BACKGROUND: Large language models (LLMs) have emerged as promising tools for estimating energy and nutrient values, yet most existing evaluations focus on image-based queries rather than text. Few studies compare LLM est...BACKGROUND: Large language models (LLMs) have emerged as promising tools for estimating energy and nutrient values, yet most existing evaluations focus on image-based queries rather than text. Few studies compare LLM estimates with reference databases commonly used in nutrition research. OBJECTIVE: To examine agreement between LLM estimates and a research food composition database for energy and nutrients, and to determine if agreement varies by food group. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of energy and nutrient estimates for frequently consumed food items in the United States (US). Food items were entered as text prompts into four LLMs (ChatGPT 5.2, Claude Opus 4.5, Gemini 3 Pro Preview, and Llama 4 Maverick), which provided energy and nutrient estimates. Corresponding foods were matched to the Nutrition Coordinating Center (NCC) Food and Nutrient Database, and agreement between LLM and database values was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland-Altman analyses. Agreement was also evaluated within the three most frequently consumed food groups. RESULTS: Agreement was high for energy and macronutrients for all LLMs. Variability was observed for several micronutrients, particularly vitamin D, folate, and iron. Claude Opus 4.5 showed consistently high agreement, with no nutrients classified as poor. Other LLMs exhibited poor agreement for at least one micronutrient. Certain food categories, including condiments and mixed dishes, contributed disproportionately to variability. However, agreement remained high within the most frequently consumed broader food groups. CONCLUSIONS: LLMs show promise for estimating energy and macronutrients. However, performance for micronutrients requires further improvement and may affect overall dietary assessment.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) prescriptions have significantly increased. Durability of these weight reduction drugs depend on continued treatment, and nearly half of patients discontinue GLP-1RA wit...Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) prescriptions have significantly increased. Durability of these weight reduction drugs depend on continued treatment, and nearly half of patients discontinue GLP-1RA within the first year. Existing weight maintenance guidelines do not address challenges that arise after GLP-1RA. Furthermore, limited to no guidance is provided on the potential adjunct role of dietary supplements that may help during the transition. This narrative review aims to evaluate considerations for dietary supplements for patients discontinuing GLP-1RA. A review of evidence on dietary supplement interventions was conducted to find ingredients that may be advantageous post GLP-1RA. Data from meta-analyses were included that may support appetite, healthy body weight, and glycemic control. Meta-analyses were collected, analyzed, and interpreted to identify preliminary adjunctive considerations. Caffeine, thermogenics, protein, fiber, alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), and chromium may help with appetite control and body weight support. Mulberry leaf extract, berberine, cinnamon, ALA, fiber, and vitamin D help improve glycemic control. This review provides a reference summary of dietary supplements extrapolated from non-GLP-1RA populations to be considered after GLP-1RA. Healthcare providers play an active role in supporting patients transitioning off GLP-1RA. Lifestyle behaviors focused on healthy diets and exercise should lay the foundation for preventing weight gain. Using a patient-centered approach, considerations for adjunct dietary supplementation may help support appetite and glycemic control. More research is needed to determine long-term weight maintenance once GLP-1RA treatment is discontinued.
BACKGROUND: Dietary (poly)phenols are widely recognized for their health-promoting properties, yet their bioactivity is largely contingent upon gut microbial metabolism. Individual differences in microbiome composition l...BACKGROUND: Dietary (poly)phenols are widely recognized for their health-promoting properties, yet their bioactivity is largely contingent upon gut microbial metabolism. Individual differences in microbiome composition lead to variable production of microbial-derived (poly)phenol metabolites (MPMs) and thus contribute to divergent health outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to systematically map the scope of clinical evidence reporting relationships between MPMs and gut microbiota composition and function, highlighting research gaps to guide future investigations. METHODS: Using pre-defined search criteria, two reviewers identified human clinical studies reporting relationships between metabolite levels and microbiome outcomes. RESULTS: Fifty-six studies were included. Evidence was frequently focused on phenolic acids (n=20), phytoestrogens (n=18), and urolithins (n=17), with relationships between microbiota and other MPMs only being reported in 1-2 studies. The majority of studies across MPM categories used 16S rRNA gene sequencing for identification of gut microbiota (n=42), among other methods, with only six studies using metagenomic shotgun sequencing, thus limiting taxonomic resolution and functional inference. Findings revealed recurrent associations between specific microbes and MPMs; while some reflected known producer taxa (e.g., Gordonibacter and urolithins), others may represent broader community-level interactions (e.g., Alistipes and equol). However, these results varied across (poly)phenol class, intervention type, and host-specific context. CONCLUSION: This scoping review identified recurrent microbiota-MPM associations alongside major evidence gaps, including limited functional microbiome characterization and sparse investigation of several MPM classes/subclasses (e.g., resveratrol-, flavanone-, and flavan-3-ol-related MPMs). Future research using standardized, high-resolution multi-omics approaches is needed to improve identification of reproducible microbial signatures and mechanisms underlying (poly)phenol metabolism, and to link these features with functional health outcomes.
