you what the impact will be. Although we often have little power over governmental policy or business practices, we do have control over our diets. Turning to a plant-based diet is one way we can directly reduce suffering and improve both personal and environmental health.

Today, we will expand upon our Dec. 20, 2023 installment and discuss more bone-headed mistakes you should avoid while moving towards a plant-based diet.

This months installment of Eating Green What NOT to do!:

Dont be a follower. Social Influencers will be 100% committed! for the entirety of Veganuary but may soon find a convenient excuse to quit (my brain functioning was an actual excuse I heard). Along comes National Pork Belly Frittata Month, and they latch on to that craze instead. Find inspiration from science and your personal values. Determine what success will look like to you. Keep it simple the major medical associations like the American and British Dietetic Associations have done research about thriving on plant-based diets. For inspiration, check out The Game Changers, a sports movie, or critically reviewed science-based documentaries and books focused on plant-based eating. Read peer-reviewed medical research not sponsored by the meat and dairy industries.

Dont believe you cant get what you need (The Protein Blues). If you try sometimes, you just might find, you get what you need from plants, as Mick Jagger might have said. Plant-based diets leading to protein deficiency are a common misconception. Look into the actual science, vegan Olympic and pro-athletes, not some guy at your gym who tried to cut out meat for a quick minute and blamed broccoli for not being able to lift as much now as 30 years ago. Hey, I understand everyone needs to have an excuse for maintaining their bad diet and being a couch potato, but the plants are innocent bystanders.

Dont buy perfume at a gas station. Likewise, your favorite French bakerys one vegan pastry wont be edible. They felt obligated to make it, have no clue how to make it well and they really dont care. If they make it vegan, low fat and gluten-free, run, dont walk away from it! Apparently, they think plant-based eaters are masochists who dont like sugar, wheat or fat. Folks, there are delicious plant-based main dishes, cakes, cookies, etc., but its hard to find them store-made or in a non-vegan restaurant. Want good vegan food? Find a vegan friend, and they will tell you about the best vegan restaurants, cookbooks and the secrets of great vegan home cooking. Dessert tip: You can eat a lot more dessert on a vegan diet! Learn vegan baking from Chloe Coscarellis dessert cookbook. Youll want to serve her cupcakes with every meal!

The next Eating green What not to do installment may blow your mind and change your life, or at least try to make you laugh. The installment will include science-based reference material suggestions to help you on your journey. Go slow and stay tuned.

See original here:
The lighter side of the eating well journey: Keeping a plant-based diet - Los Altos Town Crier

The

The Mediterranean diet isnt going anywhere; it was just named the top diet again by U.S. News and World Report. But a newcomer called the Atlantic diet, which has a few key differences, is getting buzz following a study published this month in JAMA Network Open. The research suggests you dont have to entirely rule out meat and potatoes in order to keep your waistline, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels in check.

The Atlantic diet comes from traditional eating patterns in the Northwestern Iberian Peninsulaspecifically, northwestern Spain and northern Portugal, explains Kim Yawitz, R.D., a dietitian and gym owner in St. Louis.

Its been compared to the better-known Mediterranean diet, and for good reason, she says. Both diets encourage liberal consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, olive oil, nuts, and fish and allow moderate wine consumption.

The key difference is that the typical Atlantic diet allows for more beef and pork and tends to be more starch-heavy than the Mediterranean diet.

Heres everything to know about the Atlantic diet, according to dietitians.

Local, fresh foods that are seasonal and minimally processed are the focus of an Atlantic diet.

Staples of the diet include fruits, vegetables, whole grain bread, potatoes (often served in stews), beans, olive oil, fish and other seafood, milk and cheese, as well as dried fruits, and nuts, especially chestnuts. The Atlantic diet also allows for moderate amounts of beef, pork, poultry, and wine.

Skip the fried foods, though: The regional cuisine is mostly grilled, broiled, baked, or stewed.

