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In the current study, we aimed to assess the effect of dried Ziziphus jujube on blood glucose, lipid profiles, anthropometric indices, and inflammatory factors in type 2 diabetic(T2D) patients.In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 48 patients, aged 30-65 years, were randomly assigned to two intervention(n = 24) and control(n = 24) groups. The subjects in the intervention group received 30 g Ziziphus jujube daily for 12 weeks. At baseline and the end of the 12th week, 10 ml of blood was taken from each patient after a 12- to 14-h overnight fasting. Plasma levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), triglycerides(TGs), total cholesterol(TC), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol(HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol(LDL-C), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP), and interleukin-6(IL-6) were measured. Anthropometric indices were determined.Plasma FPG, TG, TC, and LDL-C decreased significantly up to -11.36%, -13.59%, -7.46%, -7.65% in the Ziziphus jujube group at the end of week 12 compared to baseline, respectively (P 0.05), and this reduction was significant in comparison with the control group (P 0.05). The plasma hs-CRP reduced significantly up to -24.46% in the Ziziphus jujube group at the end of week 12 compared to baseline (P 0.05), however, this reduction was not significant in comparison with the control group (P 0.05). Also, there were no significant differences between the two groups in mean changes of body mass index, plasma HDL-C, and IL-6.The current study showed that daily consumption of Ziziphus jujube may have beneficial effects on the lipid profiles and blood glucose levels in T2D.T his clinical trial was registered at the Iranian registry of clinical trials (IRCT registration number: IRCT20181210041913N1).

Aim. In the current study, we examined the association of dietary diabetes risk reduction score (DDRRS) with chronic kidney disease (CKD) among an Iranian adult population. Methods. We followed up 2076 ≥20-year-old participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006–2008), who were initially free of CKD for 5.98 years. The dietary diabetes risk reduction score was calculated based on scoring eight components, including cereal fiber, nuts, coffee, polyunsaturated fatty acids-to-saturated fatty acids ratio, glycemic index, sugar-sweetened beverages, trans fatty acids, and red and processed meat using a valid and reliable 168-item food frequency questionnaire. CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)

Background There are no data available regarding the association of dietary diabetes risk reduction score (DDRRS) and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) worldwide. We aimed to investigate the association of the DDRRS with the risk of CVD outcomes in a prospective population-based study. Method Individuals without CVD (n=2,195) were recruited from participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006–2008) and followed for a mean of 6.7 years. The DDRRS was determined on the basis of eight components using a validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard regression models, adjusted for potential confounders, were used to estimate the hazard ratios and 95% confidence interval (CI) of CVD across quartiles of DDRRS. Results The mean ± standard deviation age of participants (44.8% male) was 38.8±13.0 years at baseline. Median DDRRS for all patients was 23 (intequartile range 20–26). During follow-up, 77 (3.5%) new cases of CVD were identified. After adjustment for confounding variables, including age, sex, body mass index, physical activity, smoking, energy intake, diabetes, and hypertension, no association was found between DDRRS and risk of CVD (odds ratio, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.36–1.37 [p-value for trend=0.351]). Conclusions The findings of this study showed that higher DDRRS is not associated with risk of CVD events.

Inulin is a prebiotic and has beneficial effects on health, such as improving the immune function, lipid profile, and gut microbiota. Some previous studies have assessed the effects of inulin supplementation on cardiometabolic diseases, but the relationship between dietary inulin and these diseases has not been investigated yet. Thus, this survey was designed to assess the potential association between the dietary intake of inulin and the incidence of cardiometabolic diseases, including cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension (HTN), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and type 2 diabetes (T2D) among adults. The present prospective cohort study was conducted on participants in the third wave of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006-2008) and was followed up until March 2018. The dietary intake of inulin was estimated using a special database that reports values of inulin and oligofructose in grams per 100 g of each food. Cox proportional hazards regression showed that higher consumption of inulin was associated with a lower risk of HTN (HR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.63 to 0.99) and T2D (HR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89 to 1.00). We found no relationship between higher consumption of dietary inulin and the incidence of CKD and CVD in our population. According to our results, it seems inulin from foods had a preventive effect against HTN and T2D, which are major risk factors for cardiovascular and renal events. However, more investigations are warranted.

Aims There is still controversy on optimal percentage of macronutrient intakes especially carbohydrate on prevention of type 2 diabetes (T2D). The aim of the current study was to evaluate the iso-energetic substitution of dietary macronutrients in relation to incidence of T2D. Methods This prospective study was conducted on 6547 subjects who were followed for 3.0 ± 1.6 years. Dietary intakes were evaluated using a valid and reliable semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Biochemical variables and anthropometrics were evaluated at baseline and follow-up examinations. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate the hazards ratio (HR) of T2D. Results A one unit higher proportion of carbohydrate from whole grain at the expense of carbohydrate from non-whole grain (HR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.71–0.95), protein (HR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.60–0.94), total fat (HR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.67–0.93), saturated fatty acid (HR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.65–0.96), poly-unsaturated fatty acid (HR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.68–0.96) and mono-unsaturated fatty acid (HR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.60–0.94) was associated with decreased risk of T2D. The substitution of protein and fats was not associated with diabetes. Risk of T2D increased from quartiles 1–4 for trans-fatty acid (HR: 1.00, 1.27, 0.95, 1.97, Ptrend = 0.01). Conclusions A higher proportion of carbohydrate from whole grain in replacement of refined grain, and other macronutrients was associated with decreased risk of T2D. Also our study suggests a positive association between trans-fatty acid intake and risk of T2D.

BackgroundEvidence of possible beneficial effects of dietary diabetes risk reduction score (DDRRS) on reducing the risk of various chronic diseases such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) are limited. This is a prospective, population-based cohort study, which aimed to investigate the relationship of the DDRRS and its components with MetS incident in Iranian adults.MethodsIndividuals without MetS (n=3561) were recruited from participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2009-2011) and followed for a mean of 6.01 years. A validated food frequency questionnaire was used to determine the DDRRS using based on eight components, including higher intakes of cereal fiber, nuts, coffee, and polyunsaturated: saturated fat ratio and lower intakes of red or processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, trans fatty acids, and low glycemic index. We used the multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine the odds ratio (ORs) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) of MetS across the tertiles of DDRRS.ResultsThe mean (SD) age of individuals was 38.1(12.6) years at baseline. Median (25-75 interquartile range) DDRRS for all participants was 20(18-22). During the study follow-up, 682(19.1 %) new cases of MetS were reported. Based on the age and sex-adjusted model, participants in highest tertile of DDRRS had lower risk of MetS in compared with the lowest one (OR=0.64;95 %CI:0.52-0.79, P for trend=0.001). In the multivariable adjusted model, after adjustment for all possible confounding variables, the risk of MetS is decreased across tertiles of DDRRS (OR=0.60;95 %CI:0.48-0.75, P for trend=0.001). Also, higher scores of some DDRRS components including red and processed meat, sugar sweetened beverages, and coffee were related to decreased incidence of MetS.ConclusionsThe results of this study revealed that greater adherence to DDRRS can be associated with decreased risk of MetS in Iranian adult.