Hesperidin is a bioactive flavonoid found in citrus fruits and has become a promising nutraceutical with multidimensional health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, cardio-, neuroprotective, and metabolic...Hesperidin is a bioactive flavonoid found in citrus fruits and has become a promising nutraceutical with multidimensional health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, cardio-, neuroprotective, and metabolic-regulatory. However, poor bioavailability, variations in clinical efficacy, and limited standardized formulations are some of the challenges confronting this bioactive compound. Over the years, nanotechnology has remained a source of great developments in improving the absorption rate and specific delivery of hesperidin, therefore making it more therapeutic. Two of such recent developments are nano-encapsulation and phytosome-based delivery systems. In addition, emerging data have highlighted the importance of this seemingly mundane foodstuff in bridging the gut-brain axis, shaping the gut microbiome, and offering beneficial effects against chronic low-grade inflammation, as well as metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, additional phase 2 or 3 clinical trials should be performed to identify an optimal dose, safety in the long term, and synergy with other bioactive compounds. To enhance the preventive and therapeutic power of hesperidin, future studies should focus on individualized nutritional strategies, sustainable sources, and innovative, practical uses of functional foods. This review discusses the existing evidence on the mechanisms and the beneficial health effects of hesperidin, as well as providing future directions.
The gastrointestinal tract of livestock, poultry, and aquatic animals harbors a vast and complex microbial community, which engages in intricate and interdependent interactions with the host. Short-chain fatty acids (SCF...The gastrointestinal tract of livestock, poultry, and aquatic animals harbors a vast and complex microbial community, which engages in intricate and interdependent interactions with the host. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), a major class of metabolites produced by the gut microbiota, play pivotal roles in intestinal health, immune regulation, and energy metabolism of these animals. In recent years, with growing recognition of the importance of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in animal health, the diverse physiological functions of SCFAs have been increasingly elucidated. This review summarizes the major types of SCFAs and their production, absorption, metabolic fate, physiological functions, and underlying mechanisms, with emphasis on metabolic divergence across species. In addition, the review highlights the practical limitations of free SCFAs, including volatility, instability, and rapid absorption, particularly in aquaculture systems. Recent advances in SCFA product development, including physical, chemical, and combined physico-chemical modification strategies, are also summarized to illustrate approaches for improving stability, targeted intestinal delivery, and biological efficacy. Overall, this review provides an integrated perspective on the physiological functions and technological development of SCFAs and highlights their potential for sustainable application in animal production systems.
Choline is involved in a broad range of critical physiological functions across all stages of the life cycle. While choline's essentiality for neurotransmitter synthesis, cell membrane integrity, lipid transport, and one...Choline is involved in a broad range of critical physiological functions across all stages of the life cycle. While choline's essentiality for neurotransmitter synthesis, cell membrane integrity, lipid transport, and one-carbon metabolism has been extensively studied, evidence shows that choline plays an underexplored role in immune function and inflammation. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from preclinical and clinical studies, systematically examining choline's impact on immune development and regulation. Key findings reveal that adequate intake of choline - particularly lipid-soluble forms of choline like phosphatidylcholine (PC) and sphingomyelin (SM) - supports immune cell signaling, membrane integrity, and gut barrier function. Early-life choline exposure (both maternal and postnatal) programs immune development, resulting in enhanced T-cell function and cytokine balance. Choline supplementation, specifically lipid soluble forms, has also been shown to mitigate immune dysfunction and/or inflammation associated with obesity and chronic diseases (e.g., IBD, arthritis). Observational data link higher choline intake to reduced systemic inflammation (e.g., lower CRP, IL-6), although the results are inconclusive and human trials remain limited. Critically, the form of choline in the diet matters. A mixture of both lipid-soluble forms (PC, SM) and water-soluble forms (free choline [FC], glycerophosphocholine [GPC], phosphocholine [PhoC]) enhances immune development and function over diets containing solely water-soluble forms.
