Here, we investigated whether a mixture of and (1:3, KGC01CE) could suppress muscle atrophy in HO-induced C2C12 cells and dexamethasone-injected mice. Our results revealed that KGC01CE effectively safeguarded against H...Here, we investigated whether a mixture of and (1:3, KGC01CE) could suppress muscle atrophy in HO-induced C2C12 cells and dexamethasone-injected mice. Our results revealed that KGC01CE effectively safeguarded against HO-induced muscle atrophy in C2C12 cells compared with the same mixture at other ratios. We demonstrated that dexamethasone elicited oxidative stress in muscle tissue and decreased the grip strength and cross-sectional areas of muscle fibers; however, oral administration of KGC01CE (1:3) suppressed these dexamethasone-induced changes. Furthermore, oral KGC01CE (1:3) administration suppressed the expression of protein degradation-associated factors, myostatin, muscle RING finger 1, and atrogin-1 in muscle tissue from dexamethasone-injected mice. Oral KGC01CE administration stimulated protein synthesis by stimulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in muscle tissue from dexamethasone-injected mice. These findings indicate that KGC01CE can suppress dexamethasone injection-induced muscle atrophy by inhibiting protein degradation and promoting muscle hypertrophy. Therefore, KGC01CE supplementation helps prevent muscle atrophy in mice and may be beneficial against various components of muscle atrophy.
Stingless bee honey is a natural product consisting of sugars, organic acids, proteins, minerals, vitamins, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids. Due to its healing properties, honey is often used in phytotherapy and for h...Stingless bee honey is a natural product consisting of sugars, organic acids, proteins, minerals, vitamins, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids. Due to its healing properties, honey is often used in phytotherapy and for homemade syrups. The search for natural therapeutic alternatives has been an increasing trend in recent years, mainly due to the side effects of artificial drugs and increasing antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize physicochemical properties and the antimicrobial activity of honey from different species of stingless bees against the pathogenicity of the bacteria and and to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs). Honey samples from 15 different species of stingless bees from different regions of Brazil were used, and the analysis was performed by the broth microdilution method. We found a large variation in the physicochemical features among all the samples and no correlation to the MIC or MBC. It was also found that honey produced by and were the most effective in combating pathogenic microorganisms due to its high antimicrobial activity, comparable to the results found for propolis. These data are important for the development of new strategies for the prevention and control of diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms.
In this study, two high-content flavonoid derivatives [3-8 biapigenin (HM 104) and quercetin-3--β--galactopyranoside (HM 111)] were obtained through the bioactivity-guided isolation of antidiabetic compounds from flower...In this study, two high-content flavonoid derivatives [3-8 biapigenin (HM 104) and quercetin-3--β--galactopyranoside (HM 111)] were obtained through the bioactivity-guided isolation of antidiabetic compounds from flowers. HM 104 and HM 111 exhibited good glucose consumption in fatty acid-induced insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Moreover, both active compounds enhanced glucose uptake by restoring the expression of key regulators of glucose metabolism, including insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, protein kinase B, and glucose transporter type 4, and by mitigating the expression of forkhead box O1 and the factors involved in gluconeogenesis. They upregulate the phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β, which may affect glycogen synthesis. Furthermore, the production of reactive oxygen species was decreased by the two compounds. This study provides novel mechanistic insights into the protective effects of flavonoid derivatives isolated from flowers in preventing and managing insulin resistance and associated metabolic disorders.