Summary Background & aims This study aimed to determine the prospective relationship between the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and 100% fruit juice and metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to investigate whether weight change can modify this association in a representative sample of the population of Tehran, Iran. Methods In this 8.9-year follow-up study, the consumption of SSBs and 100% fruit juice by 1915 individuals, who participated in Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS), was examined using a validated food frequency questionnaire. The MetS was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement. Participants were categorized as those who lost weight (≥-2%), those with weight stability (−1.9%–1.9%), and those who gained weight (≥2%). The Cox regression model was used to determine the relationship between the consumption of SSBs and 100% fruit juice and the risk of MetS and weight gain ≥2%. Also, the modifying effect of weight change including weight loss, weight stability and weight gain on the relationship between SSBs and 100% fruit juice consumption and the incidence of MetS was assessed. Results There was no significant association between the consumption of SSBs and the risk of MetS in the crude model; however, after adjustments for confounders, a significant positive association was found between the consumption of SSBs and the risk of MetS (HR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.07–1.66). Also, no significant association was observed between the consumption of 100% fruit juice and the risk of MetS in the crude model. However, after adjustments for the potential confounders, 100% fruit juice was inversely associated with the MetS risk (HR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.63–0.95). The consumption of SSBs and 100% fruit juice was positively associated with weight gain (≥2% during the follow-up). Nevertheless, after adjustments for lifestyle and dietary factors, there was no significant association between the consumption of SSBs and weight gain. On the other hand, the consumption of 100% fruit juice was positively associated with the increased risk of weight gain (HR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.20–1.65). Among participants with weight loss, the first, second and third tertiles of 100% fruit juice reduced the risk of MetS by 29% (HR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.51–0.99), 47% (HR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.37–0.75) and 35% (HR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.46–0.92), respectively. Conclusion Although 100% fruit juice reduced the risk of MetS, its consumption must be limited due to its positive effect on weight gain. On the other hand, the consumption of 100% fruit juice reduced the risk of MetS, depending on the individual's weight change. Also, high consumption of SSBs was associated with the incidence of MetS.

Background Inflammation is a precursor of chronic disease, which is affected by lifestyle and dietary habits. Recently empirical dietary inflammatory patterns (EDIP), dietary inflammation scores (DIS), and lifestyle inflammation scores (LIS) were developed to indicate lifestyle and dietary contributions in systemic inflammation. The current study aimed to investigate the associations between these indices and the incidence of diabetes among Tehranian adults. Methods A total of 4624 individuals, aged 20–75 years, who were free of diabetes at baseline (2008–2011), were followed for 5.71 years (2014–2017) to ascertain incident diabetes. Dietary intakes were collected at baseline using the food frequency questionnaire. The hazard ratio (HR) of diabetes was calculated by Cox proportional hazards regression across quartiles of EDIP, DIS, and LIS, adjusted for potential confounders. Results The mean ± SD for the age and BMI of the study population (45.1% male) were 40.8 ± 12.7 years and 27.1 ± 4.1 Kg.m2, respectively. At the end of the follow-up, 329 (7.1%) diabetes cases were identified. In the multivariable-adjusted model, individuals in the highest compared to the lowest quartile of EDIP (HR = 0.83; 95%CI:0.59–1.15, p for trend = 0.286), and LIS (HR = 2.41; 95%CI:1.61–3.60, P for trend Conclusion Greater adherence to EDIP and LIS scores was associated with a higher risk of diabetes, while no significant association was found between the DIS score and diabetes incident.

This study aimed to evaluate the association between the intake of total flavonoids and flavonoid subclasses and metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk and to assess the modulating effects of lifestyle factors on these associations. A total of 1915 participants from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study were followed-up during 2006-2008 and 2016-2018. Their dietary intake was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire at baseline and within three-year intervals afterward. Moreover, the modifying effect of weight gain on the association between total flavonoids and MetS was assessed by Cox regression analysis. Participants in the highest tertile of flavonoid, flavonol, and flavone had a significantly lower MetS risk as compared to those in the lowest tertile. Also, in participants with weight gain

Background Spinach has high antioxidants and polyphenols and showed protective effects against liver diseases in experimental studies. We aimed to assess the association between dietary intake of spinach and odds of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a case–control study among Iranian adults. Methods Totally 225 newly diagnosed NAFLD patients and 450 controls, aged 20–60 years, were recruited in this study. Participants’ dietary intakes were collected using a valid and reliable 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The logistic regression test was used for assessing the association between total, raw, and boiled dietary spinach with the odds of NAFLD. Results The mean (SD) age and BMI of participants (53% male) were 38.1 (8.8) years and 26.8 (4.3) kg/m2, respectively. In the final adjusted model for potential confounders, the odds (95% CI) of NAFLD in individuals in the highest tertile of daily total and raw spinach intake was [0.36 (0.19–0.71), P_trend = 0.001] and [0.47 (0.24–0.89), P_trend = 0.008], respectively compared with those in the lowest tertile. Furthermore, in the adjusted analyses, an inverse association was observed between the highest yearly intake versus no raw spinach consumption and odds of NAFLD [(OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.18–0.96), P for trend = 0.013]. However, there was no significant association between higher boiled spinach intake and odds of NAFLD. Conclusions The present study found an inverse association between total and raw spinach intake with the odds of NAFLD.

Background There are insufficient data in case of the potential association of habitual dietary L-arginine and the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) incidence. Here we aimed to examine the potential effect of dietary L-arginine on the T2DM incidence. Methods For this cohort study, 2139 T2DM-free adults from the participations of Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS) were recruited. Follow up period was approximately 5.8 years. Daily intakes of protein and L-arginine were estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire with 168 food item. Hazard Ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusted for sex, age, smoking, diabetes risk score, physical activity levels, and total energy intakes as well as carbohydrate, fiber, fats and lysine, were calculated for L-arginine as both absolute intake and its ratio from total protein. Results Mean (±SD) age of the participants was 38.9 (±12.6) years and 54.6% were women. Mean (±SD) intake of dietary protein and L-arginine was 77.2 (±22.4) and 4.05 (±1.50) g/d, respectively. An increased risk of T2DM (HR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.20–6.09) was observed among participants with higher intakes of L-arginine (median intake of > 5.4 vs. 2.69 g/d). Total protein intake and the ratio of L-arginine to total protein intakes were not related to incidence of T2DM in both crude and adjusted models. Conclusion We found that higher dietary L-arginine levels may increase risk of T2DM and it may have an independent role in T2DM development.

Background This study was aimed to examine the effects of vitamin K2 supplementation on atherogenic status, assessed by insulin resistance (IR)-related indexes, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods In this double-blind, controlled trial, 68 patients with T2DM on the oral glucose-lowering medications were randomly allocated into two groups receiving daily intakes of 360 μg MK-7 or placebo for 12 weeks. Eight different IR-related indexes were calculated at the baseline and end of the trial. Results At the end of the study, atherogenic coefficient (mean ± SD: − 0.21 ± 0.45 vs. 0.02 ± 0.43; p = 0.043), triglyceride-glucose index (8.88 ± 0.55 vs. 9.23 ± 0.69; p = 0.029), and atherogenic index of plasma (0.37 ± 0.27 vs. 0.51 ± 0.24; p = 0.031) were significantly lower in the vitamin K2 group, compared to the placebo. However, after accounting for their baseline values, the differences were no more significant. No significant differences were observed in Castelli’s Ӏ and ӀӀ risk indexes, the ratio of triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, lipoprotein combine index, and the metabolic score for insulin resistance index between the two groups at the end of the study. Conclusions Daily intakes of 360 μg vitamin K2 in the form of MK-7 for 12 weeks could not improve the IR-related indexes of Cardiovascular Diseases risk. Trial registration The trial was registered on Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials registry (Trial ID. IRCT20190824044592N1) on 22 December 2019. The record can be found at https://en.irct.ir/trial/41728.

