Search

Abstract Background The Mediterranean diet (MD), globally recognized for its sustainability and health benefits, traditionally emphasizes the consumption of plant-based foods in raw or minimally processed forms. However, shifting lifestyles, even in Mediterranean regions, have led to an increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF). Epidemiological evidence suggests that UPF consumption may be detrimental to human health, but there is only one clinical trial on this topic which is largely debated in the scientific community. This study aims to investigate the impact of the inclusion of UPF within a Mediterranean-based dietary pattern on cardiometabolic markers, gut microbiota, and other markers of human and planet health. Methods Fifty clinically healthy individuals showing overweight and presenting a low-to-moderate cardiovascular risk profile will be recruited for a 7-month randomized, open, cross-over dietary trial. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to a 3-month high-UPF MD (intervention group) or a low-UPF MD (control group), with a 1-month wash-out period. Both intervention diets will have identical food group compositions, with the intervention group consuming 5 servings/day of selected UPF items, and the control group consuming raw/minimally processed items from the same food group. Blood, urine, and fecal samples, alongside food/lifestyle diaries, will be collected from each participant before and after the dietary interventions. The primary endpoint will be the change in plasma LDL-cholesterol levels from baseline. Additional markers include blood pressure, anthropometric parameters, chemical parameters, glucose and lipid-related metabolic markers, incretins, inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, fecal microbiota composition, and short-chain fatty acids. Finally, food waste production will be evaluated through specific validated food diaries. The study has been approved by the Ethical Committee of the University of Milan and the Tuscany Regional Ethics Committee of the Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria (AOU) - Careggi, Florence. Discussion Results from the PROMENADE study will improve knowledge about the impact of UPF consumption on human and planet health and will contribute to the scientific debate on this topic. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06314932. Registered on March 13, 2024.

Abstract Background Apolipoproteins have been recently proposed as novel markers of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. However, evidence regarding effects of diet on apolipoproteins is limited. Aim To compare the effects of Mediterranean diet (MD) and lacto-ovo vegetarian diet (VD) on apolipoproteins and traditional CVD risk factors in participants with low-to-moderate CVD risk. Methods Fifty-two participants (39 women; 49.1 ± 12.4 years), followed MD and VD for 3 months each. Medical and dietary information was collected at the baseline. Anthropometric parameters and blood samples were obtained at the beginning and the end of interventions. Results MD and VD resulted in significant improvement in anthropometric and lipid profiles. Both diets led to a reduction in most of the inflammatory parameters. As for apolipoproteins, a significant change was observed for ApoC-I after VD (+ 24.4%; p = 0.020). MD led to a negative correlation between ApoC-III and carbohydrates (R = − 0.29; p = 0.039) whereas VD between ApoD and saturated fats (R = − 0.38; p = 0.006). A positive correlation emerged after VD between HDL and ApoD (R = 0.33; p = 0.017) and after MD between plasma triglycerides and ApoC-I (R = 0.32; p = 0.020) and ApoD (R = 0.30; p = 0.031). IL-17 resulted to be positively correlated with ApoB after MD (R = 0.31; p = 0.028) and with ApoC-III after VD (R = 0.32; p = 0.019). Subgroup analysis revealed positive effects on apolipoproteins from both diets, especially in women, individuals older than 50 years-old or with

Abstract Background Obesity and its associated health complications have become a global public health concern, necessitating innovative approaches to weight management. One emerging area of research focuses on the influence of chronotype, an individual’s preferred timing for daily activities, on eating habits, weight regulation, and metabolic health. Recent observational studies suggest that the misalignment between an individual’s chronotype and external cues, such as meal timing, may contribute to metabolic dysregulation and obesity, but evidence from intervention studies is still limited. This study protocol describes a randomized controlled trial designed to explore the effects of a chronotype-adapted diet, compared with a diet with a conventional calorie distribution, on weight loss, cardiometabolic health, and gut microbiota composition. Methods A total of 150 overweight/obese adults will be recruited for this 4-month parallel-group, randomized, two-arm, open-label, superiority trial with 1:1 allocation ratio. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The intervention group will receive a low-calorie chronotype-adapted diet with a calorie distribution adapted to the individual chronotype (morning or evening), optimizing meal timing according to their peak metabolic periods. The control group will follow a standardized low-calorie healthy eating plan without considering chronotype. Both diets will have equivalent daily calorie content, adjusted according to gender and starting weight. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, blood, and fecal samples will be obtained from each participant at the beginning and the end of the study. The primary outcome is weight change from baseline. Secondary outcomes are changes from baseline in body mass index (BMI), fat mass, lipid and glycemic profile, fecal microbiota profile, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Discussion The results of this randomized controlled trial have the potential to advance our understanding of the complex interactions between chronotype, diet, body weight, and health outcomes. By providing evidence for personalized dietary interventions based on individuals’ circadian preferences, this research could offer insights into personalized nutrition strategies. Such knowledge could guide the development of innovative dietary interventions to optimize the prevention and management of overweight and obesity, while also improving the risk profile of these individuals. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05941871. Registered on 18 May 2023.