To identify the effect of (CZ) aqueous extract on glucose, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and blood pressure in male Wistar rats, fed with a high-fat and high-fructose diet (HFFD). Twenty-fou...To identify the effect of (CZ) aqueous extract on glucose, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and blood pressure in male Wistar rats, fed with a high-fat and high-fructose diet (HFFD). Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups: Healthy (fed with standard diet), Healthy + CZ (fed with standard diet + CZ extract), HFFD (fed with HFFD), HFFD+CZ, (fed with HFFD + CZ extract). The CZ aqueous extract was administered 100 mg/kg/day by oral gavage to each rat for 8 weeks. Blood samples, blood pressure, and weight were taken at the beginning and end of the experiment. The rats were euthanized after the experiment, according to the Mexican Official Standard NOM-062-ZOOO-1999. The administration of CZ aqueous extract significantly decreased glucose levels (F[1,18]=46.458, < .001). The interaction between the type of diet and the extract had an effect on triglycerides (F[1,18]=14.93, = .001), and systolic (F[1,18]=127, < .001) and diastolic blood pressure levels (F[1,18]=146.13, < .001) in male Wistar rats. HFFD, plus the administration of CZ aqueous extract over 8 weeks, significantly improved glucose, triglyceride, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels, regulating metabolic parameters in male Wistar rats.
Moringa ( Lam., Moringaceae), West Indian mahogany ( [L.] Jacq., Meliaceae), and Cerasee ( L., Cucurbitaceae) are plants that are used for medicinal purposes in The Bahamas. They have various medicinal uses, including tr...Moringa ( Lam., Moringaceae), West Indian mahogany ( [L.] Jacq., Meliaceae), and Cerasee ( L., Cucurbitaceae) are plants that are used for medicinal purposes in The Bahamas. They have various medicinal uses, including treating diabetes, anemia, inflammation, dermatological issues, backaches, cold, flu, and gastrointestinal problems. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge about natural products found in The Bahamas that can be used to treat diabetes mellitus. The search terms " Lam.," " (L.)," " L.," "," "," "," "," and " L." in combination with "diabetes" were utilized to obtain pertinent data by searching PubMed and Google Scholar. Lam. significantly decreased fasting glucose levels in rodents after 3 months of consumption. The ethanolic extract of seeds and the methanol extract of its bark can decrease blood glucose levels. L. and Jacq. produce the same hypoglycemic effects as metformin. The plant extracts and compounds of (L.) Juss. ex Kunth, Mill., L., and L. showed diverse pharmacological activities such as reducing fasting glucose, lowering blood pressure and blood sugar, decreasing total triglycerides and total cholesterol, and improving structural damage of cardiac muscles caused by diabetes. Literature analysis reveals that the diverse pharmacological activities of various plants native to The Bahamas show promise as a medicinal food in the treatment of diabetes.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can create significant challenges in behavior and communication. The prevalence of ASD is over 2% among 8-year-old children and the prevalence is similar...Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that can create significant challenges in behavior and communication. The prevalence of ASD is over 2% among 8-year-old children and the prevalence is similar across the globe. We suggest there are multiple critical periods during the fetal period and early post-natal years that set conditions for neurotypical development or for autism, via mechanisms that impact immunity. One critical period requires folate, a key methyl donor, with insufficient folate conditioning for ASD. Another critical period is altered by oxidative stress or inflammation, possibly linked to insufficient taurine to support microglial immunity, causing inflammatory-triggered alterations of neurotypical development, or by excessive oxidation related to low cysteine availability. We propose that supplementing reduced folate and taurine early in development, including both fetal and post-natal periods, may be most effective in reducing the severity of ASD symptoms by facilitating neurotypical passage through critical neurodevelopmental periods.
Muscle atrophy, characterized by diminished muscle mass and impaired function, poses a substantial global health concern. (Roxb.) Schltr., commonly known as fingerroot, possesses a variety of advantageous activities, in...Muscle atrophy, characterized by diminished muscle mass and impaired function, poses a substantial global health concern. (Roxb.) Schltr., commonly known as fingerroot, possesses a variety of advantageous activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer effects. However, there are currently no preclinical studies available that explore the potential of extract (BPE) to mitigate muscle atrophy. In this study, we aimed to explore the protective effects of BPE, standardized to panduratin A content, against muscle atrophy and its underlying molecular mechanisms in a dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy mouse model. Compared with the dexamethasone group, BPE significantly restored muscle mass, muscle volume, muscle fiber cross-sectional area, grip strength, and exercise endurance. Additionally, BPE suppressed inflammatory responses by downregulating the expressions of nuclear factor kappa B and inflammatory cytokines while also enhancing antioxidant effects by increasing the expressions of antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, BPE promoted protein synthesis and muscle differentiation by stimulating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway. Furthermore, it suppressed myostatin expression and inhibited the expressions of E3 ubiquitin ligases by preventing the nuclear translocation of forkhead box O3a, thereby alleviating proteolysis. Overall, BPE effectively regulates unbalanced protein metabolism, suggesting its potential as a functional food ingredient for preventing muscle wasting diseases.