A few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have assessed the effect of brown rice consumption on metabolic parameters compared to white rice, with inconsistent findings. Therefore, the present systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to evaluate the effect of brown rice on adiposity indices, lipid profile, and glycemic markers in adult subjects compared to white rice. In this study, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Embase databases were comprehensively searched until March 2021. Thirteen RCTs were selected and then included in the meta-analysis. As reported, brown rice significantly reduced weight by -1.63 kg (95% CI: -2.15 to -1.11

The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of flaxseed supplementation in the management of metabolic syndrome (MetS)-related parameters among the patients with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis (UC). A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 70 patients with UC. Participants were randomized in the intervention group, which received 30 g/day ground flaxseed powder or control group. Anthropometric and biochemical variables were assessed at the beginning and end of 12 weeks of intervention. Of the 70 patients enrolled in this study, 64 subjects were included in the final analysis. From baseline to 12 weeks' intervention, flaxseed supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in the serum concentration of insulin (p .001), HOMA-IR (p .001), triglyceride (p = .001), total cholesterol (p .001), and significant increase in the serum levels of HDL (p = .008). Also, we found a significant improvement in the SCCAI score (p .001), TNF-α (p = .03), and CRP (p .001) following the flaxseed supplementation. However, we not observed any significant differences between two groups regarding the body weight, BMI, waist circumferences, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure (p .05). Overall, 12 weeks of flaxseed supplementation resulted in greater improvement in the some MetS-related parameters.

Background Inconsistent findings have been reported for associations between protein intake and age at menarche. We aimed to investigate the association between intake of protein and protein-containing food groups during childhood with menarche among Iranian girls. Methods Girls aged 6–18 years who did not experience menarche in the third or fourth examination cycles of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study were selected and were followed to the fifth examination cycle. Daily intakes of protein from different animal/plant sources and ten protein-containing food groups were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire at baseline (the third or fourth examination cycles). Occurrence of menarche and its onset age were asked during each examination cycle. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) for the occurrence of menarche per one standard deviation (SD) of dietary intakes. Logistic regression was also used to estimate the odds of reaching menarche ≤12 years. Results During the study, 147(61%) of girls reached menarche, the median age at menarche was 12 years. The adjusted HRs (95% CI) for the occurrence of menarche per one-SD of dietary intakes were 0.68 (0.48, 0.98; p = 0.040) for plant protein and 1.36 (1.01, 1.84; p = 0.042) for animal protein after adjusting for baseline age, BMI Z-score, energy intake, and mother’s early menarche and education. Substituting 10-g animal protein with plant protein was associated with a 16% (95%CI: 5–25%; p = 0.006) lower risk of menarche. Dietary intakes of poultry (adjusted HR: 1.35; 95% CIs: 1.00–1.82; p = 0.049) and low-fat dairy (adjusted HR: 1.20; 95%CIs: 0.99–1.46; p = 0.064) were marginally associated with the increased risk of menarche. However, the odds of early menarche was significant only for plant protein (adjusted odds ratio = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.16–0.96; p = 0.040). Conclusions Our findings indicate that the risk of menarche increases by higher intakes of animal protein and decreases by plant protein. Intakes of poultry and low-fat dairy associate with a higher risk of menarche. The odds of menarche occurrence ≤12 years reduces by higher intakes of plant protein.

Ramadan intermittent fasting may affect whole-body metabolism by affecting appetite-related hormones. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify the possible effects of Ramadan intermittent fasting on the main hormones regulating appetite and satiety, including leptin and adiponectin. All English language papers in the PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases were searched using the keywords “Ramadan fasting”, “adiponectin”, and “leptin”, up to 2020. Data extraction was conducted based on the main data of the studies; the primary outcomes of the analysis were mean changes of adiponectin and leptin levels during the holy month of Ramadan in fasted subjects. Data of 16 eligible studies, conducted between 2003 and 2020, were included in the systematic review. Of these, 10 studies with complete data on leptin and adiponectin were included in the meta-analysis. A significant decrease in leptin levels was observed after Ramadan fasting (WMD = −2.28 ng/ml, 95% CI = −3.72, −0.84). Ramadan fasting had no significant effect on adiponectin levels (WMD = 2.19 ng/ml, 95% CI = −0.29, 4.67). Sub-group analysis demonstrated a greater decrease in leptin levels among normal-weight subjects compared to those of overweight/obese subjects (WMD = −4.67 ng/ml, 95% CI = −6.03, −3.31 vs. WMD = −3.43 ng/ml, 95% CI = −5.69, −1.17). Ramadan fasting may decrease leptin levels, especially in normal-weight subjects. There was high heterogeneity, which may be explained by the differences between the wide ranges of study conditions.

The evidence for a linkage between dietary intake of choline and betaine, a choline metabolism product, and the risk of hypertension (HTN) is limited. The current population-based cohort study was designed to investigate the possible association between dietary intake of choline and betaine with the risk of HTN in adults. This cohort study was conducted on the participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS). Dietary intake of choline and betaine was calculated using the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) database. Hypertension was diagnosed as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg or used drugs to treat hypotension. In this study, 2865 subjects participated and followed-up for a median of 7.4 years. During the follow-up period, 623 patients with hypertension (22.1%) were detected. Our results revealed per every 100 mg increased dietary intake of choline, the risk of developing HTN decreased by 16% (0.84; 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.96, P for trend = 0.009). No significant association was observed between habitual dietary intake of betaine and the risk of HTN (1.10; 95% CI: 0.88 to 1.38, P for trend = 0.21). After stratification based on age, sex, and BMI, each 100 mg per d increase in dietary choline decreased the risk of HTN occurrence in subjects younger than 55 years old by 17% (0.83; 95% CI: 0.71 to 0.96) and men by 21% (0.79; 95% CI: 0.66 to 0.95). The current study's findings provide further support to confirm the protective properties of choline and choline-rich foods against HTN.

Background and aims Dietary macronutrient composition plays an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed at assessing the iso-energetic substitution of dietary macronutrients in relation to the incidence of CVD. Materials and results This prospective study was conducted on 5102 individuals of Tehran lipid and glucose study participants, aged 20–70 years who were followed for 5.3 years. A valid and reliable semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary intakes. The hazard ratio of CVD for each 5% of energy from macronutrients at the expense of another macronutrient was calculated using the substitution model. During follow-up, a total of 206 CVD outcomes were identified. Mean age of participants (44.2% men) was 47.0 ± 12 and 45.6 ± 11 for men and women, respectively. Substituting 5% of energy from all types of macronutrients by 5% percentage of energy from combined saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) was associated with a decrease in the risk of CVD by almost 20%. Higher energy intake from total-, starchy-, and nonstarchy carbohydrates replaced by other macronutrients was not significantly associated with the risk of CVD. Each 5% of energy from animal protein (HR: 1.09 and CI: 1.02–1.16) independently increased the risk of CVD in the adjusted Cox proportional hazard regression analyses. Conclusion Higher percentage of energy from animal protein independently increased the risk of CVD, replacement of SFA and MUFA together with other macronutrients was inversely associated with CVD risk.

Results of animal experiments are used for understanding the pathophysiology of diseases, assessing safety and efficacy of newly developed drugs, and monitoring environmental health hazards among others. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of animal data are important tools to condense animal evidence and translate the data into practical clinical applications. Such studies are conducted to explore heterogeneity, to generate new hypotheses about pathophysiology and treatment, to design new clinical trial modalities, and to test the efficacy and the safety of the various interventions. Here, we provide an overview regarding the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of animal data and discuss common challenges and their potential solutions. Current evidence highlights various problems and challenges that surround these issues, including lack of generalizability of data obtained from animal models, failure in translating data obtained from animals to humans, poor experimental design and the reporting of the animal studies, heterogeneity of the data collected, and methodologic weaknesses of animal systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of animal studies can catalyze translational processes more effectively if they focus on a well-defined hypothesis along with addressing clear inclusion and exclusion criteria, publication bias, heterogeneity of the data, and a coherent and well-balanced assessment of studies' quality.

