דו״ח מאומת

<i>Ipomoea batatas</i>, commonly known as sweet potato, is an increasingly valued functional food because of its vivid coloration and rich bioactive compounds, especially anthocyanins and carotenoids, such as ipomoeaxanthin. This review focuses on the bioavailability, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic potential of sweet potato-derived anthocyanins in diabetes and metabolic disorders. Anthocyanins, which are plant pigments, exhibit high antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals and stimulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and superoxide dismutase, thereby protecting cellular structures from damage and reducing oxidative damage in vital metabolic organs such as the pancreas, liver, brain, and muscles. Anthocyanins also increase insulin sensitivity, regulate glucose metabolism, and regulate enzymes involved in carbohydrate digestion, thus reducing the risk of diabetes. In addition, anthocyanins inhibit low-grade chronic inflammation by inhibiting the inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB signaling pathways implicated in the progression of type 2 diabetes. Clinical evidence supports preclinical animal models and ongoing human trials favoring sweet potato consumption to enhance glucose control and decrease insulin resistance. However, challenges remain regarding the poor bioavailability of anthocyanins and the need for stronger human studies. In addition to anthocyanins, sweet potatoes contain diverse nutrients that contribute to their metabolic health. This review highlights the significance of sweet potatoes as a functional food ingredient in diabetes prevention diets and encourages new processing methods that can sustain their bioactive potential.…

PMID: 40918166

Natural polyphenols, particularly tannins, are of interest due to their complex composition and multi-target biological activities. A highly purified tannin fraction was isolated from <i>Aronia melanocarpa</i> fruits, and its composition was characterized by HPLC-MS and IR spectroscopy. The Aronia tannin fraction exhibited comprehensive antioxidant properties, demonstrating superior DPPH radical scavenging activity compared to quercetin and a membrane-protective effect exceeding reference antioxidants. In vivo, Aronia tannins showed a delayed but potent antioxidant effect against cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced oxidative stress, significantly reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, with the maximum effect observed at days 14-21. The immunomodulatory effect involved a complex regulation of the phagocytic system: selective activation of the monocytic arm with simultaneous modulation of neutrophilic activity. Crucially, a high phagocytic completion rate was maintained, indicating support for both bacterial uptake and intracellular killing. Tannins accelerated recovery post-CP, restoring leukocyte and platelet counts. Modulation of neutrophil oxidative metabolism, measured by chemiluminescence, indicates an ability to balance defense activation with prevention of excessive oxidative stress. These findings confirm the potential of the <i>Aronia melanocarpa</i> tannin fraction for correcting oxidative stress and immune dysfunction.…

PMID: 41302398

<h4>Introduction</h4>Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Its incidence has been strongly associated with dietary patterns of the Western diet (WD), which are characterized by high intakes of saturated fats, ultra-processed foods, red and processed meats, refined grains, and added sugars. In contrast, numerous studies have highlighted the potential health benefits of anthocyanins-bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumoral properties. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of anthocyanin-rich diets on CRC prevention and compare them with the effects of WD.<h4>Methods</h4>A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO databases following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Search terms included: "anthocyanin" OR "anthocyanins" AND "prevention" AND "colorectal cancer" AND "Western diet" AND "effect."<h4>Results</h4>Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Anthocyanin-rich interventions demonstrated consistent preventive effects, including the modulation of oxidative stress, suppression of oncogenic signaling pathways, induction of apoptosis in CRC cells, and restoration of gut barrier integrity and microbial diversity. Notably, these interventions exerted significant anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibiting NF-κB, and attenuating colitis-associated tumorigenesis. In contrast, Western dietary patterns were consistently associated with enhanced colonic inflammation, alterations in gut microbial composition, impairment of mucosal immune regulation, and increased colorectal tumor burden.<h4>Discussion</h4>This systematic review provides evidence supporting the protective role of anthocyanin-rich diets in CRC prevention. However, further research is needed to examine drug-nutrient interactions in the context of comorbidities, evaluate various sources of anthocyanins, and better understand the factors influencing their bioavailability and absorption.<h4>Systematic review registration</h4>https://osf.io/b56yz/overview, identifier osf-registrations-b56yz-v.…