BACKGROUND: Increasingly popular low-gluten diets (LGDs) are generally low in fiber; however, it is possible to improve the LGD by using oat-based products. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the changes in fecal microbiome, fast...BACKGROUND: Increasingly popular low-gluten diets (LGDs) are generally low in fiber; however, it is possible to improve the LGD by using oat-based products. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the changes in fecal microbiome, fasting plasma short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and inflammatory markers during a 6-week oat- or rice-rich LGD in individuals with increased cardiometabolic risk. METHODS: The participants (n=69) were allocated into two parallel groups following a 6-week LGD with either oats or rice. Fasting plasma, stool, and dietary information were collected both at the baseline and at the end of the trial. Fecal microbial communities were analyzed by shotgun metagenomics (Novaseq X Plus) and characterized using MetaPhlAn4. Their functional potential was assessed with HUMAnN3 using the MetaCyc database. Plasma SCFAs were quantified by UHPLC-MS, and inflammatory markers were detected and quantified using a 45-cytokine panel (Olink Target). Diet-group differences over time were assessed with linear mixed-effects model. RESULTS: Dietary information revealed high-oat and low-rice consumption at the baseline for both groups. Overall, the oat-rich LGD increased circulating SCFAs. Particularly, butyrate increased more during the oat-rich LGD than during the rice-rich LGD (ptimeXgroup=0.033). Regarding changes in the fecal microbiome, the rice group had a higher Shannon diversity index after the intervention than the oat group (ptimeXgroup=0.025), and more changes in the microbiome. This is possibly due to more substantial dietary changes from a low rice consumption compared to the habitual diet in the baseline. No significant differences between or changes within the groups in inflammatory markers were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Changing to an oat-rich LGD increases fasting plasma SCFA concentrations without significant effects on the fecal microbiome and inflammatory markers in individuals with increased cardiometabolic risk. When there is a regular baseline consumption of oats, adopting a low-fiber rice-rich LGD may shift the microbiome towards potentially unfavorable direction. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER AND WEBSITE WHERE IT WAS OBTAINED: NCT05526092, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05526092.
Soldevila-Domenech N, Ayala-Garcia A, Zhou X
… +13 more, Yi SY, Ros E, Sala-Vila A, Lehtisalo J, Steffen LM, de la Torre R, IAFNS Retrospective Harmonization Expert Working Group, Blackwell CK, Khoo C, Mansolf MA, Ros E, Snetselaar L, Wey T
BACKGROUND: Cognitive decline is a major public health concern as populations age. Diet is a modifiable contributor to cognitive health, yet observational findings remain inconsistent, partly due to methodological hetero...BACKGROUND: Cognitive decline is a major public health concern as populations age. Diet is a modifiable contributor to cognitive health, yet observational findings remain inconsistent, partly due to methodological heterogeneity. OBJECTIVE: To examine associations between adherence to multiple dietary patterns and cognitive outcomes using harmonized individual participant data (IPD) from longitudinal cohorts. METHODS: We conducted an IPD meta-analysis including 17,368 participants from eight longitudinal studies in Europe and the United States. Dietary intake was assessed using food frequency questionnaires, diet histories, or food records and harmonized to estimate adherence to seven dietary patterns: Healthy Eating Index-2020 (HEI-2020), Alternate Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI-2010), EAT-Lancet, traditional and continuous Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND). Food groups were also examined. Cognitive outcomes included global cognition measured by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and executive function measured by the Trail Making Test Part B (TMT-B). Associations were evaluated using robust regression and mixed-effects models within cohorts, followed by random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS: Cross-sectionally, higher adherence to the continuous MedDiet was associated with better global cognition, and higher adherence to the continuous MedDiet and DASH was associated with better executive function. Substantial between-study heterogeneity was observed for DASH, MIND, and AHEI-2010. Greater consumption of red and processed meat was associated with poorer executive function. Longitudinal analyses showed limited and inconsistent findings. Only the MIND diet, assessed in three U.S. cohorts, was associated with more favorable executive function trajectories. No consistent longitudinal associations were observed for food groups. CONCLUSIONS: Adherence to healthier dietary patterns was associated with modest cross-sectional differences in cognitive performance, whereas longitudinal associations were limited under standardized conditions. Findings suggest diet-cognition associations may be modest and sensitive to measurement constraints, highlighting the need for more sensitive cognitive phenotyping and prospectively harmonized study designs. Clinical Trial Registry numbers:FINGER: NCT01041989, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01041989.WAHA: NCT01634841, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01634841.