Background and aims Studies indicated that the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in association to greater adherence to low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) differs in various populations. In this study, we aimed to assess the association of LCD score with the risk of CVD events in a prospective population-based study. Methods and results CVD-free participants (n = 2188) were recruited from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006–2008) and followed for a mean of 6.7 years. Using a valid and reliable 168 item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, the LCD score was determined based on the percentage of energy as carbohydrate, protein, and fat, which ranged from 0 to 12. Cox proportional hazard regression models, adjusted for potential confounders, were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of CVD across tertiles of LCD score in women and men. Mean ± SD age of participants (44.8% male) was 38.8 ± 13.0 years, and median (25–75, interquartile range) of the LCD score was 6 (4–8) at baseline. During follow-up, 77 (3.5%) new cases of CVD were identified. After adjustment for sex, age, body mass index, physical activity, smoking, energy intake, diabetes, and hypertension, there was no association between the LCD score and risk of CVD outcomes in all participants (HR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.86–1.02) and women (HR = 1.13; 95% CI: 0.94–1.36); however, the LCD score was associated with an 11% reduced incidence of CVD events in men (HR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.80–0.98), (P for trend: 0.028). Conclusion Findings showed that higher adherence to LCD may be associated with a lower risk of CVD outcomes in men but not in women.

Background Potential dietary inflammation can precursor chronic diseases such as hepatic disorders. We aimed to examine the association of empirical dietary inflammatory patterns (EDIP) and dietary inflammation scores (DIS) with the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) in Iranian adults. Methods This case–control study was conducted on 225 newly diagnosed NAFLD cases and 450 controls aged 20–60 years. The individuals’ dietary data were collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire. The detection of NAFLD in subjects was done using the ultrasonography scan of the liver and confirmation of gastroenterologists. To calculate of EDIP score, the average daily intakes of each item (15 food items) were multiplied by the proposed weights, and then all the weighted values were summed. Also, to calculate the DIS score, each food item (18 food items) is multiplied by its specific weight to obtain the weighted values of each item. The weighted values were then standardized using the Z-score. Finally, the standardized weighted values of all the items were summed to get the overall DIS score for the individuals. Logistic regression models, adjusted for potential confounders, were used to estimate the odds ratios and 95% confidence interval (CI) of NAFLD across tertiles of EDIP and DIS. Results The mean (SD) age and BMI of the study population (53% male) were 38.1 (8.8) years and 26.8 (4.3) kg/m2, respectively. The median (IQR) of EDIP and DIS scores in individuals were 0.52 (0.34, 0.73), and 0.04 (− 0.55, 0.59), respectively. Based on the multivariable-adjusted model, after controlling for age, sex, physical activity, smoking, marital status, waist-to-hip ratio, and dietary energy intake, individuals in the second (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.07–3.76) and third tertiles of DIS (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.39–4.63) had a higher odds of NAFLD compared to the lowest tertile of DIS (Ptrend = 0.003). Also, in the final model, there is a significant direct association between EDIP score and odds of NAFLD [(OR T2 vs. T1 = 0.88, 95% CI 0.50–1.57) and (OR T3 vs. T1 = 1.82, 95% CI 1.02–3.23)], (Ptrend = 0.031). Conclusion Our results suggested that higher scores of EDIP and DIS, indicating the high inflammatory potential of dietary pattern, are associated with increased odds of NAFLD in Iranian adults.

Background Previous studies have cited insulin-related disorders, including hyperinsulinemia, as one of the main causes of obesity risk and metabolic disorders. We aimed to investigate the association of the Empirical Dietary Index for Hyperinsulinemia (EDIH) and Empirical Lifestyle Index for Hyperinsulinemia (ELIH) with the risk of obesity phenotypes among Iranian adults. Methods Present study was conducted on 2705 subjects, including 1604 metabolically healthy normal weights (MHNW) and 1101 metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) individuals. Obesity phenotypes, including MHNW, MHO, metabolically unhealthy normal weights (MUNW), and metabolic unhealthy obesity (MUO), were determined using the criteria of the Joint International statement (JIS) for metabolic syndrome. Dietary intake data from the previous year was gathered using a food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals (HRs and 95% CIs) of obesity phenotypes incident across tertiles of EDIH and ELIH scores. Results The mean ± SD of age and BMI of all participants were 33.5 ± 12.2 years and 24.3 ± 3.8 kg/m2, respectively. In the multivariable-adjusted model, a higher ELIH score was associated with a greater risk for incidence of MUO (HR: 3.47, 95%CI: 2.54–4.74; Ptrend = trend = Conclusion Our findings revealed that a high insulinemic potential of diet and lifestyle, determined by EDIH and ELIH indices, may be related to an increase in the simultaneous occurrence of obesity with metabolic disorders in Iranian adults.

Background Assessment of both behavior and factors of health as ideal cardiovascular health (iCVH) in adolescence could contribute to cardiovascular disease prevention in adulthood. Aims To explore the changes in the prevalence of iCVH and its components during a decade among Tehranian adolescents. Methods The 12–19 years old adolescents were selected from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study(TLGS). The iCVH score was calculated in the study period 1 (2007–2008; n = 267) and 2 (2015–2017; n = 336). To calculate iCVH, body mass index(BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), total cholesterol, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), physical activity, smoking status, and dietary intakes were measured by standard protocols. The changes in iCVH components between the two study periods were reported by prevalence (95% confidence interval). A logistic regression model was conducted to test the effects of study periods, sex, and age groups on the iCVH(≥ 6 scores). Results Overall, there was a reduction in the prevalence of ideal FPG (97.4 vs. 91.1%) and ideal BP(91.8 vs. 82.7%). Girls had a decrease in the prevalence of ideal BP(91.2 vs. 79.4%) as well as an increase in non-smoking status(77.6 vs. 89.7%). However, the prevalence of ideal FPG (96.5 vs. 88.5%) and ideal BP(92.2 vs 85.0%) decreased in boys. Study period 2, compared to period 1 was associated with lower odds of having iCVH. Furthermore, boys were 1.57 folds more likely to have ideal CVH factors than girls. Conclusion There was a decrease in the prevalence of ideal CVD metrics, including FPG and BP, after one decade. Generally, adolescent boys had higher odds of having ideal CVH compared to girls.

Background and aim Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a signaling gasotransmitter, is involved in carbohydrate metabolism. Here, we aimed to assess the potential association between serum H2S and dysglycemia in the framework of a population-based study. Methods Adults men and women with completed data (n = 798), who participated in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2014–2017) were included in the study. Medians of fasting serum H2S concentration were compared across the glycemic status of the participants, defined as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), isolated impaired fasting glucose (IIFG), isolated impaired glucose tolerance (IIGT), combined IFG-IGT, and normal glycemia [i.e., those with both normal fasting glucose (NFG) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT)]. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess potential associations between serum H2S and the defined glycemic status. Results Mean age of the participants was 45.1 ± 14.0 y, and 48.1% were men. Prevalence of T2DM, IIFG, IIGT, and combined IFG-IGT was 13.9, 9.1, 8.1, and 4.8% respectively. No significant difference was observed in serum H2S concentrations between the groups. Lower serum H2S ( Conclusion Reduced serum H2S level may be associated with impaired glucose tolerance.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of replacing plant proteins with animal proteins in the dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet on cardiometabolic risk factors in obese metabolic syndrome participants.In this double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial, 90 obese patients with metabolic syndrome, aged 30-70 years were randomly allocated into the DASH diet based on plant or animal proteins for 8 weeks. Fasting blood samples were collected to assess the biochemical markers. Also, blood pressure, weight, and waist circumference (WC) were measured at the beginning and end of the trial.The participants in both groups experienced significant reductions in the fasting plasma glucose (FPG), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), triglyceride (TG) concentrations, weight and WC. However the reduction in FPG and SBP was higher in the plant-based DASH group, compared to the animal-based DASH group, after adjustment for weight change. No significant changes were found within or between groups with regard to total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C.Substituting plant proteins with animal proteins in the DASH diet improves FPG and SBP in obese individuals with metabolic syndrome, independent of weight change. IRCT registration number: IRCT20090203001640N16.

