Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a serious health care challenge. The authors evaluated the effect of garlic powder supplementation on appetite control and cardiometabolic indices in patients with NAFLD. Methods: This double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted for 12 weeks in ninety patients with NAFLD. The participants were randomly assigned to receive 1600 mg/d garlic powder (treatment group) or 1600 mg/d starch (placebo group). Appetite and cardiometabolic indices such as atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), castelli risk index II (CRI-II), atherogenic coefficient (AC), and cardiometabolic index (CMI) were assessed at baseline, middle and after intervention. Results: A total of 88 participants completed the trial. No difference was found between groups in baseline values of appetite parameters, AIP, AC and CMI. Only CRI-II was significantly higher in the treatment group (P=0.01). After intervention, the treatment group compared to the placebo group showed significant improvements in hunger (P<0.001), fullness (P=0.001), desire to eat (P=0.002), ability to eat (P<0.001), AIP (P<0.001), CRI-II (P<0.001), AC (P<0.001), and CMI (P<0.001). Conclusions: Garlic improves appetite and cardiometabolic indices.
Background and ObjectiveAlterations in blood cell parameters are closely associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Metabolic status may contribute to regulating blood cell parameters. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of blood cell parameters with dietary macronutrient intake and metabolic status (lipid profile and glycemic indices) in patients with MASLD.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 150 patients newly diagnosed with MASLD. The dietary intake of participants was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Hematological parameters were measured using an automated cell counter. Serum lipid (triglyceride [TG], total cholesterol [T.Chol], high- and low-density lipoprotein [HDL and LDL], TG/HDL, and T.Chol/HDL) and glycemic factors (fasting blood glucose [FBG] and hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) were measured by biochemical autoanalyzers and enzymatic assay kits.ResultsHigher dietary carbohydrate intake was positively linked, while fat negatively linked to white blood cell (WBC) count. Total energy intake inversely correlated with hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) levels. Lipid parameters exhibited predominantly positive correlations with several hematological factors, although some demonstrated negative associations. Glycemic indices (FBG and HbA1c) positively correlated with liver enzymes.ConclusionThe findings suggest that macronutrient composition and total energy intake are associated with immune function and hematological parameters, highlighting a potential link between dietary patterns and systemic health. Lipid metabolism may also be correlated with hematological regulation. Impaired glucose metabolism may be linked to hepatic enzyme activity and overall liver health.
Introduction: The relationship between Dietary Diversity Score (DDS) and obesity remains unclear, with previous studies reporting conflicting results across populations and dietary contexts. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the association between DDS and obesity indices, including Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist Circumference (WC), and abdominal obesity, among adults. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase up to December 2025, with no time restrictions. Observational studies assessing the association between DDS and anthropometric indices in adults were included. Data were pooled using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Subgroup analyses were performed according to sex, country, sample size, and DDS assessment method. Results: There were 27 studies in all, including 11,308 adults from 16 different nations. To calculate DDS, the majority of studies either used a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) or 24-hour dietary recalls. While there was a little positive correlation between DDS and overweight, the pooled effect size showed no meaningful correlation between DDS and obesity. Abdominal obesity and DDS were not shown to be significantly correlated. Studies showed a high degree of heterogeneity, which can be partially attributed to variations in sex, geography, and DDS assessment instruments. Discussion: The findings suggest that dietary diversity alone may not protect against obesity and could be associated with increased energy intake in some populations. Variations in dietary patterns, food quality, and DDS assessment methods may explain the inconsistent associations observed across studies. Conclusion: Higher DDS was not significantly associated with obesity or abdominal obesity, but showed a small positive association with overweight. These findings suggest that while dietary diversity reflects nutritional adequacy, it may also contribute to higher energy intake and body weight in some contexts. Public health recommendations should therefore emphasize the quality rather than the quantity of dietary diversity, promoting nutrient-dense rather than energy-dense foods. Further longitudinal studies with standardized DDS assessment are needed to clarify these associations.
