Fennel seeds are well known for their aromatic qualities. They have a rich history of culinary and pharmaceutical use, dating back to ancient civilisations, such as the Romans and Egyptians. These seeds are native to the Mediterranean region and available in diverse varieties worldwide; they are a nutritional powerhouse, containing significant quantities of carbohydrates, proteins, and dietary fibre. They are also a rich source of bioactive compounds, including anethole, fenchone, and limonene, which contribute to their therapeutic potential. Fennel seeds have demonstrated their effectiveness in addressing multiple digestive disorders and shown promise in combating severe ailments, like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Different extraction methods, including cold plasma, ultrasound, and critical fluid extraction, hold promise for extracting fennel seed oil. In the culinary sphere, fennel seeds are prized for their ability to enhance the flavour of foods, like bread and yoghurt. The essential oil derived from fennel seeds is used for a wide range of applications and can function as a preservative, extending the shelf life of various food products. This review aimed to provide a detailed overview of the botanical traits, dietary makeup, and different medicinal effects of fennel seeds, which can further help to explore the relevant gaps and open doors to the research and exploration of the potential applications of fennel seeds. Additionally, this study aimed to investigate emerging extraction technologies that could enhance the yield of fennel seeds’ oil, further paving the way to new explorations in the area of novel food product development.
IntroductionPulses are increasingly consumed worldwide due to their affordability and rich nutritional profile. They are also a valuable source of bioactive compounds like phenolics and flavonoids, which contribute to health benefits. The presence of anti-nutritional factors in legumes can hinder nutrient bioavailability. Processing techniques such as soaking, cooking, germination, and fermentation help improve sensory and nutritional qualities while reducing these compounds. MethodsA structured literature review was conducted to identify and analyze recent findings related to the composition of legumes, with a particular focus on anti-nutritional factors and their reduction through different processing techniques. Key approaches to improving nutrient accessibility and potential applications in food systems were also examined. ResultsThe findings show that processing techniques, particularly fermentation and germination, can reduce anti-nutritional factors by up to 95% for phytates and 50% for tannins. These methods improve protein digestibility, mineral bioavailability, and functional properties. Additionally, combining treatments can enhance the overall nutritional profile, making legumes more suitable for diverse dietary uses and functional food development. DiscussionThe differential impact of processing techniques highlights the importance of selecting tailored strategies based on the specific anti-nutritional targets and intended functional improvements. Optimizing these treatments can improve the bioaccessibility of nutrients and the techno-functional behavior of legumes in complex food systems. ConclusionThis review underscores the nutritional potential of legumes and the significant impact of processing techniques on reducing anti-nutritional compounds. It provides a unique perspective by linking anti-nutrient mitigation strategies with improved food functionality and health benefits.
Introduction Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapple with protease activity, is often used in food processing. Bromelain stability under heat and high-pressure conditions represents a major problem. The current research is dedicated to the modeling of bromelain inactivation under simultaneous pressure and temperature treatment.Methods Experimental kinetic parameters were taken from scientific literature. First order reaction kinetics equation was utilized. Arrhenius and Eyring equations were employed to calculate Activation Energy (Ea) and Activation Volume (Va), respectively. Regression analysis was performed using MATLAB 8.1 and PolymathTM 5.1.Results The value of the inactivation rate constant (k) depended on temperature and pressure. Activation energy varied between 16.79 and 58.04 kJ/mol, whereas activation volume ranged from -5.07 to -14.15 mL/mol. A good model fit was found (R2 >= 0.99).Discussion The negative value of activation volume implies pressure-induced denaturation. Decreasing activation energy at high pressure is indicative of a lower energy barrier. The combined approach improves the quality of the results obtained.Conclusion The presented research offers valuable information on modeling inactivation processes under combined temperature-pressure conditions.