Homocysteine (HCys) is a sulfur-containing amino acid involved in the conversion of methionine to cysteine. Elevated levels of HCys, known as hyperhomocysteinemia, have been associated with health risks, including cardio...Homocysteine (HCys) is a sulfur-containing amino acid involved in the conversion of methionine to cysteine. Elevated levels of HCys, known as hyperhomocysteinemia, have been associated with health risks, including cardiovascular and neurological disorders. This study examined the incidence of hyperhomocysteinemia in an unselected female population and evaluated the effectiveness of a Food for Special Medical Purposes (FSMPs), EUCIS PLUS, in reducing HCys levels.The study was divided into two phases: The first phase of the study, conducted at the Poliambulatorio Polimedica in Trebaseleghe (PD), evaluated the incidence of hyperhomocysteinemia in 181 women with an average age of 47.8 years; the second phase tested the effectiveness of EUCIS PLUS, a FSMPs, in reducing HCys levels in women with values above 10 µmol/L. During Phase 1, an incidence of hyperhomocysteinemia was observed in 81.2% of 181 women, with mean HCys levels of 15.4 µmol/L. Phase 2 involved treating 44 women with HCys >10 µmol/L using EUCIS PLUS, resulting in an average reduction of HCys levels by 36%, reaching 10.7 µmol/L after two months of treatment. Hyperomocysteinemia is an underdiagnosed risk condition. The results of this study highlight the importance of diagnosing and managing hyperhomocysteinemia and suggest that the FSMPs EUCIS PLUS can be an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic option.
, an opportunistic pathogen, commonly causes hospital-acquired pneumonia. Royal jelly fatty acids (RJFAs), a mixture of various fatty acids extracted from royal jelly, exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properti..., an opportunistic pathogen, commonly causes hospital-acquired pneumonia. Royal jelly fatty acids (RJFAs), a mixture of various fatty acids extracted from royal jelly, exhibit antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties in treating many infectious diseases. Nevertheless, the therapeutic mechanisms of RJFAs in treatment of acute pulmonary infection are still unclear. Herein, we initially extracted the fatty acids from royal jelly and characterized their chemical constituents using headspace gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Furthermore, we examined the antibacterial effect of RJFAs and explored its therapeutic effect and molecular mechanisms in treating acute pulmonary infection . The antibacterial studies revealed that RJFAs significantly inhibited growth. Moreover, the studies showed that the RJFAs effectively mitigated the lung damage and inflammation induced by through impairing neutrophil infiltration, reducing the bacterial load in lung and diminishing the production of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin (IL-1β), IL-6, and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2). In addition, the mice treated with RJFAs exhibited reduced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), c-Jun, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) p65 in the lung tissues in comparison with that of the mice without drug treatment. These findings demonstrated that RJFAs exhibited significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects in treating the -induced acute pneumonia, and the anti-inflammatory effects were exerted through suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase/activator protein-1 (MAPK/AP-1) pathway and NF-κB activation, suggesting a promising therapeutic potential of RJFAs against acute bacterial pneumonia.