Stewing in particular is a method of slow-cooking that can help retain nutrients and enhance flavors, incorporating ingredients like seafood, lean meats, vegetables, and legumes and reflecting the culinary traditions of regions along the Atlantic coast, says Michelle Routhenstein, M.S. RD., C.D.N., a cardiology dietitian and owner of Entirely Nourished. You can use fresh herbs and spices to amp up the flavor in your stews, she says.

The Atlantic diet is low in saturated fat and rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats, points out Yawitz. In the 2024 study that involved 574 participants, those who followed the diet for six months saw significant improvements in waist circumference and HDL (i.e., good) cholesterol, she says.

Other recent studies, Yawitz points out, suggest the Atlantic diet may help reduce depression and boost longevity.

Routhenstein likes that the Atlantic diet focuses on seafood and healthy fats, such as those found in fish and olive oil. This can contribute to improved heart health and reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.

A 2022 study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that people who ate more than a half teaspoon of olive oil daily had lower rates of premature death from cardiovascular disease compared to those who never or rarely consumed the oil. Dietitians hail extra virgin olive oil as a healthy fat because its rich in antioxidants like oleocanthal, which is known to help fight inflammation. (Chronic inflammation is such a big concern because its linked to an array of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more.)

Much like the Mediterranean diet, the health benefits of the Atlantic diet are largely good for long-term cognitive health, says dietitian Michelle Saari, R.D.N. at EHealth Project. Fresh seafood and olive oil are rich in omega-3 fats, a nutrient linked to brain function.

While the aforementioned studies are promising, the Atlantic diet hasnt been researched extensively, Yawitz says. This is surprising, given that Southern Europeans have been eating this way for centuries.

Based on the available studies and given its similarities to the Mediterranean diet, the diet appears to be pretty healthy overall, she says. That said, the plan is just different enough from the Mediterranean diet to warrant further investigation.

The diet might also pose some challenges for those who live in regions with limited access to fresh seafood, says Routhenstein. Also, some people struggle with constantly preparing fresh meals, and the Atlantic diet heavily encourages people to be cooking from scratch, Saari says.

Starting a new plan can feel overwhelming, but you can ease into the Atlantic diet by making simple changes to your current diet.

For example, you might swap your white bread for whole grain, throw some fish on the grill instead of your usual strip steak, or order vegetable soup rather than broccoli cheddar, Yawitz suggests.

The Atlantic diet is still relatively new on the diet scene so you wont find many recipe books at your local bookstore, she says. You can search the internet for healthy Spanish or Portuguese recipes or look through Mediterranean diet cookbooks if you need inspiration.

Here are a few more tips for starting the Atlantic diet, according to Saari:

Continue reading here:
What Is The Atlantic Diet - Differences Between Atlantic Diet And Mediterranean Diet - Delish

In a recent study published in Scientific Reports, researchers investigated the association between plant-based diets and oxidative biomarkers by calculating the plant-based diet index score and determining the levels of urinary biomarkers for oxidative stress in professional footballers.

The accumulation of reactive oxygen species in the body leads to the damage of protein, lipids, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is known as oxidative stress. The concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and F2alpha-isoprostane (F2a-IP) in urine have often been used as markers of oxidative stress. Diets that are largely plant-based have been thought to reduce oxidative stress and protect against reactive oxygen species.

Plant-based diets are also becoming increasingly popular, especially among athletes who have high energy and endurance requirements. These diets are categorized based on the proportion of plant to animal-based components in the diet. They range from completely plant-based, such as vegan diets, to semi-vegetarian diets that include some animal-based components.

Given that football is a sport that consists of activities such as intense bursts of running, jumps, and sprints that require high energy levels, adherence to nutritional diets is vital to the performance of footballers. They provide an ideal group to investigate how plant-based diets are associated with oxidative stress.