Background Medical nutrition therapy serves as an essential component in the comprehensive treatment of type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The antidiabetic properties of Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit) have been documented in multiple studies. This clinical trial aims to evaluate the impact of partially substituting the regular diet with unripe jackfruit-based recipes on glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with poorly controlled T2DM. Methods This randomized controlled study was conducted at the outpatient department (OPD) of Medical College, Alappuzha, India. A total of 100 T2DM patients were randomly assigned to the treatment and control groups. The treatment group received a jackfruit-based diet (JFD), while the control group maintained their routine breakfast. Data on glycemic parameters (fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPPG), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)) and cardiovascular risk factors (blood pressure (BP) and lipid profile) between the groups were collected on days 22 and 91 for comparative analysis. Results After 90 days, the treatment group showed a statistically significant reduction in mean FPG (176.1-117.42 vs. 173.66-158.8 in the control group) and PPPG (235.65-156.58 vs. 264.02-239.42 in the control group) with a between-group p < 0.001. Additionally, the treatment group exhibited a mean HbA1c reduction of 1.57%. Significant reductions were also observed in systolic and diastolic BP and the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the treatment group compared to the control group. Discussion Partial dietary substitution with unripe jackfruit flour produced significant improvements in glycemic indices and cardiovascular risk markers compared with routine breakfast intake. The metabolic benefits likely stem from its low-glycemic, high-fiber composition and slowly available glucose fraction, which reduce postprandial excursions and enhance insulin sensitivity. These results align with prior clinical trials demonstrating glycemic improvement with jackfruit-based dietary interventions. Overall, unripe jackfruit flour represents a simple, culturally acceptable adjunct to standard nutrition therapy in type 2 diabetes. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that incorporating unripe jackfruit flour into the diet may improve glycemic control by reducing FPG, PPPG, and HbA1c. Clinical Trial registration Number CTRI/2024/01/061797
Introduction: Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds but highly perishable. Spray drying offers a method to create shelf-stable pineapple powder, yet high-sugar juices often result in low yield and quality issues such as caking. Methods: Response surface methodology with a face-centred composite design was used to optimise inlet temperature (145-175 degrees C), maltodextrin (15-40% w/w), and whey protein isolate (WPI, 5-15% w/w) for pineapple juice powder. Powder yield, hygroscopicity, and dissolution time were evaluated. Results: The model predicted optimal conditions at 155.63 degrees C, 8.28% WPI, and 31.71% maltodextrin, corresponding to 72.83% yield, 70.67 s dissolution, and 8.01% hygroscopicity (desirability = 0.831). Experimental validation produced 79.12% yield, 73.12 s dissolution, and 7.48% hygroscopicity, confirming model accuracy (<10% deviation). Further characterisation of the optimised product was compared with commercially available pineapple powder and formulations optimised with maximised and minimised WPI. Increased WPI concentration with maltodextrin as encapsulating agent mixture lowered water activity and increased glass transition temperature. Surface morphology analysis also showed optimised powder with higher WPI concentration exhibited smoother and rounder particles. Discussion: WPI and maltodextrin carrier agent complex had a synergistic effect on the physical properties of spray-dried pineapple powder. Maltodextrin maintained the inner matrix while WPI contributes to the formation of protein aggregates with the surface activity and film-forming ability of protein, ultimately contributing to desirable physical properties. Conclusion: Thus, a small concentration of WPI with maltodextrin at an optimal spray drying temperature produces spray-dried pineapple powder with desirable physical properties. Maltodextrin-WPI combinations synergistically improved powder physical properties and enhanced stability. This approach enhances the physical quality of spray-dried high-sugar juices, demonstrating potential for industrial application.
Introduction: The objective of this research is to optimize the Ultrasound-Microwave Synergistic Extraction (UMSE) method for obtaining total polyphenols from Torreya grandis and to assess their in vitro antioxidant activity. Methods: The total polyphenols extraction process of Torreya grandis was optimized by using a single-factor experiment combined with the Box-Behnken response surface method. The total polyphenols extracted under optimal conditions were compared with Vitamin C (Vc), and their scavenging abilities against DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radicals were determined to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activity. Results: The optimized extraction parameters were identified as follows: microwave power 385 W, ultrasound power 345 W, 70% ethanol as the extraction solvent, solid-liquid ratio 20 mL/g, and extraction time 15 minutes. Under these conditions, the maximum total polyphenol yield reached 3.71%. Torreya grandis total polyphenols exhibited concentration-dependent scavenging effects on DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radicals, with IC50 values of 9.338, 0.042, and 0.572 mg/mL, respectively. Discussion: The optimized process achieved a higher total polyphenol yield with good stability and repeatability. Torreya grandis total polyphenols could effectively neutralize ABTS and hydroxyl radicals in vitro. Conclusion: This study optimized the UMSE process parameters for the extraction of total polyphenols from Torreya grandis and evaluated their in vitro antioxidant activity, providing supporting data and a technical reference for the development of Torreya grandis as a functional food.
