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Fat Loss Human Study Abstracts
‘Your body burns more calories after a meal with fish oil’
n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids increase thermic effect of food in men with metabolic
syndrome.
PURPOSE:
Effects on energy metabolism of a test meal and a two-week dietary intervention were
observed in men with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Both the meal and the intervention
included foods containing fish-derived n-3 polyunsaturated fats (PUFA).
METHODS:
Six men with MetS (46.7 ± 12.1 years, 37.2 ± 5.6 kg/m(2), mean ± standard deviation)
completed two test days, separated by a 14-day dietary intervention during which they
consumed at least 2.0 g per day of n-3 PUFA from supplied foods. Pre- and post-intervention
measurements included body composition, resting metabolic rate (RMR), and the thermic
effect of food (TEF) measured for six hours after ingestion of a test meal consisting of 1.43 g
of fish-derived n-3 PUFA.
RESULTS:
Intakes of n-3 PUFA increased over the 14-day intervention, from 0.43 g per day ± 0.48 to
2.92 g per day ± 1.97 (p=0.013), while no changes were observed in total energy intakes,
weight, body composition, or RMR (all p>0.05). The TEF increased by 51.3% (p=0.036), and
the non-protein respiratory quotient decreased by 36.0% (p=0.700).
CONCLUSIONS:
Subjects increased their intake of fish-derived n-3 PUFA in an isocaloric manner while
maintaining body weight and composition, and increased the TEF. More studies with larger
sample sizes and longer intervention periods are required to confirm the use of fish-derived
n-3 PUFA as a therapeutic dietary strategy for people with MetS.
Full reference:
Matheson KM, Cutting JE, Mazurak VC, Robinson LE, Buchholz AC. n-3 polyunsaturated fatty
acids increase thermic effect of food in men with metabolic syndrome. Can J Diet Pract
Res. 2011 Winter;72(4):201-4. doi: 10.3148/72.4.2011.201.
Fish oil capsules reduce fat rolls
Treatment for 2 mo with n 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids reduces adiposity and some
atherogenic factors but does not improve insulin sensitivity in women with type 2 diabetes:
a randomized controlled study.
BACKGROUND:
Information is lacking on the potential effect of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on
the adipose tissue of patients with type 2 diabetes.
OBJECTIVE:
We evaluated whether n-3 PUFAs have additional effects on adiposity, insulin sensitivity,
adipose tissue function (production of adipokines and inflammatory and atherogenic
factors), and gene expression in type 2 diabetes.
DESIGN:
Twenty-seven women with type 2 diabetes without hypertriglyceridemia were randomly
allocated in a double-blind parallel design to 2 mo of 3 g/d of either fish oil (1.8 g n-3 PUFAs)
or placebo (paraffin oil).
RESULTS:
Although body weight and energy intake measured by use of a food diary were unchanged,
total fat mass (P < 0.019) and subcutaneous adipocyte diameter (P < 0.0018) were lower in
the fish oil group than in the placebo group. Insulin sensitivity was not significantly different
between the 2 groups (measured by homeostasis model assessment in all patients and by
euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp in a subgroup of 5 patients per group). By contrast,
atherogenic risk factors, including plasma triacylglycerol (P < 0.03), the ratio of
triacylglycerol to HDL cholesterol (atherogenic index, P < 0.03), and plasma plasminogen
activator inhibitor-1 (P < 0.01), were lower in the fish oil group than in the placebo group. In
addition, a subset of inflammation-related genes was reduced in subcutaneous adipose
tissue after the fish oil, but not the placebo, treatment.
CONCLUSIONS:
A moderate dose of n-3 PUFAs for 2 mo reduced adiposity and atherogenic markers without
deterioration of insulin sensitivity in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Some adipose tissue
inflammation-related genes were also reduced. These beneficial effects could be linked to
morphologic and inflammatory changes in adipose tissue. This trial was registered at
clinicaltrials.gov as NCT0037.
Full reference:
Kabir M, Skurnik G, Naour N, Pechtner V, Meugnier E, Rome S, Quignard-Boulangé A, Vidal
H, Slama G, Clément K, Guerre-Millo M, Rizkalla SW. Treatment for 2 mo with n 3
polyunsaturated fatty acids reduces adiposity and some atherogenic factors but does not
improve insulin sensitivity in women with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled
study.Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Dec;86(6):1670-9.
CLA
Dietary Supplementation of L-Arginine and Conjugated Linoleic Acid Reduces
Retroperitoneal Fat Mass and Increases Lean Body Mass in Rats
We hypothesized that L-arginine and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) would have additive
effects in decreasing adiposity. Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to the following dietary
groups (n = 6/group; 5 wk total): 1) control (2.55% L-alanine plus 1.5% canola oil); 2)
arginine (1.25% L-arginine plus 1.5% canola oil); 3) CLA (2.55% L-alanine plus 1.5% CLA);
and 4) arginine plus CLA (1.25% L-arginine plus 1.5% CLA). Supplemental amino acids were
provided in drinking water and CLA was incorporated into the food pellets. Daily weight
gain, food intake, arginine intake, and final body and eviscerated body weights were greater
in rats fed supplemental CLA then in rats fed canola oil. The retroperitoneal adipose
tissue:body weight ratio was less in rats fed supplemental CLA than in rats fed canola oil, but
epididymal adipose tissue, liver, and soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscle weights
were unaffected by arginine or CLA. CLA decreased epididymal adipose tissue
concentrations of palmitoleic, oleic, and cis-vaccenic acid. CLA and arginine increased
palmitate oxidation to CO2 in epididymal adipose tissue in vitro relative to control rats.
