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Influence of supplementation of probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus curvatus on selected parameters of liver iron metabolism in rats on high-fat iron-deficient diet
Nutrient Intake among Pregnant Women in Spain and Poland: A Comparative Analysis
Prenatal nutrition plays a crucial role in maternal and child health. This study aims to compare nutrient intake and its adequacy to recommendations among pregnant women in Spain and Poland. The ECLIPSES study in Spain utilized a self-administered food frequency questionnaire, while the PREDISH study in Poland employed a 3-day interview method. We assessed energy and nutrient intake against recommended dietary allowances. The analysis included 583 participants in the first trimester and 465 participants in the third trimester from both countries. Our findings revealed insufficient intake of iron, vitamin D, and vitamin B9 among pregnant women in both Spain and Poland. Significant differences were observed in the intake of energy, carbohydrates, fiber, calcium, iron, and vitamins D, E, C, B6, B9, and B12. Notably, 81.6% and 21.5% of participants did not meet the recommended minimum carbohydrate intake, while 99.8% and 43.8% exceeded the limit for total fat, particularly monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). Tailored dietary guidance based on regional differences is crucial for pregnant women. Although variations in dietary intake were observed, both Spain and Poland faced similar risks of nutritional deficiencies, particularly for iron, vitamin D, and vitamin B9. These findings emphasize the need for enhanced efforts in preventing these deficiencies and promoting optimal prenatal nutrition.
Innovative Application of Chicken Eggshell Calcium to Improve the Functional Value of Gingerbread
Food waste, such as eggshell, can be an environmental problem if it is not properly managed. One of the ways to solve this is by using the eggshell as the cheap calcium source in food products. Polish gingerbread fortified with chicken eggshell powder (ESP) calcium was developed to solve the eggshell waste problem and to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. This study focused on the effect of ESP addition on basic composition, sensory evaluation, and antioxidative activity of gingerbread. Two samples of gingerbread without and with 3% (w/w of wheat flour) ESP, with controlled green tea powder (4% w/w of white chocolate) were analyzed. Results of the research showed that the addition of 3% ESP significantly increased the ash and calcium content (p < 0.05) without changing the appearance, aroma, texture, taste profiles, and the hedonic score of gingerbread. The gingerbread samples were then stored for 2 months and were analyzed every month. The hedonic evaluation of the aroma of both gingerbread samples decreased significantly (p < 0.05) during storage. During 2 months of storage, the antioxidative activity of gingerbread fortified with 3% ESP was not significantly different compared to the control (p > 0.05), particularly in ABTS and ORACFL assay. The ABTS, DPPH, and ORACFL assays showed decreasing antioxidative activity during storage, which was also in accordance with decreasing total phenolic content of both gingerbread samples. In PCL assay, the lipid-soluble antioxidant activity in gingerbread with 3% ESP was significantly higher during 2 months of storage, compared to the control (p < 0.05). The developed product might be a potential alternative to improve the calcium (26% daily value (DV) recommendation per 100 g) and antioxidant intake in order to prevent calcium deficiency. Gingerbread enriched with an organic source of calcium may become an innovative product to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis in the elderly population, having potential health and economic significance, given the incidence of osteoporosis and the costs of treating this disease.
Rola muscliny w naprawie uszkodzenia serca u pacjentów po zawale mięśnia sercowego poddawanych rehabilitacji kardiologiczne
The influence of multi-strain probiotic supplementation on calcium and magnesium status in women with non-morbid obesity
Risks and benefits of salicylates in food: a narrative review
Abstract Salicylates are generally present in plants as part of their defense system against pathogens and environmental stress. Major dietary sources of salicylates were found in spices and herbs, such as curry and paprika (hot powder). Several studies suggest that these natural salicylates offer health benefits in the human body, such as antidiabetic, anticancer, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, despite their advantages, salicylates can be harmful to people with allergies, and high doses of salicylates may cause respiratory alkalosis and gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, salicylates can interact with certain drugs, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and warfarin. This narrative review aimed to consolidate recent information on the content of salicylates in food based on the literature, while also highlighting the benefits and risks associated with salicylate consumption in humans. Based on the literature review and analysis of results, it can be concluded that the dietary intake of salicylates in vegetarians can be relatively high, resulting in concentrations of salicylic acid in the blood and urine that are comparable to those observed in patients taking a low dose of aspirin (75 mg). This suggests that a diet rich in salicylates may have potential benefits in preventing and treating some diseases that require low doses of aspirin.