Background The combined roles of lifestyle factors in the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) are not fully investigated. In the present study, we aimed to assess the relationship between a healthy lifestyle score (HLS) and the risk of T2D in Tehranian adults. Methods A total of 3859 individuals without T2D were recruited from participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2009–2011) who were followed up for a mean period of 6 years. A food frequency questionnaire was used to collect individuals' dietary intakes at baseline. HLS scores was calculated based on three pre-defined methods with focusing on 4 lifestyle factors including, no current smoking, no obesity, high physical activity, and greater adherence to the healthy diet[determined using the alternate healthy eating index-2010(AHEI-2010), modified French Programme National Nutrition Santé-Guideline Score(mPNNS-GS), and healthy diet pattern score(HDP)]. Results Mean ± SD age of participants(44.4% men) was 41.1 ± 12.3 years. After 6-year follow-up of study, 295(7.6%) new cases of T2D were reported. Based on the age and sex-adjusted model, an inverse association was observed between the higher score of HLS-AHEI-2010 (OR = 0.24;95%CI:0.10–0.60), HLS-mPNNS-GS (OR = 0.28;95%CI:0.15–0.50), and HLS-HDP (OR = 0.39;95%CI:0.24–0.64) and the risk of T2D (P for trend P for trend Conclusion The results of this study suggested that higher score of HLS, characterized by no smoking, normal body weight, vigorous physical activity, and healthy diet, is related to decreased risk of T2D incidence.

To assess the efficacy of low-protein diets (LPD) on cardiovascular risk factors and kidney function in diabetic nephropathy (DN) based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs).A comprehensive systematic search was undertaken in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, SCOPUS and Embase databases from inception until January 2022 without using time or language restrictions. RCTs which reported the effects of LPD on cardiovascular risk factors and kidney function in DN were considered.The results of the present study showed that a LPD significantly reduces urinary urea (WMD: -244.49 g/day, 95 % CI: -418.83, -70.16, P = 0.006) and HbA1c (WMD: -0.20, 95 % CI: -0.39, -0.01, P = 0.036) levels. However, the results did not show neither significant nor beneficial effect on other renal function and cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, the results of subgroup analysis showed LPD caused a further decrease in HbA1c during the follow-up period of ≤ 24 weeks, protein intake less than 0.8 g/kg/d and in individuals younger than 50 years. Albuminuria also showed a greater reduction in people under the age of 50 with type 1 diabetes (DMT1) following a LPD.The results of the present study showed that LPD significantly reduces urinary urea and HbA1c.

The Mediterranean-DASH intervention for neurodegenerative delay (MIND) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has yet to be studied. As a result, the objective of this study was to investigate if there was a link between MIND diet adherence and the risk of CVD in adults over a 10.6-year period of time. There were 2863 participants in this research cohort who were free of CVD and were followed-up for 10.6 years. Using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), the MIND diet score was calculated. Reliable medical data was used to evaluate cardiovascular events, including coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, and CVD-related mortality. A total of 200 CVD occurrences (159 CHD, 21 stroke, and 20 CVD fatalities) were documented throughout the 10.6-year follow-up period. Our results indicated each increase in MIND diet score reduced the incidence of CVD by 16% (HR: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.96). We also detected an inverse association relationship between the MIND diet and the incidence of CVD after classifying the MIND diet score into tertiles as well (HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.47 to 0.97). Among the components of the MIND diet, each increase in whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and beans reduced the risk of CVD by 60%, 45%, and 65%, respectively. Finally, our findings revealed that the higher adherence to the MIND was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events. Besides, we found an inverse association between consumption of whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and beans and the number of CVD incidents. However, more well-designed cohort studies are needed before conclusive conclusions can be formed.

Background Among candidate genes related to type 2 diabetes (T2DM), one of the strongest genes is Transcription factor 7 like 2 (TCF7L2), regarding the Genome-Wide Association Studies. We aimed to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the modification effect of TCF7L2 on the relation between glycemic parameters and lifestyle factors. Methods A systematic literature search was done for relevant publications using electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science, from January 1, 2000, to November 2, 2021. Results Thirty-eight studies (16 observational studies, six meal test trials, and 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs)) were included. Most observational studies had been conducted on participants with non-diabetes showing that TCF7L2 modified the association between diet (fatty acids and fiber) and insulin resistance. In addition, findings from meal test trials showed that, compared to non-risk-allele carriers, consumption of meals with different percentages of total dietary fat in healthy risk-allele carriers increased glucose concentrations and impaired insulin sensitivity. However, ten RCTs, with intervention periods of less than ten weeks and more than one year, showed that TCF7L2 did not modify glycemic parameters in response to a dietary intervention involving different macronutrients. However, two weight loss dietary RCTs with more than 1-year duration showed that serum glucose and insulin levels decreased and insulin resistance improved in non-risk allele subjects with overweight/obesity. Regarding artichoke extract supplementation (ALE), two RCTs observed that ALE supplementation significantly decreased insulin concentration and improved insulin resistance in the TT genotype of the rs7903146 variant of TCF7L2. In addition, four studies suggested that physical activity levels and smoking status modified the association between TCF7L2 and glycemic parameters. However, three studies observed no effect of TCF7L2 on glycemic parameters in participants with different levels of physical activity and smoking status. Conclusion The modification effects of TCF7L2 on the relation between the lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity, and smoking status) and glycemic parameters were contradictory. PROSPERO registration number CRD42020196327

Background Several studies have assessed the association between dietary choline and betaine and cardiovascular disease (CVD), but their results are inconsistent. The present study aimed to determine the association between dietary intake of choline and betaine and the risk of CVD in the general population over a 10.6-year period of follow-up. Methods The present cohort study was conducted on participants in the third wave of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2006–2008) and was followed-up until March 2018. Dietary intake of choline and betaine was calculated using the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) database. Patients’ medical records were used to collect data on CVD. Results In this study, 2606 subjects with no previous CVD participated and were followed-up for a median of 10.6 years. During the follow-up periods, 187 incidences of CVD were detected. Results of the Cox proportional hazards regression indicated that neither energy-adjusted total choline nor betaine was associated with the incidence of CVD. Among individual choline forms, only higher intake of free choline (FC) was associated with a lower risk of CVD (HR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.42–0.98). There was no significant association between each 10 mg/d increase in choline and betaine content of each food category and CVD. Conclusion Our investigation indicates no association between energy-adjusted total choline and betaine and a 10.6-year risk of CVD among adults. Besides, we found no relationship between individual choline forms (except FC) and CVD. We also found energy-adjusted choline and betaine obtained from food categories were not associated with the risk of CVD.

Previous studies have introduced insulin resistance (IR) as a major risk factor for poor cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) outcomes. Diet, body weight, and physical activity are three key pillars of lifestyle that can significantly impact the IR status. We aimed to assess the possible link between the empirical dietary index for IR (EDIR) and the empirical lifestyle index for IR (ELIR) with the risk of chronic heart disease (CHD) and CVDs.This study was conducted on 4980 participants aged ≥30 years (follow-up rate: 99.85%). Dietary intake data was collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio and 95% confidence intervals (HRs and 95% CIs) of CVDs and CHD across tertiles of EDIR and ELIR scores. In the final model, after adjusting for all potential confounding variables, participants in the highest tertile of EDIR had a higher risk of CVD (HR:1.36, 95%CI:1.03-1.80, P-trend = 0.016) and CHD (HR:1.36, 95% CI:1.01-1.83, P-trend = 0.023) compared to the lowest tertile. Also, participants with a higher score of ELIR had a higher risk of CVD (HR: 1.64, 95%CI:1.24-2.16, P-trend=0.001) and CHD (HR: 1.72, 95%CI:1.28-2.32, P-trend=0.001).A greater adherence to the lifestyle and diet with a higher EDIR and ELIR may be associated with an increased risk of CVD and CHD outcomes in the adult population.