In the present study, the researchers compared the levels of urinary biomarkers F2a-IP and 8-OHdG and the plant-based diet index scores between professional male footballers and matched non-athlete controls to examine whether plant-based diets were associated with decreased oxidative stress.

Footballers who had at least two years of professional experience and had strict training schedules were included in the study if their metabolic equivalent of the task was greater than 3000 minutes per week. They were also required to be non-smokers and not consume alcohol or take any antioxidant supplements. Healthy males with matched ages and body mass index (BMI) measures who had a metabolic equivalent of task between 600 and 3000 minutes per week were included as controls.

Interviews were conducted to determine the medical history, food intake data, physical activity levels, and general information on nutrition from all the participants. Anthropometric measurements such as height and weight were measured to calculate the BMI, and urine samples were obtained to measure the oxidative stress biomarker levels. A questionnaire was also used to determine physical activity levels.

A semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire was used to determine the food intake of all the participants over the previous year, including the consumption of specific items being determined in terms of grams per day. The plant-based diet index score was calculated using this information, and the results were used to classify the diets into three major groups healthy plant foods, less healthy plant foods, and animal foods.

The healthy plant foods diets consisted of vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, legumes, coffee, tea, and vegetable oils, while the less healthy plant food diets consisted more of refined grains and sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts. The diets that were predominantly animal food-based consisted mainly of meat, eggs, seafood, fish, dairy, and animal fat.

The results showed that the plant-based diet index score of the footballers was significantly higher than that of the matched non-athlete controls, but the healthy and unhealthy plant-based diet index scores that were separately calculated based on the diet groups were not significantly different for the footballers and non-athletes.

Furthermore, plant-based diets were found to be linked to lower levels of the oxidative stress biomarker F2a-IP in the urine samples of all participants, indicating improved antioxidant status due to plant-based diets. Compared to non-athletes, footballers were also found to be more adherent to plant-based diets, as hypothesized by the researchers.

Footballers were found to consume more vegetables, fruits, legumes, and nuts than non-athletes, while the consumption of total and animal fats was lower among footballers than non-athletes.

The researchers also discussed the potential role of antioxidants and polyphenols present in plant-based diets in lowering oxidative stress. They also discussed findings from other studies that found inverse associations between F2a-IP concentrations and vegetable components such as lycopene, beta-carotene, and lutein, suggesting that diets rich in vegetables lower oxidative stress.

Furthermore, dietary fats are known to increase the production of F2a-IP and influence the concentrations of F2a-IP transporters in plasma, which could potentially explain why diets low in dietary fats were associated with lower F2a-IP levels in the urine.

Overall, the results suggested that adherence to plant-based diets among footballers was linked to lower levels of the oxidative stress biomarker F2a-IP in urine. Additionally, the plant-based diet scores also showed that footballers were more likely to adhere to nutritional plant-based diets than non-athletes.

See the article here:
A plant-based diet and its relationship with oxidative biomarkers in footballers - News-Medical.Net

Meanwhile, others pointed out how scary it is that people boldly lie on social media in order to promote and sell their products.

Sooooo many people are lying just to sell a product on tiktok its kinda scary, one personsaid. Im glad sydney called her out cuz these influencers be saying ANYTHING, another userwrote.

Read the rest here:
Sydney Sweeney Seemingly Had The Best Response To An Influencer Who Apparently Lied About Being Her Dietician ... - BuzzFeed News

In a recent study published in Nature Metabolism, researchers conducted clinical studies on murine animals and humans to evaluate the impact of high protein intake on the amino acid-mammalian target of the rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) autophagy signaling pathway. They also assessed the dose-response relationship, downstream effects, and amino acid specificity of mTORC1 activation.

Animal studies have reported high protein intake associated with cardiovascular disease in Western nations. High-protein diets enhance atherogenesis through amino-acid-mediated mTORC1 signaling and impair autophagy and mitophagy in macrophages. The specific articular processes underlying this activation remain unknown, although the authors speculate that the stimulatory impact may be related to certain 'pathogenic' amino acids.