Association of mineral status with metabolic disorders in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. A preliminary study
Dietary salicylates affect calcium and magnesium status in preeclampsia model rats induced by NG-nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME)
Effects of Daidzein, Tempeh, and a Probiotic Digested in an Artificial Gastrointestinal Tract on Calcium Deposition in Human Osteoblast-like Saos-2 Cells
Adequate calcium intake is crucial for the prevention and treatment of bone-related issues. Developing a nutritional source of readily bioavailable calcium is particularly significant for individuals deficient in this essential element and at risk of developing osteoporosis. This research aimed to evaluate the impact of tempeh (T), daidzein (D), and Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) within a simulated intestinal environment consisting of Caco-2 epithelial and Saos-2 cells, focusing on their implications for bone mineralization mechanisms. In the initial phase, calcium bioaccessibility from calcium citrate (CaCt), LA, D, the daidzein combination D–CaCt–LA (D1:1:1), and the tempeh combination T–CaCt–LA (T1:1:1) was assessed through digestion simulation. The calcium content of both untreated and digested samples was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). In the subsequent stage, the digested samples were used to induce intestinal absorption in differentiated enterocyte-like Caco-2 cells. The permeable fractions were then evaluated in a culture of osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells. Preliminary cellular experiments employed the MTT assay to assess cytotoxicity. The results indicated that the analyzed products did not influence the deposition of extracellular calcium in Saos-2 cells cultured without mineralization stimulators. The combined formulations of permeable fractions of digested CaCt, LA, D, and T demonstrated the capacity to enhance the proliferation of Saos-2 cells. In Saos-2 cells, D, D1:1:1, and LA showed no discernible impact on intracellular calcium accumulation, whereas T and T1:1:1 reduced the calcium deposits. Additionally, mRNA transcripts and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity levels in Saos-2 cells cultured without mineralization induction were unaffected by the analyzed products. An examination of the products revealed no discernible effect on ALP activity or mRNA expression during Saos-2 cell differentiation. Our findings suggest that tempeh, daidzein, and L. acidophilus did not positively impact cellular calcium deposition in Saos-2 cells. However, tempeh, daidzein and its combination, and L. acidophilus might enhance the process of osteogenic differentiation in Saos-2 cells. Nevertheless, this study did not identify any synergistic impact on calcium deposition and the process of osteogenic differentiation in Saos-2 cells of isoflavones and probiotics.
Impact of Dietary Salicylates on Iron, Zinc, and Copper Status in Preeclampsia Model Rats Induced by L-NAME
Abstract Low-dose aspirin prophylaxis is recommended for women at high risk of preeclampsia. It has been suggested that dietary salicylates may have a similar effect. Despite the known anti-inflammatory properties of salicylates, their influence on trace elements in preeclampsia remains unclear. This research investigated the effect of dietary salicylates and aspirin on iron, zinc, and copper status in rats with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)–induced preeclampsia. The study involved pregnant Sprague Dawley rats divided into six groups: control group (CH), preeclamptic rats (CP), preeclamptic rats with a low dose of dietary salicylate (LSP), preeclamptic rats with a high dose of dietary salicylate, preeclamptic rats with a low dose of aspirin (LAP), and preeclamptic rats with a high dose of aspirin. The content of trace elements in diets, liver, kidney, heart, spleen, pancreas, femur, brain, and hair was measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Salicylate concentrations in diets, serum, and urine were analyzed using HPLC and UHPLC-MS/MS systems. Administration of L-NAME resulted in elevated blood pressure across groups, and only the LAP group had blood pressure levels comparable to the CH group. Preeclampsia significantly decreased serum hepcidin levels, while salicylates abolished this effect. Salicylate administration significantly decreased iron levels in hair and increased maternal zinc concentrations in the brain. Dietary salicylates markedly increased zinc levels in the placenta. In conclusion, L-NAME–induced preeclampsia decreases maternal serum hepcidin. Treatment with salicylates modulates iron and zinc status in preeclamptic rats, with specific effects on hepcidin levels.