CONTEXT:The protective effects of vitamins on the dopaminergic neurons and against alpha-synuclein toxicity indicate their possible contribution to Parkinson disease (PD) pathogenesis. Suboptimal status of pantothenic acid could play a potential role in neurodegeneration through impairment of coenzyme A synthesis. OBJECTIVE:In this study we aimed to summarize the available evidence concerning the link between pantothenic acid and the risk of PD. DATA SOURCES:We searched the databases of PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar with no date restrictions up to June 2025 to find original published literature on the relationship between pantothenic acid and PD. DATA EXTRACTION:We eliminated duplicated or unrelated studies and critically evaluated the findings of the screened studies, summarizing them descriptively. We also investigated possible mechanistic pathways relating to the connection between pantothenic acid and the risk of PD. DATA ANALYSIS:Of the 1208 citations obtained, 19 articles (3 dietary assessments and 16 metabolomics analysis studies) were included in the final review. Two out of 3 studies showed that high dietary consumption of pantothenic acid was associated with decreased odds of PD. Of 16 studies that performed metabolomics analysis of biofluids, brain structures, and fecal samples, all studies reported the recognition of pantothenic acid as an altered metabolite in PD patients compared with controls (reduced level, n = 12; increased level, n = 2; disturbed pathway, n = 2) and the identification of pantothenic acid as a metabolite that may be useful for differentiating the PD group from the healthy group. CONCLUSION:According to most of the evidence reported in this review, reductions in pantothenic acid levels or alterations of the pantothenate-coenzyme A biosynthesis pathway may be instrumental in the etiopathology of PD.The protocol of this study was registered and approved by the Deputy for Research and Technology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (IR.TBZMED.VCR.REC.1403.090) (https://ethics.research.ac.ir/ProposalCertificateEn.php?id=479859&Print), Tabriz, Iran.
Curcumin is a natural polyphenolic compound that is believed to have the potential to treat various ailments, including depressive mood. However, studies on the anti-depressive properties of curcumin have yielded conflicting results. This meta-analysis seeks to assess the clinical benefits of curcumin for patients with depression or depressive symptoms. We systematically reviewed Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase, inception February 15, 2025, to identify studies evaluating the impact of curcumin supplementation on depression in adults. The overall effects calculated using random effects model. Nineteen RCTs were included in meta-analysis. A pooled analysis of eight studies showed a significant effect for curcumin supplementation in term of improving depression (SMD: -0.76; 95
BACKGROUND:Osteoporosis is a major global health concern characterized by reduced bone mass and structural deterioration. The RANK/RANKL/OPG signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in bone remodeling, particularly in osteoclastogenesis. Emerging evidence suggests that probiotics may modulate this pathway through the gut-bone axis, offering potential therapeutic benefits for bone loss. OBJECTIVE:This systematic review aims to evaluate the effects of probiotic supplementation on Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) in animal and human interventional studies related to osteoporotic conditions. METHODS:A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases up to June 2025. Original interventional studies published in English, including both animal and human models, were selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selection process followed PRISMA guidelines. Studies were assessed for quality by independent reviewers, and relevant data were extracted for synthesis. RESULTS:A total of 24 studies met the inclusion criteria, most using ovariectomized rodent models and two randomized controlled trials in postmenopausal women. Several probiotic strains-particularly Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus casei, and Bifidobacterium longum-significantly reduced RANKL expression in animal models, whereas human trials yielded limited or no effect on RANKL despite improvements in other bone turnover markers. CONCLUSION:Probiotic interventions appear to exert beneficial effects on bone metabolism by modulating RANKL, particularly in estrogen-deficiency-induced osteoporosis models. However, findings from human trials remain limited and inconsistent. Further high-quality RCTs are warranted to confirm these effects and determine optimal strains, dosages, and treatment durations.