Although an independent role for several important lifestyle factors in the aetiology of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been established, less is known about their combined effects. We aimed to investigate the association of the combined role of recognised lifestyle factors, expressed as a healthy lifestyle score (HLS), and the risk of MetS in Tehranian adults. A total of 3480 participants without MetS were recruited from among participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2009-2011) and followed a mean of 6 years. Dietary data were collected using a validated food frequency questionnaire at baseline. We determined HLS in three ways among the participants based on four factors including, no current smoking, no obesity, vigorous physical activity and a healthy dietary pattern (assessed by either the alternate healthy eating index-2010 [AHEI-2010], the modified French Programme National Nutrition Santé-Guideline Score [mPNNS-GS] or the healthy diet pattern score [HDP]). All three indices consisted of the four factors including smoking (yes/no), physical activity (active/inactive), obesity (yes/no) and diet quality. Mean ± SD age of participants (43.5% men) was 38.7 ± 13.0 years. During the study follow-up, 558 (16.0%) new cases of MetS were identified. In the age- and sex-adjusted model, there was a negative relationship between the higher score of HLS-AHEI-2010 (OR = 0.42; 95% CI: 0.29-0.60), HLS-mPNNS-GS (OR = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.33-0.62) and HLS-HDP (OR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.52-0.93) with the risk of MetS (p for trend0.05). In the multivariable model, after adjustment for confounding variables, the risk of MetS decreased across tertiles of HLS-AHEI-2010 (OR = 0.48; 95% CI: 0.33-0.70, p for trend0.001), HLS-mPNNS-GS (OR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.36-0.69, p for trend0.001) and HLS-HDP (OR = 0.67; 95% CI: 0.49-0.90, p for trend: 0.008). The findings of the current study highlight that greater adherence to modifiable healthy lifestyle factors scores is associated with a decreased risk of MetS.

Ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) is associated with a lower risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to investigate the association of CVH metrics with carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) as a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis in young adults. A cross-sectional study was performed on 1295 adults, average age of 29.7 ± 4.0 years, selected from the participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. The participants were divided into three groups based on the overall CVH score: ideal, intermediate, and poor CVH. Multivariate-adjusted linear regression was used to determine the association of the CVH score with cIMT. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for high cIMT (≥ 95% percentile). Also, the independent effects of each ideal CVH metric on cIMT were analyzed. The prevalence of ideal CVH was 6.4% in men and 12.4% in women, and mean cIMT was obtained 0.53 ± 0.09 mm in men and 0.57 ± 0.08 mm in women. A 1-point increase of the CVH score in men and women was associated with a cIMT decrease of 0.009 and 0.011 mm (men: Beta [SE] = − 0.009 [0.003]; women: − 0.011 [0.007], p

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of different meat intake and substitution of them with risk of incident chronic kidney disease (CKD).At the baseline, habitual dietary intakes of 4881 participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study who were free of CKD were assessed by a valid and reliable food-frequency questionnaire. Logistic regression, adjusted for age, sex, smoking, total energy intake, triglycerides, body mass index, physical activity, hypertension, and diabetes, was used to assess the relationship between major protein sources of food (total red meat, unprocessed red meat, and processed red meat) and incident CKD. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the CKD were estimated for substituting one serving of total red meat with one serving of low-fat dairy, nuts, whole grains, and legumes.The mean ± standard deviation age of participants was 40.1 ± 12.8 years. After adjustment for confounders, compared with the lowest quartile of total red meat intake, OR of incident CKD in the highest quartile was 1.73 (95% CI: 1.33 to 2.24; P for trend0.001) in the final model. OR for participants in the highest compared with that in the lowest quartile of processed red meat was 1.99 (95% CI: 2.54 to 2.56; P for trend0.001). In the substitution analyses, replacing 1 serving of total red meat and processed meat with 1 serving of low-fat dairy, nuts, whole grains, and legumes was associated with a lower risk of incident CKD.Higher consumption of total red meat and processed meat was associated with increased risk of incident CKD. Furthermore, substitution of total red and processed meat in the diet with other sources of dietary protein was associated with lower CKD risk.

This study aimed at assessing nutrient adequacy after 1 year in patients who had undergone gastric bypass (GB) surgery or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and to investigate the association of nutrient adequacy with anthropometric indices. A total of 180 severely obese patients (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) were selected among the participants of Tehran Obesity Treatment Study. Nutritional assessments were performed over 3 days of 24-h dietary recall. To evaluate the nutrient adequacy ratio (NAR), the subject’s nutrient intake was divided by the dietary reference intakes. The mean adequacy ratio (MAR) was also determined as the sum of NARs divided by the number of involved nutrients (n = 11). The mean age of SG (67%) and GB (32%) patients was 39.2 ± 12 and 41.4 ± 10 years, respectively. SG patients had more postoperative fat-free mass (52.0 ± 12 kg) than GB patients (49.7 ± 8 kg) (P 80%) and total fat (> 70%) intake was reported. The MAR score showed that almost 45% of the patients had possibly adequate intakes of some nutrients. The adequacy of nutrients was positively associated with fat-free mass (β = 8.67, P

This study was designed to investigate prospective associations between dietary habitual intakes of flavonoids and carotenoids and the development of an unhealthy metabolic phenotype. In this study 1114 adults, who had a healthy metabolic phenotype in the third examination cycle (2005-2008) participated. Dietary intakes of flavonoids and carotenoids were estimated using valid food frequency questionnaires evaluated during the study. Joint Scientific Statement criteria were used to define a metabolic unhealthy phenotype as meeting at least two criteria. During a median follow-up of 5.4 years, one standard deviation increase in total flavonoids reduced the risk of developing an unhealthy phenotype by 50% (95% CIs: 0.42-0.59), and inverse associations were observed for individual classes except anthocyanins, being the strongest for flavan-3-ols. Among carotenoid classes, a significant inverse association was only observed between lutein + zeaxanthin (HRs: 0.87, 95% CIs: 0.77-0.98) and the occurrence of an unhealthy phenotype. When data were stratified by baseline BMI, total flavonoids and individual classes of flavan-3-ols, flavonols, and flavones among both normal weight and overweight/obese individuals, isoflavones in those with excess weight and anthocyanins in normal weight individuals were inversely associated with the development of an unhealthy phenotype. Total carotenoids, β-carotene and lutein + zeaxanthin were significantly associated with the lower likelihood of the occurrence of an unhealthy phenotype, only among normal weight individuals. Higher intakes of flavonoids and their individual classes may contribute to the lower risk of a metabolic unhealthy phenotype in both normal weight and overweight/obese adults. Flavonoids may have more favorable metabolic health effects than carotenoids.

The current study aimed at investigating the association between Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and odds of obesity phenotypes, is a cross sectional study conducted on 3218 Iranian overweight or obese participants (BMI >25 kg/m2), aged ≥20 years, who participated in the fourth phase (2009–2011) of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. Using a valid and reliable food-frequency questionnaire, DASH diet scores between 8 and 40 points were determined. Obesity phenotypes including metabolic unhealthy obesity (MUHO) and metabolic healthy obesity (MHO) were defined using criteria of the Joint International statement(JIS) for metabolic syndrome. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the odds ratio (OR) for obesity phenotypes according to the tertiles of the DASH diet. Mean ± SD age of participants (43.5% male) was 39.2 ± 9.5 years and median (25–75 interquartile range) DASH diet score was 24 (21–27); percentages of MHO and MUHO subjects were 33.4 and 66.6%, respectively. In the multivariable adjusted model, after controlling for age, sex, BMI, physical activity, smoking status, socioeconomic status, and energy intake, participants in the highest tertile of DASH diet had lower odds of MUHO (OR:0.79;95%CI:0.64–0.98), in comparison to those in the lowest one (P for trend = 0.040). Our findings indicate that adherence to DASH diet may be favourable in prevention of metabolic abnormalities in overweight and obese individuals.