In the present study, researchers conducted two clinical experiments to investigate the dose-response connection between dietary protein consumption and the amino acid specificity of the amino acid-mTOR-autophagy pathway in human monocytes or macrophages.

The first experiment examined protein consumption extremes by assessing the impact of fluid meals containing 50% or 10% protein content on mTORC1 pathway activation in monocytes. The second experiment used a more realistic setting, assessing these results in subjects who received standard protein meals or mixed meals with more protein (15% kilocalories vs. 22% kilocalories). The study analyzed monocytes expressing cluster of differentiation 14 (CD14+) but not CD16 since they represent most monocytes in circulation and are most likely to develop into atherosclerotic macrophages.

The team performed flow cytometry and monocyte isolation from platelets. They used western blotting, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), and immunofluorescence to investigate the impact of different protein content meals on serological amino acid levels, monocyte mTORC1 signaling, and downstream consequences.

The team investigated 14 overweight individuals [based on body mass index (BMI)] twice following a 12-hour overnight fast. The participants consumed low- and very high-level protein meals. The researchers used cultured human monocyte-derived macrophages to investigate the macrophage-specific mTORC1 response to amino acids and to assess dosage effects.

They measured amino acid concentrations in plasma and macrophages using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and quantified the arginine amounts in plasma using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. They determined the size of atherosclerotic lesions using Oil Red O staining of aortic root slices.

The researchers investigated whether leucine-dependent mTORC1 activation occurs in vivo in mice and cultured murine macrophages. ApoE knockout mice were fed six meals over eight weeks, including a moderate-protein western diet, a high-protein western diet, a moderate-protein western diet with leucine and amino acids, more amino acids, and a nitrogen-adjusted version of moderate-protein plus amino acids.

They investigated whether serum amino acids were present in C57BL/6J mice weaned at three weeks old. In vivo, atherosclerosis-related investigations began at eight weeks using male mice of the given genotype fed varied diets.

The study identified leucine as the primary activator of mTOR signaling in macrophages, showing a threshold impact of consuming protein in large quantities and circulating leucine on monocytes or macrophages. Only protein above 25g per meal activates mTOR and has functional consequences. Ingestion of proteins above 22% of dietary energy needs triggers the harmful amino acid-mTORC1-autophagy signaling pathway in human monocytes and macrophages, which causes atherosclerosis in male mice. The study found a strong link between high protein consumption and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, indicating the possibility for diet advice and treatment measures.

The total amino acid content in plasma increased after having the high-protein liquid meal but not after drinking the low-protein one. During the three-hour postprandial interval, consuming the very high protein level boosted mTORC1 signaling and gradually reduced LC3 signal intensity, indicating mTORC1-mediated autophagy suppression. Western blot analysis showed a robust dose-dependent impact of leucine-mediated mTORC1 activation in HMDMs, as evaluated by phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 and ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p-S6K).

The team also found a dose-dependent threshold effect for mTOR-LAMP2 colocalization, suppression of autophagy (diminished LC3 puncta formation), and mitophagy (reduced colocalization of the mitochondrial marker COXIV with the autophagosome marker LC3). They observed significantly increased levels of four amino acids (Leu, Ile, Val, and Thr) in mice following protein gavage compared to control gavage.

Leucine was the most effective mTORC1 activator, with 1.6 g of protein per kg of gavage resulting in higher mTORC1 activation than 0.8 g of protein per kg of gavage. The study revealed that increased dietary leucine is both required and sufficient to produce the pro-atherogenic impact of a high-protein diet in vivo.

The study findings showed that high protein consumption, notably through elevated plasma leucine, might suppress mTORC1-mediated autophagy and atherogenesis in monocytes and macrophages, with critical clinical and public health implications.