The mutation of the KRAS (Kirsten rat sarcoma virus) gene is a prevalent genetic alteration in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). According to previous research, this mutation significantly affects clinical outcomes and quality of life (QOL). This research investigated the association between KRAS mutant status and various aspects of QOL in mCRC patients. This case-control study involved 90 admitted patients with mCRC. The patients were either mCRC with positive KRAS mutants (case group) or those without the mutation (control group). The KRAS mutation status of each patient was determined using standard molecular testing. The QOL was evaluated through validated questionnaires from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), including QLQ-C30 and the QLQ-CR29 questionnaire for colorectal cancer patients. Differences in QOL between the groups and the association of QOL with the odds of KRAS mutation were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. Patients in the wild-type KRAS group had significantly higher scores on the global health status (GHS) of the QLQ-C30 scale compared to those with a KRAS mutation [(64.26 ± 4.63 vs. 49.63 ± 4, crude; p = 0.019, adjusted; p = 0.024). The mean score of the social functioning scale of the KRAS mutation group was significantly higher than the wild-type [(40 ± 5.84 vs. 24.81 ± 4.39, crude; p = 0.040, adjusted; p = 0.021)]. Based on the QLQ-CR29 questionnaire, average QOL scores were suboptimal for both groups but insignificant. Further, both crude and adjusted analyses showed that KRAS mutation odds were significantly linked to improved social functioning [(crude; OR = 1.013; P = 0.044), (adjusted; OR = 1.017; P = 0.019)] and negatively associated with GHS [(crude; OR = 0.983; P = 0.022), (adjusted; OR = 0.982; P = 0.022)]. The study revealed a low QOL in mCRC, a notable difference in social functioning, and the GHS among patients with and without mutations. Further research is needed to develop targeted interventions to enhance QOL in patients with KRAS mutation.
Lutein belongs to the carotenoid family of xanthophylls, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to comprehensively review the interactions between lutein and critical cellular processes that influence cancer progression. A search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Google, was conducted for the keywords "cancer or tumor or neoplasm or carcinoma" and "lutein" in the titles or abstracts of published research. A total of 47 studies were reviewed, and it was shown that lutein reduced estrogen receptors (2 out of 4 studies), DNA damage (4 out of 8 studies), cancer cell survival (1 out of 1 studies), growth (7 out of 7 studies), and proliferation (19 out of 19 studies) as well as cancer cell invasion, migration, metastasis, and adhesion (2 out of 2 studies), but induced apoptosis (17 out of 17 studies) and cell differentiation (1 out of 1 studies). According to this review, lutein may be effective in suppressing cellular processes involved in cancer progression through a variety of mechanisms.
Objectives This study investigated the relationship between metabolic factors (blood lipids and glucose) and inflammatory indicators (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α] and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]), disease activity, and the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk. Methods Serum fasting blood glucose (FBG) and lipid profiles—including total cholesterol (Chol), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein—were measured in 100 RA patients and 100 healthy individuals. Disease severity was assessed using the disease activity score 28. Inflammatory indicators (TNF-α and hs-CRP) were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results In RA patients, serum FBG, TG, Chol/HDL, and TG/HDL were significantly elevated, whereas HDL levels reduced compared to healthy individuals. Multivariate analysis indicated that each unit increase in serum FBG, HDL, Chol/HDL, and TG/HDL was associated with a 64% increase (p<0.001), a 7% reduction (p=0.001), a 52% increase (p=0.007), and a 54% increase (p=0.001) in the odds of RA, respectively. Disease activity showed no correlation with metabolic factors (p>0.05). Among all metabolic factors studied, FBG had the largest area under the curve (0.981) (p<0.0001) for predicting RA. Across the total participant group, FBG, TG, and TG/HDL were positively associated with hs-CRP and TNF-α (p<0.05). HDL showed an inverse association with hs-CRP (p=0.008). Among RA patients specifically, TNF-α positively correlated with TG and TG/HDL, while hs-CRP correlated only with TG/HDL. Conclusion These findings indicate that increased FBG and Chol/HDL and decreased HDL may elevate RA risk by promoting systemic inflammation. Among these, elevated FBG may serve as the strongest predictor of RA risk.