Food as Medicine initiatives integrate healthy food resources, including medically tailored meals and produce prescriptions, into clinical care to manage and prevent chronic conditions. This field is evolving rapidly, as...Food as Medicine initiatives integrate healthy food resources, including medically tailored meals and produce prescriptions, into clinical care to manage and prevent chronic conditions. This field is evolving rapidly, as states shift toward sustainable reimbursement models through health plan benefits or Medicaid waivers. This article presents the proceedings and findings from a regional Food as Medicine convening in Los Angeles County. In 2025, The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health convened 74 multi-sector partners, including health plans, clinical providers, community-based organizations, farms, and local food hubs, to align Food as Medicine initiatives with the region's food system infrastructure. The resulting synthesis of event proceedings and attendee survey data provides a collective framework for scaling Food as Medicine interventions, serving as a potential playbook for advancing local and national policy integration. A local health department, university, managed care plan, and retail-based produce prescription program shared their promising models of Food as Medicine implementation. Case examples from California and those from other states showed how these entities leveraged Medicaid to build organizational capacity, drive local economies, and bolster their food system structure to procure and distribute affordable, healthy foods. During roundtable discussions, attendees agreed that a more centralized food handling system can help streamline and meet food system needs. Likewise, greater investment in data infrastructure can help track and demonstrate health and economic impacts associated with these initiatives. Post-event evaluations showed >90% of attendees were "very" or "extremely interested" in expanding Food as Medicine within their organizations. Two central priorities emerged-a need to further: (i) cultivate strategic partnerships that align with regional food system objectives, and (ii) integrate local and state regenerative and/or organic sourcing preferences into institutional procurement practices. Attendees recommended a centralized regional hub as a promising vehicle for accomplishing these goals.
BACKGROUND: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is rapidly increasing worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and can lead to severe health complications. Dietary polyphenols may help prevent T2D...BACKGROUND: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is rapidly increasing worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and can lead to severe health complications. Dietary polyphenols may help prevent T2D and support metabolic health. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the longitudinal associations between dietary polyphenol intake and the risk of incident T2D and changes in glycemic markers (fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin - HbA1c, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance - HOMA-IR) in participants of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). METHODS: A total of 8,781 participants (mean age 58.8 years, 61.3% female) free of diabetes at baseline were followed for a median of 7.6 years. Dietary polyphenol intake was assessed via a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire at two time points, with polyphenol content estimated from the Phenol-Explorer database. Cox proportional hazards regression with time-varying exposure was used to assess associations between polyphenol intake tertiles and incident T2D. Linear regression models were used to examine associations with changes in glycemic markers between waves. RESULTS: During follow-up, 1,453 incident T2D cases were identified. In the fully adjusted model, participants in the highest tertile of total polyphenol intake had a 19% lower risk of incident T2D compared with the lowest tertile (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.70-0.93). Significant inverse associations were also observed for phenolic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, total flavonoids, flavan-3-ol monomers, flavan-3-ol dimers to polymers, flavones, anthocyanins, and stilbenes, with risk reductions ranging from 13% to 27%. Participants in the highest tertile of total polyphenols, phenolic acids, and stilbenes showed significantly smaller increases in HOMA-IR over follow-up. No significant associations were observed for fasting glucose or HbA1c. CONCLUSION: Higher dietary polyphenol intake was inversely associated with incident T2D and attenuated insulin resistance progression over time. These findings support polyphenol-rich dietary patterns as a strategy for T2D risk reduction.