(1) Background: Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of mortality after liver transplantation. Body composition and cardiovascular performance assessment represent a potential approach for modulating lifestyle correction and proper follow-up in chronic disease patients. This study aimed to verify the additional role of an unsupervised physical activity program in a sample of male liver transplant recipients who follow the Mediterranean diet. (2) Methods: Thirty-three male liver transplant recipients were enrolled. Sixteen subjects followed a moderate-intensity home exercise program in addition to nutritional support, and seventeen received advice on the Mediterranean diet. After six months, bioelectrical vector impedance analysis (BIVA) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) were performed. (3) Results: No differences in CPET (VO2 peak: exercise 21.4 ± 4.1 vs. diet 23.5 ± 6.5 mL/kg/min; p = 0.283) and BIVA (Z/H: exercise 288.3 ± 33.9 vs. diet 310.5 ± 34.2 Ω/m; p = 0.071) were found. Furthermore, the BIVA values of resistance correlate with the submaximal performance of the Ve/VCO2 slope (R = 0.509; p < 0.05) and phase angle with the maximal effort of the VO2 peak (R = 0.557; p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: Unsupervised physical exercise alone for six months does not substantially modify liver transplant recipients’ cardiovascular performance and hydration status, despite their adherence to a Mediterranean diet. The body composition analysis is useful to stratify the risk profile, and it is potentially associated with better outcomes in transplanted subjects.

Summary: Background: Rheumatic disease (RD) represents a broad spectrum of systemic conditions characterized by inflammation and pain in muscles or joints with a significant burden on quality of life. Increasing evidence suggests that diet could play a modulatory role in RD by influencing cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk factors frequently present in these patients as well as inflammation and antioxidant defence. Objectives: This review aims to summarize the available evidence on the effect of nutrients, foods and dietary patterns on the most common autoimmune inflammatory RD including rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. Results: We documented that MUFAs and PUFAs seem to have positive effects in modulating the inflammatory process. Regarding the dietary interventions, low-calorie diets, Mediterranean diet and fasting appear to be effective in reducing the symptoms of the most common RD. Positive results were also obtained in some cases with gluten-free, low-fat, vegan, elimination or anti-inflammatory diets. Conclusion: Although further and specific studies are needed, the fact that people obtained an improvement in clinical outcomes after almost all these dietary patterns suggests that a healthy diet could play a pivotal role in the RD management.

Background and aimIn recent decades, obesity prevalence has reached epidemic proportions and considering the pivotal role of gut microbiota (GM) in the regulation of energy balance, alternative non-pharmacological approaches involving probiotics’ administration have been proposed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® supplementation on anthropometric and biochemical parameters, GM composition and functionality, and gastrointestinal and general symptoms of overweight/obese subjects.MethodsForty overweight/obese subjects were randomly assigned to daily consume the probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® or placebo for 3 months. Before and after the administration period, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, self-administered questionnaires, and plasma and stool samples were obtained from each participant. The GM characterization was performed with 16S rRNA sequencing, while fecal short (SCFAs) and medium (MCFAs) chain fatty acids were analyzed with a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry protocol.ResultsCompared to placebo, probiotic supplementation determined a significant decrease in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, and blood glucose. Moreover, probiotic administration produced a significant decrease of the genera Hafnia-Obesumbacterium and Romboutsia and an increase of Succiniclasticum spp.; conversely, placebo administration resulted in the decrease of Actinomycetaceae and an increase of both Alloprevotella spp. and of the levels of pro-inflammatory hexanoic and heptanoic acids.ConclusionThanks to its effect in increasing some beneficial gut bacteria and lowering effects on waist circumference, fasting glucose levels and gastrointestinal symptoms of obese subjects, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IMC 510® supplementation could represent a future and encouraging strategy for the prevention or treatment of obesity.

Abstract Background Life expectancy has increased over the last century and a growing number of people is reaching age 90 years and over. However, data on nonagenarians’ health trends are scarce due to difficulties in investigating this specific population. This study aims to identify risk factors for one-year mortality in nonagenarians using data collected within the “Mugello Study”. Methods Complete information on sociodemographic data, cognitive and functional status, lifestyle, medical history, and drug use was collected from 433 nonagenarians, as well as information about survival after 1 year from the interview. Results The sample included 314 women (72.5%) and 119 men (27.5%) with a median age of 92 years (range 90-99 years). The mortality rate was 20.3% (88 deaths). After adjustment for age and sex, a significantly higher risk of dying within 12 months was observed in individuals with more severe cognitive impairment (HR = 5.011, p

