scholarly journals Recent Research on the Health Benefits of Blueberries and Their Anthocyanins

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wilhelmina Kalt ◽  
Aedin Cassidy ◽  
Luke R Howard ◽  
Robert Krikorian ◽  
April J Stull ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Weight Maintenance ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
In Vitro Models ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Regular Consumption ◽  
Host Health

ABSTRACTAwareness of the human health benefits of blueberries is underpinned by a growing body of positive scientific evidence from human observational and clinical research, plus mechanistic research using animal and in vitro models. Blueberries contain a large number of phytochemicals, including abundant anthocyanin pigments. Of their various phytochemicals, anthocyanins probably make the greatest impact on blueberry health functionality. Epidemiological studies associate regular, moderate intake of blueberries and/or anthocyanins with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, death, and type 2 diabetes, and with improved weight maintenance and neuroprotection. These findings are supported by biomarker-based evidence from human clinical studies. Among the more important healthful aspects of blueberries are their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions and their beneficial effects on vascular and glucoregulatory function. Blueberry phytochemicals may affect gastrointestinal microflora and contribute to host health. These aspects have implications in degenerative diseases and conditions as well as the aging process. More evidence, and particularly human clinical evidence, is needed to better understand the potential for anthocyanin-rich blueberries to benefit public health. However, it is widely agreed that the regular consumption of tasty, ripe blueberries can be unconditionally recommended.

scholarly journals Insulin Therapy and Cancer in Type 2 Diabetes

2012 ◽  
Vol 2012 ◽  
pp. 1-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Edoardo Mannucci
Keyword(s):  
Type 2 Diabetes ◽  
Insulin Therapy ◽  
Human Insulin ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Insulin Analogues ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Increased Risk

Despite the availability of many other agents, insulin is widely used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. In vitro, insulin stimulates the growth of cancer cells, through the interaction with insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) receptors and its own receptors. In observational surveys on type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy is associated with an increased incidence of several forms of cancer, although it is difficult to discriminate the effect of confounders from that of insulin itself. Randomized trials do not confirm the increased risk associated with insulin therapy, although they do not allow to rule out some negative effects on specific forms of cancer, at least at higher doses. Among insulin analogues, glargine has a higher affinity for the IGF-1 receptor and a greater mitogenic potency in vitro than human insulin, but it is extensively metabolized in vitro to products with low IGF-1 receptor affinity. Overall, epidemiological studies suggest a possible increase of risk with glargine, with respect to human insulin, only at high doses and for some forms of cancer (i.e., breast). Data from clinical trials do not confirm, but are still insufficient to totally exclude, such increased risk. However, beneficial effects of insulin outweigh potential cancer risks.

scholarly journals Pistachio Nuts (Pistacia vera L.): Production, Nutrients, Bioactives and Novel Health Effects

Plants ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 18
Author(s):  
Giuseppina Mandalari ◽  
Davide Barreca ◽  
Teresa Gervasi ◽  
Michael A. Roussell ◽  
Bob Klein ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Animal Studies ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids ◽  
Pistacia Vera ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Pistachio Nuts ◽  
Inflammatory Effect

Epidemiological and clinical studies have indicated positive outcomes related to tree nut consumption. Here, we review the production, nutrient, phytochemical composition and emerging research trends on the health benefits of pistachio nuts (Pistacia vera L.). Pistachios are a good source of protein, fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids, minerals and vitamins, as well as carotenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids and anthocyanins. Polyphenols in pistachios are important contributors to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, as demonstrated in vitro and in vivo through animal studies and clinical trials. The antimicrobial and antiviral potential of pistachio polyphenols has also been assessed and could help overcome drug resistance. Pistachio consumption may play a role in cognitive function and has been associated with a positive modulation of the human gut microbiota and beneficial effects on skin health. Pistachio polyphenol extracts may affect enzymes involved in glucose regulation and so type 2 diabetes. Taken together, these data demonstrate the health benefits of including pistachios in the diet. Further studies are required to investigate the mechanisms involved.

scholarly journals Potential Beneficial Effects of Wine Flavonoids on Allergic Diseases

Diseases ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Toshio Tanaka ◽  
Atsuhiko Iuchi ◽  
Hiroshi Harada ◽  
Shoji Hashimoto
Keyword(s):  
Red Wine ◽  
Inflammatory Cells ◽  
Allergic Diseases ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
T Cell Subsets ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Regular Consumption ◽  
Flavonoid Intake ◽  
Ige Synthesis