Background and Objective: An overview of the history of endocrinology indicates that definitions of some initially developed concepts, including the term ‘hormone’ have been changed over time. This review provides a historical overview of current definitions of ‘hormone’ and the criteria of a true hormone. In addition, a brief history of hormone-related concepts and their transformation over time are discussed. Results: Classically, a hormone is a chemical substance secreted into the bloodstream and acts on distant tissues, usually in a regulatory fashion. Several newly discovered bioregulators and chemical signaling molecules are far from the classical definition of a true hormone and could not fulfill many relevant criteria. Major developments in the field of endocrinology accompanied by the complex terminology, currently used to describe hormonal actions of chemical messengers, underscore the need of the revision of such classical concepts. Conclusion: Complex terminology currently used to describe different hormonal actions of chemical messengers, suggests that it is time to conceptualize the term hormone and revise its classical definition.

Summary The Middle East and north Africa are home to different populations with widely varying cultures, histories, and socioeconomic settings. Hence, their health status, health management, and access to appropriate health care differ accordingly. In this Review, we examine data on the historical and prospective status of metabolic diseases in this region including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Women in the Middle East and north Africa have the highest risk of metabolic diseases of all women globally, whereas men rank second of all men in this respect. Metabolic risk factors are responsible for more than 300 deaths per 100 000 individuals in this region, compared with a global mean of fewer than 250. Physical inactivity, especially in women, and an unhealthy diet (ie, low consumption of whole grains, nuts, and seafoods) stand out. More than one in every three women are obese in most countries of the region. Prevention programmes have not fully been achieved in most of these countries and the projected future is not optimistic. Comprehensive surveillance and monitoring of metabolic diseases, robust multisectoral systems that support primordial and primary preventions, continuous education of health-care providers, as well as collaboration between countries for joint projects in this region are urgently needed to overcome the paucity of data and to improve the metabolic health status of inhabitants in the Middle East and north Africa.

Background Diet is an important modulator of inflammation, which is associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this study, we examined whether the inflammatory properties of diets are associated with disease activity in patients with IBD. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 143 IBD patients, including 32 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and 111 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Dietary intakes were assessed by a valid 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The inflammatory potential of the diet was assessed by calculating the two scores of Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII®), and the Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Pattern (EDIP), and CD and UC disease activity were determined by the Crohn’s disease activity index (CDAI) and the Mayo score, respectively. Associations of the inflammatory indices as median and as tertiles with disease activity were analyzed using logistic regression in a univariate model and after adjusting for total energy intake (continuous), type of disease (CD and UC) and drug consumption (no drugs, single drug, and multiple drugs). Results Sixty-four IBD patients (44.8%) in this study had active disease.The DII® score and the EDIP did not differ significantly between active and inactive patients (− 1.45 ± 1.04 vs.− 1.20 ± 1.24; 0.56 ± 0.22 vs. 0.53 ± 0.28, respectively). After adjusting for energy intake, drug use, and IBD type, the odds (95%CIs) of active disease among patients in tertile 3 compared to those in tertile 1 were 0.84 (0.32–2.17) for DII and 1.50 (0.61–3.72) for EDIP; neither of which were statistically significantly different from the rates in tertile 1. Conclusions Although point estimates were in the expected direction of increased risk, the inflammatory potential of diet, assessed using DII or EDIP, was not associated with severity of disease in IBD patients. Whether diet-related inflammation affects disease activity in patients with IBD deserves further investigations.

The present study aimed to evaluate the possible effect of grounded flaxseed and flaxseed oil on serum levels of inflammatory markers, metabolic parameters, and the severity of disease in patients with UC.In this open-labeled randomized controlled trial, 90 UC patients were randomly assigned to one of the 3 groups for 12 weeks: grounded flaxseed (GF; 30 g/day), flaxseed oil (FO; 10 g/day) and control group. The weight, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, serum inflammatory markers (interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon gamma (INF-γ), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)), and fecal calprotectin were measured at the baseline and end of the study.Totally, 75 patients (43 men and 32 women) with a mean age of 31.54 ± 9.84 years participated in the present study. Comparing the change of the variables indicated a significant decrease in fecal calprotectin (P 0.001), Mayo score (P 0.001), ESR (P 0.001), INF-γ (P 0.001), IL-6 (P 0.001), waist circumference (P = 0.02), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) (P 0.001), and Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) (P 0.001) and a significant increase in TGF-β (P 0.001) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire-Short form (IBDQ-9) score (P 0.001) in the GF and FO groups compared to the control. No difference was obvious between the FO and GF groups except for TGF-β.The present study showed that both flaxseed and flaxseed oil, attenuate inflammatory markers, disease severity, blood pressure, and WC. However, the effect of flaxseed on weight and BMI was not evident.

Background Obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may face additional barriers in achieving weight loss. We aimed to compare the effects of the hypocaloric low glycemic index (LGI) diet on anthropometric variables and insulin resistance in women with and without PCOS and investigate the effect of this diet on the clinical and hormonal features of PCOS women. Methods This interventional study was carried out at the Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Of 108 women invited for the purpose of the present study, 62 participants (PCOS = 28, non-PCOS = 34) followed a 24-week energy restricted LGI diet. Anthropometric, biochemical, hormonal and clinical measurements were documented at baseline, 12 weeks and 24 weeks with intervention. Results The percentages of weight loss achieved by both the PCOS and non-PCOS groups did not differ significantly (PCOS: -8.04% vs. non-PCOS: -8.09%). No significant difference in decrease of homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was observed between the two groups (PCOS = − 0.83 ± 0.33, non PCOS = − 0.79 ± 0.28, P = 0.83). In PCOS women, significant reduction in total testosterone (− 0.91 ± 0.33 nmol/L, P = 0.006), FAI (− 4.47 ± 1.1, P

Aims This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify several aspects of intermittent fasting during the month of Ramadan on lipid and lipoprotein levels in apparently healthy subjects. Data synthesis We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases and the reference lists of previous reviews, up to Feb 2019 for studies that investigated the effects of Ramadan fasting on fasting levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, LDL-C, and VLDL-C among healthy subjects including pregnant women and athletic subjects. Studies were selected for quality assessment, meta-analyses, subgroup analyses, and meta-regressions; data of 33 eligible studies, conducted between 1978 and 2019, were included in the analysis. Results Intermittent fasting showed no significant effect on circulating TG (WMD = −0.38 mg/dl, 95% CI = −5.33, 4.57), TC (WMD = −1.58 mg/dl, 95% CI = −6.04, 2.88), and LDL-C levels (WMD = 1.85 mg/dl, 95% CI = 0.77, 2.92). Overall, HDL-C (WMD = −2.97 mg/dl; 95% CI = −6.43, 0.48 mg/dl) and VLDL-C (WMD = −1.41 mg/dl; 95% CI = −2.73, −0.10 mg/dl) significantly decreased after Ramadan fasting. A significant increase in LDL-C levels was observed in athletic subjects (WMD = 2.97 mg/dl; 95% CI = 0.80, 5.13) and apparently healthy subjects (WMD = 1.81 mg/dl; 95% CI = 0.55, 3.07). Change in TG levels was associated with age (β = −0.94, P = 0.043), its baseline values (β = −0.44, P = 0.001), and weight change during the fasting period (β = −0.57, P = 0.032). Conclusion Ramadan fasting may be accompanied by a moderate improvement of lipid and lipoprotein parameters, especially HDL-C levels; fasting appears to be more beneficial for men and athletic subjects.

