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Abstract Dietary intake has an undeniable role in the development and progression as well as the prevention and treatment of cirrhosis. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the association between dietary inflammatory indices and total mortality in patients with cirrhosis. A total of 166 outpatients with cirrhosis who were diagnosed within the last 6 months were followed up for 48 months in this cohort study. A 168-question valid food frequency questionnaire was used to evaluate dietary intake. Accordingly, the dietary inflammatory index (DII), empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP) and dietary inflammatory score (DIS) were calculated. Multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated through cox proportional hazards regression models for an association of cirrhosis mortality and three dietary inflammatory indices. After full adjustment for confounders, the results showed that mortality risk increased significantly with increasing dietary inflammatory indices. Compared to the first tertile, the risk of mortality due to cirrhosis was associated with 4.8 times increase in the third tertile of DII (HR = 4.8, 95% CI = 1.1–19.8, p trend = 0.029), 3.3 times in the third tertile of EDIP (HR = 3.3, 95% CI = 1.3–8, p trend = 0.004), and 2.2 times increased in the third tertile of DIS (HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1–4.7, p trend = 0.032). The results of the present study indicated a significant association between dietary inflammatory indices and total mortality among patients with cirrhosis. Additional research is necessary to confirm our findings.

Abstract Background and purpose The relationship between dietary patterns and cirrhosis is undeniable. The present study aimed to investigate the association between the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and the risk of mortality in patients with cirrhosis prospectively. Methods In this cohort study, 121 cirrhotic patients were enrolled and followed up annually for four years. Nutritional status and dietary intakes were assessed initially, and the DASH score was calculated accordingly. Crude and multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using Cox proportional hazard analyses. Results DASH components including fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and low-fat dairy products were significantly associated with lower mortality risk in cirrhotic patients. Also, a higher DASH score was significantly associated with a reduction in the risk of mortality in patients with cirrhosis, so that after adjusting for all confounders, the risk of mortality in the upper tertile was 89% lower than the first tertile (HR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03–0.42, P trend

Abstract Hepcidin has a crucial role in iron homeostasis upon inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine the overall association between serum hepcidin concentrations and IBD. Based on the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analysis (PRISMA) protocols, an electronic literature search was conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science until June 2020. Studies were deemed eligible for inclusion if they met the following criteria: (1) diagnosis of IBD, (2) observational design, and (3) measured serum hepcidin and prohepcidin concentrations in IBD patients and control group. Overall, 10 studies including 1184 participants were evaluated. Random‐effects meta‐analysis revealed that subjects with IBD had 7.22 ng/mL (95% CI: 2.10, 12.34; p = .006) higher serum hepcidin concentrations compared to control groups. A nonsignificantly lower serum prohepcidin concentration (0.522 ng/mL, 95% CI: −1.983 to 0.939; p = .484) was found for IBD patients compared to healthy subjects. However, there was significant heterogeneity among the studies regarding both hepcidin (I2 = 98%, p

Abstract Migraine headaches are the most prevalent disabling primary headaches, affecting individuals at an active age. Dietary interventions are considered low‐cost and practical approaches to migraine prophylaxis. Hence, the present study aimed to assess the association between adherence to the Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI‐2015) and migraine headaches. The present case–control study was conducted on 476 newly diagnosed adults with migraine headaches, based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition (ICHDIII criteria(, and 512 healthy controls. Participants' dietary intakes were collected using a validated, 168‐item semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The association between HEI‐2015 and migraine headaches was assessed using logistic regression models. Although the trend was not statistically significant, being in the 4th quantile of the HEI‐2015 was associated with about 50% lower odds of migraine headaches in both primary (adjusted for age and gender) (odds ratios (OR): 0.51, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.33, 0.78) and fully adjusted models (additionally adjusted for body mass index (BMI) and total calories) (adjusted OR: 0.50, 95%CI: 0.32, 0.77). Intriguingly, the odds of migraine headaches were significantly higher in those in the last quantile of “Total Fruits,” which is equal to more than 237 g per 1000 kcal (aOR: 2.96, 95%CI: 1.99, 4.41) and “Whole Fruits,” which is equal to more than 233 g per 1000 kcal (aOR: 2.90, 95%CI: 1.94, 4.31). Similarly, higher intakes of “Dairy,” which is equal to more than 138 g per 1000 kcal (aOR: 2.66, 95%CI: 1.71, 4.14), and “Total Protein Foods,” which is equal to more than 259 g per 1000 kcal (aOR: 2.41, 95%CI: 1.58, 3.70), were associated with higher odds of migraine headaches. The current study revealed an indirect association between HEI‐2015 and its components, including “Greens and Beans,” “Whole Grains,” “Refined Grains,” and “Added Sugars” and lower odds of migraine headaches.

Summary: Background: Although the beneficial role of ginger consumption on peptic ulcer disease (PUD) has been shown in experimental studies, there is no clinical trial on patients with PUD. Methods: The current study was performed as a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled, clinical trial on patients with PUD. Patients were randomized to take either ginger (2000mg/day) or placebo as a supplement after the standard treatment for 6 weeks. At the beginning and the week 8, all participants underwent endoscopic exam, and gastric ulcers were evaluated and biopsied for pathologic assessment. Serum high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), IL-8, and total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC) were measured at the baseline, and the end of the study. Results: There was no significant difference in the number of ulcers at baseline and ending point of the study in the control group (P-value=0.772). Meanwhile, the number of ulcers were significantly lower in the intervention group after 6 weeks of ginger supplementation compared to the baseline (P-value=0.01). Moreover, higher reduction in mean dyspepsia scores was found in the intervention group compared to the control group (P=0.04). As another finding, the mean TAC increase in the intervention group (1.12±0.44 U/ml) was significantly higher than the control group (0.09±0.16 U/ml) (P

Abstract Background There are contradictory effects regarding the effect of NAD + precursor on glucose metabolism and liver enzymes. In order to obtain a better viewpoint from them, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of NAD + precursor supplementation on glucose metabolism, C-reactive protein (CRP), and liver enzymes. Methods PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Embase databases were searched using standard keywords to identify all controlled trials investigating the glucose metabolism, CRP, and liver enzymes effects of NAD + precursor. Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were achieved by random-effects model analysis for the best estimation of outcomes. Results Forty-five articles with 9256 participants’ were included in this article. The pooled findings showed that NAD + precursor supplementation had a significant increase in glucose (WMD: 2.17 mg/dL, 95% CI: 0.68, 3.66, P = 0.004) and HbA1c (WMD: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.16, P

Abstract Dietary intake plays a pivotal role in ulcerative colitis (UC) initiation and prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a combined Mediterranean, low-FODMAP diet accompanied with partial enteral nutrition (PEN) on clinical and para-clinical characteristics of patients with UC. Fifty patients with active mild to moderate UC were received either a combined diet or a regular diet for 6 weeks. Before and after the intervention, disease activity index, quality of life and some inflammatory and oxidative stress factors were measured using valid and reliable questionnaires and blood sampling. Disease activity index was significantly decreased in the combined diet group in comparison to control diet group (p = 0.043), and baseline data (p