As adolescents grow older, they increasingly engage with the food environment. Our study aimed to: 1) assess the contribution of prepared out of home (POH) foods to the healthiness of adolescent diets and 2) identify soc...As adolescents grow older, they increasingly engage with the food environment. Our study aimed to: 1) assess the contribution of prepared out of home (POH) foods to the healthiness of adolescent diets and 2) identify socio-demographic factors associated with POH foods intake in a rural, a peri-urban, and an urban area of Vietnam. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 11-19-year-old adolescents (n = 2,861) and collected socio-demographic and dietary intake data (24-hour recall). The healthiness and micronutrient adequacy of diets was assessed using the Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS) and the micronutrient adequacy ratio (MAR) respectively. We used regression analyses with robust standard errors (to account for school-level clustering) to assess the consequences and identify the drivers of POH food intake. Over 80% of adolescents consumed foods POH on the previous day, contributing 22-26% of daily energy intake. Healthy food groups were underrepresented in POH foods, which were higher in fat, saturated fat, and sodium, but also had higher micronutrient density than foods prepared at home. POH intake was associated with higher energy intake and micronutrient adequacy, but lower diet healthiness. Socioeconomic status, female sex, pocket money, and smartphone ownership were associated with POH consumption, with site-specific differences. Food environments should be made healthier through front-of-package warning labels, reformulation (e.g., reducing milk fat and sugar), and restrictions on the marketing and availability of unhealthy foods combined with the promotion of healthy foods, snacks and meals.
BACKGROUND: Suboptimal cardiometabolic health in pregnancy increases risk for perinatal complications and long-term negative health outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To provide updated prevalence estimates of cardiometabolic risk fac...BACKGROUND: Suboptimal cardiometabolic health in pregnancy increases risk for perinatal complications and long-term negative health outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To provide updated prevalence estimates of cardiometabolic risk factors among U.S. pregnant women, and examine associations with food insecurity, diet quality, and USDA's Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) participation. METHODS: This cross-sectional study used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 1999-2023. This analysis included pregnant women aged 20-44 years. From 1999-2023, 1,538 women had available cardiometabolic data to estimate prevalences, which was examined using survey-weighted descriptive statistics. Associations of cardiometabolic outcomes with food insecurity, diet quality, and WIC participation were examined using survey-weighted multivariable linear regression models. Food insecurity was assessed using the U.S. Food Security survey. Diet quality was assessed with Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2020) scores using the simple ratio method. WIC participation was ascertained from the Food Security Questionnaire. Models were adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, gravidity, income, education, and marital status. Outcomes included pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), fasting plasma glucose, blood pressure, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and C-reactive protein (CRP). RESULTS: Pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity was found in 51.9% of women, elevated fasting glucose in 29.3%, and elevated blood pressure or hypertension in 10.7%. The median HDL-C in the highest quartile was 84 mg/dL [IQR: 78-93], and for CRP was 14.6 mg/L [IQR: 12.4-16.8]. Food insecurity was associated with lower HDL-C (β=-4.02, SE=2.03, p=0.05), but not with CRP, fasting glucose or blood pressure. Higher HEI-2020 scores were associated with higher HDL-C levels (β=1.45, SE=0.71, p=0.04), but not with CRP, blood pressure, or fasting glucose. Participation in WIC strengthened the positive association between HEI-2020 scores with systolic blood pressure. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors were high among U.S. pregnant women, with food insecurity and suboptimal diet quality associated with some risk factors.