Objective The aim of this article was to assess the association between low-carbohydrate high-protein (LCHP) diet score and the risk of incident chronic kidney disease (CKD). Design and Methods This cohort study was conducted on 1,797 Iranian participants, aged ≥20 years, followed-up for a mean of 6.1 years. Using a valid and reliable food-frequency questionnaire at baseline, LCHP diet score between 0 and 12 points were determined. Anthropometric measures and biochemical indicators were assessed. Participants were classified based on their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels using the National Kidney Foundation guidelines; eGFR ≥ 60 mL/minute/1.73 m2 as not having CKD and eGFR Results Mean (standard) age of participants (48% male) was 37.7 (12.2) years at baseline. The median (25-75 interquartile range) of LCHP diet for all subjects was 7 (4-8), and incidence of CKD was 14.1%. After adjusting for age, sex, smoking status, physical activity, total calorie intake, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, and baseline eGFR, participants in the highest tertile of LCHP diet had greater risk of incident CKD (odds ratio: 1.48; 95% confidence interval: 1.03-2.15), in comparison to those in the lowest one (P for trend = .027). Conclusion Our findings demonstrate the hypothesis that higher score of LCHP diet may have adverse effects on incidence and development of CKD.

Objectives The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of dietary carbohydrates with fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) expression in visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue. Methods In this cross-sectional study, visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissues were gathered from 58 obese (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) and 44 non-obese (body mass index ≤18 to Results No significant difference was observed for FTO gene expression in subcutaneous and visceral fat mass between non-obese and obese participants. After adjusting for age and sex, total carbohydrate intake was inversely associated with FTO gene expression in subcutaneous (β = –0.403; P = 0.003) adipose tissues among obese participants. Furthermore, higher intake of total sugars, sucrose, glucose, and lactose was inversely and higher intake fructose was directly associated with FTO mRNA expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue among participants with obesity. Conclusion Dietary intake of total sugars, sucrose, glucose, and lactose in obese participants only was inversely and dietary fructose was positively associated with FTO gene expression from the subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Abstract. Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of intakes of fruit, vegetable and dairy with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: This prospective study was conducted over a 17 month period, on a random sample of pregnant women (n = 1026), aged 18–45 y, in their first half of pregnancy, attending prenatal clinics in five hospitals’ affiliated to universities of medical sciences in different districts of Tehran, Iran. Dietary intakes were assessed during gestational age ≤ 6 weeks using a 168-item validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation, all pregnant women underwent a scheduled 100 g 3-h oral glucose tolerance test. Diagnosis of GDM was based on criteria set by the American Diabetes Association. Results: Of 1026 study participants, 71 had GDM, with a mean age and pre-pregnancy BMI of 26.7 ± 4.3 y and 25.4 ± 4.5 Kg/m2, respectively. High fruit and vegetable intakes were negatively associated with GDM risk. Compared with women who consumed

Background and aims The results of studies on the effect of trans-fatty acids (TFAs) and added sugars on obesity are not consistent. This study aimed to investigate whether the association of changes in general and central obesity with added sugar and TFA intakes is modified by common fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) polymorphisms, in isolation or in a combined-form genetic risk score (GRS). Methods and results Subjects of this cohort study were selected from among adult participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (n = 4292, 43.2% male). Dietary data were collected using a valid and reliable food frequency questionnaire. The genotypes of selected polymorphisms (rs1421085, rs1121980, and rs8050136) were determined. Genetic risk score (GRS) was calculated using the dominant weighted method. The mean age of participants was 42.6 ± 14 and 40.4 ± 13 years in men and women, respectively. FTO rs8050136 polymorphisms and TFAs have a significant interaction in changing body mass index (BMI) (P interaction = 0.01). There were no changes in waist circumference (WC) and BMI among FTO risk allele carriers, across quartiles of added sugar intake. GRS and TFA intakes significantly interacted in altering the BMI and WC; thus, a higher intake of TFAs was associated with higher changes of BMI and WC in subjects with high GRS (P trend Conclusion Our findings suggest that TFA intake can increase the genetic susceptibility of FTO SNPs to BMI or WC change.

Background Besides of dietary fat and carbohydrate, amino acids(AAs), as constituent components of dietary protein have been related with serum lipid levels. This study aims to examine the association between dietary AAs and prospective changes in serum lipid profile in adults. Methods Analyses were conducted on 3881 participants aged, 18–75 years of Tehran lipid and Glucose study, at baseline (2008–2011) and were followed for 3 years (2011–2014) to ascertain serum lipid profile changes. Dietary intakes of AAs were collected at baseline using food frequency questionnaire. Multiple linear regression adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, physical activity, smoking and daily intakes of energy, total fat, and fiber were used. Results The median(IQR) changes in triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were 6.0(-19.0, −35.5), 9.0(7.0, −24.0), 1.0(-3.0, −6.0), and 5.2(-8.0, −18.6) mg/dl, respectively. Higher intakes of isoleucine, lysine, tyrosine, alanine, threonine, methionine, valine, histidine, aspartic acid, and branched chain, alkaline, and alcoholic AAs were positively associated with TGs-changes in the final adjusted model, whereas tryptophan, glutamic acid, and acidic AAs were negatively related to TG-changes. Alanine and tryptophan were associated with higher and lower LDL-C-changes, respectively. Lysine, alanine, methionine, aspartic acid, and alkaline AAs showed positive association with changes in TC, whereas tryptophan and glutamic acid had a negative association with TC-changes. Conclusion Our findings showed that some dietary amino acids have the potential to increase or decrease serum lipid profile.

Emerging data suggest that impaired nitric oxide (NO) homeostasis has a key role in development of cardiometabolic disorders. The association between circulating levels of NO metabolites, i.e. nitrate and nitrite (NOx), and risk of chronic diseases has not yet been fully clarified. This work aims to address epidemiologic aspects of NO metabolism and discusses different physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions influencing circulating NOx. Further, cross-sectional associations of serum NOx with metabolic disorders are described and along the way, potential short-term and long-term power of serum NOx for predicting cardiometabolic outcomes are reviewed. Results from population-based studies show that circulating NOx is affected by aging, smoking habits, pregnancy, menopause status, thyroid hormones, and various pathologic conditions including type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, hypertension, and renal dysfunction. Lifestyle factors, especially dietary habits, but also smoking habits and the degree of physical activity influence NO homeostasis and the circulating levels of NOx. Elevated serum NOx, due to increased iNOS activity, is associated with increased incidence of metabolic syndrome, different obesity phenotypes, and cardiovascular events.

Evidence on the association of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone (PTH) with cardiovascular risk factors in the young is limited. We therefore assessed the relationships of circulating vitamin D and PTH concentrations and subclinical atherosclerosis in overweight or obese children and adolescents. This was a cross-sectional study, investigated the association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), intact PTH (iPTH), and iPTH/25(OH)D ratio with carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT) in 368 Iranian children and adolescents with a body mass index (BMI) ≥1 z-score based on WHO criteria. Ultrasound measurement of cIMT was performed. Multivariable linear and logistic regressions were used to test associations between 25(OH)D, iPTH, and iPTH/25(OH)D ratio using one-ln-unit increment with cIMT. Median (25–75 interquartile range) 25(OH)D and iPTH concentrations were 11.8 (8.2–18.6) ng/ml and 38.2 (25.0–61.4) pg/ml, respectively. Among boys, each one-ln-unit increase of iPTH and iPTH/25(OH)D ratio was significantly associated with 0.194 mm and 0.147 mm increase, respectively, in cIMT, after adjustment for confounders. A similar pattern of association was observed between iPTH (β = 0.143, p = 0.037) and iPTH/25(OH)D ratio (β=0.172, p = 0.007) with cIMT among obese participants. Furthermore, among obese participants in the fully adjusted model, each one-ln-unit increase of iPTH and 25(OH)D/iPTH ratio was significantly associated with 53% and 39% increased odds of having high cIMT, respectively. Girls and those who were overweight did not show any significant association of 25(OH)D, iPTH, and iPTH/25(OH)D ratio with cIMT. High iPTH and iPTH/25(OH)D ratio were associated with increased cIMT in boys and those who are obese.