PMID: 41766895

Polyphenols, plant-derived bioactive compounds, are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, benefiting plant-based foods. Fermentation, driven by microbial enzymes like glycosidases, esterases, and decarboxylases, alters the chemical structure of polyphenols, enhancing their bioavailability and bioactivity. This review explores the transformation of polyphenols, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids, during fermentation, resulting in bioactive metabolites with increased solubility, stability, and antioxidant activity, improving gastrointestinal absorption. Additionally, fermented polyphenol metabolites modulate gut microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria such as <i>Lactobacillus</i> and <i>Bifidobacterium</i>, while inhibiting pathogens. These changes support gut health, reduce inflammation, and provide systemic benefits, including enhanced metabolic, immune, and neurocognitive functions. Despite progress, knowledge gaps remain, particularly regarding microbial pathways and the health outcomes linked to these metabolites. Future research should focus on mapping microbial biotransformation pathways of polyphenols and their impact on health outcomes. Additionally, well-controlled human intervention studies using multi-omics approaches are necessary to validate the systemic benefits of fermented polyphenol metabolites.…

PMID: 41693952

Obesity has reached alarming proportions worldwide, becoming one of the most prevalent and critical public health challenges of the 21st century. Currently, there is great interest in studying the treatment of obesity with food-derived bioactive compounds, which have low toxicity and no serious adverse events compared to pharmacotherapeutic agents. Here, we review the benefits of anthocyanin-rich foods in preventing obesity, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and in regulating the gut microbiota in preclinical models and human clinical trials. Evidence suggests that dietary anthocyanins may have anti-obesity effects and reduce the risk of chronic noncommunicable diseases by regulating gut health.…

PMID: 41374016

The aging process, along with an inadequate diet and an inflammatory gut response resulting from dysbiosis, contributes to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Modifying the composition of the gut microbiota through appropriate pre/probiotic-rich diets may act as a preventive option for AD. The variety of functions performed by the gut microbiota makes this ecosystem one of the most important systems in the human body. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay diet (MIND), and the modified ketogenic-Mediterranean diet (MKD) positively affect the intestinal microflora and may reduce the risk of dementia. A ketogenic diet has a neuroprotective effect and improves cognitive function but leads to a significant decrease in the abundance and diversity of bacterial species in favor of harmful bacteria. A Western-style diet (Western diet, WD) rich in processed products, red meat, simple sugars, and saturated fatty acids has a negative impact on gut microbiota function, increasing the risk of AD. Our review supports the hypothesis that factors like a proper diet and a healthy gut microbiota have a positive impact on the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. A thorough understanding of the role the microbiota plays in the proper functioning of the nervous system can aid in the prevention of AD by developing new dietary strategies and dietary lifestyles.…

PMID: 41097131

Argan oil, rich in unsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, exerts beneficial effects on both the intestinal and skin microbiotas. In the gut, it promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as <i>lactobacilli</i>, while reducing pathogenic bacteria, due to its anti-inflammatory properties that help maintain microbial balance. Additionally, it improves the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, reducing the risk of dysbiosis. On the skin, argan oil hydrates and balances the lipid environment, creating a favorable setting for beneficial microorganisms, while also possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe conditions like eczema and acne. Thus, argan oil is valuable for overall health, supporting digestion and skin health. The objective of this review is to provide a summary of the benefits of argan oil for alternative and complementary medicine. An exhaustive search of the literature was carried out using targeted keywords. A set of 83 articles were selected and analyzed. As the mechanisms of action of argan oil are not completely understood, this work highlighted the benefits of this oil by analyzing its nutritional properties and its beneficial effects on the intestinal and skin microbiotas. Indeed, argan oil is valuable for overall health.…

PMID: 39458566

Plant-derived nutritional components represent a promising adjunctive strategy for addressing neuropsychiatric manifestations of thyroid disorders. Although conventional hormone replacement normalizes biochemical parameters, many patients continue to experience neurocognitive impairment and affective symptoms, underscoring the complexity of thyroid-brain axis regulation. This review synthesizes recent advances on how plant-based nutritional approaches may modulate oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter homeostasis, and blood-brain barrier integrity, and evaluates their emerging clinical applicability and existing evidence gaps. Overall, plant-based interventions may complement standard therapy and improve neuropsychiatric outcomes, though larger prospective studies are needed to clarify their efficacy and identify suitable patient subgroups.…