BACKGROUND: Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy is recommended to optimize maternal vitamin D status, yet biochemical response is highly variable, potentially limiting attainment of adequate 25-hydroxyvitamin D [2...BACKGROUND: Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy is recommended to optimize maternal vitamin D status, yet biochemical response is highly variable, potentially limiting attainment of adequate 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations. Maternal body mass index (BMI) may modify vitamin D response, but this relationship has not been comprehensively examined in randomized trials conducted during pregnancy. OBJECTIVE: This study examines whether maternal BMI modifies the biochemical response to high-dose vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy. METHODS: Using data from the Vitamin D Antenatal Asthma Reduction Trial (VDAART), a randomized, double-blind trial of pregnant participants, we examined whether maternal BMI modifies response to high-dose (110 μg/day) versus standard-dose (10 μg/day) vitamin D supplementation. Maternal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was measured at enrollment (10-18 weeks) and third trimester (32-38 weeks). Linear mixed-effects models examined the interaction between treatment group and BMI (categories <25, 25-29.9, ≥30 kg/m; continuous; and ordinal), adjusting for baseline 25(OH)D and demographic and clinical covariates. RESULTS: Among 816 participants in the intention-to-treat analysis, high-dose supplementation increased maternal 25(OH)D by 22.43 nmol/L (95% CI: 17.16, 27.70; p<0.001) versus standard-dose among those with BMI <25 kg/m. This treatment effect was attenuated with higher BMI: by 8.39 nmol/L (95% CI: -16.46, -0.32; p=0.041) in the overweight group (BMI 25-29.9 kg/m) and 8.63 nmol/L (95% CI: -16.06, -1.20; p=0.023) in the obese group (BMI ≥30 kg/m), representing 37% and 38% reductions in treatment effect, respectively. Modeled continuously, each 1 kg/m increase was associated with a 0.45 nmol/L reduction in treatment effect (95% CI: -0.86, -0.03; p=0.035). Sensitivity analyses using change-score models and pre-pregnancy BMI yielded consistent results. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal BMI attenuates the biochemical response to vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy in a graded, BMI-dependent manner. Although most participants receiving 110 μg/day achieved 25(OH)D concentrations ≥50 nmol/L, higher BMI was associated with a smaller increase in 25(OH)D and a greater likelihood of remaining below the higher 75 nmol/L target, suggesting that uniform prenatal supplementation strategies may not fully account for BMI-related differences in vitamin D response. Future studies should determine whether BMI-stratified dosing improves achieved vitamin D status and translates into better maternal or offspring outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is an ancillary analysis from the VDAART, which is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00920621: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT00920621?term=vdaart&rank=1; registered on 06/11/2009).
BACKGROUND: Emerging evidence suggests that each branched-chain amino acid (BCAA; Leu, Val, and Ile) exert distinct physiological effects. Moreover, Leu and Val, but not Ile, are structural components of hemoglobin. Howe...BACKGROUND: Emerging evidence suggests that each branched-chain amino acid (BCAA; Leu, Val, and Ile) exert distinct physiological effects. Moreover, Leu and Val, but not Ile, are structural components of hemoglobin. However, the effects of individual BCAA restriction on body composition and hematological parameters remain unclear. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of individual dietary BCAA restrictions on body composition and hematological parameters in growing rats fed normal-protein (NP) or low-protein (LP) diets. METHODS: Two experiments were conducted on 4-wk-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. In Experiment 1, rats were fed NP diets (n = 32, 8/group), and in Experiment 2, rats were fed LP diets (n = 40, 8/group). In both experiments, rats were fed isocaloric purified ingredient diets containing a 50% reduction in individual BCAA levels for 6 to 7 wk. Body weight, body composition, food intake, and hematological parameters were assessed. Data were analyzed using one-way and two-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc tests. RESULTS: Lean body mass (LBM) gain was preserved in Leu-restricted rats under both NP (156 ± 21 g compared with control group: 168 ± 25 g) and LP diets (174 ± 24 g compared with control group: 170 ± 29 g) (P > 0.05). In contrast, rats fed the Ile-restricted NP diet showed ∼23% lower LBM gain, and the effects were more pronounced under the LP diet, including lower body fat percentage (∼20% compared with ∼30% in controls, P > 0.05). Conversely, Val restriction in rats fed the LP diet reduced LBM gain by ∼100 g compared with control (P < 0.05), while fat gain remained relatively preserved (94 ± 40 g compared with 120 ± 45 g in the control group, P > 0.05). Leu and Val restriction, individually or combined, did not affect hemoglobin levels under either dietary condition (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Individual dietary BCAA restrictions differentially affect body composition and energy balance in growing rats fed LP diet, without altering hemoglobin levels.