Introduction: Acute diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration are symptoms of gastroenteritis, a common gastrointestinal illness. The main goals of conventional management are rehydration and symptomatic relief, which frequently ignore lifestyle and holistic factors that affect recovery and recurrence. The purpose of this study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of an integrated naturopathic approach on gastroenteritis participant’s quality of life and symptom control. Methods: 42 adults with a clinical diagnosis of gastroenteritis participated in this observational clinical study, which was carried out at the Patanjali Wellness Centre in Haridwar. A multimodal intervention consisting of naturopathic treatments, dietary changes, yoga, and specific Ayurvedic herbal formulations was administered to the participants. At baseline and during follow-up, clinical symptoms, hydration status, and quality of life were evaluated using validated tools, such as the Digestion-associated Quality of Life Questionnaire (DQLQ) and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Questionnaire (GQLQ). Results prior to and following the intervention were compared statistically. Results: During the span of the 90-day follow-up period, significant improvements were observed in stool frequency, nausea, abdominal pain, hydration, and overall well-being. All follow-up points showed a statistically significant decrease in mean clinical scores (p<0.0001), in accordance with repeated-measures analysis. There were no reported adverse events Discussion: The results demonstrate the reliability, accessibility, and possible effectiveness of an integrated naturopathic regimen in reducing symptoms of gastroenteritis while improving day-to-day functioning. However, definitive conclusions are limited by the absence of a control group and the reliance on symptom-based measures Conclusion: An integrative approach combining naturopathy, yoga, diet therapy, and Ayurveda may offer supportive benefits in gastroenteritis management. Larger randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these preliminary observations.
Introduction Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine condition affecting women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS need a precise dietary assessment tool to assess dietary patterns because it is critical for nutritional therapy in these women, but dietary tools that are culturally validated are scarce. The current study aims to develop a psychometrically validated and culturally appropriate dietary assessment tool for capturing dietary patterns in Pakistani women with PCOS. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted for 250 reproductive-aged PCOS women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A repeated 24-hour recalls for three alternative days were used to create a 90-item FFQ. Dietary patterns were extracted from FFQ by using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with PCA and SEM was employed to assess the factor structure in confirmatory factor analysis. However, internal consistency was evaluated through Cronbach's alpha. Results The PCA extracted three distinct dietary patterns, including anti-inflammatory, energy-dense, and protein-dominant, that explained 47% of the total variance. A good model fit (CMIN/DF = 1.6, GFI = 0.91, AGFI = 0.89, CFI = 0.92, and RMSEA = 0.04) was confirmed by SEM analysis. The findings of Cronbach's alpha: 0.71-0.80 depict strong internal consistency across dietary patterns identified by FFQ, indicating its reliability and construct validity. Discussion The findings of the current study illustrate that the FFQ shows acceptable model fit indices and internal consistency, signifying its appropriateness for assessing dietary patterns in women with PCOS. Moreover, future studies should include longitudinal studies, analyze test-retest reliability, and compare the FFQ to objective biomarkers to increase its validity and generalizability. Conclusion The recently developed FFQ is a valid and reliable tool for capturing region-specific dietary tendencies in PCOS women. The application of this FFQ can enhance nutritional evaluation in clinical practice and encourage ethnically relevant nutrition research and interventions in a parallel population.