Interrelationship between Vitamin D and Calcium in Obesity and Its Comorbid Conditions
Obesity has been linked to vitamin D (VD) deficiency and low calcium (CAL) status. In the last decade, dietary supplementation of vitamin D and calcium (VD–CAL) have been extensively studied in animal experiments and human studies. However, the physiological mechanisms remain unknown as to whether the VD–CAL axis improves homeostasis and reduces biomarkers in regulating obesity and other metabolic diseases directly or indirectly. This review sought to investigate their connections. This topic was examined in scientific databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed from 2011 to 2021, and 87 articles were generated for interpretation. Mechanistically, VD–CAL regulates from the organs to the blood, influencing insulin, lipids, hormone, cell, and inflammatory functions in obesity and its comorbidities, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease, and type-2 diabetes mellitus. Nevertheless, previous research has not consistently shown that simultaneous VD–CAL supplementation affects weight loss or reduces fat content. This discrepancy may be influenced by population age and diversity, ethnicity, and geographical location, and also by degree of obesity and applied doses. Therefore, a larger prospective cohort and randomised trials are needed to determine the exact role of VD–CAL and their interrelationship.
Do dietary choices correlate with FAM19A5 protein concentration in people with metabolic syndrome? - The PROG-FAM observational study
Effect of calcium lactate in standard diet on selected markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in ovariectomized rats
Abstract The effectiveness of calcium depends on its source, i.e., salt it is supplied with. This study aimed to determine the effects of calcium lactate in diet on inflammation and oxidative stress markers in ovariectomized rats. A total of 40 female Wistar rats were included in this study, which were divided into four groups. The control group was fed a standard diet, whereas the remaining three groups were ovariectomized and provided a standard diet containing calcium carbonate (OVX), a calcium-deficient diet (OVX_DEF), or a diet containing calcium lactate (OVX_CaL). The nutritional intervention lasted for 12 weeks, and then, the rats were sacrificed. Tissue and blood samples were taken and evaluated for cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase 2, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance contents in the liver and serum, and total antioxidant status and lipoxygenase 1 contents only in the serum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Differences were observed in the effects of calcium carbonate and calcium lactate on the COX-1 content in the serum of ovariectomized rats: a lower COX-1 concentration was observed in the case of the calcium lactate diet. No significant differences were observed for the other parameters.
Calcium-Deficit Diet Improves Iron Content in Ovariectomized Rats
AbstractIn women, menopause is associated with disorders related to calcium and iron content, which may increase the risk of osteoporosis. This study aimed to determine the effect of calcium deficiency on the iron content in ovariectomized rats. This study included 30 3-month-old female rats, which were divided into three groups: group C (n = 10)—control group fed the standard diet; group O—ovariectomized rats fed the standard diet; and group D—ovariectomized rats fed the calcium-deficit diet. After 3 months of experimental intervention, the weight of the rats was measured, and blood and tissue samples were collected. Morphological parameters were analyzed in whole blood, and serum levels of leptin, estrogen and C-reactive protein, and total antioxidant status were determined. The iron content was measured in tissues, and histological analysis was performed in the femur. The results obtained demonstrated that ovariectomy significantly decreased the iron content in bones, hair, spleen, liver, and kidneys. The calcium-deficit diet increased the iron content in tissues and the hemoglobin level in ovariectomized rats and also enhanced the number of osteoblasts in bones compared with the O group. In conclusion, calcium deficiency improved the iron content in ovariectomized rats in this 12-week study.
Association between the Concentrations of Essential and Toxic Elements in Mid-Trimester Amniotic Fluid and Fetal Chromosomal Abnormalities in Pregnant Polish Women
The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the concentrations of essential and toxic elements present in the amniotic fluid (AF) and fetal chromosomal abnormalities in pregnant women. A total of 156 pregnant white Polish women aged between 20 and 43 years and screened to detect high risk for chromosomal defects in the first trimester were included in the study. AF samples were collected from these women during routine diagnostic and treatment procedures at mid-gestation (15–22 weeks of their pregnancies). The concentrations of various minerals in the AF were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Genomic hybridization and cytogenetic karyotyping were performed to detect chromosomal aberrations in the fetuses. The genetic analysis revealed chromosomal aberrations in 19 fetuses (over 12% of all the evaluated women). The major abnormalities identified were trisomy 21 (N = 11), trisomy 18 (N = 2), and triploidy (N = 2). Fetuses with chromosomal abnormalities more frequently showed lower manganese concentration in the AF in the second trimester as compared to those with normal karyotype. A coincidence was observed between high iron levels in the AF and a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetuses.