Abstract Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) accounts as a crucial health concern with a huge burden on health and economic systems. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of soy isoflavones supplementation on metabolic status in patients with NAFLD. Methods In this randomized clinical trial, 50 patients with NAFLD were randomly allocated to either soy isoflavone or placebo groups for 12 weeks. The soy isoflavone group took 100 mg/d soy isoflavone and the placebo group took the similar tablets containing starch. Anthropometric indices, blood lipids, glycemic parameters and blood pressure were measured at the beginning and at the end of the study. Results At the end of week 12 the level of serum triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol (TC) was significantly decreased only in soy isoflavone group compared to baseline (P 0.05). Conclusions This study revealed that soy isoflavones could significantly reduce TG, LDL TC, WC and HC in NAFLD patients. Trial registration The Ethics committee of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences approved the protocol of the present clinical research (IR.AJUMS.REC.1401.155). The study was in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. This study’s registered number and date are IRCT20220801055597N1 and 20.09.2022, respectively at https://fa.irct.ir .

Abstract Recent evidence shows the beneficial effects of Baltic Sea diet score (BSDS) and healthy Nordic diet index (HNDI) on chronic diseases, however, there is no evidence to investigate them on the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between BSDS and HNDI with the risk of NAFLD. In this case–control study, 552 people in good health and 340 people with NAFLD over the age of 18 took part. The evaluation of BSDS and HNDI employed a validated 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Binary logistic regression was used to determine how OBS and NAFLD are related. The mean BSDS and HNDI were 16.00 ± 2.49 and 11.99 ± 2.61, respectively. The final model's confounder adjustment revealed that greater HNDI adherence scores gave protection against the occurrence of NAFLD (odds ratio [OR]: 0.42; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.18–0.98; P for trend = 0.043). In addition, those with the highest BSDS scores had significantly lower risks of developing NAFLD compared to subjects with the lowest scores (OR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.32–0.89; p for trend = 0.003). Our findings showed that following a healthy Nordic diet can significantly prevent the risk of developing NAFLD, and suggest that the highly nutritious components of the Nordic diet are beneficial for the prevention of NAFLD.

Liver Cirrhosis, defined as the final stage of chronic liver disease, may become more prevalent in the lower level of body defense against oxidation and inflammation. Therefore, we assessed the association of dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) with the severity and mortality of cirrhosis in a cohort study. 120 newly diagnosed cirrhosis patients from Tehran, Iran, participated in this study. The patients’ habitual diet was assessed using a 168-item validated food frequency questionnaire. Both ferric-reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) and oxygen radical scavenging capacity (ORAC) methods were computed to achieve DTAC scores. The association between DTAC with disease severity and mortality was estimated by multivariate linear regression and cox proportional hazards regression models. Dietary total antioxidant capacity-ORAC had a significant inverse association with disease severity in both crude and adjusted models (P for trend:

Objective: The observed impacts of Garcinia cambogia (GC) on serum leptin indicate inconsistency. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effectiveness of GC on leptin levels. Methods: A thorough literature search was carried out using different online databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar, until May 25, 2024. Using random effects, weighted mean differences (WMDs) and corresponding 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were computed. Standard procedures were followed to account for publication bias, study quality, and statistical heterogeneity. Results: In this meta-analysis, a total of eight eligible trials with 330 participants were ultimately included. Quality assessment showed that half of the included trials were considered to have fair quality, while the other half were deemed to have poor quality. Our analysis, with no indication of publication bias, showed a significantly decreased effect of GC on leptin compared with the placebo (WMD: −5.01 ng/ml; 95 % CI: −9.22 to −0.80, p = 0.02). However, significant heterogeneity was detected between studies (I2 =93.5 %, p

Abstract Background Several interventional studies have evaluated the potential anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH)-reduction effect of metformin. However, the results are still contradictory. In order to obtain a better viewpoint from them, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of metformin on AMH in the women with with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Methods Scopus, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched using standard keywords to identify all controlled trials investigating the AMH levels following metformin administration. Pooled weighted mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were achieved by random-effects model analysis for the best estimation of outcomes. Results Sixteen studies with 484 participants’ were included in this article. The pooled findings showed that AMH levels in the single arm clinical trials were significantly reduced (pooled WMD of -3.06 ng/ml; 95% confidence interval [CI] -4.03 to -2.10; P

Abstract Background Dietary patterns, encompassing an overall view of individuals’ dietary intake, are suggested as a suitable means of assessing nutrition’s role in chronic disease development. The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reproducibility of a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) designed for use in the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in IrAN (PERSIAN), by comparing major dietary patterns assessed by the FFQ with a reference method. Methods Study participants included men and women who enrolled in the PERSIAN Cohort Study at seven of the eighteen centers. These centers were chosen to include dietary variations observed among the different Iranian ethnic populations. Two FFQ were completed for each participant over a one-year study period (FFQ1 upon enrollment and FFQ2 at the end of the study), with 24 interviewer-administered 24-hour dietary recalls (24 h) being completed monthly in between. Spearman correlation coefficients (SCC) were used comparing FFQs 1 and 2 to the 24 h to assess validity, while FFQ1 was compared to FFQ2 to assess reproducibility of the questionnaire. Results Three major dietary patterns—Healthy, Low Protein/High Carb and Unhealthy—were identified, accounting for 70% of variance in the study population. Corrected SCC ranged from 0.31 to 0.61 in the validity and from 0.34 to 0.57 in reproducibility analyses, with the first two patterns, which accounted for over 50% of population variance, correlated at above 0.5 in both parameters, showing acceptable findings. Conclusions The PERSIAN Cohort FFQ is suitable for identification of major dietary patterns in the populations it is used for, in order to assess diet-disease relationships.

Abstract A two-arm randomized open labeled controlled clinical trial was conducted on 50 patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Subjects were randomized to either receive two tablets of soy isoflavone (100 mg/day) or placebo. At week 12, the serum levels of alanine amino transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) score were significantly decreased only in the soy isoflavone group (P

Abstract As a global health concern, cirrhosis contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the association between dietary acid load (DAL) and cirrhosis-related mortality. Present study was conducted on 121 patients with newly diagnosed cirrhosis who were followed up for 48 months. Anthropometric measures, nutritional status and dietary intakes were assessed and DAL was estimated based on potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) scores. Crude and multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using Cox proportional hazard analyses. Participants in the high PRAL and NEAP scores had significantly higher intakes of grains and lower intakes of fruits and vegetables. Also, the intake of dairy products and legumes, nuts and seeds decreased significantly with increasing NEAP score. After adjustment of all the confounders, the risk of mortality in the second and third tertiles of PRAL was 5.9 times and 10.97 higher than those in the first tertile, respectively (P trend: 0.006). Similarly, comparing the risk of mortality in the second and third tertiles with the first tertile of NEAP showed a 4.46-fold and 12.3-fold increased risk, respectively (P trend: 0.010). Our findings suggested that DAL was significantly associated with cirrhosis-related mortality and highlight the need for further research to understand the underlying mechanisms and establish optimal DAL levels in cirrhotic patients.