Introduction/Objective Fish are a rich source of lipids, particularly omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which are known to reduce cardiovascular disease risk and support human health. Processing of fish generates significant by-products, including heads, viscera, and tails, which contain recoverable lipids. Conventional extraction methods often involve high temperatures and toxic solvents, compromising lipid bioactivity and safety. This study aimed to optimize enzymatic hydrolysis using Alcalase (R) for lipid recovery from sardine (Sardinella spp.) processing wastes and to evaluate the quality and biological activities of the refined oil.Methods Oil extraction was optimized using a central composite design of response surface methodology (RSM) with three independent variables: hydrolysis time, enzyme concentration, and temperature. Recovered oil was refined through degumming, neutralization, bleaching, and deodorization. The refined oil was analyzed for physicochemical quality parameters, fatty acid profile, and bioactivities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.Results Optimal hydrolysis conditions were 3 h, 0.80% enzyme concentration, and 57.5 degrees C, yielding 8.74% +/- 0.12 crude oil. Refining improved key quality indices, including peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, free fatty acids, fatty acid composition, and color, while retaining PUFA content. EPA and DHA concentrations increased to approximately 52-59%. Refined oil exhibited notable bioactivities such as DPPH scavenging activity (23.47-55.97%), cyclooxygenase-2 inhibition (26.38-81.94%), 5-lipoxygenase inhibition (22.51-70.41%), and protein denaturation inhibition (34.9-89.6%).Discussions Results of the study revealed that using RSM in optimizing enzymatic conditions resulted in maximum oil recovery. Oil yield was affected by the interactive effects of the hydrolysis time and temperature, and enzyme concentration. Increasing the extraction time and enzyme concentration enhanced oil yield up to the optimum point. Refining the extracted oil removed impurities and oxidation products without reducing PUFA levels, thereby increasing biological activities.Conclusions Enzymatic hydrolysis and subsequent refining of sardine processing waste efficiently recover bioactive lipids with retained PUFA content. The refined oil demonstrates significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, highlighting its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic drugs and as a sustainable source of functional ingredients for nutraceutical and functional food applications.
Introduction The gut microbiota has been linked to metabolism and immune regulation, and its relevance to performance is now being explored. Prebiotic- and probiotic-rich diets are commonly used in practice to support gut health, but their effects in elite strength athletes are still not well characterized. This case report presents a five-week, pre-post case study describing microbiota changes during a structured food-based intervention in a high-performance weightlifter. Case Presentation A high-performance male weightlifter completed a five-week dietary intervention enriched with prebiotic and probiotic components, including resistant starch sources (oats, legumes, cold potatoes), fermented foods (kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut), and fiber-rich vegetables (broccoli, spinach, beets). Fecal samples were collected before and after the intervention. Samples were profiled by 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V3-V4, Illumina MiSeq), and taxa were assigned with SILVA 138.1; alpha- and beta-diversity were summarized with standard metrics. The intervention was associated with a shift in community composition, showing an increased relative abundance of butyrate- and propionate-producing taxa (Faecalibacterium, Bifidobacterium, Phascolarctobacterium, Sutterella, Lacticaseibacillus) and a reduction in pro-inflammatory and methanogenic groups (Howardella, Bilophila, Methanobrevibacter). Bray-Curtis distances separated pre- and post-intervention profiles, indicating distinct community structures after the diet.Case Presentation A high-performance male weightlifter completed a five-week dietary intervention enriched with prebiotic and probiotic components, including resistant starch sources (oats, legumes, cold potatoes), fermented foods (kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut), and fiber-rich vegetables (broccoli, spinach, beets). Fecal samples were collected before and after the intervention. Samples were profiled by 16S rRNA gene sequencing (V3-V4, Illumina MiSeq), and taxa were assigned with SILVA 138.1; alpha- and beta-diversity were summarized with standard metrics. The intervention was associated with a shift in community composition, showing an increased relative abundance of butyrate- and propionate-producing taxa (Faecalibacterium, Bifidobacterium, Phascolarctobacterium, Sutterella, Lacticaseibacillus) and a reduction in pro-inflammatory and methanogenic groups (Howardella, Bilophila, Methanobrevibacter). Bray-Curtis distances separated pre- and post-intervention profiles, indicating distinct community structures after the diet. Conclusion This case report illustrates that a short-term, food-based prebiotic- and probiotic-enriched diet may lead to detectable changes in microbiota composition over a short timeframe in a weightlifter. The observed shifts toward short-chain fatty acid-producing and anti-inflammatory taxa suggest a potential role for targeted dietary strategies in supporting gut microbial balance and metabolic resilience during intensive training of the athlete. In the case report, causal inference is limited, and findings may not generalize to other athletes; we highlight the need for controlled, longitudinal studies in larger athletic cohorts.