Effects of Calcium Lactate-Enriched Pumpkin on Calcium Status in Ovariectomized Rats
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of enriched pumpkin on calcium status in ovariectomized rats. The study was conducted in sixty female Wistar rats, which were divided into six groups: a group fed a standard diet (C) and five ovariectomized groups fed a standard diet (OVX_C) or a diet with calcium lactate (CaL), with calcium lactate-enriched pumpkin (P_CaL), with calcium lactate and alendronate (CaL_B), or with calcium lactate-enriched pumpkin with alendronate (P_CaL_B). After 12 weeks of the intervention, the rats were sacrificed, and their blood and tissues were collected. The calcium concentrations in serum and in tissues were measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Serum concentrations of procollagen type-1 amino-terminal propeptide (PINP), parathyroid hormone PTH, estrogen (ES), and osteocalcin (OC) were determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). It was found that enriched pumpkin increased the calcium level in the kidneys (194.13 ± 41.01 mg) compared to the C (87.88 ± 12.42 mg) and OVX_C (79.29 ± 7.66 mg) groups. The addition of alendronate increased the calcium level in the femurs (267.63 ± 23.63 mg) and more than six times in the kidneys (541.33 ± 62.91 mg) compared to the OVX_C group (234.53 ± 21.67 mg and 87.88 ± 12.42 mg, respectively). We found that the CaL, P_CaL, and CaL_B groups had significantly lower PINP serum concentrations (4.45 ± 0.82 ng/mL, 4.14 ± 0.69 ng/mL, and 3.77 ± 0.33 ng/mL) and higher PTH serum levels (3.39 ± 0.54 ng/dL, 3.38 ± 0.57 ng/dL, and 3.47 ± 0.28 ng/dL) than the OVX_C group (4.69 ± 0.82 ng/mL and 2.59 ± 0.45 ng/dL, respectively). In conclusion, pumpkin enriched with calcium lactate affects calcium status and normalizes PINP and PTH serum levels in ovariectomized rats. Diet with enriched pumpkin and alendronate increase calcium concentration in the femur. Enriched pumpkin causes calcium to accumulate in the kidneys of ovariectomized rats; alendronate significantly exacerbates this effect.
Effect of Tempeh and Daidzein on Calcium Status, Calcium Transporters, and Bone Metabolism Biomarkers in Ovariectomized Rats
Menopause marks a critical life stage characterized by hormonal changes that significantly impact bone health, leading to a heightened susceptibility to bone fractures. This research seeks to elucidate the impact of daidzein and tempeh on calcium status, calcium transporters, and bone metabolism in an ovariectomized rat model. Forty female Wistar rats, aged 3 months, participated in a two-phase experiment. The initial phase involved inducing a calcium deficit, while the second phase comprised dietary interventions across five groups: Sham (S) and Ovariectomy (O) with a standard diet, O with bisphosphonate (OB), O with pure daidzein (OD), and O with tempeh (OT). Multiple parameters, encompassing calcium levels, calcium transporters, bone histopathology, and serum bone metabolism markers, were evaluated. The findings revealed that the OT group showcased heightened levels of bone turnover markers, such as pyridinoline, C-telopeptide of type I collagen, bone alkaline phosphatase, and procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide, in contrast to S and O groups, with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Histopathologically, both the OD and OT groups exhibited effects akin to the OB group, indicating a decrease in the surface area occupied by adipocytes in the femoral bone structure, although statistically non-equivalent, supporting the directionally similar trends. Although TRPV5 and TRPV6 mRNA expression levels in the jejunum and duodenum did not display statistically significant differences (p > 0.05), the OD and OT groups exhibited increased expression compared to the O group. We hypothesized that obtained results may be related to the effect of isoflavones on estrogen pathways because of their structurally similar to endogenous estrogen and weak estrogenic properties. In conclusion, the daily consumption of pure daidzein and tempeh could potentially improve and reinstate calcium status, calcium transport, and bone metabolism in ovariectomized rats. Additionally, isoflavone products demonstrate effects similar to bisphosphonate drugs on these parameters in ovariectomized rats.