PMID: 41798846

Sleep disorders and poor sleep quality are increasingly recognized as global health concerns, with substantial consequences for mental and physical health. While pharmacological treatments are available, growing evidence suggests that nutritional interventions offer effective, sustainable alternatives for enhancing sleep quality. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the impact of key nutrients, dietary patterns, bioactive compounds, and gut microbiome modulation on sleep regulation, and to explore emerging personalized nutrition approaches for managing sleep disorders. A comprehensive review of clinical trials, observational studies, and mechanistic research published over the past two decades was conducted. Key focus areas included sleep-supportive nutrients, dietary patterns (e.g., Mediterranean, ketogenic, plant-based diets), chrononutrition, gut-brain axis modulation, functional foods, and personalized nutrition strategies. Evidence supports the role of specific nutrients (e.g., magnesium, tryptophan, omega-3 fatty acids) and dietary patterns rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds in improving sleep outcomes. Functional foods such as tart cherry juice and kiwifruit demonstrate potential benefits. The gut microbiome emerges as a significant regulator of sleep physiology, suggesting probiotics and prebiotics as novel interventions. Personalized nutrition approaches, incorporating genetic, metabolic, and lifestyle factors, offer promising individualized solutions. Nutritional interventions represent a promising, non-pharmacological strategy for improving sleep quality and managing sleep disorders. Future research should focus on personalized approaches and large-scale clinical trials to validate and refine these strategies for clinical practice.…

PMID: 41356231

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death worldwide. A healthy diet has an important role in delaying the development of many modifiable risk factors of CVD, including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high plasma levels of cholesterol, and glucose. The consumption of various nuts, especially walnuts, may benefit both primary and secondary prevention due to their bioactive components. This review focuses on (1) the protective role of walnut consumption on CVD at large (2) and the potential cellular and molecular mechanisms by which they have beneficial effects on vascular endothelial function. Walnuts contain many essential ingredients (such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and vitamin E) necessary for the healthy functioning of membranes. Since membranes are involved in nearly all processes associated with life-related function, the main underlying mechanism of walnut-improved cardiovascular function is likely based on improving membrane composition and function by providing all of the substrates necessary for membranes, such as cell, mitochondria, Golgi, nucleus, and so on. In addition to endothelial cell function, all other cells and membranes are likely to benefit from walnut consumption, suggesting that incorporating walnuts into the human diet is essential, for example, during higher physical and mental demand, such as exercise, and may mitigate the risk for the development of cardiovascular diseases and compensate for the sedentary lifestyle, especially in those of an older age.…

PMID: 39598224

Plant-derived nutritional components represent a promising adjunctive strategy for addressing neuropsychiatric manifestations of thyroid disorders. Although conventional hormone replacement normalizes biochemical parameters, many patients continue to experience neurocognitive impairment and affective symptoms, underscoring the complexity of thyroid-brain axis regulation. This review synthesizes recent advances on how plant-based nutritional approaches may modulate oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter homeostasis, and blood-brain barrier integrity, and evaluates their emerging clinical applicability and existing evidence gaps. Overall, plant-based interventions may complement standard therapy and improve neuropsychiatric outcomes, though larger prospective studies are needed to clarify their efficacy and identify suitable patient subgroups.…