Introduction: The objectives of the present study were to isolate and identify lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from locally sourced shalgam and traditional Turkish fermented cheese to evaluate their safety and probiotic potential. Materials and Methods: A total of 51 bacterial isolates were obtained from these two sources, and 33 were identified using RAPD PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing. Five of the identified strains were selected for further characterization. Safety assessments included antibiotic susceptibility testing and evaluation of their ability to produce deoxyribonuclease and gelatinase. The probiotic potential was examined using colorectal cell culture models by assessing their ability to adhere to and colonize the intestinal epithelium, as well as their resistance to bile salts and their tolerance to low pH. Results: The antibiotic resistance observed in all strains was determined to be intrinsic, and none of the isolates produced deoxyribonuclease or gelatinase. All five strains showed higher viability at pH 3 compared to pH 2. Furthermore, in gastric juice and simulated intestinal fluid resistance studies, viability rates above 80% were observed. Considering five strains, 0.5% bile salt, viability ranged from 6.67 to 8.00 log10 CFU/mL. 1% bile salts was observed in the range from 2.55 to 8.40 log10 CFU/mL. Discussion: The selected five probiotic strains stood out in terms of probiotic properties compared to other strains. Conclusion: These findings suggest their potential as safe, locally derived probiotic candidates for functional food development.
Introduction Baccharoides anthelmintica (L.) Moench, synonym Vernonia anthelmintica, is an annual herb of the family Asteraceae, traditionally employed in Indigenous medical systems for the treatment of skin ailments, neurological disorders, renal and hepatic diseases, and cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the proximate composition, functional properties, phytochemical profile, phenolic constituents, and antioxidant potential of seed samples of B. anthelmintica collected from the Uttarakhand region, India.Methods Proximate and functional properties were assessed following standard protocols. Antinutritional factors, namely tannins, saponins, oxalates, and phytates, were quantified. Amino acid profiling, mineral estimation, and phenolic analysis were performed using UHPLC. Ethanolic extracts were prepared by maceration and microwave-assisted extraction, whereas the essential oil was obtained by hydro-distillation. Chemical characterisation of extracts and oil was carried out using GC-MS. Antioxidant activity was determined using ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays.Results Analysis revealed that B. anthelmintica seeds were nutrient-dense, with saponins (1.20 +/- 0.27 mg/g) constituting the prominent antinutrient. Amino acid content ranged between 0.06 +/- 0.03% and 3.02 +/- 0.03%, while mineral content varied from 0.03 +/- 0.02% to 570.33 +/- 2.22%. GC-MS analysis identified epoxytetradecen-1-ol acetate, linoleic acid, methyl octadecadienol, and elaidic acid as the major constituents; dimethyl chromene (34%) was the dominant constituent in the essential oil. Antioxidant assays of macerated extracts showed activities of 71.04-78.67% (ABTS), 55.10-65.29% (DPPH), and 56.52-61.86 & micro;M AAE/g (FRAP), whereas microwave-assisted extracts exhibited comparatively higher activities: 73.28-94.68% (ABTS), 67.12-78.64% (DPPH), and 48.70-110.95 & micro;M AAE/g (FRAP).Discussion The study demonstrates that B. anthelmintica seeds possess significant nutritional and phytochemical properties, as well as strong antioxidant potential. Despite the presence of saponins as antinutritional factors, the abundance of bioactive compounds and minerals confers therapeutic importance. The extraction approach influenced bioactive recovery, with microwave-assisted methods yielding higher antioxidant activity than maceration. The predominance of dimethyl chromene in essential oil highlights its potential as a pharmaceutically relevant metabolite.Conclusion Seeds of B. anthelmintica possess promising nutritional and pharmacological value, consistent with their ethnomedicinal applications. These findings contribute to the valorisation of indigenous plant resources, support sustainable agricultural practices, and advance the Sustainable Development Goals. Further studies are required to elucidate their therapeutic efficacy and mechanisms of action.