Background and aimIn recent years, many studies have suggested that ancient wheat products might have beneficial effects on cardiometabolic risk profile, but little is known about their effect on gut microbiota (GM). The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether a replacement diet with pasta made from ancient wheat (AD) could influence the GM composition and its metabolites’ production compared to a replacement diet with pasta made from modern wheat (CD).MethodsA randomized, double-blinded crossover trial with two intervention phases was conducted on 20 clinically healthy adults (9 females; 11 males; mean age 43.1 ± 12.5 years). Study participants were assigned to consume pasta made using semi-whole flour from organic wheat that was either from ancient or modern control wheat for 8 weeks in a random order. An 8-week washout period was implemented between the interventions. Stool samples were collected from all subjects at the beginning and at the end of each intervention period. GM composition, and short- (SCFAs) and medium- chain fatty acids (MCFAs) production was evaluated.ResultsDietary interventions did not produce significant diversity in the GM composition at higher ranks (phylum, class, order and family), but only at genus level. In detail, the AD significantly (adj. p < 0.05) changed the abundance of Erysipelatoclostridium spp., Bacteroides_pectinophilus_group spp., CAG-873 spp., and Holdemanella spp. The CD significantly affected the abundance of Akkermansia spp., CAG-873 spp., Hungatella spp., Lachnospiraceae_UCG-008 spp., NK4A214_group spp., Frisingicoccus spp., Megasphaera spp., Synergistes spp., and Tyzzerella spp. Regarding the production of SCFAs and MCFAs, AD resulted in a significant increase of fecal acetic (+0.7%), isobutyric (+30.1%), 2-methylbutyric (+64.2%), and isovaleric (+22.5%) acids. On the other hand, CD resulted in increased levels of isobutyric (+71.4%), 2-methylbutyric (+116.2%), isovaleric (+99%), and valeric (+21.4%) acids, and a reduction of butyric (-31.6%) and hexanoic (-66.4%) acids.ConclusionA short-term replacement diet with both ancient and modern wheat pasta determined significant changes in GM composition at the genus level but notably the AD resulted in a greater beneficial impact on anti-inflammatory SCFAs.

Abstract Background Our previous study on the 2016/2017 Serie A season showed that a greater likelihood of reaching the top positions in the Italian league “Serie A” seemed to be mainly related to sprint activity, goal attempts, total throws, target shots and assists. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the following season data in the same league to compare, confirm, and improve these results. Methods The data of all the matches played during the “Serie A” 2017–2018 season were obtained from the Italian soccer league. The teams’ analysis was performed in terms of total distance covered in km, jogging, running and sprint activities, average speed, and match statistics (total shots, shots on target, goal attempts, assists, turnovers, and steals). Results Teams that reached the first four positions revealed a lower percentage of running (65.98 ± 1.51 vs. 66.84 ± 2.18; p

Low-grade inflammation alters the homeostasis of the organism and favors the onset of many chronic diseases. The global growth in the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases in recent years has been accompanied by an increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF). Known to be hyperpalatable, economic and ready-to-eat, increased consumption of UPF has already been recognized as a risk factor for several chronic diseases. Different research groups have tried to investigate whether UPF consumption could promote low-grade inflammation and thus favor the development of noncommunicable diseases. Current evidence highlights the adverse health effects of UPF characteristics, not only due to the nutrients provided by a diet rich in UPF, but also due to the non-nutritive components present in UPF and the effect they may have on gut health. This review aims to summarize the available evidence on the possible relationship between excessive UPF consumption and modulation of low-grade inflammation, as potential promoters of chronic disease.

BackgroundClinical trial registration has become a valuable tool that can be used to track the status and nature of trials conducted on a specific topic. This approach has been applied to many areas of research, but less is known about the characteristics and trends over time of clinical trials focused on diet and health. The aim of this study was to analyze diet-related clinical trials registered on the National Institute of Health “ClinicalTrials.gov” web platform in the last 10 years, to list and describe their characteristics, and to identify possible gaps to be filled in the future research.MethodsA search was performed on the ClinicalTrials.gov database. Intervention studies registered from January 2010 to December 2020, conducted on adults, with a follow-up of ≥2 weeks, evaluating the impact of different diets on all outcomes except those assessed with scales or questionnaires were considered.ResultsAt the end of the selection process, a total of 1,016 registered clinical trials were identified and included in the analysis. The most investigated dietary approaches were balanced diets (n = 381 trials), followed by those based on a modification of macronutrients (n = 288) and time-restricted feeding and intermittent fasting diets (n = 140). The main measured outcomes included anthropometric parameters and body composition (57.8%), glycemic control parameters (49.7%), lipid parameters (40.1%), inflammatory markers (29.1%), and blood pressure and/or heart rate (24.5%). A growing body of studies also focused on microbiota and host metabolism (17.8%). Most studies had a duration of less than 12 weeks (~60%), and more than 90% of studies enrolled volunteers with overweight/obesity or other diseases. Regarding aging, only 21 studies focused only on older adults.ConclusionThe number of studies investigating the relationship between diet and health has increased over the years. Despite the growing interest in the topic, there are some gaps, such as the limited duration of most trials, the underrepresentation of some population groups, and the limited number of studies for some diets that, although popular in the population, lack robust scientific evidence.