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, represents a prevalent condition ranging from simple steatosis to advanced stages associated with liver cancer. Asymptomatic presentation in the majority of cases underscores the need for non-invasive, cost-effective methods to stratify degree of hepatic steatosis. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between obesity and lipid-related indices with the degree of hepatic steatosis in MASLD patients. 150 individuals recently diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease were recruited. Anthropometric measurements, including weight, height, and waist circumference (WC), were taken, alongside biochemical parameters such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total cholesterol, triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and fasting plasma glucose, following a 12-h fasting period. Various indicators of obesity and lipid metabolism, including body mass index, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), a body shape index, lipid accumulation product (LAP), triglyceride-glucose index (TyG), visceral adiposity index, and hepatic steatosis index (HSI), were calculated. The diagnosis of MASLD and degree of hepatic steatosis were established through abdominal ultrasound examination. Data analysis was performed utilizing SPSS version 22. All the investigated indices displayed an area under the curve (AUC) surpassing 0.5, implying a correlation with the degree of hepatic steatosis. Notably, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR, LAP, and a cardiometabolic obesity index showed the highest AUC values (> 0.7), indicating a relatively strong association with degree of hepatic steatosis. Specifically, in females, TyG-WC (AUC = 0.797, 95% CI 0.712–0.882, threshold = 865.991), while in males, LAP (AUC = 0.746, 95% CI 0.593–0.899, threshold = 74.290), demonstrated the highest AUC values. TyG-WHtR, TyG-WC, and LAP exhibited significant correlations with the degree of hepatic steatosis. Given their non-invasive nature and easy measurement, they hold promise for potential clinical utility, pending validation in additional studies.
In the present study, the production of an active chitosan (CH) based films reinforced with cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and lignocellulose nanofibers (LCNF) was used to the control release of Carum copticum (CEO)/Origanum vulgare ssp. gracile essential oil (GEO) compounds from packaging materials into food. The biodegradability of produced films was studied for 12 months at 25 °C. The effect of temperature and film structure on the release kinetics of essential oils (EOs) from the active films into different food simulants was investigated. The rate of degradation and decrease in molecular weight of pure CH increased significantly (p < 0.05) in all storage period, so that the amount of weight loss was reached to 61.25 % for the control film after 12 months of burying. In general, the rate of migration of EOs from active films at all three temperatures is higher than that of active nanofibers. In general, the peroxide content of all oil samples increased significantly (p < 0.05) during 2 months of storage at 25 °C. In general, it can be stated that nanofibers containing 5 % EO are significantly able to maintain the freshness of the Rapeseed oil (RSO) during storage at ambient temperature and delay oil oxidation.
Recent studies have shown that nutritional factors may contribute to KRAS gene mutation. This study aims to explore the association between dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) and KRAS mutant status in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). This case-control study was conducted on 90 patients with mCRC. Participants’ dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) of 147 items. The ferric-reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) method was used to determine DTAC. Multivariate analysis evaluated diet by DTAC categories, and Logistic regression examined the relationship between DTAC and KRAS gene mutation, adjusting for confounders. The mean DTAC was 14.10 ± 6.10 and 15.95 ± 8.52 for case and controls, respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.300). An inverse, but non-significant, association was observed between a higher score of DTAC and odds of KRAS mutation [(crude; OR = 0.640, 95
Background: The optimal protein intake for critically ill patients remains uncertain. This systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effect of high-protein nutritional support on clinical outcomes in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing high- versus low-protein nutrition in critically ill adults with similar energy intake were identified through PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus (up to June 2023). A random-effects model was used to pool risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Linear and non-linear trends were assessed using the one-stage cubic spline regression model. Results: Twenty-three RCTs were included. The summary RR was 0.83 (95% CI: 0.64–1.08; I2=63.6%; n=17) for mortality and 1.05 (95% CI: 0.88–1.25; I2=0%; n=7) for infections. The summary MD was -0.23% (-0.76 to 0.29, I2=5.6%, n=14) for mechanical ventilation days, -0.40 (-1.11 to 0.32, I2=0%, n=17) for ICU days, 0.73 (-1.11 to 2.58, I2=6%, n=10) for hospital days, and -3.44 (-4.99 to -1.90; I2=16.4%; n=5) for muscle atrophy. There was no evidence of linear or nonlinear trends. Conclusion: Although higher protein intake had no significant effect on mortality or length of stay, it was associated with reduced muscle wasting. This suggests a potential role in preserving lean mass and supporting long-term functional recovery. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO CRD42024480303.