Introduction: Pancreatic steatosis (PS) is increasingly recognized as a metabolic condition with potential links to diabetes and pancreatic cancer. Dietary fat composition may play a critical role in its development. This study investigated the association between dietary fat intake and the risk of PS. Methods: In this case-control study, 278 patients with gallstones were enrolled, of whom 89 were diagnosed with PS using endoscopic ultrasonography. Dietary fat intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Logistic regression was applied to estimate odds ratios (ORs) across tertiles of fat intake, adjusting for age, sex, BMI, and energy intake. Results: In crude analyses, total fat intake was not significantly associated with PS. After adjustment, total fat intake showed a significant positive association. Cholesterol intake was linked to a four-fold higher risk (OR: 4.27, 95% CI 2.1-8.5, P-trend = 0.001) and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) to a three-fold higher risk (OR: 3, 95% CI 1.5-6, P-trend = 0.002). Moderate intake of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) appeared protective. No significant association was observed for total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), but n-3 PUFAs showed an inverse association, whereas n-6 PUFAs showed a direct association with PS risk. Discussion: These findings suggest that dietary fat composition, rather than total fat alone, is associated with PS. The observed associations highlight the importance of distinguishing between fat subtypes in pancreatic health. Conclusion: Excessive intake of SFAs, n-6 PUFAs, cholesterol, and total fat increases PS risk, whereas MUFAs and n-3 PUFAs may be protective. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm these associations and clarify causal pathways.
Background AI has become an effective tool for optimizing new food formulations and has been applied in the development of several products.Objective This study explored the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in predicting optimal formulations for Compact Chocolate Bars (CCBs), focusing on sensory and physicochemical analyses to meet nutritional needs during crisis scenarios, such as natural disasters and military operations.Methods My Chef AI was used to formulate four different treatments incorporating apricots, black raisins, dates, and cranberries. The sensory evaluation was performed on the four treatments, and physicochemical analysis was performed for the best-scoring treatment.Results The treatment incorporating black raisins has the highest sensorial score across age and gender groups. Furthermore, the newly developed CCBs met the RDA for energy, Protein, Carbohydrates, Fat, and iron content, but fell short of the RDA for sodium, calcium, and magnesium.Discussion The AI-predicted formulation of CCBs has demonstrated promising results in terms of sensory evaluation, raw material selection, and product optimization. However, a larger population study to assess sensorial analysis and mineral micronutrient adjustments should be further investigated.Conclusion Formulations incorporating a blend of dried fruits not only enhanced the nutritional profile but also improved sensory acceptance. Furthermore, physicochemical analysis demonstrated the stability of selected formulations under varying environmental conditions and their relatively small size, making them suitable for emergency food supplies. This research highlights the potential of AI-driven approaches in food technology to develop innovative CCBs that effectively meet dietary needs in crisis situations.
Introduction Circadian desynchronization occurs when rapid transmeridian travel disrupts the body's internal clock and gut-brain axis. This study evaluates the cytotoxicity, microbial stability, and sensory acceptability of a synbiotic formulation combining pearl millet, Carica papaya pulp, and selected probiotic strains. Materials and Methods Ten synbiotic formulations were developed containing Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Pediococcus acidilactici. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay on Vero cell lines. Microbial stability was evaluated over 60 days by measuring total bacterial count (TBC), total yeast and mold count (TYMC), and the presence of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli. Sensory evaluation was performed by a semi-trained panel (n = 10). Statistical analysis included ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range Test (p < 0.05). Principal component analysis (PCA) and 3D response surface plots were used to interpret microbial trends. Results The MTT assay indicated that all formulations were safe, with IC50 values ranging from 101.3 to 290.5 & micro;g/mL; formulation F3 was the least cytotoxic. Triple-strain formulations received the highest sensory scores. TBC increased significantly by day 60 (from 2.7 & times; 103 to 7.09 & times; 104 CFU/mL), particularly in F1 and F2. TYMC and E. coli were absent throughout storage, whereas Salmonella appeared from day 30, with F2 showing the highest count. Formulation F3 demonstrated optimal microbial safety, probiotic viability, and low toxicity. Discussion These findings highlight the potential of plant-based synbiotics to modulate circadian rhythms via the gut-brain axis. The F3 formulation may support gastrointestinal function, and plant-based diets, prebiotics, or probiotics could beneficially modulate microbial populations and circadian regulation in high-risk groups. Conclusion The F3 synbiotic formulation demonstrated optimal safety, stability, and sensory acceptability, making it a promising intervention for supporting circadian rhythm alignment during transmeridian travel. Plant-based synbiotics may serve as effective dietary strategies to enhance gut health and circadian synchronization.