Abstract Background Behçet’s syndrome (BS) is a systemic inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, and it is characterized by a wide range of potential clinical manifestations. Recent evidence suggests that the gut microbiota (GM) in BS has low biodiversity with a significant depletion in butyrate producers. The aim of the present project is to investigate whether a dietary intervention could ameliorate the clinical manifestations and modulate the GM of individuals with BS. Methods This is a randomized, open, cross-over study that involves 90 individuals with BS, who will be randomly assigned to one of three different diets for 3 months: a lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet (VD), a Mediterranean diet (MD), or a Mediterranean diet supplemented with butyrate (MD-Bt). The VD will contain inulin-resistant and resistant-starch-rich foods, eggs, and dairy in addition to plant-based food, but it will not contain meat, poultry, or fish. The MD will contain all food categories and will provide two portions per week of fish and three portions per week of fresh and processed meat. The MD-Bt will be similar to the MD but supplemented with 1.8 g/day of oral butyrate. The three different diets will be isocaloric and related to the participants’ nutritional requirements. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, blood, and fecal samples will be obtained from each participant at the beginning and the end of each intervention phase. The primary outcomes will be represented by the change from baseline of the BS gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms. Changes from baseline in GM composition, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and the inflammatory and antioxidant profile will be considered as secondary outcomes. Discussion BS is a rare disease, and, actually, not all the available treatments are target therapies. A supportive treatment based on dietary and lifestyle issues, able to restore immune system homeostasis, could have a high impact on cost sustainability for the treatment of such a chronic and disabling inflammatory condition. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03962335 . Registered on 21 May 2019.

Abstract Introduction Products containing anthraquinones (AQ) are mainly used as laxatives and have several biological effects. Long-term use of AQ laxatives is associated with an increased risk of serious adverse events (AEs), such as colorectal cancer (CRC). We will systematically synthesize the evidence on the potential association between the use of AQ laxatives and the risk of CRC. Methods and analysis We will search MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov. To avoid missing any relevant studies, we will search the bibliographies of retrieved papers and recent reviews in the field. Interventions will include products containing oral AQ laxatives, in particular, those derived from rhubarb, senna, cascara, buckhorn, and aloe. Two review authors will independently screen title, abstract, and full texts and will independently extract data from included studies. The primary outcome is the number of participants diagnosed with CRC, while the secondary outcome will be cases of melanosis coli. We will also consider all other AEs reported in the included studies, in particular, intestinal bleeding, alterations of gastrointestinal motility, and potential for dependence. When possible and appropriate, for each outcome, a meta-analysis will be performed. Discussion This protocol is prepared in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols guidelines. The protocol gives an insight into the scope and parameters for the systematic review to be carried out. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42019125414

Evidence on the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) in adults with celiac disease (CD) and its impact on Mediterranean Diet (MD) adherence is still limited. Our aim was to determine UPF consumption and its relationship with MD adherence in a group of adults, according to the presence of CD. This case-control study included 103 adults with CD and 312 without CD. UPF intake was assessed using the NOVA Food Frequency Questionnaire (NFFQ), while MD adherence was assessed using the Medi-Lite score. UPF represented 14.5% of the diet of participants with CD (246 g/day) and came mainly from cereals-based products (29%) and sweets (24.2%). UPF consumption did not differ with the presence of CD, but participants with CD had significantly (p < 0.05) higher consumption of precooked pasta and pre-packaged breads. Participants with CD also reported a significantly lower MD adherence than participants without CD (9.4 vs. 10.4), with higher intake of meat and dairy products, and lower consumption of vegetables and fish. An inverse trend was found between UPF consumption and MD adherence in adults with CD, although not statistically significant. These findings highlight the importance of improving nutrition education for subjects with CD, which should not only focus on gluten exclusion.

Lignans are non-flavonoid polyphenols present in a wide range of foods frequently consumed in the Western world, such as seeds, vegetables and fruits, and beverages such as coffee, tea and wine. In particular, the human gut microbiota (GM) can convert dietary lignans into biologically active compounds, especially enterolignans (i.e., enterolactone and enterodiol), which play anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant roles, act as estrogen receptor activators and modulate gene expression and/or enzyme activity. Interestingly, recent evidence documenting those dietary interventions involving foods enriched in lignans have shown beneficial and protective effects on various human pathologies, including colorectal and breast cancer and cardiovascular diseases. However, considering that more factors (e.g., diet, food transit time and intestinal redox state) can modulate the lignans bioactivation by GM, there are usually remarkable inter-individual differences in urine, fecal and blood concentrations of enterolignans; hence, precise and validated analytical methods, especially gas/liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, are needed for their accurate quantification. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the beneficial roles of enterolignans, their interaction with GM and the new methodological approaches developed for their evaluation in different biological samples, since they could be considered future promising nutraceuticals for the prevention of human chronic disorders.