Background and aims: Adopting preventive measures, such as a heart-healthy diet abundant in legumes and dietary fibers, is essential for managing risk factors associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this investigation was to elucidate the relationship between the dietary intake of macronutrients, legumes, fibers, and serum levels of paraoxonase-1 (PON1)—an enzyme known for its protective role against CAD—in patients diagnosed with CAD. Methods: In this cross-sectional research, 102 CAD patients and 60 healthy controls were recruited. CAD was diagnosed through angiography, and dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Serum PON1 levels were measured using an ELISA method. Results: The dietary intakes of fats, lentils, broad beans, and fibers were significantly lower in the patients than in the healthy group. In multivariate analysis, each unit increase in dietary protein, soluble and insoluble fibers intake was associated with 4 % (p = 0.03), 82 % (p = 0.05), and 35 % (p = 0.02) reduced odds of CAD, respectively. The high dietary intake of carbohydrates was inversely associated, but fats (total, saturated, and MUFA) and lentils were positively associated with serum PON1 levels. Conclusion: These results highlight the importance of dietary choices in influencing cardiovascular health, suggesting that incorporating lentils in the diet, increasing fiber intake, using the correct proportions of different fats (saturated or unsaturated), and moderating carbohydrate consumption may be beneficial for maintaining optimal heart health.
This study was conducted to generate and investigate the structural characteristics and antioxidant properties of a nano-composite film produced from Vicia ervilia protein (VEPI)—Launaea acanthodes gum (LAG). The film containing Silybum marianum extract microcapsules (SMEM) at varying volumes (0, 2.2, 7.5, 12.8, 15 v/v) along with different concentrations of graphene oxide nanoparticles (GONPs) (0, 0.6, 2.0, 3.4, 4.0 w/v). The thickness, solubility, and moisture content of the film samples increased after the integration of SMEM and GONPs (P < 0.05). Fourier-transform infrared analysis of the film sample based on VEPI/LAG/SMEM/GONPs showed proper interactions, including electrostatic interaction between these materials. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a lower degree of crystallinity in the nano-composite film by adding GONPs and SMEM. The Differential scanning calorimetry analysis conducted on the composite and optimized films, integrating SMEM and GONPs, revealed an elevation in both the glass transition temperature and the thermal degradation temperature compared to the blank sample. The results obtained from Field emission scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the type and quantity of variables significantly influenced the surface morphology of the films, leading to the formation of cracks and pores in the film. Furthermore, the findings regarding antimicrobial activity demonstrated that the nanocomposite film, incorporating SMEM and GONPs, exhibited antimicrobial properties against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. According to our result VEPI/LAG/SMEM/GONPs nanocomposite film possess potential to be used as environment friendly packaging films to improve shelf life of food.
Background:An accurate assessment of food intake is necessary to monitor nutritional status. However, differences in cultures and dietary habits between communities make it necessary to create culturally specific tools to evaluate food intake. This study aimed to develop and validate a short food frequency questionnaire (SH-FFQ) in Iranian adults. Methods:This perspective longitudinal study was conducted during four months. A total of 135 healthy adults over 18 years (both of sex) were included. The 24-hour dietary recalls (24-HDRs) (three times per month: A total of 12 numbers) were collected as reference for validation of SH-FFQ. Participants completed two SH-FFQ, once at the end of the fourth month for validity, and the second one week after the first administration for reliability assessing. Results:Reliability analysis showed that the mean difference between the two SH-FFQs was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). None of the correlation coefficients (rs) were less than 0.4. There was a substantial or perfect correlation (r > 0.6) in 85.1% and a moderate correlation (r = 0.4-0.6) in 14.9% of food items. For validity assessment, the average values of two SH-FFQ1 and SH-FFQ2 (SH-FFQ) were compared with the average values of 24-HDRs. All of the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of between SH-FFQ and 24-HDRs were equal to or greater than 0.4 (except one item). Moderate correlation (ICC = 0.4-0.6) and substantial or perfect correlation (ICC > 0.6) were observed in 38.3% and 59.6% of food items, respectively. Conclusions:The current study showed that the developed SH-FFQ is reliable and valid in Iranian adults. This developed SH-FFQ can be used in nutritional assessments.