BACKGROUND: There is increasing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) for the treatment of obesity and diabetes. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate differences in dietary intake among GLP1-RA u...BACKGROUND: There is increasing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) for the treatment of obesity and diabetes. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to evaluate differences in dietary intake among GLP1-RA users compared with nonusers and determine if length of use was associated with dietary intake in the United States. METHODS: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data (2007-2020) were used to identify individuals with diabetes aged ≥30 y with complete demographics, anthropometric, dietary intake, and prescription medication use details, and not currently breastfeeding or pregnant. Nutrient intake and adequacy, and intake of United States Department of Agriculture-defined food categories were compared across 3 groups consisting of non-GLP1-RA users (n = 4247), short-term users (GLP1-RA use <1 y; n = 42), and long-term users (GLP1-RA use ≥1 y; n = 85). The likelihood of meeting the dietary reference intake and dietary intake was assessed with multivariable regression models. RESULTS: Compared with nonusers, nonsignificantly lower average energy intakes were observed among short-term users (1900 vs. 1700 kcal, respectively), and nonsignificantly higher average energy intakes were noted among long-term users (1900 vs. 2100 kcal). Compared with nonusers, short-term users displayed nutritional inadequacies for folate (69% vs. 49%, P = 0.042), iron (63% vs. 27%, P = 0.001), niacin (57% vs. 26%, P < 0.001), potassium (95% vs. 71%, P = 0.001), and vitamin B-6 (66% vs. 47%, P = 0.011). Food consumption varied with increased intake of higher-carbohydrate food categories (e.g., rice) in the nonusers and higher-protein food categories (e.g., beef) among users. Long-term users appear to have food consumption patterns that more closely resemble those of nonusers than those of short-term users. Similar results were noted for analyses restricted to obese individuals. CONCLUSIONS: Observed findings suggest a lower likelihood of being nutritionally inadequate among short-term GLP1-RA users. Additional investigations are warranted to understand the dynamic nutritional needs of individuals using GLP1-RAs based on the duration of treatment.
BACKGROUND: Developmental programming is a key determinant of adult hypertension. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) can exert nutritional stress during development and cause irreversible programming of metabolism via epig...BACKGROUND: Developmental programming is a key determinant of adult hypertension. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) can exert nutritional stress during development and cause irreversible programming of metabolism via epigenetic modifications, often caused by imbalances in dietary methyl nutrients. Betaine and creatine (B + C) can increase the availability of methyl groups, but they are not included in commercial TPN formulations. OBJECTIVES: We hypothesized that receiving TPN during early life would increase blood pressure (BP) in adulthood and that supplementing TPN with B + C (TPN-B + C) would prevent this programming. Intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) neonates have been shown to develop hypertension in adult life; thus, we hypothesized that IUGR would exacerbate the TPN effect. METHODS: We used 7-d-old normal birth weight female Yucatan miniature piglets (n = 24) that were randomly assigned to the following diets: sow-fed (SowFed), TPN control (TPN-control), and TPN-B + C, with 8 IUGR piglets fed TPN as a fourth group (TPN-IUGR). After 2 wk of the experimental diets, all pigs were fed a grower diet until adulthood. At 8 mo, a telemeter was implanted to measure 24-h BP before and after a 2-wk high salt diet. RESULTS: Although BP was not different between TPN-control and SowFed adult pigs, the addition of B + C to neonatal TPN reduced mean (by 9.5 mmHg) and systolic (by 7.1 mmHg) arterial pressure (P < 0.05; analysis of variance, Dunnett's comparison to TPN-control) in adulthood. However, the expression of key renin-angiotensin system genes was not altered in adult pigs. The BP parameters increased in response to a high salt challenge in all pigs (by 6.2-15.4 mmHg; P < 0.05; paired t-tests), but the neonatal diet did not affect the response. CONCLUSIONS: These data collectively suggest that TPN feeding in early life does not alter adult BP but supplementing B + C in TPN may reduce risk of hypertension.