Abstract The association between dairy product consumption and the risk of ulcerative colitis (UC) is not well elucidated. This case–control study examined the association between Iranian adults' dairy consumption and UC risk. We used a valid food frequency questionnaire to analyze dietary intakes in 340 patients with pathologically confirmed cases of UC and 782 controls as part of a case–control research. Pasteurized milk, cheese, and yogurt dietary intakes were calculated along with dairy products. Other variables were acquired using questionnaires. Study participants' mean (± SD) age and body mass index were 41.5 ± 14.1 years and 27.4 ± 4.77 kg/m2, respectively. After adjusting for potential variables, individuals who consumed more total dairy products were less likely to get UC than those who consumed less (odds ratio [OR]: 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.24, 0.79). We found a significant reverse association between milk intake (OR: 0.13; 95% CI: 0.07–0.24) and yogurt intake (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.29–0.91) and UC, after controlling for potential confounders. Also, no significant association was found between cheese and UC risk (OR: 1.38; 95% CI: 0.84–2.28). Higher consumption of total dairy products may reduce UC risk. To be specific, milk and yogurt are inversely associated with this disorder. However, no link was found between cheese intake and UC. Longitudinal observational studies, especially cohorts, are needed to further assess these associations.

Summary: Background and aim: According to increasing attention to the protective effects of saffron in liver disease and increasing prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the present study aimed to investigate the mechanism effects of saffron consumption on treatment of NAFLD in a rat model. Materials and Methods: In this study 24 male Sprague-Dawley rats were studied for 13 weeks. Rats were divided in 4 groups, including group 1 that was fed HFHS+ 250 mg/kg S, group 2 that was fed HFHS+ 125 mg/kg S, group 3 that was fed HFHS, and group 4 that was fed chow diet. Results: Saffron consumption in HFHS+ 250 mg/kg S group and in HFHS + 150 mg/kg S group led to a significant reduction in ALT, AST, blood glucose, insulin, and significant elevation in TAC versus HFHS group. Saffron consumption in HFHS+250, 150 mg/Kg S caused a significant reduction in TG and significant elevation in HDL serum levels. The difference between HFHS+250 mg/kg S and HFHS for PPARα gene expression was significant (p=0.01). SREBP 1-c gene expression reduction among groups was significant and there was a significant difference between HFHS+250 mg/kg S and HFHS (p=0.02 and 0.05, respectively). DGAT2 gene expression was decreased significantly among groups, and HFHS+125 mg/kg S and HFHS+250 mg/kg S versus to HFHS (p=0.05). Conclusions: This study showed that consumption of Saffron could treat NAFLD in Rats at least partially through modulation in gene expression of PPARα, SREBP 1-c, and DGAT2, liver enzymes, glycemic indices and TAC.

Abstract It is well known that vitamin D plays a pivotal role in immune system modulation; however, its role in liver transplantation (LT) has not yet been well elucidated. This study aimed to assess the association between vitamin D status and LT outcomes. This retrospective cohort study was conducted on 335 registered cirrhotic patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) who underwent LT during 2019–2021 and had measurement of serum vitamin D before LT. The association of vitamin D levels before LT with the odds of acute cellular rejection (ACR) and risk mortality was assessed by applying logistic and cox regression, respectively. The mean MELD-Na and serum level of vitamin D were 20.39 ± 9.36 and 21.52 ± 15.28 ng/ml, respectively. In the final adjusted model, there was a significant association between vitamin D deficiency in the pre-transplant period and odds of ACR (odds ratio [OR] 2.69; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.50–4.68). Although in the crude model, vitamin D deficiency in the pre-transplant period was significantly associated with an increased risk of mortality after two years of follow-up (Hazard ratio (HR) = 2.64, 95% CI 1.42–4.33), after adjustment for potential confounders, the association of vitamin D status and mortality became non-significant (HR = 1.46, 95% CI 0.71–3.00). The present study provides evidence that pre-transplant serum vitamin D levels may be a predictor for ACR in patients with cirrhosis undergoing LT.

Abstract Background Although studies have reported an inverse association between fruits, vegetables, and fiber consumption and all-cause and cause-specific mortality, the issue remains incompletely defined in the Middle Eastern population. Aims The current study aimed to investigate the association between dietary fiber, fruit, and vegetable intake and all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Methods A total of 48632 participants (mean age = 52years), 57.5% (n = 27974) women and 42.5% (n = 20658) men, were recruited from an ongoing large-scale prospective cohort study (the Golestan Cohort Study (GCS)), in the north of Iran. Using a validated semi-quantitative 116-item food questionnaire, dietary intakes were collected. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) of all-cause and cause-specific mortality were reported. Results After approximately 14 years of follow-up, 10,774 deaths were recorded. In the fully adjusted model, compared to those in the lowest quintile of intake, those in the second and third quintiles of dietary fiber intake had a 7%-10% reduction in risk of all-cause mortality, and a 15%-17% reduction in the risk of mortality from other causes. Increasing consumption of fruits was also associated with a decreased risk of mortality for all-cause mortality by 9%-11%, and all cancer by 15–20%. Further, those in the third and fourth quintiles of vegetables intake had 11%-12% lower risk for CVD mortality. Discussion The results from the GCS further support the current recommendations on following a healthy diet containing proper amounts of fiber, vegetables, and fruits, as health-protective dietary items. Conclusions Higher intake of dietary fiber, fruits, and vegetables has the potential to reduce both overall and cause-specific mortality rates. However, additional cohort studies with larger sample size and long-term follow-up durations are required to establish these findings.