Wine, a widely consumed beverage, comprises several biophenols that promote health. Flavonoids, majorly present in red wine, have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immunomodulatory activities. Regular consumption of red wine (100 mL/day) is estimated to provide an average of 88 mg of flavonoids, whereas recent epidemiological studies indicate that wine is one of the major sources of flavonoid intake amongst wine lovers in European countries (providing an average intake of 291–374 mg/day of flavonoids). In addition to being antioxidants, in vitro studies suggest that flavonoids also have anti-allergic activities that inhibit IgE synthesis, activation of mast cells and basophils or other inflammatory cells, and production of inflammatory mediators, including cytokines. Furthermore, they affect the differentiation of naïve CD4+ T cells into effector T cell subsets. Moreover, several studies have reported the benefits of flavonoids in allergic models such as atopic dermatitis, asthma, anaphylaxis, and food allergy; however, evidence in humans is limited to allergic rhinitis and respiratory allergy. Although further evaluation is required, it is expected that an appropriate intake of flavonoids may be beneficial in preventing, and eventually managing, allergic diseases.

scholarly journals Mechanism and Potential of Egg Consumption and Egg Bioactive Components on Type-2 Diabetes

Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 357 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xiaofeng Wang ◽  
Myoungjin Son ◽  
Chalamaiah Meram ◽  
Jianping Wu
Keyword(s):  
Type 2 Diabetes ◽  
Scientific Evidence ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Research Progress ◽  
Egg Consumption ◽  
Clinical Investigations ◽  
Egg Components

Type-2 diabetes (T2D) is one of the major global health challenges and a substantial economic burden. Egg and egg-derived components have been indicated to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, immunomodulatory, and anti-cancer activities. However, the scientific evidence about the benefits of egg on T2D is debatable. The relationship between egg consumption and the risk of T2D from observational epidemiological studies is not consistent. Interventional clinical studies, however, provide promising evidence that egg consumption ameliorates the risk of T2D. Current research progress also indicates that some egg components and egg-derived peptides might be beneficial in the context of T2D, in terms of insulin secretion and sensitivity, oxidative stress, and inflammation, suggesting possible application on T2D management. The current review summarizes recent clinical investigations related to the influence of egg consumption on T2D risk and in vivo and in vitro studies on the effect and mechanism of egg components and egg-derived peptides on T2D.

Microencapsulation: A Prospective to Protect Probiotics

2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (6) ◽  
pp. 891-899 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wissam Zam
Keyword(s):  
Gastrointestinal Tract ◽  
Food Industry ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Probiotic Bacteria ◽  
Bacterial Cells ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Host Health ◽  
Resistant Strains ◽  
Selection Of

Probiotics are viable microorganisms widely used for their claimed beneficial effects on the host health. A wide number of researchers proved that the intake of probiotic bacteria has numerous health benefits which created a big market of probiotic foods worldwide. The biggest challenge in the development of these products is to maintain the viability of bacterial cells during the storage of the product as well as throughout the gastrointestinal tract transit after consumption, so that the claimed health benefits can be delivered to the consumer. Different approaches have been proposed for increasing the resistance of these sensitive microorganisms, including the selection of resistant strains, incorporation of micronutrients, and most recently the use of microencapsulation techniques. Microencapsulation has resulted in enhancing the viability of these microorganisms which allows its wide use in the food industry. In this review, the most common techniques used for microencapsulation of probiotics will be presented, as well as the most usual microcapsule shell materials.

scholarly journals Antidiabetic Properties of Naringenin: A Citrus Fruit Polyphenol

Biomolecules ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 99 ◽  
Author(s):  
Danja J. Den Hartogh ◽  
Evangelia Tsiani
Keyword(s):  
Insulin Resistance ◽  
Animal Studies ◽  
Citrus Fruit ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Personal Health ◽  
Current Review ◽  
Vegetables And Fruits

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia and is associated with personal health and global economic burdens. Current strategies/approaches of insulin resistance and T2DM prevention and treatment are lacking in efficacy resulting in the need for new preventative and targeted therapies. In recent years, epidemiological studies have suggested that diets rich in vegetables and fruits are associated with health benefits including protection against insulin resistance and T2DM. Naringenin, a citrus flavanone, has been reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, immunomodulatory and antidiabetic properties. The current review summarizes the existing in vitro and in vivo animal studies examining the anti-diabetic effects of naringenin.

scholarly journals A Review of the Properties of Anthocyanins and Their Influence on Factors Affecting Cardiometabolic and Cognitive Health