, a valuable traditional edible and medicinal resource, is recognized for its potential in slowing aging but has not been effectively exploited. This study aimed to explore antiaging activity and mechanisms of extracts..., a valuable traditional edible and medicinal resource, is recognized for its potential in slowing aging but has not been effectively exploited. This study aimed to explore antiaging activity and mechanisms of extracts (CCe). We used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify 23 CCe compounds and focused on quantifying six nucleoside components as quality markers. We also assessed the antiaging influences in d-galactose (d-gal)-induced aging rats. CCe improved learning memory deficits, enhanced organ indices, and mitigated oxidative brain damage caused by d-gal. CCe elevated superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, while downregulating malondialdehyde. Molecular analyses indicated the involvement of adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase/sirtuin 1 (AMPK/SIRT1) pathway in the antiaging mechanism of CCe. This study demonstrates the potential of CCe in mitigating d-gal-induced damage in aging rats, with the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway emerging as a regulatory axis. These findings contribute to the theoretical foundation for developing antiaging pharmaceuticals and functional foods using CCe, offering promising applications in aging-related contexts in succinct manner.
(HP) has been widely used as an alternative medicine due to its active pharmacological properties. While the antiproliferative effects of components such as hypericin and hyperforin have been demonstrated in malignant ce...(HP) has been widely used as an alternative medicine due to its active pharmacological properties. While the antiproliferative effects of components such as hypericin and hyperforin have been demonstrated in malignant cell lines, most studies have focused on the pharmacological properties of the HP extract itself. Recent research has indicated that HP and its active substances possess anticancer activities; however, there is a lack of studies examining its effects on osteosarcoma. In addition, HP has demonstrated the ability to mitigate the toxicity of several drugs, including chemotherapeutic agents. Hence, the primary objective of this study was to explore the potential anticancer properties of HP in relation to osteosarcoma cells. MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells were cultured and treated with HP extract. Apoptotic factors were analyzed using ELISA, while cell viability was assessed using the MTT test. The results revealed a significant increase in the activities of proapoptotic proteins GRP78, Wee1, apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), GADD153, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3 in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells after 48 hours of treatment with HP at a concentration of 0.8%. Conversely, the activity of Bcl-2, an antiapoptotic protein, significantly decreased. Moreover, HP extract demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in cell viability in MG-63 cells. In conclusion, HP extract induces apoptosis in MG-63 osteosarcoma cells by upregulating the expressions of proapoptotic proteins GRP78, Wee1, AIF, GADD153, Bax, and cleaved caspase-3. This study will assist researchers in understanding the importance of alternative treatments using HP in the context of human osteosarcoma therapy, which many researchers are currently unaware of.
Yu SH, Oh HR, Park YH
… +19 more, Hong HR, Kim HJ, Park J, Han Y, Ko SG, Shin EC, Kim TG, Cho HT, Pan JH, Shim YY, Reaney MJT, Cho TJ, Hong JY, Kim YJ, Han BK, Lee GJ, Lee K, Do SG, Kim JK
Ginsenosides, active compounds derived from Panax ginseng, exhibit promising potential in enhancing physical performance. This study investigates the impact of UG0712 (UG), a novel ginsenoside compound, on endurance capa...Ginsenosides, active compounds derived from Panax ginseng, exhibit promising potential in enhancing physical performance. This study investigates the impact of UG0712 (UG), a novel ginsenoside compound, on endurance capacity, body weight, organ weights, blood parameters, and specific transcriptomic changes in liver and muscle tissues using a C57BL/6N mouse model. The mice received UGs orally at three doses: UG50 (50 mg/kg), UG100 (100 mg/kg), and UG200 (200 mg/kg) for a specified duration. Endurance capacity, physiological parameters, and transcriptome signatures in liver and muscle tissues were assessed. UG administration significantly improved time to exhaustion, with UG50 and UG200 showing substantial enhancements. Body and organ weights exhibited no notable differences, suggesting a lack of adverse effects. Biochemical markers, except for decreased creatine kinase levels in the UG100 group, showed no significant variations. Transcriptome analysis revealed limited group separation and dose-dependent patterns. The UG100 group displayed significant enrichment in lipid metabolism and muscle-related terms. Identified dose-dependent improvements in endurance capacity highlight UGs' potential as supplements. The absence of adverse effects on body and organ weights, along with positive effects on biochemical markers, supports their safety. Despite limited dose-dependent patterns in transcriptomic analyses, the UG100 group showcased significant enrichment in pathways related to muscle and lipid metabolism. These findings offer valuable insights for athletes and aging individuals seeking to enhance physical performance, warranting further exploration into UG effects' on molecular mechanisms.