Abstract Background Convincing evidence suggests that the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increased by the typical Western diet characterized by high consumption of red and processed meat. In addition, some epidemiological studies suggest a reduction in the risk of CRC associated with fish consumption. The role of the gut microbiome in this diet-associated risk is not well understood. Methods/design This is a randomized parallel open clinical trial comprising a total of 150 clinically healthy subjects randomly assigned to three groups: a meat-based diet of which 4 portions per week are red meat (1 portion = 150 g), 3 portions per week are processed meat (1 portion = 50 g), and 1 portion per week is poultry (1 portion = 150 g), for a total amount of 900 g per week of meat and derivatives; a meat-based diet supplemented with alpha-tocopherol; and a pesco-vegetarian diet excluding fresh and processed meat and poultry, but which includes 3 portions per week of fish for a total amount of 450 g per week. Each intervention will last 3 months. The three diets will be isocaloric and of three different sizes according to specific energy requirements. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, and blood and fecal samples will be obtained from each participant at the beginning and end of each intervention phase. The measure of the primary outcome will be the change from baseline in DNA damage induced by fecal water using the comet assay in a cellular model. Secondary outcome measures will be changes in the profile of fecal microbiomes, global fecal and urinary peroxidation markers, and neoplastic biomarkers. Discussion Although epidemiological data support the promoting role of meat and the possible protective role of fish in colon carcinogenesis, no study has directly compared dietary profiles characterized by the presence of these two food groups and the role of the gut microbiome in these diet-associated CRC risks. This study will test the effect of these dietary profiles on validated CRC risk biomarkers. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03416777. Registered on 3 May 2018.

Ageing is a multifactorial physiological manifestation that occurs inexorably and gradually in all forms of life. This process is linked to the decay of homeostasis due to the progressive decrease in the reparative and regenerative capacity of tissues and organs, with reduced physiological reserve in response to stress. Ageing is closely related to oxidative damage and involves immunosenescence and tissue impairment or metabolic imbalances that trigger inflammation and inflammasome formation. One of the main ageing-related alterations is the dysregulation of the immune response, which results in chronic low-level, systemic inflammation, termed “inflammaging”. Genetic and epigenetic changes, as well as environmental factors, promote and/or modulate the mechanisms of ageing at the molecular, cellular, organ, and system levels. Most of these mechanisms are characterized by time-dependent patterns of variation driven by the biological clock. In this review, we describe the involvement of ageing-related processes with inflammation in relation to the functioning of the biological clock and the mechanisms operating this intricate interaction.

Information on the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) in relation to an adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) is limited. Our aim was to assess UPF consumption in a group of Italian adults and to evaluate the relationship with the MD adherence. A total of 670 participants (median age: 30 years) were included in the analysis. The consumption of UPF was assessed through the NOVA Food Frequency Questionnaire (NFFQ). Adherence to the MD was assessed through the Medi-Lite score. The percentage of UPF in the diet was 16.4% corresponding to 299 g of UPF per day. These amounts were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in men than in women and came mainly from ready-to-eat meals or pre-packaged bread, bread alternatives, pizza, frozen potato chips (24.5% of total UPF intake), pre-packaged biscuits and sweets (20.7%), soft drinks (15.8%), and dairy products such as flavored yogurt (12%). As to the MD adherence, a significant inverse association between the Medi-Lite score and the percentage of UPF in the diet (R = −0.35; p < 0.001) was observed. Participants with a low adherence to the MD had a significantly higher contribution of UPF in the diet (22.2%) compared to those with a moderate (16.2%) and high (12.6%) adherence. In terms of individual UPF, the largest difference between low and high MD adherents was observed for pre-packaged biscuits and sweets, soft and energy drinks, sausages and other reconstituted meat products, and pre-packaged bread and bread alternatives. These results suggest that public health strategies are needed to implement more effective actions to promote healthy eating habits in the population.

Our aim was to assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet in a group of 726 secondary school students (336 girls, 390 boys) who completed the web-based Medi-Lite questionnaire simultaneously, during school hours, at the “Istituto Professionale per l’Enogastronomia e l’Ospitalità Alberghiera Marco Polo” in Genoa, Italy. The mean adherence score was 9.28 ± 2.29, with significantly (p = 0.017) higher values in girls (9.5 ± 2.2) than boys (9.1 ± 2.4). As to the individual food components of the Medi-Lite score, 84% of students reported non-optimal consumption (i.e., the choice that yielded ≤ 1 point) of meat and meat products, and over 50% reported non-optimal consumption of vegetables, legumes, dairy products, and fish. Significant differences between girls and boys were observed for fruit (p = 0.003), cereals (p < 0.001), meat and meat products (p < 0.001), and dairy products (p = 0.003). By conducting a principal component analysis, we observed that Medi-Lite items on the consumption of some animal products (meat and meat products and dairy products) and some plant products (fruit, vegetables, and legumes) generated contrasting patterns of responses, denoting excessive consumption in the first case and underconsumption in the second. This result suggests the need for effective actions to promote healthy eating habits in young people.