Background & aims: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a recurrent, inflammatory, autoimmune intestinal disease. The dietary calcium to phosphorus (Ca:P) ratio is suggested to affect the inividuals’ normal metabolic and inflammatory pathways. The present study aimed to investigate the association between dietary Ca:P ratio and the odds of developing UC in a case-control format. Methods: The study included sixty-two currently diagnosed UC patients and one hundred twenty-four matched controls, designed as a case-control study. The dietary intakes of the participants were assessed by a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and the dietary Ca:P ratio was calculated. The association between tertiles of Ca:P ratio and UC was examined using the logistic regression. P-values

Objective: Policosanol is a mixture of long chain alcohols refined from sugar cane. Significant reductions in liver enzymes have been observed in some studies. However, the impact of policosanol on liver enzymes remained controversial. The current meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effect of policosanol supplementation on the levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST). Methods: The literature was systematically searched for studies published up to November 2023 in PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and Scopus. Randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies were included to evaluate the intervention effect of policosanol compared to placebo on ALT and AST. DerSimonian and Laird models were used to calculate effect sizes. Results: Twenty-three trials including 2535 participants were included in the study. The combination of effect sizes, regarding the random-effects model, demonstrated significant changes in ALT serum levels after intervention (WMD: −1.48 U/L; 95% CI: −2.33 to −0.64; P = 0.001), and AST (WMD: −1.10 U/L; 95% CI: −1.70 to −0.51; P

Abstract Background Considering inflammation as a primary occurrence in gallstone formation, this study aimed to determine the relation between serum biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress, and dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) score with the risk of gallstone disease (GD) among Iranian women. Materials and methods Present BMI-matched case-control study was performed among 75 women with GD and 75 healthy controls. Biochemical parameters were measured by standard laboratory methods. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess the usual intake of participants. DII score was calculated for all participants. The linear and logistic regression were used to examine the association of DII with serum inflammatory biomarkers and the odds ratio of GD, respectively. Results The mean serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly (P

Abstract Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is closely associated with cardiometabolic abnormalities. This association could be partly influenced by weight, but not entirely. This study aimed to compare the cardiometabolic risk factors between obese and non-obese NAFLD patients, and explored the relationship between adiposity and severity of fatty liver. This cross-sectional study included 452 patients with Fibroscan-proven NAFLD. Anthropometric measurements, metabolic components and hepatic histological features were evaluated. The risk of metabolic syndrome in each body mass index (BMI) category was analyzed using logistic regression. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 10.2%, 27.7%, and 62.1% in normal-weight, overweight and obese participants. Regression analysis showed that the risk of metabolic syndrome in overweight and obese NAFLD patients was 3.74 and 4.85 times higher than in patients with normal weight, respectively. Waist circumference (β = 0.770, P

Abstract Ulcerative colitis (UC) is one of the two types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBDs), which have a pivotal role in weakening the quality of lives of suffering patients. According to some recent studies, significant changes in dietary patterns may have contributed to the increased prevalence of UC. Potential renal acid load (PRAL) is an index used to estimate dietary acid load of the diet. The aim of the current study is to investigate the association between PRAL and odds of UC. The current case–control study included 62 newly diagnosed cases of UC and 124 healthy controls. Dietary habits of participants in the last year were collected with a valid food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Thereafter, PRAL score was calculated based on a formula containing the dietary intake of protein, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Participants were categorized according to quartiles of PRAL. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds' ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of UC across quartiles of PRAL. The results of the current study indicated that in the crude model, participants in the fourth quartile of PRAL had 2.51 time higher odds of UC compared with those in the first quartile of the PRAL [(OR 2.51; 95% CI 1.03–6.14), (P = 0.043)]. After adjustment for age and biological gender, this positive association remained significant [(OR 2.99; 95% CI 1.16–7.72), (P = 0.023)]. In the final model, after further adjustment for BMI, current smoking, education, Helicobacter pylori infection, and dietary intakes of total energy, omega-3 fatty acids, trans-fatty acids, and total dietary fiber, the odds of UC in the highest quartile of PRAL was significantly higher compared to the lowest quartile [(OR 3.08; 95% CI 1.01–9.39), (P = 0.048)]. So, we observed that higher dietary acid load assessed by PRAL score is associated with greater odds of UC.

Abstract Background Liver cirrhosis is a worldwide burden and is associated with poor clinical outcomes, including increased mortality. The beneficial effects of dietary modifications in reducing morbidity and mortality are inevitable. Aim The current study aimed to evaluate the potential association of dietary protein intake with the cirrhosis-related mortality. Methods In this cohort study, 121 ambulatory cirrhotic patients with at least 6 months of cirrhosis diagnosis were followed-up for 48 months. A 168-item validated food frequency questionnaire was used for dietary intake assessment. Total dietary protein was classified as dairy, vegetable and animal protein. We estimated crude and multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), applying Cox proportional hazard analyses. Results After full adjustment for confounders, analyses showed that total (HR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.2–1.1, p trend = 0.045) and dairy (HR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.13–1.1, p trend = 0.046) protein intake was associated with a 62% lower risk of cirrhosis-related mortality. While a higher intake of animal protein was associated with a 3.8-fold increase in the risk of mortality in patients (HR = 3.8, 95% CI = 1.7–8.2, p trend = 0.035). Higher intake of vegetable protein was inversely but not significantly associated with mortality risk. Conclusion A comprehensive evaluation of the associations of dietary protein intake with cirrhosis-related mortality indicated that a higher intakes of total and dairy protein and a lower intakes of animal protein are associated with a reduced risk of mortality in cirrhotic patients.

Dietary intake is one of the modifiable risk factors for biliary stones. In recent studies, plant protein intake is associated with a lower risk of biliary stones in comparison to animal protein intake; however, the results are contradictory. The current study aims to compare the effect of animal protein and plant protein on the formation of biliary stone in one of the gastroenterology and liver disease centers in Iran. Methods: 110 participants who had a history of biliary stone and 230 controls who were normal in terms of biliary diseases and referred to the medical center from November 2017 to October 2018 enrolled in this study. Food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used for the nutritional assessment; moreover, demographic and anthropometric data, habitual history and comorbidities were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted by SPSS software. Results: Plant protein consumption was significantly lower (P=0.03) and animal protein intake was significantly higher (P=0.02) among men in case compared to controls. Furthermore, the relationship between biliary stone disease and animal protein intake was significant in crude model for men (OR: 1.03, 95% CI=1.01-1.05). In addition, the risk of biliary stone was significantly lower in patients with higher consumption of plant protein (for women: OR: 0.94, 95% CI=0.89-0.99, for both sexes: OR: 0.96, 95%CI=0.93-0.99). Conclusion: The present study suggested that consumption of animal protein sources increased the risk of biliary stone, and intake of plant protein sources decreased the risk of biliary stone

Abstract Evidence has also shown that oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, or in other words, disruption of the oxidant and antioxidant balance, can play an important role in the initiation or progression of NAFLD. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between the oxidative balance scores (OBS) and the risk of NAFLD. 552 healthy and 340 patients adult over the age of 18 with NAFLD participated in this case–control research. A validated 168-item quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and indicators of physical activity, obesity, and smoking status were used to assess OBS score. The connection between OBS and NAFLD was discovered using binary logistic regression. The mean (± SD) age and (body mass index) BMI of the study population was 40.22 ± 9.79 years and 29.06 ± 3.92 kg/m2, respectively. The mean ± SD of OBS was 41.48 ± 5.23. After adjustment for potential confounders, higher scores of adherence to the OBS conferred a protection for the presence of NAFLD (odds ratio [OR]: 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15–0.49; P for trend