Pearl millet (PM) ( L.) contains a wide variety of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, mostly flavonoids and phenolic acids. In the present study, we investigated the effects of PM activity against hydrogen peroxid...Pearl millet (PM) ( L.) contains a wide variety of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, mostly flavonoids and phenolic acids. In the present study, we investigated the effects of PM activity against hydrogen peroxide (HO)-induced behavior impairment and oxidative damage in rats. The rats were divided into four groups based on the treatments they received over 30 days: Control, HO, PM + HO, and PM. The phytochemical screening, total polyphenols content (TFC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) were determined using colorimetric analysis. All animals were subjected to behavioral test (elevated plus maze test). Thereafter, oxidative stress response (malondialdehyde [MDA], HO, and Thiol groups [-SH]) contents and antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) were estimated in brain, liver, and kidney tissues. We evaluated the levels of liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) and aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT). Our investigation showed that PM is rich in total phenolic content and TFC and exhibited an important antioxidant activity. , we first found that HO-treated rat exhibited anxiogenic behavior in the elevated plus maze test and the genesis of oxidative stress in the brain, liver, and kidney was measured by an increase of MDA and antioxidant enzyme activity depletion, such as SOD and CAT. Moreover, HO increased levels of liver enzymes (ALAT and ASAT). Pearl Mille administration improved emotional behavior impairments and significantly reversed HO-induced biochemical alterations. Thus, we suggest that the Pearl Mille may have an anxiolytic-like effect and prevent biochemical disorders associated from the oxidative stress (HO), confirming its potential therapeutic capability.
This clinical study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of Vuong Hoat (VH) natural health supplement for reducing the negative impact of low back pain, improving the quality of life, and enhancing functional act...This clinical study aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of Vuong Hoat (VH) natural health supplement for reducing the negative impact of low back pain, improving the quality of life, and enhancing functional activities in patients with lumbar degenerative disc disease (LDD). The open-label, randomized, controlled clinical trial involved 60 patients suffering from low back pain caused by LDD. The participants were randomly assigned to either a study group (SG) comprising 30 subjects or a control group (CG) comprising 30 subjects. Patients in the CG received treatment with electro-acupuncture, while those in the SG were administered VH in conjunction with the same electro-acupuncture protocol for 28 days. The clinical progression and tolerability of both groups were compared based on seven objective measurements: visual analog scale index, Schober test, fingertip-to-floor distance, spinal flexion, spinal extension, spinal tilt, and spinal rotation. After 14 days of treatment, the SG showed a significant improvement in overall outcomes compared to the CG. Specifically, 43.3% of SG patients achieved very good results, 53.3% had good results, and 3.4% had moderate results, whereas corresponding figures for the CG were 6.7%, 76.7%, and 16.6%, respectively ( < .05). After 28 days of treatment, both groups demonstrated a shift toward very good results, with the SG continuing to show better outcomes than the CG ( < .05). In the SG, the very good results increased to 76.7%, good results decreased to 20%, and moderate results were 3.3%. On the other hand, the CG had 46.7% very good results, 43.3% good results, and 10% moderate results. Notably, no side effects were reported from the VH treatments during the study. The findings of this study indicate that VH health supplement is a safe and effective approach for managing low back pain and limited spinal movement in patients with LDD.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multifaceted metabolic condition, mainly defined by elevated blood glucose levels. A feature of type 2 DM includes insulin resistance (IR), which involves impairments within the insulin signal...Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multifaceted metabolic condition, mainly defined by elevated blood glucose levels. A feature of type 2 DM includes insulin resistance (IR), which involves impairments within the insulin signaling pathways. Avenanthramides (AVNs) are phenolic alkaloids found in L. The major AVNs are AVN A, AVN B, and AVN C. They have been reported to offer benefits in preventing inflammation, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. However, the effects of AVNs on the liver glucose metabolism pathways remain unknown. This study examined the effects and underlying mechanisms through which AVNs alleviate IR induced by free fatty acid (FFA) in HepG2 cells. The results indicated that FFA treatment significantly decreased glucose consumption by 34.54% compared to the control. However, treatments with AVN A, B, and C at 100 μM increased glucose uptake by 57.93%, 58.28%, and 53.10%, respectively, compared to FFA treatment alone. This effect occurs through the increased expression of glucose transporter 4. Furthermore, AVNs significantly enhanced the glycogen content. AVNs induced increased phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), and protein kinase B (Akt). AVNs treatment decreased the levels of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase and glucose-6-phosphatase in HepG2 cells. This effect was attributed to AMP-activated protein kinase activation and inhibition of forkhead box protein O1. Collectively, these results suggest that AVNs regulate glucose metabolism by activating the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway, which is related to glycogen synthesis, and by inhibiting key molecules that promote gluconeogenesis.