We recently developed and validated a questionnaire to measure adherence to the Mediterranean diet, called Medi-Lite. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of the Medi-Lite adherence score in relation to obesity status. A total of 208 patients who attended the Clinical Nutrition Unit of Careggi University Hospital, Florence, were included in this retrospective analysis. Of them, 126 (45%) had abdominal obesity (110 F; 16 M). The mean adherence score, calculated through the Medi-Lite questionnaire, was 9.5 ± 2.2, with significantly (p < 0.001) lower values in patients with abdominal obesity (8.9 ± 1.9) than those without abdominal obesity (10 ± 2.2). Logistic regression analysis adjusted for age and sex showed that the Medi-Lite score determined significant protection (−28%) against the risk of abdominal obesity for every one-unit increase in the total score (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.63–0.82; p < 0.001). Looking for cut-off values that denote increased risk of having abdominal obesity, we observed that patients who scored ≤9 had a significantly increased risk (OR 3.21, 95% CI 1.91–5.39; p < 0.001). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet assessed through the Medi-Lite score was found to be associated with abdominal obesity. In particular, patients who reported a score of ≤9 had a 3.5-fold times higher risk of having abdominal obesity than those who scored >9.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a multifactorial syndrome of unknown etiology, characterized by widespread chronic pain and various somatic and psychological manifestations. The management of FM requires a multidisciplinary approach combining both pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies. Among nonpharmacological strategies, growing evidence suggests a potential beneficial role for nutrition. This review summarizes the possible relationship between FM and nutrition, exploring the available evidence on the effect of dietary supplements and dietary interventions in these patients. Analysis of the literature has shown that the role of dietary supplements remains controversial, although clinical trials with vitamin D, magnesium, iron and probiotics’ supplementation show promising results. With regard to dietary interventions, the administration of olive oil, the replacement diet with ancient grains, low-calorie diets, the low FODMAPs diet, the gluten-free diet, the monosodium glutamate and aspartame-free diet, vegetarian diets as well as the Mediterranean diet all appear to be effective in reducing the FM symptoms. These results may suggest that weight loss, together with the psychosomatic component of the disease, should be taken into account. Therefore, although dietary aspects appear to be a promising complementary approach to the treatment of FM, further research is needed to provide the most effective strategies for the management of FM.

Renal transplantation is the choice treatment for end-stage renal disease. In spite of transplantation, cardiovascular morbidity and mortality remains high, possibly due to a prolonged sedentary lifestyle prior to transplantation. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of unsupervised intervention in a tailored home-based aerobic resistance exercise program, based on the anthropometric and cardiovascular parameters in a group of renal transplant recipients (RTRs) followed for 12 months. Methods: a group of 21 RTRs (mean age: 46.8 ± 12 years) were enrolled in a combined aerobic and step count unsupervised prescription program. Body composition (BMI, waist circumferences, skin-folds); water distribution (TBW: Total body water; ECW: Extra cellular water; and ICW: Intracellular water) and myocardial function were measured every 6 months for 1 year. The MEDI-LITE score was used to estimate adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Results: Significant reductions in waist circumference (Waist Cir: 89.12 ± 12.8 cm T0; 89.1 ± 12.5 cm T6 (95% CI: 6.3, 5.7); 88.6 ± 11.4 cm T12; (95% CI: 6.7, 4.7) p < 0.01), weight:71.8 ± 14.8 kg T0; 70.6 ± 14.7 kg T6(95% CI:−8,6); 70.6 ± 14.7 kg T12(95% CI: 6.6,7) p < 0.05), as well as an improvement of myocardial function, as shown by the significant increase of contractility and change in the GLS % value (−18.3 ± 3.8% at T0 (95% CI:−16.57, 20.0.2)−20.4 ± 3.0% at T6(95% CI:−4,0.2);−22.9 ± 3.1%T12(95% CI:−3, 4, −1, 6) p < 0.02), were observed. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was in the normal range. Conclusions: Despite unsupervised intervention, combined moderate physical exercise appears to have a positive effect on the main parameters related to cardiovascular risk factors. The long-term efficacy of this program requires further investigation, particularly for evaluating constant adherence to the home-based physical exercise program.

Khorasan wheat is an ancient grain with previously reported health benefits in clinically healthy subjects. The aim of this study was to examine whether a replacement diet, thereby substituting all other cereal grains, with products made with organic khorasan wheat could provide additive protective effects in reducing lipid, oxidative and inflammatory risk factors, in patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS) in comparison to a similar replacement diet using products made from organic modern wheat. A randomized double-blinded crossover trial with two intervention phases was conducted on 22 ACS patients (9 F; 13 M). The patients were assigned to consume products (bread, pasta, biscuits and crackers) made either from organic semi-whole khorasan wheat or organic semi-whole control wheat for eight weeks in a random order. On average, patients ingested 62.0 g dry weight (DW) day−1 khorasan or control semolina; and 140.5 g DW day−1 khorasan or control flour, respectively. An eight-week washout period was implemented between the respective interventions. Blood analyses were performed both at the beginning and end of each intervention phase; thereby permitting a comparison of both the khorasan and control intervention phases, respectively, on circulatory risk factors for the same patient. Consumption of products made with khorasan wheat resulted in a significant amelioration in total cholesterol (−6.8%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (−8.1%) glucose (−8%) and insulin (−24.6%) from baseline levels, independently of age, sex, traditional risk factors, medication and diet quality. Moreover, there was a significant reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipoperoxidation of circulating monocytes and lymphocytes, as well as in the levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha. No significant differences from baseline in the same patients were observed after the conventional control wheat intervention phase. The present results suggest that a replacement diet with cereal products made from organic khorasan wheat provides additional protection in patients with ACS. Circulating cardiovascular risk factors, including lipid parameters, and markers of both oxidative stress and inflammatory status, were reduced, irrespective of the number and combination of medicinal therapies with proven efficacy in secondary prevention.