Abstract Background Gallstone disease (GSD) and its complications are major public health issues globally. Although many community-based studies had addressed the risk factors for GSD, little is known about the associations between dietary factors and risk of disease. The present study aimed to investigate the potential associations between dietary fibers with the risk of gallstone disease. Methods In this case–control study, 189 GSD patients with less than one month of diagnosis and 342 age‑matched controls were enrolled. Dietary intakes were assessed using a 168-item semi-quantitative validated food frequency questionnaire. Crude and multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated through cox proportional hazards regression models. Results Comparing the highest versus the lowest tertile, significant reverse associations were observed between odds of GSD and each category of dietary fiber intake including total (OR T3 vs. T1 = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.37–0.7, P for trend = 0.015), soluble (OR T3 vs. T1 = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.3–0.8, P for trend = 0.048) and insoluble (OR T3 vs. T1 = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.3–0.9, P for trend

Summary: Background and aim: Given the importance of dietary habits in the immune system, the current study aimed at investigating the association between Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and risk of hospitalization due to COVID-19. Methods: Dietary data of 141 patients with COVID-19 were collected using 147-item food frequency questionnaire. DASH score in this cross-sectional study was calculated based on eight components, including fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts and seeds, whole grains, low-fat dairy, red or processed meats, sweetened beverages, and sodium. Multivariable logistic regression models were applied to estimate the OR and 95% CI for hospitalization due to COVID-19 in each tertile of DASH score. Results: Mean ± SD of DASH score in inpatients (n=74) and outpatients (n= 87) was 22.5 ± 4.57 and 25.34 ± 4.23, respectively. The risk of hospitalization in the highest tertile of DASH score was 81% lower than the lowest tertile (OR=0.19, 95%CI: 0.07–0.55, P trend = 0.001 after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, energy intake). Also, more intake of fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products and less intake of sodium, red and processed meat were each significantly associated with reduced risk of hospitalization due to COVID-19. Conclusions: Our data provide evidence that adherence to DASH-style diet was associated with lower risk of hospitalization due to COVID-19.

BackgroundMore than half of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) report aggravating their symptoms with certain foods. Currently, Low fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides and polyols diet (LFD) is the most accepted dietary intervention for IBS. Recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been suggested that gluten restriction may reduce the symptoms of patients with IBS. However, the results from these studies are conflicting. This study filled this knowledge gap by evaluating the impact of the gluten-free diet (GFD) on IBS symptoms.MethodsA systematic search was carried out in Pubmed/Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 2023. A random-effect model was applied to estimate the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for each outcome.ResultsA total of nine controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. In contrast to gluten-containing diet, GFD was unable to reduce overall symptoms (SMD − 0.31; 95% CI −0.92, 0.31), bloating (SMD −0.37; 95% CI −1.03, 0.30), and quality of life (SMD −0.12, 95% CI −0.64, 0.39); but had a slight trend to reduce abdominal pain (SMD –0.68; 95% CI −1.36, −0.00). Also, LFD significantly reduced the IBS-Severity score system (SMD 0.66, 95% CI 0.31, 1.01) and improved quality of life (SMD −0.36, 95% CI −0.70, −0.01), compared to GFD.ConclusionA GFD is not robust enough to be routinely recommended for IBS patients, and its efficacy is significantly lower than that of an LFD. Only a certain subgroup of IBS patients may benefit from GFD; further studies are needed to target this subgroup.

Abstract Considering the progressive prevalence and co-occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), as well as the current evidence suggesting the elevated levels of basal metabolic rate (BMR) among these individuals, the present study aimed to identify factors determining hypermetabolism in such subjects. This cross sectional study was conducted in 30 to 53-year-old individuals with concurrent T2DM and NAFLD (controlled attenuation parameter score ≥ 260 dB/m). Resting energy expenditure (REE) was determined by an indirect calorimetry device. Hypermetabolism was defined as an elevated measured REE > 110% of the predicted REE. The multivariate logistic regression test was used for detecting factors associated with hypermetabolism. Between September, 2017, and March, 2018, a total of 95 eligible participants (64.40% male) with both T2DM and NAFLD were included, while 32.63% of them were classified as hypermetabolic. Overall, the mean recruitment age ± standard deviation and median (interquartile range) body mass index were 44.69 ± 5.47 years and 30.20 (27.80–33.30) kg/m2, respectively. Demographic, anthropometric and biochemical variables did not vary significantly across two groups except for total body water, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors (p

ObjectiveManaging dietary glycemic index (GI) deserves further attention in the interplay between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between dietary GI and the odds of NAFLD in patients with T2DM.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out between April 2021 and February 2022, including 200 participants with T2DM aged 18-70 years, of which 133 had NAFLD and 67 were in the non-NAFLD group. Cardiometabolic parameters were analyzed using standard biochemical kits and dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was applied to explore odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for NAFLD according to tertiles of dietary GI.ResultsHighest vs. lowest tertile (< 57 vs. > 60.89) of energy-adjusted GI was not associated with the odds of having NAFLD (OR 1.25, 95% CI = 0.6-2.57; P-trend = 0.54) in the crude model. However, there was an OR of 3.24 (95% CI = 1.03-10.15) accompanied by a significant trend (P-trend = 0.04) after full control for potential confounders (age, gender, smoking status, duration of diabetes, physical activity, waist circumference, HbA1c, triglycerides, total cholesterol, dietary intake of total carbohydrates, simple carbohydrates, fat, and protein).ConclusionHigh dietary GI is associated with increased odds of NAFLD in subjects with T2DM. However, interventional and longitudinal cohort studies are required to confirm these findings.

BackgroundAlthough emerging evidence emphasizes the associations between both insulin resistance and hyperuricemia with coronary artery disease (CAD) risk, no definite relationship has yet been established. In this respect, time-efficient and affordable methods to estimate insulin resistance (IR) status, and to predict risk of hyperuricemia, are needed. Thus, the goal of this investigation was to examine the associations between IR, as assessed by novel surrogate markers [triglyceride-glucose (TyG) and TyG–body mass index (TyG-BMI)], and risk of hyperuricemia in patients with and without diagnosed CAD.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used data from the medical records of 1,170 patients who were referred to the cardiology outpatient clinic. Medical records, anthropometrics, and serum analytes were determined at the initial visit. Hyperuricemia was defined as serum uric acid ≥ 5.6 mg/dL. IR was estimated through surrogate markers (TyG and TyG-BMI). Multiple regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between these indices and odds of hyperuricemia among patients with and without CAD.ResultsOverall, 814 angiographically-confirmed CAD cases (mean age (SD) = 52 (8)yrs) were compared with 356 patients without CAD (mean age (SD) = 48 (8)yr). There were positive associations between TyG and TyG-BMI indices and odds of hyperuricemia in CAD patients after controlling for confounders (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.60; 95%CI: 1.02–2.51; p-value = 0.036; and aOR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.24–2.70; p-value = 0.002, third tertiles for TYG and TYG-BMI, respectively).ConclusionThe present findings suggest that higher levels of the IR surrogate markers, TyG and TyG-BMI, are associated with higher odds of hyperuricemia in patients with CAD. However, given the cross-sectional design of this study, the sensitivity and specificity of these novel markers could not be determined for confirming the diagnosis of IR and hyperuricemia, further studies are needed to determine such outcomes and to confirm the current findings.