BACKGROUND AND AIMS:Paraoxonase (PON) proteins have various hydrolytic activities. The PON family is able to detoxify oxidized low-density lipoprotein. Additionally, differentiation of monocytes into macrophages, as the first stage in the development of atherosclerosis, is suppressed by PON 1. The effects of polyphenols including curcumin on PON1 have been investigated in studies. In this study, our main goal is to investigate curcumin's effect on PON1 protein levels, gene expression, and enzyme activity in animal interventional studies. METHODS:The literature was searched through the online databases including PubMed, SCOPUS, Embase, and Google Scholar until May 2022. RESULTS:Curcumin administration can increase the PON1 enzyme activity. Also, it probably has a positive role in increasing the PON1 gene expression. However, concerning the PON1 protein values, results are contradictory. CONCLUSIONS:The findings of this study suggested positive role of curcumin in increasing PON1 enzyme activities, gene expression, and protein levels. DATA AVAILABILITY:Data are available from the corresponding author (Kheirouris@tbzmed.ac.ir).
Abstract There is evidence that healthy diets improve the immune system and lessen the severity of infectious diseases such as COVID‐19. We have investigated whether the dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and dietary approach to stop hypertension (DASH) score could be associated with the occurrence and clinical outcomes of COVID‐19. This case–control study included 120 adults who were admitted to the hospital. Dietary TAC and DASH diet scores were determined by a 138‐item semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Inflammation‐related markers including C‐reactive protein (CRP) and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS‐2) differential were measured. Also, using chest radiology criteria, the severity of the disease was evaluated. The mean CRP values in the lowest and highest tertiles of either dietary TAC or DASH diet scores were 9.44 ± 11.26 and 3.52 ± 4.83 mg/dL (p = .003) or 9.04 ± 11.23 and 4.40 ± 6.23 mg/dL (p = .013), respectively. Individuals with higher dietary TAC were at a lower risk of COVID‐19 (OR: 0.06, p < ·0001). Individuals with greater DASH diet scores were also at decreased odds of COVID‐19 (OR: 0.12, p < ·0001). No significant associations were found between dietary TAC and DASH diet scores with severity of COVID‐19 disease, CRP, or TMPRSS‐2 (p > 0.05). The study found that adherence to a diet with higher dietary TAC and DASH diet scores may be protective against COVID‐19 and improve outcomes of the disease. More research is needed to corroborate these findings.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is a prevalent hepatic condition worldwide, is expected to develop into the leading reason for end-stage fatty liver in the forthcoming decades. Incorporating rapeseed oil into a balanced diet may be beneficial in improving NAFLD. The goal of this trial was to evaluate the impact of substituting ghee with rapeseed oil on primary outcomes such as fatty liver and liver enzymes, as well as on secondary outcomes including glycaemic variables, lipid profile and anthropometric measurements in individuals with NAFLD. Over 12 weeks, 110 patients (seventy men and forty women; BMI (mean) 28·2 (sd 1·6 kg/m2); mean age 42 (sd 9·6) years), who daily consumed ghee, were assigned to the intervention or control group through random allocation. The intervention group was advised to substitute ghee with rapeseed oil in the same amount. The control group continued the consumption of ghee and was instructed to adhere to a healthy diet. Results showed a significant reduction in the steatosis in the intervention group in comparison with the control group (P < 0·001). However, a significant change in the levels of alanine aminotransferase (–14·4 μg/l), γ-glutamyl transferase (–1·8 μg/l), TAG (–39·7 mg/dl), total cholesterol (–17·2 mg/dl), LDL (–7·5 mg/dl), fasting blood glucose (–7·5 mg/dl), insulin (–3·05 mU/l), Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (–0·9), Quantitative Insulin-Sensitivity Check Index (+0·01), weight (–4·3 kg), BMI (–0·04 kg/m2), waist (–5·6 cm) and waist:height ratio (–0·04) was seen in the intervention group. The consumption of rapeseed oil instead of ghee caused improvements in liver steatosis and enzymes, glycaemic variables and anthropometric measurements among individuals with NAFLD.