Background and Objectives: Soccer is the most popular sport in the world. To describe athletic performance, match statistics, and their relationships with the probability of achieving the first positions of the final ranking in the Italian football league “Serie A”, season 2016/2017. Materials and Methods: Analyses comprised all the matches played by the 20 teams of the “Serie A” championship during the season 2016−2017. Indicators of athletic performance (total distance covered in km, jogging, running and sprint activities, and average speed) and match statistics (total shots, shots on target, goal attempts, assists, turnovers, and steals) were obtained from the Italian football league. Results: Analyses of performance activities according to the final ranking showed no significant differences for the total distance covered and speed, while a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) among teams was observed for jogging, running and sprint activities. In regard to match statistics, all the parameters investigated were significantly different among the teams. By grouping teams into four subgroups (those who qualified for the Champions League, those who qualified for the Europe League, those who ranked intermediate positions and those who relegated from the “Serie A” league), the percentage of jogging, running and sprint activities, as well as match statistics were significantly different among groups, with a downward trend for total shots, shots on target, goal attempts, assists, and turnovers. The logistic regression analysis revealed that sprint activities as well as total shots, shots on target, goal attempts, and assists higher than the 3rd tertile of their distribution were associated with a higher probability of reaching the first three positions of the final ranking. Conclusions: An increased probability to achieve the first positions of the final ranking in the Italian football league “Serie A” seemed to be mainly related to sprint activity, goal attempts, total shots, shots on target and assists.

Recent evidence suggests that patients with severe hemophilia B may have a less severe disease compared to severe hemophilia A. To investigate clinical, radiological, laboratory and histological differences in the arthropathy of severe hemophilia A and hemophilia B, 70 patients with hemophilia A and 35 with hemophilia B with at least one joint bleeding were consecutively enrolled. Joint bleedings (50), regimen of treatment (prophylaxis/on demand), World Federation of Hemophilia, Pettersson and ultrasound scores, serum soluble RANK ligand and osteoprotegerin were assessed in all patients. RANK, RANK ligand and osteoprotegerin expression was evaluated in synovial tissue from 18 hemophilia A and 4 hemophilia B patients. The percentage of patients with either 10–50 or more than 50 hemarthrosis was greater in hemophilia A than in hemophilia B (P

Over the last years, numerous evidence on the existing relationship between nutrition and chronic degenerative diseases have led investigators to search for the optimal dietary pattern to maintain a good health status. It’s well known, in fact, that nutrition is capable of substantially modifying the risk profile of a subject in primary and/or secondary prevention. Several models of diet have been imposed on public attention, but the one that got the most interest is certainly the Mediterranean diet. Recently, several studies have shown that a strict adherence to a Mediterranean dietary pattern is associated with a lower incidence of mortality and incidence of chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Meta-analyses conducted by our group have revealed, in a population of over than 2 million of people, that adherence to Mediterranean diet determines a significant reduction on the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular accidents. To the best of the knowledge the most effective indications for an optimal therapeutic strategy in nutrition include: increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables up to the recommended 5 servings a day, prefer whole grains, replace saturated and trans fats with unsaturated fats, reduce the consumption of sugar and sweetened beverages, and limit salt intake. With these simple indications, together with recommendations of following the principles of the traditional Mediterranean diet, a substantial reduction of the risk of incidence and / or mortality from cardiovascular disease can be easily obtained.

Introduction: Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) are at high cardiovascular risk (CV) compared to the general population, especially after surgical treatment. The literature supports the role of supervised exercise intervention; however no data are available regarding the effects of unsupervised exercise programs. We investigated whether a home exercise program could reduce CV risk in RTR based on possible changes in renal and cardiometabolic parameters and myocardial performance measured by echocardiography. Methods: From a large cohort of 60 RTRs, 30 RTRs (12 females and 18 males 48.3 ± 12.3 years) participated in individualized and unsupervised training programs for 6 months, at moderate intensity. Cardiometabolic risk factors, anthropometric parameters, lipid and glycemic blood sample profiles were studied as was myocardial performance from the 2D echo examination at T0, and T6 months. Results: The lipid profile remained in the range of a low level of risk, although there was no significant improvement, whereas myocardial performance, in particular the EF, was significantly improved. Conclusions: A home exercise program for at least 6 months produces positive effects on myocardial function and helps maintain a low cardiovascular risk profile. The trend supports the importance of highlighting the role of a correct reconditioning of lifestyle in RTR, from the exercise program without supervision to moderate intensity, where well tolerated.