Introduction/ Objective: Gut wellness is becoming the postulate of overall well-being that promotes digestion, immunity, and mental health. Although awareness among the population has increased, it is not matched with evidence-based practice, especially in Indian communities. The research aimed to assess the level of knowledge, perceptions, and behaviours on gut health with special attention to the integration of dietary supplements in two metropolitan cities in India, Mumbai and Chandigarh. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey comprising a 20-item Likert-scale instrument was conducted; 110 participants participated. The questionnaire encompassed the gut health awareness, perceptions of diet therapy, and willingness to adopt supplements. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, student t-tests, and Pearson correlation were employed using MINITAB 17. Results: The study revealed a moderate level of awareness of gut health concepts, with a high level of agreement in the roles of digestion, but limited knowledge of prebiotics and the diversity of the microbiome. A significant correlation was found between perceptions of gut health roles and functions of diet in gut health, with perceptions and willingness of supplement adoption (p = 0.000). We found no significant associations between knowledge level and demographic factors, with the exception of gender. Discussion: Results indicate that there is a gap in understanding and behaviour of gut health. Although awareness exists, there exist a lot of misconceptions, especially about the role of probiotics and dietary interventions.Conclusion Targeted educational programs and culturally relevant public health interventions are essential to bridge this gap and promote evidence-based use of supplements in urban India.
Introduction: Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide, including in Indonesia. Vitamin D deficiency is frequently observed among breast cancer patients. Recent evidence has revealed the potential role of vitamin D in regulating tumor cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Moreover, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased cancer risk and poorer clinical outcomes in breast cancer. This study aims to determine the frequency and prognostic significance of vitamin D deficiency in Indonesian women with breast cancer. Methods: A prospective study was conducted involving 123 women diagnosed with primary, nonmetastatic invasive breast cancer. Serum 25(OH)D levels were measured at diagnosis, prior to any treatment, using the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) method. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum levels below 20 ng/mL. Results: The median serum vitamin D level was 19.9 ng/mL (range: 5.7-35.1). Vitamin D deficiency was identified in 65 patients (52.8%). It was significantly associated with higher tumor grade (p = 0.037), lymph node involvement (p = 0.012), larger tumor size (p = 0.041), more advanced clinical stage (p = 0.049), and positive expression of estrogen receptor (ER) (p = 0.034) and HER2 (p = 0.014). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that patients with vitamin D deficiency had a significantly shorter time to breast cancer recurrence (20.11 +/- 0.91 months; p = 0.048). Multivariate Cox regression confirmed vitamin D deficiency as an independent predictor of shorter time to breast cancer recurrence (HR: 3.19; 95% CI: 1.178-8.660; p = 0.023).Discussion These findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency may serve as a modifiable prognostic biomarker in breast cancer. Its association with aggressive tumor characteristics and shorter time to breast cancer recurrence highlight the potential value of assessing and correcting vitamin D status as part of breast cancer management, especially in Indonesian population. Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is common among Indonesian women with breast cancer and independently associated with multiple poor prognostic indicators and shorter time to reccurence.