Obesity represents a significant global public health challenge. Various therapeutic strategies for weight reduction are available, including formulations containing medicinal plants, which are favored due to their avail...Obesity represents a significant global public health challenge. Various therapeutic strategies for weight reduction are available, including formulations containing medicinal plants, which are favored due to their availability and low cost. The efficacy and safety of these formulations must be evaluated as they can lead to adverse reactions, including severe hepatic injuries. Despite their widespread usage, particularly among residents of the Amazon, there is a considerable gap in knowledge regarding the species of medicinal plants used in these formulations. This study evaluated the labels of natural weight loss products sold from January to October 2022 at the Ver-o-Peso market in Belém, Brazil. A subsequent review of databases was performed to identify plants listed on the labels that were associated with hepatic injuries. In total, 54 plants were identified in these products, primarily in mixed formulations. None of the labels adhered to current legislative standards. Furthermore, nine of these plants were documented in the literature as having hepatotoxic effects, either through or studies. The presence of medicinal plants that can cause liver injury on the labels of weight loss compounds is a relevant issue requiring rigorous health surveillance intervention.
This research aimed to explore the effectiveness of consuming a calming herbal tea blend, comprising ., and ., in comparison to a placebo tea infused with lemon, to ascertain whether the herbal blend possesses anxiety-re...This research aimed to explore the effectiveness of consuming a calming herbal tea blend, comprising ., and ., in comparison to a placebo tea infused with lemon, to ascertain whether the herbal blend possesses anxiety-reducing properties capable of alleviating perioperative anxiety. The study adopted a clinical randomized, double-blind design and collected data from volunteers undergoing elective surgery at Hospital Unimed Erechim in the northern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. A total of 210 participants were enrolled and randomly allocated into two groups: one receiving the placebo tea and the other the sedative herbal tea. All participants completed a questionnaire postoperatively to assess anxiety levels, employing the adapted Portuguese version of the DASS-21 Scale (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale). Results revealed no significant difference in anxiety levels between the group consuming the calming herbal tea and the group consuming the placebo tea. However, consumption of the anxiolytic herbal tea was associated with a notable increase in positive sentiments toward the surgical procedure ( = .0009). Furthermore, the study demonstrated that the DASS-21 questionnaire exhibited a preoperative profile comparable to the clinical scenarios depicted by the scale. Both the calming herbal tea and the placebo tea were found to effectively mitigate perioperative anxiety. This suggests that both options-soothing herbal tea and placebo tea-can be considered safe, efficacious, and pleasant methods for reducing preoperative fasting requirements.