BackgroundDespite the fact that obesity and overweight are serious major health problems worldwide, fighting against them is also considered a challenging issue. Several interventional studies have evaluated the potential weight-reduction effect of Tirzepatide. In order to obtain a better viewpoint from them, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of subcutaneous Tirzepatide on obesity and overweight.MethodsScopus, PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched using standard keywords to identify all controlled trials investigating the weight loss effects of Tirzepatide. Pooled weighted mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were achieved by random-effects model analysis for the best estimation of outcomes. The statistical heterogeneity and publication bias were determined using the Cochran’s Q test and I2 statistics and using the funnel plot and Egger’s test, respectively.ResultsTwenty three treatments arm with 7062 participants’ were included in this systematic review and meta‐regression analysis. The pooled findings showed that Tirzepatide vs placebo significantly reduced body weight (weighted mean difference (WMD): -11.34 kg, 95% confidence interval (CI): -12.79 to -9.88, P< 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (WMD: -3.11 kg/m2, 95% CI: -4.36 to -1.86, P< 0.001), and waist circumference (WC) (WMD: -7.24 cm, 95% CI -10.12 to -4.36, P< 0.001). These reductions were even greater, especially with higher doses and duration of Tirzepatide.ConclusionsTirzepatide medication had significant effects on weight management with the reduction of body weight, BMI, and WC. Administration of Tirzepatide can be considered a therapeutic strategy for overweight or obese people.

PurposeA semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was developed for use in the Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in IrAN (PERSIAN Cohort), investigating non-communicable disease risk factors. This study aimed to assess the validity and reproducibility of this FFQ, through food group intake.MethodsParticipants, recruited from seven PERSIAN cohort centers, completed the FFQ at the beginning of the study (FFQ1) and at the end (FFQ2), with a 12-month interval in between, during which two 24-h dietary recalls (24 h) were completed each month. Correlation coefficients of the median intake of food groups recorded by the FFQs were compared to those of the 24 h to assess validity, and the two FFQs were compared to assess reproducibility of findings.ResultsOverall, data from 978 participants were included in this validation analysis. Of the 26 food groups assessed, Tea, Sugars, Whole/Refined Grains, and Solid Fats/Oils, had the strongest correlations (0.6–0.79), while Red Meat, Chicken and Eggs showed moderate correlations (0.42–0.59). The weakest correlations observed belonged to Fresh fruit Juice and Other Meats (0.23–0.32). Reproducibility was assessed among those who completed both FFQ1 and FFQ2 (n = 848), revealing moderate to strong correlations in all food groups, ranging from 0.42 in Legumes to 0.72 in both Sugar and Sweetened Drinks.ConclusionThe PERSIAN Cohort FFQ is appropriate to rank individuals based on food group intake.

Abstract Background Due to the contribution of coronary artery disease (CAD) to serious cardiovascular events, determining biomarkers that could robustly predict its risk would be of utmost importance. Thus, this research was designed to assess the value of traditional cardio-metabolic indices, and more novel atherogenicity indices and insulin resistance surrogate markers in the identification of individuals at risk of CAD. Methods A case‒control survey was conducted, in which 3085 individuals were enrolled. Their clinical and biochemical data were gathered at baseline. The investigated indices included the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, TyG-body mass index (TyG-BMI), lipoprotein combine index (LCI), cholesterol index (CHOLINDEX), Castelli’s risk indices-I, II (CRI-I, CRI-II), and metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS − IR). To examine the relationship between these variables and CAD risk, multiple regression analyses adjusted for potential confounders were conducted. Results Overall, 774 angiographically confirmed CAD patients (mean age = 54 years) were compared with 3085 controls (mean age = 51 years). Higher triglyceride, total cholesterol and fasting blood sugar levels and lower HDL-C levels were related to an elevated risk of CAD (P-for-trend

Abstract Energy restriction and manipulation of macronutrient composition of the diet are the main approaches that are used by people who aim to lose weight. When such strategies are employed, appetite and endocrine regulators of satiety, such as gut peptides, all are deeply affected. The gut microbiota–brain axis controls energy homeostasis in humans by affecting central satiety and gut peptides. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if the synergistic effect of probiotics and vitamin D in yogurt matrix can modulate this effect. In the double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial, 140 obese adults were randomly allocated into four groups: 1) regular yogurt plus low‐calorie diet; 2) PY plus low‐calorie diet; 3) vitamin D‐fortified yogurt plus low‐calorie diet, and 4) probiotic and vitamin D co‐fortified yogurt plus low‐calorie diet. All groups were encouraged to increase their physical activity. Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), peptide Tyrosin‐Tysrosin (PYY), ghrelin, anthropometric variables, insulin, fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin resistance/sensitivity, 1,25(OH)2 D3, dietary intake, and physical activity were measured before and after 10 weeks. The difference between groups for GLP‐1 after 10 weeks was significant after adjusting for baseline GLP‐1 and protein intake as confounders. PY showed the largest effect size (ES) on GLP‐1 (p = 14.2) and FBS (p = 14) compared with others. Pairwise comparison of yogurts effect sizes on GLP‐1 showed a significant difference in group 1 vs. group 2 (p = .001), group 1 vs. group 3 (p = .003), and group 1 vs. group 4 (p = .048). Vitamin D‐fortified yogurt had the largest effect size on the serum level of vitamin D and it showed a significant difference with RY (p = .018) and PY (p = .002). Consumption of vitamin D‐fortified yogurt and PY could be regarded as a promising approach during calorie restriction.

Background: Liver cirrhosis is associated with significant nutritional risks and poor survival rates. Little is known about the impact of dietary factors on metabolic complications and mortality from cirrhosis. Aim: The present study investigated the potential associations between dietary fibers and the risk of cirrhosis-related mortality. Methods: In this prospective study, 121 ambulatory cirrhotic patients with more than six months of cirrhosis diagnosis were followed-up for 4 years. Dietary intakes were assessed using a 168-item semi-quantitative validated food frequency questionnaire. Crude and multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated through cox proportional hazards regression models. Results: Comparing the highest versus the lowest tertile, soluble and insoluble fiber intake was associated with 62% (HR = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.045–3.5, p trend = 0.047) and 73% (HR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.06–1.2, p trend = 0.021) lower mortality risk, respectively, after full adjustment for potential confounders. Higher intakes of total fiber were inversely but non-significantly associated with mortality risk. Conclusion: Comprehensive assessment of dietary fiber intake associations with cirrhosis-related mortality showed that higher intakes of soluble and insoluble fiber were significantly associated with reduced mortality risk.