Although higher protein consumption than the recommended allowance of 0.8 grams/kg/day is regarded safe, the study suggests caution and more clinical studies. Leucine was the primary amino acid responsible for activating mTOR in macrophages, and increasing protein consumption had a threshold effect on the detrimental signaling pathway.

A comprehensive examination is required to determine the accurate threshold between dietary protein benefits and negative health impacts.

Journal reference:

See the article here:
A high-protein diet and elevation in the amino acid leucine may contribute to buildup of plaque in arteries - News-Medical.Net

New research has found fast-mimicking diets could slow down ageing. (Getty Images)

Diets that mimic fasting may be able to make a person "two-and-a-half years younger" by reducing their biological age, a new study has suggested.

Researchers found that a fasting-mimicking diet (FMD) can lower insulin resistance, reduce liver fat, and slow immune system ageing.

It can also decrease the risks of age-related illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

When these benefits are combined, researchers found this fasting-like diet can result in a lower biological age for humans.

Created by a laboratory at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology in California, a fasting-mimicking diet is a five-day diet which is high in unsaturated fats and low in overall calories, protein, and carbohydrates.

It is designed to mimic the effects of a water-only fast while still providing the necessary nutrients.

The style of fasting is also supposed to make it easier for people to follow and stick to this kind of diet in practice.

"This is the first study to show that a food-based intervention that does not require chronic dietary or other lifestyle changes can make people biologically younger," senior author Professor Valter Longo explains.

"This is based on both changes in risk factors for ageing and disease, and on a validated method developed to assess biological age."

For the research Professor Longo and his team analysed the effects of the FMD in two clinical trial populations each with men and women between the ages of 18 and 70.

Participants underwent three to four monthly cycles of the FMD, during which they adhered to the diet for five days and then ate a normal diet for 25 days.

While sticking to the FMD, they ate things like plant-based soups, energy bars, energy drinks, crisps, and tea all of which were portioned out over the five days.

They were also given a supplement which provided high levels of minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids.

Meanwhile, a control group was instructed to eat either a normal or Mediterranean-style diet which is what the FMD participants ate in their time-off.

Story continues

Results, published in the journal Nature Communications, revealed that those in the FMD group had lower risk factors for diabetes, including less insulin resistance and lower HbA1c levels.

They also had decreased abdominal and liver fat, which is associated with a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, and an increased lymphoid-to-myeloid ratio, which is an indicator of a more youthful immune system.

Further statistical analysis of both clinical studies also showed that the FMD participants had reduced their 'biological age' by two and a half years on average.

Biological age is a measure of how well a persons cells and tissues are functioning, as opposed to chronological age.

"This study has shown for the first time evidence of biological age reduction from two different clinical trials, accompanied by evidence of rejuvenation of metabolic and immune function," Professor Longo explains.

First author Professor Sebastian Brandhorst adds: "Our study also lends more support to the FMDs potential as a short-term, periodic, achievable dietary intervention that can help people lessen their disease risk and improve their health without extensive lifestyle changes."

The research team from USC Leonard Davis hopes that their findings will encourage more doctors across Europe and the US to recommend the FMD to patients with higher disease risk factors, as well as to typically 'healthy' people who may be interested in the other benefits including slowing the ageing process.

Previous research by Prof Longo has indicated that brief, periodic FMD cycles can promote stem cell regeneration and lessen chemotherapy side effects.

Meanwhile, trials on mice have found that the FMD can reduce the signs of dementia.

However, the new study was the first to demonstrate the effects of the FMD on insulin resistance, liver fat, immune system ageing, and biological age.

What is a fasting-mimicking diet?

FMDs, or Fasting Mimicking Diets, are diets designed to mimic the effects of fasting on the body without requiring complete abstinence from food.

"Typically, these diets involve significantly reducing calorie intake for a set period, usually ranging from three to five days, while still providing essential nutrients," explains gut health expert and owner of supplements brand Miracle Leaf, Agnieszka Kozlowska.