Antibiotic treatment is one of the main causes of intestinal dysbiosis, leading, in turn, to other intestinal alterations given the multiple relationships of the microbiota with gut health. Whey and buttermilk are two by...Antibiotic treatment is one of the main causes of intestinal dysbiosis, leading, in turn, to other intestinal alterations given the multiple relationships of the microbiota with gut health. Whey and buttermilk are two by-products from the dairy industry with numerous bioactive components. This study aimed to assess the potential of two formulas, containing a mixture of lactoferrin, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), and whey or buttermilk, to reverse the negative effects of clindamycin on gut motility, Toll-like receptors () expression, and oxidative stress in the intestine. For this purpose, a murine model of intestinal dysbiosis was established by clindamycin treatment. Male C57BL/6 mice were treated with saline (Control), clindamycin (Clin), a formula containing whey (F1), or buttermilk (F2) supplemented with lactoferrin and MFGM, Clin+F1, or Clin+F2. Clin delayed the whole gut transit, reduced the response to acetylcholine, decreased expression, and increased expression in the intestine. F1 and F2 formulas reversed the effects of Clin, restoring receptor levels and normalizing intestinal dysmotility. These results indicate that whey- and buttermilk-based formulas supplemented with lactoferrin and MFGM could be used as functional foods to prevent or treat motility disorders and restore some components of the immune system after antibiotic treatment.
Diabetes, considered one of the main causes of death in the Mexican population, is a chronic disease caused by alterations in the synthesis of pancreatic insulin or because it is not used effectively by the body. Insuffi...Diabetes, considered one of the main causes of death in the Mexican population, is a chronic disease caused by alterations in the synthesis of pancreatic insulin or because it is not used effectively by the body. Insufficient action of insulin causes hyperglycemia, which, if not controlled, causes damage to blood capillaries and nerve endings over time, affecting the functioning of various organs and systems. As mentioned above, controlling glucose levels in the population suffering from chronic diseases becomes an essential part of their treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the hypoglycemic effect of a hydroalcoholic extract of the aerial parts of (HEPr). A glucose tolerance curve was developed by monitoring at different times (0-120 min) glucose levels in blood samples taken from an apical tail slice of CD1 mice. HEPr showed a significant effect from baseline on basal glucose levels (114.33 ± 14.74 mg/dL) compared with the control group (60.33 ± 4.16 mg/dL) and the metformin-treated group (129 ± 13 mg/dL). In addition, the values at the end of the tolerance curve (120 min) showed a significant decrease in the study group (66 ± 10.39 mg/dL) compared with the metformin-treated group (108.67 ± 4.50 mg/dL). This effect can be attributed to the presence of chlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol 3--glucosides in HEPr. In conclusion, constitutes an important source of compounds for use as an adjuvant treatment for the control of hypoglycemia in different chronic diseases.
Previous studies have shown that oral whole honey reduces weight gain in rats on a normal diet (ND) or high-fat diet (HFD) and suppresses inflammation by modulating immunological cytokines in human neutrophils and macrop...Previous studies have shown that oral whole honey reduces weight gain in rats on a normal diet (ND) or high-fat diet (HFD) and suppresses inflammation by modulating immunological cytokines in human neutrophils and macrophages. We hypothesize that the honey proteins (HP) are responsible for the reduced weight gain in rats on ND and HFD and that HP would alleviate obesity parameters. To test this, proteins were isolated from acacia honey through the salting-out method. Wistar rats ( = 24) were randomized to get ND or HFD for 4 weeks, then further randomized to four groups and treated with HP or saline for another 4 weeks. Energy intake (EI), body weight gain, EI per gram body weight gain, serum glucose, and lipids were measured. Expression of adipose tissue genes fatty acid binding protein (FABP), lipase C (LIPC), and apolipoprotein A-1 (APOA1) was evaluated through the quantitative polymerase chain reaction. HFD increased the body weight versus ND in weeks 1-4. HP for the next 4 weeks reduced weight gain in ND-HP and HFD-HP groups versus saline controls ( < .01). EI was not significantly different among groups. However, EI per gram body weight gain among groups was markedly different ( < .01), demonstrating reduced weight gain efficiency by HP ( < .01). HP reduced glucose in ND but not in HFD groups. Triglycerides were lower in both HP groups. The expressions of FABP, LIPC, and APOA1 genes were significantly increased ( < .05) in HP-treated HFD rats. Collectively, weight gain efficiency was remarkably reduced without altering EI in rats following the HP treatment, suggesting HP increased metabolic rate or substrate partitioning. Studies of HP are suggested in humans.