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (8) ◽  
pp. 2831
Author(s):  
Philipp Ockermann ◽  
Laura Headley ◽  
Rosario Lizio ◽  
Jan Hansmann
Keyword(s):  
Vascular Function ◽  
Metabolic Diseases ◽  
Myocardial Infarct ◽  
Low Density Lipoprotein ◽  
Density Lipoprotein ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Potential Effect ◽  
Factors Affecting

The incidence of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases has increased over the last decades and is an important cause of death worldwide. An upcoming ingredient on the nutraceutical market are anthocyanins, a flavonoid subgroup, abundant mostly in berries and fruits. Epidemiological studies have suggested an association between anthocyanin intake and improved cardiovascular risk, type 2 diabetes and myocardial infarct. Clinical studies using anthocyanins have shown a significant decrease in inflammation markers and oxidative stress, a beneficial effect on vascular function and hyperlipidemia by decreasing low-density lipoprotein and increasing high-density lipoprotein. They have also shown a potential effect on glucose homeostasis and cognitive decline. This review summarizes the effects of anthocyanins in in-vitro, animal and human studies to give an overview of their application in medical prevention or as a dietary supplement.

Evaluation of Rubus grandifolius L. (wild blackberries) activities targeting management of type-2 diabetes and obesity using in vitro models

2019 ◽  
Vol 123 ◽  
pp. 443-452 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vítor Spínola ◽  
Joana Pinto ◽  
Eulogio J. Llorent-Martínez ◽  
Helena Tomás ◽  
Paula C. Castilho
Keyword(s):  
Type 2 Diabetes ◽  
In Vitro Models ◽  
Diabetes And Obesity

scholarly journals Interactions of 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone with Serum Albumin as well as with CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and Xanthine Oxidase Biotransformation Enzymes

Biomolecules ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (11) ◽  
pp. 655 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fliszár-Nyúl ◽  
Mohos ◽  
Bencsik ◽  
Lemli ◽  
Kunsági-Máté ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Serum Albumin ◽  
Xanthine Oxidase ◽  
In Vitro Models ◽  
Stable Complex ◽  
Limited Information ◽  
Inhibitory Effects ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Biotransformation Enzymes ◽  
Pharmacokinetic Properties

7,8-dihydroxyflavone (DHF) is a flavone aglycone which has beneficial effects in several central nervous system diseases. Most of the pharmacokinetic properties of DHF have been characterized, while only limited information is available regarding its interactions with serum albumin and biotransformation enzymes. In this study, the interactions of DHF with albumin was examined employing fluorescence spectroscopy and ultrafiltration. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of DHF on cytochrome P450 (CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4) and xanthine oxidase (XO) enzymes were also tested using in vitro models. Our results demonstrate that DHF forms a stable complex with albumin (K = 4.9 × 105 L/mol) and that it is able to displace both Site I and Site II ligands. Moreover, DHF proved to be a potent inhibitor of each enzyme tested, showing similar or slightly weaker effects than the positive controls used. Considering the above-listed observations, the coadministration of DHF with drugs may interfere with the drug therapy due to the development of pharmacokinetic interactions.

scholarly journals Investigation of the Synergistic Effect of Brown Sugar, Longan, Ginger, and Jujube (Brown Sugar Longan Ginger Tea) on Antioxidation and Anti-Inflammation in In Vitro Models

2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-6
Author(s):  
Ping Lin ◽  
Kai-Wen Kan ◽  
Jia-Haur Chen ◽  
Yung-Kai Lin ◽  
Yung-Hao Lin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Synergistic Effect ◽  
Umbilical Vein ◽  
In Vitro Models ◽  
Mitochondrial Activity ◽  
Brown Sugar ◽  
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver ◽  
Beneficial Effects ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Anti Inflammation

This research unveils the synergistic effect of brown sugar, longan, ginger, and jujube on the beneficial effects of antioxidation and anti-inflammation. Longan, ginger, and jujube are ubiquitous herbs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and are frequently used in folk remedies. Longan and ginger have been reported to be beneficial for antioxidation, anti-inflammation, ant-obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) improvements. However, the potential scientific and medical benefits of their combination Brown Sugar Longan Ginger Tea (BSLGT), a popular drink in Chinese cultures, are elusive. Through the in vitro methodologies, we discovered that BSLGT could significantly improve the mitochondrial activity, antioxidant capacity, lipid content, and inflammatory response in human hepatocytes. In addition, BSLGT also exerted positive effects on the downregulation of atherosclerosis-associated, vasoconstrictor, and thrombosis-related gene expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In short, our experimental results successfully revealed that the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of BSLGT may have the potential to improve liver metabolism and cardiovascular inflammation although solid evidence requires further investigation.

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