"The idea is to trick the body into a fasting state, prompting a range of physiological responses similar to those seen during prolonged fasting."

Kozlowska says one of the key benefits of FMDs is their potential to promote cellular rejuvenation and repair.

"When the body enters a fasting state, it initiates processes such as autophagy, where cells break down and remove damaged components," she explains. "This can help clear out old and dysfunctional cells, making way for new, healthier ones.

"By mimicking fasting, FMDs can stimulate these repair mechanisms, potentially slowing down the ageing process and promoting overall cellular health."

Another area where FMDs show promise is in supporting gut health.

"The gut microbiota, comprised of trillions of microorganisms, plays an essential role in digestion, immune function, and overall health," Kozlowska explains.

"Research suggests that FMDs can help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria by creating an environment that prevents harmful microbes, promoting the growth of beneficial ones," she continues.

"While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of FMDs, the preliminary evidence is promising."

Additional reporting SWNS.

See the rest here:
Diets that mimic fasting could 'reverse aging process', study finds - Yahoo Lifestyle UK

So, youve read Intuitive Eating, youve listened to every episode of podcasts like Maintenance Phase and Food Psych, and youve sworn off MyFitnessPal and low-carb diets for life. Youve seen diet culture for what it is: A fatphobic, racist, elitist belief system that thrives off of keeping us all trapped in a cycle of body hate and disordered eating patterns. Thats awesome! Go you!

The thing is, you still live in this world, which means youre still surrounded by the same harmful messages youve come to loathe. And if youve been working toward food and body freedom for long enough, youve probably realized that divesting completely of diet culture isnt as easy as nodding along with your favorite podcasts and giving yourself permission to eat whatever you want.

As a dietitian who specializes in eating disorders, I work with a lot of folks who struggle to fully let go of restrictive food rules and the desire to control their body size. And I also see so many sneaky ways that diet culture can maintain its gripeven when a client is trying their hardest to opt out.

If youre still having a hard time making peace with food and your body, here are some things that might be keeping you stuck, according to dietitians.

Social media can be a very sneaky way for diet culture to continue influencing your life, Jessi Holden, a dietitian who takes a non-diet approach to food on her recipe blog The Kitchen Innovation, tells SELF. Constant exposure to idealized body images, weight change stories, or good/bad language around food, for example, could lead to or worsen body dissatisfaction, Holden says.

Its not just a matter of unfollowing diet gurus and image-obsessed fitness influencers (which you probably did long ago). Its about making sure youre seeing a diverse range of bodies in your feed, and that the food and nutrition content creators you followif you choose to follow any, which you dont have to, by the way!arent making you feel like the way you eat is somehow less than. Ive had plenty of clients who are deeply impacted by how pretty, colorful, and perfectly plated every food picture on Instagram looks, for example, even if those photos arent showing meals that are overtly diet-y.

The next time you open a social media app, take note of how you feel about your body before you start scrolling, then check in with yourself again afterward. If you notice that you feel worse, make it a point to unapologetically unfollow any accounts that put you in a diet-culture mindset. And while youre at it, try diversifying your feed by following creators in bodies of all different shapes and sizes.

Our food and beverage industry aligns its marketing strategy with timely fads, labeling foods and beverages as low calorie, fat-free, sugar-free, gluten-free, and more, Amy Goldsmith, RD, the founder of Kindred Nutrition, an eating disorder and sports nutrition practice in Frederick, Maryland, tells SELF. As a result, Its impossible to avoid these terms when youre at the grocery store. Even if youre not explicitly trying to eat lower-fat foods or cut back on sugar, for instance, it can be tough to shake the belief that items with less of certain nutrients (and more of others) are inherently better than their traditional counterparts.

See original here:
5 Sneaky Ways Diet Culture Might Still Be Messing With You - Self

Page 13«..10..12131415..2030..»

Home » Diet » Page 13