Background & Objective: High prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus results in deleterious complications and morbidities related to both diseases. Thus, we aimed to investigate dietary and anthropometric risk factors for progression of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in diabetic people. Methods: Anthropometric, and dietary intakes, and hepatic steatosis and fibrosis were assessed in two hundred participants with type two diabetes (T2DM). Subjects with CAP score of more than 270 dB/m were considered to have NAFLD. Multivariable-adjusted ORs and 95% CIs were used to investigate the association between NAFLD and dietary inflammatory index (DII) score and anthropometric indices. Results: Participants in the highest tertile of DII had 2.41 (95% CI:1.16-4.97), 2,53 (95% CI: 1.04-6.16), 2.78 (95% CI: 1.09-7.13) times higher odds of developing NAFLD in comparison to the lowest tertile in crude, adjusted model 1 and 2, respectively. Among those with the highest relative to the lowest tertile of trunk-to-leg fat ratio (TLR), ORs and 95% CI were OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 0.9-3.91, and OR = 7.99, 95% CI = 2.43-26.26 in crude and full-adjusted models. Odds of NAFLD in the third tertile of metabolic score for visceral fat (METS-VF) was higher than the first tertile in crude (OR = 9.5, 95% CI = 4.01-22.46) and full-adjusted models (OR = 4.55, 95% CI = 1.46-14.2). Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlighted an association between greater DII (pro-inflammatory diet) and higher NAFLD risk. Moreover, TLR and METS-VF are known as novel estimators of central obesity as a risk factor for NAFLD in diabetes.

The effects of purslane consumption on anthropometric measurements and blood pressure have been studied in numerous experiments. However, the research findings conflict with one another. In order to assess the impact of purslane on weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), this meta-analysis was carried out. Up until February 2023, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the reference lists of the identified pertinent randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were all searched. The random-effects model was used to calculate the effect size and then to describe it as a weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) (CRD42023427955). The systematic review was able to incorporate seven RCTs. Meta-analysis showed that purslane significantly decreased body weight (WMD): −0⋅73 kg, 95 % confidence interval (CI): −1⋅37, −0⋅09, P=0⋅025), BMI (WMD: −0⋅35 kg/m2, 95 % CI: −0⋅64, −0⋅07, P=0⋅016), and SBP (WMD: −3⋅64 mmHg, 95 % CI: −6⋅42, −0⋅87, P = 0⋅01), and for WC, there was no discernible effect (WMD: −0⋅86 cm; 95 % CI, −1⋅80 to 0⋅07; P = 0⋅06) and DBP (WMD: −0⋅36 mmHg; 95 % CI, −1⋅75 to 1⋅03; P = 0⋅61). Purslane consumption, especially in participants with a BMI of

This study aimed to investigate the association between dietary acid load (DAL) and multiple sclerosis (MS), through the potential renal acid load (PRAL) and net endogenous acid production (NEAP) scores. In a hospital-based case–control study of 109 patients with MS and 130 healthy individuals, a validated 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and a logistic regression model were used to evaluate the association between the DAL and MS. After adjusting for age (years), gender (male/female), body mass index (Kg/m2), and total calories (Kcal), the MS odds were 92% lower for those in the highest tertile of total plant-based protein (OR: 0.08, 95%CI: 0.03, 0.23; p-value < 0.001) and about four times higher for those in the highest tertile of the PRAL (OR: 4.16, 95%CI: 1.94, 8.91; p-value < 0.001) and NEAP scores (OR: 3.57, 95%CI: 1.69, 7.53; p-value < 0.001), compared to those in the lowest tertile. After further adjusting for sodium, saturated fatty acid, and fiber intake, the results remained significant for total plant-based protein intake (OR: 0.07, 95%CI: 0.01, 0.38; p-value = 0.002). In conclusion, a higher NEAP or PRAL score may be associated with increased odds of MS, while a higher intake of plant-based protein instead of animal-based protein may be protective.

Backgrounds: Dietary phytochemical index (DPI) is an inexpensive method for estimating the amounts of phytochemicals in foods. No study has investigated the association between DPI and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our study aimed to compare DPI in patients with NAFLD and the control group. Methods: This is a case-control study of 250 subjects with NAFLD and 450 healthy subjects attending the Metabolic Liver Disease Research Center as a referral center affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. DPI was calculated based on data collected from a 168-item validated food frequency questionnaire. Sociodemographic data, physical activity, and anthropometric measures such as body weight, height, and waist circumference were determined. Results: In the final adjusted model, the odds ratio (OR) of NAFLD across the DPI tertiles decreased significantly (OR = 0.55, 95 %CI = 0.31–0.95) (P-trend = 0.03). The highest vs. lowest tertiles of vegetable and olives PI were significantly associated with a lower risk of NAFLD (OR and 95 % CI = 0.26 (0.14–0.47); OR and 95 % CI = 0.51 (0.29–0.90), p for trend

BackgroundThis study was conducted to evaluate possible associations between Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity (DTAC) and odds of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in people with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Materials and methodsWe recruited two hundred people with T2DM, and evaluated their liver steatosis using Fibroscan. Dietary intakes of participants were assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. DTAC was computed via ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP).ResultsIn the crude model, no statistically significant association was found between DTAC and the odds of NAFLD in people with diabetes. However, after adjustment for potential confounders including age, gender, diabetes duration, smoking status, physical activity, BMI, waist circumference, and energy, the most reduced adjusted OR was indicated for the third tertile vs. the first one (OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.09–0.81, P = 0.02), meaning that diabetic patients in the third tertile of DTAC had 72% decreased risk of NAFLD in comparison to those in the first one. The relationship was remained significant after additional adjustment for HOMA-IR, HbA1c, serum Triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL) levels (OR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.09–0.93, P = 0.03). Importantly, a dose-response pattern was demonstrated for DTAC and risk of NAFLD (P = 0.04).ConclusionHigher DTAC was related with a decreased risk of NAFLD in individuals with diabetes.