Recently, a large and growing body of literature has investigated the health potential of different wheat species. In particular, a considerable number of studies dealing with nutritional aspects has grown up around the theme of the recovery of ancient wheat varieties (species that have remained unchanged over the last hundred years). According to several studies, indeed, ancient varieties present a healthier nutritional profile than modern ones. In the framework of the European project “CERERE, CEreal REnaissance in Rural Europe: embedding diversity in organic and low-input food systems”, this paper aimed to review recent research on the issue of health and nutritional cereal systems by adopting an innovative and participatory multi-actor approach which involved practitioners along with researchers. The participatory approach is the main innovation and peculiarity of this literature review. Nevertheless, the review highlights the many positive effects derived from eating whole and ancient grains such as a significant reduction in the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and also a more favorable long-term weight management and increase in satiety. This review may be considered as a fruitful starting point that integrates research results to foster current and future healthier and sustainable practices in cereal systems.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death, and the most common diagnosis among the general population is breast and colon cancer. Recently, an increasing number of new cases of invasive breast and colon cancer have been estimated, and more people die from these diseases. In addition to the genetic pattern, diet and lifestyle including smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary behaviour have also been identified as potential risks factors. Recent studies of cancer survivors have shown the beneficial effects of regular physical activity to reduce the prevalence of comorbidity, muscle atrophy, weight changes, reduced aerobic capacity, fatigue, depression, and reduced quality of life. Dedicated and individual programs are crucial for achieving the goals of improving quality of life and reducing comorbidities. A multidisciplinary approach is fundamental: lifestyle assessment, including estimating the level of physical activity, as well as nutritional habits, may be the first step. A periodic cardiovascular examination is crucial for detecting asymptomatic early myocardial failure. According to current ACSM guidelines, different levels of exercise (low-moderate 40% and moderate up to 60% of the maximal HR) may be prescribed, and patients enrolled may follow the exercise program if in the absence of contraindications. The current paper reports observations from our clinical practice and provides practical strategies that bridge contemporary, published guidelines into practice within a multi-disciplinary team working with cancer survivors in Italy.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of short-term dietary intake of bread obtained by a selected variety of old grain grown in Tuscany, Italy on some parameters related to the atherosclerotic process. Twenty healthy subjects (median age, 39.5 years) followed for 10 weeks a diet containing bread (150 g/day) made from the test grain (test period) and for the same period a diet containing commercially available bread of the same quantity (control period). Lipid, inflammatory, and hemorheological profiles before and after dietary intervention were evaluated. The test period showed a significant (P< .05) improvement of total cholesterol (pre-intervention, 211.2 ± 10.8 mg/dL; post-intervention, 196.5 ± 9.8 mg/dL) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels (pre-intervention, 137.5 ± 8.1 mg/dL; post-intervention, 119.5 ± 7.5 mg/dL), whereas no significant changes during the control period were observed. With regard to inflammatory and hemorheological parameters, the test period showed a significant decrease in some of the parameters investigated (interleukin-8 [pre-intervention vs. post-intervention, 67.4 ± 10.7 vs. 43.9 ± 4.1 pg/mL], whole blood viscosity at high [4.36 ± 0.03 vs. 4.32 ± 0.03 mPa · s, respectively] and low [26.1 ± 0.4 vs. 24.8 ± 0.5 mPa · s, respectively] shear rates, and erythrocyte filtration [8.4 ± 0.7% vs. 9.1 ± 0.6%, respectively]) relative to the control period, which showed no significant changes. Short-term dietary intake of whole grain bread obtained from an old grain variety seems to impose a favorable status with regard to lower circulating levels of markers of atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background  Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is a multifactorial disease that is caused by an infarction of the vessels that supply the optic nerve head. This study aims at evaluating the role of traditional and emerging cardiovascular risk factors on the development of NAION. Methods  A total of 85 newly diagnosed NAION patients and 107 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were studied. All participants underwent blood testing for homocysteine and lipoprotein(a). Plasma levels of vitamin B6 and B12, and folic acid were also determined. Plasma values of all these parameters were evaluated as continuous variables, by a logarithmic transformation. In addition, traditional cardiovascular risk factors were considered. Results  With univariate analysis, higher values of homocysteine and Lp(a) (OR 4.24, 95% CI 2.01–8.94, p p = 0.03, respectively) and lower values of vitamin B6 (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.25–0.76, p = 0.003) were significantly associated with NAION. At multivariate analysis, adjusted for age, gender, smoking habit, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, sleep apnea, and thrombophilic risk factors, the higher homocysteine and Lp(a) values (OR 5.74, 95% CI 2.41–13.67, p = 0.0001; OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.01–1.63, p = 0.04) and lower vitamin B6 values (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.23–0.77, p = 0.005) maintained their significant relationship with NAION. Conclusions  This study demonstrated that elevated plasma homocysteine and lipoprotein(a) levels, as well as low vitamin B6 levels, may increase the risk of developing NAION. A screening for these thrombophilic markers could be useful in subjects experiencing NAION. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]