Lablab purpureus (hyacinth bean) is a multifaceted legume traditionally integrated into diverse food systems and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in Asia and Africa. Known for its adaptability to harsh en...Lablab purpureus (hyacinth bean) is a multifaceted legume traditionally integrated into diverse food systems and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in Asia and Africa. Known for its adaptability to harsh environments, nitrogen-fixing ability, and use as both food and fodder, this crop holds untapped potential for addressing modern nutritional and health challenges. Recent scientific investigations have brought L. purpureus into the spotlight due to its impressive phytochemical profile, which includes phenolics (phenolic acids and flavonoids). These constituents are associated with a wide range of therapeutic properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and hepatoprotective activities. Nutritionally, L. purpureus is rich in proteins, essential amino acids, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable candidate for combating malnutrition and enhancing food security, particularly in regions with limited access to diverse food sources. Furthermore, its functional properties suggest promising applications in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical product development. However, despite these attributes, L. purpureus remains largely underutilized and insufficiently represented in mainstream agricultural, food, and biomedical research. This review consolidates and synthesizes current knowledge on the phytochemical composition, nutritional value, and therapeutic potential of L. purpureus while also identifying critical knowledge gaps and research priorities. By drawing attention to this overlooked legume, the review encourages greater scientific interest and investment in its study and application. As global demand grows for plant-based functional foods and sustainable crop alternatives, L. purpureus presents itself as a viable, eco-friendly, and health-promoting resource worthy of renewed focus and broader utilization across multiple sectors.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-based therapies have transformed obesity treatment, resulting in significant weight loss and broad metabolic improvements. However, their rapid adoption has outpaced the development of ade...Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)-based therapies have transformed obesity treatment, resulting in significant weight loss and broad metabolic improvements. However, their rapid adoption has outpaced the development of adequate nutritional support systems, leaving many patients without dietary guidance despite experiencing profound reductions in appetite and food intake. People often drastically cut their energy consumption, risking inadequate protein intake, micronutrient deficiencies, low fiber intake, and loss of lean mass, consequences that are largely preventable with proper guidance. Yet, in clinical practice, integrated nutritional assessment is rarely provided, despite obesity societies recognizing its importance. This perspective synthesizes emerging evidence on the nutritional risks associated with GLP-1-based therapy, examines the gap between guideline recommendations and real-world practice, and argues that integrated nutritional care must become a core (not optional) part of GLP-1-based obesity treatment. We emphasize the role of registered dietitians and behavioral health professionals in maintaining nutrient adequacy, reducing gastrointestinal side effects, and preserving lean mass. Additionally, we identify key research priorities: developing validated nutritional screening tools, defining evidence-based nutrient targets, characterizing high-risk patient profiles, and researching the long-term outcomes of integrated nutrition and pharmacotherapy. As GLP-1 prescriptions reach millions of patients across diverse and often under-resourced clinical settings, integrating nutrition into this care model is not just advisable; it is urgent.
The gut microbiota plays an increasingly recognized role in liver fibrosis (LF), yet the translational value of this research for nutrition-based interventions remains poorly synthesized. This bibliometric analysis syste...The gut microbiota plays an increasingly recognized role in liver fibrosis (LF), yet the translational value of this research for nutrition-based interventions remains poorly synthesized. This bibliometric analysis systematically retrieved 2730 publications on gut microbiota and LF from the Web of Science Core Collection (2008-2025) using CiteSpace and VOSviewer to map publication trends, collaboration networks, and keyword hotspots. The United States and China lead in productivity, with the University of California System ranking highest among institutions. Scholarly output was disseminated through a diverse range of journals, among which the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Nutrients, and World Journal of Gastroenterology exhibited the highest publication counts. Co-citation keyword clustering revealed 10 major thematic clusters: alcoholic liver disease, metabolic syndrome, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), bacterial translocation, farnesoid X receptor (FXR), hepatic encephalopathy, gut-liver axis, liver cancer, bile acids, and systemic inflammation. The translational relevance of these bibliometric findings to nutritional science can be summarized as follows. The SCFA cluster, which exhibited a burst from 2008 to 2018, mechanistically links dietary fermentable fiber to hepatic stellate cell inactivation via GPR43/HDAC inhibition, thereby prioritizing fiber-based interventions. The FXR-bile acid axis, with a burst period from 2012 to 2017, identifies dietary tryptophan and phytosterols as potential modulators of AhR/Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5, warranting dose-response testing. The recent emergence of the "low-branched-chain amino acid diet" concept, detected in raw keyword trends from 2022 to 2025, suggests a paradigm shift from probiotic supplementation toward substrate-modulating dietary patterns. In conclusion, this analysis provides a quantitative roadmap that prioritizes specific dietary components and microbial metabolic pathways for hypothesis-driven nutritional intervention trials in LF.