Background Adolescents' beverage consumption habits are crucial for their overall diet and health. The preference for sugary drinks has become a growing concern due to their potential health impacts. Understanding these patterns and their influencing factors provides valuable insights into the dietary behaviors of this age group.Objectives This study aims to examine the beverage consumption habits of adolescents, with a specific focus on their preferences for sugary drinks and the relationship between these preferences and sociodemographic characteristics.Methods In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from 341 adolescents aged 14-18 years by face-to-face interview method.Results It was observed that 72.4% of the participants stated that they consumed sugary drinks with meals and this consumption was mostly concentrated in the evening meal. It was observed that girls consumed more sugary drinks than boys. Increased screen time significantly increased the frequency of sugary drink consumption. It was found that children of parents with higher education levels consumed less sugary drinks. The most preferred beverages of adolescents after water consumption were cola, ayran and tea. Beverage preferences affected the BMI of adolescents, and it was found that participants with normal BMI drank less ayran, fruit juice, lemonade, cola, soda, fruity soda, iced tea, Turkish coffee, and hot chocolate.Conclusion Factors that increase the consumption of sugary drinks by adolescents may affect the food preferences and eating habits of these individuals in later ages. Therefore, promoting healthy beverage habits and increasing awareness are of great importance for the long-term health of adolescents.
Introduction Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is the most common cause of drug-induced osteoporosis. The impact of PSAE on the GIOP remains uncertain. Consequently, this study aimed to examine the protective effects of PSAE against osteoporosis induced by dexamethasone in glucocorticoid-treated rats.Methods A total of 50 3-month-old female SD rats were randomly divided into blank, model, low-dose PSAE, high-dose PSAE, and PSAE control groups. Serum phosphorus, calcium, Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), and Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b) activities were measured by a detection kit, respectively. The femoral bone density, microstructure, tissue pathology, and biomechanical properties changes were measured by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry, Micro-computed tomography, HE staining, and Bone Compression Mechanics Experiment, respectively. Finally, the expression of OPG, RANKL, and RANK mRNA and protein in bone tissue was detected by qPCR and WB.Results Compared with the model group, PSAE significantly increased the BMD value (20.5% in LPSAE and 12.1% in HPSAE), increased the maximal stress and maximal loading values of the bone tissues (44.3% in LPSAE), significantly decreased the expression of RANKL gene and protein (52.6%, 54.5% in LPSAE), differentially decreased the expression of RANK gene and protein, and simultaneously increased the expression of OPG protein.Discussion The results indicate that PSAE improved osteoporosis pathology and bone microarchitecture, and suggest that it functions through the OPG/RANKL/RANK signaling pathway.Conclusion PSAE ameliorated dexamethasone-induced osteoporosis in rats, which may be related to the involvement of PSAE in regulating the homeostasis of bone metabolism and further inhibiting the role of osteoclast differentiation mediated by the OPG/RANKL/RANK signaling pathway.
Introduction The longevity gene-associated Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD)-dependent sirtuin plays an important role in genomic stability, antioxidant potential, DNA repair, and mitochondrial and energy metabolism. Since tuna meat is known to contain NAD precursors, we postulate that it may increase sirtuin levels in human cells. Methods We investigated in vitro whether tuna meat regulates mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs). Mitochondrial NAD activity, sirtuin expression, energy production, and antioxidant activity in PBMCs were analyzed after the in vitro treatment of cells with a digestive enzyme tuna hydrolysate, hot water tuna extract, or control. In a clinical study, 84 healthy volunteers consumed edible tuna meat three times a week for three weeks, and the level of sirtuin 2 in PBMCs was analyzed. Results Both digestive enzyme tuna hydrolysate and hot water tuna extract significantly increased NAD level, sirtuin 1 and 2 expression, and mitochondrial ATP production in PBMCs. Tuna hydrolysates showed high antioxidant capacity in vitro. In the clinical study, in the group that consumed 80 to 120 grams of tuna, sirtuin 2 levels in PBMCs were significantly increased by approximately 2-fold after consuming tuna meat for 3 weeks compared to the initial stage. Discussion Our present study indicates that tuna may enhance longevity gene-related sirtuin activity, its associated mitochondrial activity, and anti-oxidative potential in PBMCs. Conclusion Our studies underscore the benefits of tuna meat as a dietary choice and provide scientific support for the promotion of healthy ageing.