PMID: 41798846

<h4>Background</h4>Diet and sleep are modifiable lifestyle factors that influence health and well-being. While adherence to the Mediterranean diet has been associated with improved sleep quality, this relationship remains understudied in high-stress occupational groups such as school teachers.<h4>Objective</h4>To examine the association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and self-reported sleep quality among primary and secondary school teachers in Portugal.<h4>Methods</h4>A cross-sectional study was conducted with 113 teachers who completed a self-administered digital questionnaire. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the 14-item Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and sleep quality was evaluated with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).<h4>Results</h4>Of the 113 participants, 58% reported poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5), and the median PSQI score was 6.0 (IQR 4.0-8.8). The median MEDAS score was 9.0 (IQR 8.0-10.0), with 34% classified as having high adherence. When stratified by dietary adherence, there were no statistically significant differences in global PSQI or its components, and multivariable linear regression showed no association between MEDAS and PSQI. Patterns varied by teaching level: poor sleep predominated in most levels except the 2nd Cycle; high adherence was most prevalent in the 1st Cycle, moderate adherence predominated in the 3rd Cycle and secondary education, and the 2nd Cycle showed similar shares of moderate and high adherence.<h4>Conclusions</h4>In this occupational group, poor sleep was common and varied across teaching levels, while Mediterranean diet adherence showed no detectable association with overall sleep quality in this study. Larger, longitudinal studies using objective assessments of diet and sleep, and accounting for factors such as stress and chronotype, are warranted to clarify potential links in educational settings.…

PMID: 41010474

The human gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms fundamental to human health, influencing metabolism, immunity, and neurological function. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in this microbial community, is increasingly linked to a range of chronic diseases, from inflammatory bowel disease to metabolic syndrome. This article explores the therapeutic potential of several common botanicals in modulating the gut microbiota and promoting intestinal health. We delve into the phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties of nine medicinal plants: globe artichoke, aloe vera, German chamomile, pot marigold, Ceylon cinnamon, dandelion, fennel, garlic, ginger, and green tea. We focus on their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and prebiotic effects. The article also discusses the scientific evidence supporting their use, acknowledges the limitations of current research, and highlights considerations for safe and effective application. We conclude by summarising the significant role of these herbal remedies in modern complementary medicine and proposing future research directions to further elucidate their mechanisms of action and optimise their use for gut health.…

PMID: 41303363

This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with garlic extract, mannan oligosaccharide (MOS) and their combinations on growth performance, immunity, gut morphology and microbiota in broilers. A total of 250 Hubbard chicks were allocated into five groups: control (basal diet), garlic extract, MOS, Combo-I (half doses of both) and Combo-II (full doses of both). The trial lasted 42 days under standard management conditions. Results demonstrated that Combo-I consistently improved body weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the starter, grower and finisher phases (p < 0.05), highlighting a synergistic effect of the combined supplements. Carcass weight was significantly enhanced in Combo-II (p = 0.03), although dressing percentage and organ weights were not affected (p > 0.05). Immunological parameters were strongly influenced by supplementation. Combo-I induced the highest antibody titres against Newcastle disease and infectious bursal disease (p < 0.05), with Combo-II ranking second, whereas single additives showed moderate improvements compared to the control. Similarly, serum immunoglobulin concentrations (IgM, IgA and IgG) were greatest in Combo-I, confirming enhanced humoral immunity. Gut morphology was significantly improved in the combination groups, particularly Combo-I, which showed increased villus height, wider villi, reduced crypt depth, and the highest villus:crypt ratio (p < 0.05), reflecting superior absorptive potential. Although differences in ileal microbiota were not statistically significant, both combination treatments reduced Escherichia coli and Salmonella counts while promoting Lactobacillus spp. populations. In conclusion, the combined use of garlic extract and MOS, especially at half doses (Combo-I), optimally improved growth, immune response, gut architecture and microbial balance, offering a synergistic strategy for enhancing broiler performance.…

PMID: 41495007

The dual challenge of rising antimicrobial resistance and consumer demand for natural preservatives threatens global food safety. In this context, plant-derived polyphenolic extracts offer a potent and sustainable solution. These compounds exhibit potent activity against key food-borne pathogens responsible for diseases ranging from diarrhea to gastrointestinal ulcers, as well as pathogen-associated inflammatory conditions linked to long-term gastrointestinal complications. This review synthesizes current research on the efficacy of polyphenolic extracts as antimicrobial agents. I detail their diverse mechanisms of action, evaluate their potential for medical applications, and discuss their integration into advanced food preservation systems to meet modern safety and sustainability standards. Collectively, these insights highlight the potential of plant-derived polyphenolic extracts as sustainable tools for improving food safety in modern food systems.…

PMID: 41900380