Abstract Background Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hydro-alcoholic extract of spinach (HES) on hepatic and serum measurements of NAFLD in a rat model. Methods In the prevention phase, 18 Sprague–Dawley rats were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, or a chow diet for seven weeks. For the treatment phase, after the induction of NAFLD, they were fed a high-fat diet, a high-fat diet plus 400 mg/kg HES, a chow diet, or a chow diet plus 400 mg/kg HES for four weeks (n = 6). Results Administration of HES combined with high-fat diet in rats was associated with decreased food intake (P

Abstract Background Without an adequate immune response, SARS-CoV2 virus can simply spread throughout the body of the host. Two of the well-known immunonutrients are selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn). Se and Zn deficiency might lead to inflammation, oxidative stress, and viral entry into the cells by decreasing ACE-2 expression; three factors that are proposed to be involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Thus, in the current study we aimed at evaluating the correlation between serum Se and Zn status and COVID-19 severity. Methods Eighty-four COVID-19 patients were enrolled in this observational study. Patients were diagnosed based on an infectious disease specialist diagnosis, using WHO interim guidance and the recommendations of the Iranian National Committee of Covid-19. The patients with acute respiratory tract infection symptoms were checked for compatibility of chest computed tomography (CT) scan results with that of Covid-19 and Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for corona virus infection. The severity of Covid-19 was categorized into three groups (mild, moderate, and severe) using CDC criteria. Serum Zn and Se level of all subjects was measured. The severity of the disease was determined only once at the onset of disease. Results According to the results of linear regression test, there was a significant association between Zn and Se level and COVID-19 severity (β = − 0.28, P-value = 0.01 for Se; β = − 0.26, P-value = 0.02). However the significance disappeared after adjusting for confounding factors. Spearman correlation analysis showed a significant negative association between serum Zn, Se and CRP level (r = − 0.35, P-value = 0.001 for Se; r = − 0.41, P-value

Abstract Background As pancreatic cancer (PC) is a malignancy with poor prognosis, finding strategies for its prevention became a notable priority. Among all the factors influencing the risk of PC, dietary items especially fats are considered as the most modifiable risk factors.This study is designed to assess the associations of dietary intake of fatty acids with the risk of PC incidence. Methods A total of 50,045 adults between 40 and 75 years old participated in this cohort study in 2004–2008 and were followed up to the present. Intakes of fatty acids was evaluated by validated food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) with 95 % confidence interval of differing levels of dietary intakes of fatty acids for incidence of PC. Results At the end of follow-up period, 76 cases of PC were identified and 46,904 participants without history of cancer, acute kidney disorders, fibrosis and cirrhosis were included in the study. Dietary total saturated fatty acids (SFAS) was associated with PC risk (HR = 1.05 (1.01–1.09), Ptrend=0.01), whereas dietary total monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAS) was inversely associated with the risk of PC (HR = 0.92 (0.86–0.99), Ptrend=0.04). Dietary total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAS) did show a protective but not significant association with the risk of PC (HR = 0.91(0.84-1.00), Ptrend=0.05). Conclusions The amount of total fat intake is not a risk factor for PC in our study and focusing on the intake of specific fatty acids becomes more striking. Unsaturated fatty acids including PUFAS and especially MUFAS are considered as protective dietary factors in PC prevention. In contrast, total SFAS is positively associated with the increased risk of PC. However, very long chain and odd-chain saturated fatty acids intake may be protective against PC.

BackgroundsThe current literature boasts the importance of diet in preventing or managing liver complications. However, there is limited evidence on the association of nutrient patterns (NP) with these complications. In this case-control study, we aimed to examine the possible relationship between nutrient patterns and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) amongst the adult Iranian population.MethodsThis case-control study is being conducted at the Metabolic Liver Disease Research Center at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2019. The study included 225 newly diagnosed cases of NAFLD and 450 controls. A validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) assessed dietary intake. Principal component analysis using Varimax rotation obtained nutrient patterns. Logistic regression was performed to estimate NAFLD risk.ResultsWe identified four major nutrient patterns. The first nutrient pattern was high in consumption of lactose, animal protein, vitamin D, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B12, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium. The second nutrient pattern included fiber, plant protein, vitamin A, thiamine, niacin, copper, and selenium, while the third featured plant protein, zinc, copper, magnesium, manganese, chromium, and selenium. The fourth was characterized by fructose, vitamin A, pyridoxine, vitamin C, and potassium. After adjusting for confounders, individuals in the highest tertile of NP4 had lower odds of NAFLD (OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.32–0.98, P_trend = 0.042); compared to those who were in the lowest tertile.ConclusionHigh compliance to a nutrient pattern characterized by fructose, vitamin C, vitamin A, pyridoxine, and potassium mainly supplied from fruits, vegetables, and nuts is inversely proportional to the odds of NAFLD. Also our findings indicate a very high fiber intake, a relatively optimal dietary fat profile, and a pretty low sugar intake for cases and controls, unseen in western countries. However, these initial findings need to be approved with further studies to confirm the relationship between nutrient patterns and NAFLD.

Although there is a consensus on beneficial effects of a low calorie diet in management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, the optimal composition of diet has not yet been elucidated. The aim of this review is to summarize the results of current randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of low fat diet (LFD) vs. low carbohydrate diet (LCD) on NAFLD. This is a systematic review of all the available data reported in published clinical trials up to February 2022. The methodological quality of eligible studies was assessed, and data were presented aiming specific standard measurements. A total of 15 clinical trial studies were included in this systematic review. There is an overall lack of consensus on which dietary intervention is the most beneficial for NAFLD patients. There is also an overall lack of consensus on the definition of the different restrictive diets and the percentage of macronutrient restriction recommended. It seems that low calorie diets, regardless of their fat and carbohydrate composition, are efficient for liver enzyme reduction. Both LCD and LFD have similar effects on liver enzymes change; however, this improvement tends to be more marked in LFD. All calorie restrictive dietary interventions are beneficial for reducing weight, liver fat content and liver enzymes in individuals with NAFLD. Low fat diets seem to be markedly successful in reducing transaminase levels. Further research is needed to explore diet intensity, duration and long-term outcome.

BackgroundEvidence suggests the role of changing traditional lifestyle patterns, such as Paleolithic, to the modern lifestyle in the incidence and epidemic of chronic diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between the Paleolithic diet (PD) and the Paleolithic-like lifestyle and the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among an adult population.Materials and MethodsThis case-control study was carried out among 206 patients with NAFLD and 306 healthy subjects aged >18 years. PD score was evaluated using a validated 168-item quantitative food frequency questionnaire. In addition, to calculate the Paleolithic-like lifestyle score, the components of physical activity, body mass index (BMI), and smoking status of the participants were combined with the score of the PD.ResultsThe mean PD and Paleolithic-like lifestyle scores were 38.11 ± 5.63 and 48.92 ± 6.45, respectively. After adjustment for potential confounders, higher scores of adherence to the PD diet conferred a protection for the presence of NAFLD [odds ratio (OR): 0.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.28–0.98; P for trend = 0.021]. Furthermore, PD and healthy lifestyle habits were negatively associated with NAFLD (OR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.23–0.78; P for trend = 0.007).ConclusionOur data suggest that the PD alone and in combination with lifestyle factors was associated with decreased risk of NAFLD in a significant manner in the overall population. However, prospective studies are needed to further investigate this association.