Glucose and palmitate incorporation into total lipids in epididymal adipose tissue was lower
in rats fed supplemental arginine than in alanine-fed rats. Arginine increased plasma
glycerol relative to alanine-fed rats and CLA and arginine independently decreased most
serum essential amino acids and alanine, glutamate, glutamine, and ornithine. We conclude
that CLA and arginine modulated adipose tissue metabolism by separate, but not additive,
effects. Also, CLA and arginine may have depressed muscle protein turnover.
Full reference:
Jennifer L. Nall3, Guoyao Wu3, Kyoung Hoon Kim4, Chang Weon Choi4, and Stephen B. Smith.
Dietary Supplementation of L-Arginine and Conjugated Linoleic Acid Reduces
Retroperitoneal Fat Mass and Increases Lean Body Mass in Rats. J. Nutr. June 1,
2009jn.108.10230
Your body burns more fat with BCAA isoleucine
Isoleucine prevents the accumulation of tissue triglycerides and upregulates the expression
of PPARalpha and uncoupling protein in diet-induced obese mice.
In this study, we investigated the effects of the branched-chain amino acid l-isoleucine (Ile)
on both obesity and glucose/fat homeostasis in mice that were fed a high-fat (45% energy)
diet. The mice were divided into different treatment groups and given a high-fat diet for 6
wk. During the last 4 wk, Ile was dissolved and added to the drinking water to a final
concentration of 2.5%. The control mice received vehicle alone. The mice in the Ile group
had an almost 6% lower body weight gain and 49% less epididymal white adipose tissue
(WAT) mass with the control group (P < 0.05). The hepatic and skeletal muscle triglyceride
(TG) concentrations and degree of hyperinsulinemia in the Ile group mice were also lower
than the control group by 38, 47, and 39%, respectively (P < 0.05). The WAT leptin
concentration was also lower, whereas that of adiponectin was higher, in the Ile group
compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The hepatic levels of protein CD36/fatty acid
translocase, PPARalpha, and uncoupling protein (UCP) 2 and the levels of UCP3 in skeletal
muscle were all greater in the Ile group than in the control mice (P < 0.05). These results
demonstrate that the liver and muscle TG concentrations are both lowered by Ile treatment.
In addition, the PPARalpha and UCP expression levels in the mouse tissues were greater in
the Ile group compared with the controls. Our current data thus suggest that
supplementation with Ile might be useful in the treatment of metabolic syndrome.
Full reference:
Nishimura J, Masaki T, Arakawa M, Seike M, Yoshimatsu H. Isoleucine prevents the
accumulation of tissue triglycerides and upregulates the expression of PPARalpha and
uncoupling protein in diet-induced obese mice. J Nutr. 2010 Mar;140(3):496-500.
More protein and less carbs will aid fat loss.
Protein Quantity and Quality at Levels above the RDA Improves Adult Weight Loss
Evidence is accumulating that diets with reduced carbohydrates and increased levels of high
quality protein are effective for weight loss. These diets appear to provide a metabolic
advantage during restricted energy intake that targets increased loss of body fat while
reducing loss of lean tissue and stabilizing regulations of blood glucose. We have proposed
that the branched-chain amino acid leucine is a key to the metabolic advantage of a higher
protein diet because of its unique roles in regulation of muscle protein synthesis, insulin
signaling and glucose re-cycling via alanine. These metabolic actions of leucine require
plasma and intracellular concentrations to increase above minimum levels maintained by
current dietary guidelines and dietary practices in the U.S. Initial findings support use of
dietary at levels above 1.5 g/kg · d during weight loss. Further, our research suggests that
increased use of high quality protein at breakfast maybe important for the metabolic
advantage of a higher protein diet.
Full reference:
Donald K. Layman. Protein Quantity and Quality at Levels above the RDA Improves Adult
Weight Loss. J Am Coll Nutr December 2004 vol. 23 no. suppl 6631S-636S
Higher protein intakes and energy restriction in elderly women
The Effects of a Higher Protein Intake During Energy Restriction on Changes in Body
Composition and Physical Function in Older Women
Background. The purpose of this double-blind randomized clinical trial was to compare the
relative effectiveness of a higher protein and conventional carbohydrate intake during
weight loss on body composition and physical function in older women.
Methods. Thirty-one overweight or obese, postmenopausal women (mean ± SD: age 65.2 ±
4.6 years, body mass index 33.7 ± 4.9 kg/m2) were prescribed a reduced calorie diet (1,400
kcal/day; 15%, 65%, 30% energy from protein, carbohydrate, and fat, respectively) and
randomly assigned to 2 × 25 g/day whey protein (PRO n = 15) or maltodextrin (CARB n = 16)
supplementation for 6 months. Lean soft tissue (LST) via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry;
thigh muscle, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and intermuscular adipose tissue with
magnetic resonance imaging; knee strength with isokinetic dynamometry; balance and
physical function with a battery of performance tests.
Results. PRO lost more weight than CARB (−8.0% ± 6.2%, −4.1% ± 3.6%, p= .059;
respectively). Changes in LST, %LST, and strength, balance, or physical performance
measures did not differ between groups (all p > .05). Weight to leg LST ratio improved more
in PRO versus CARB (−4.6 ± 3.6%, −1.8 ± 2.6%, p = .03). PRO lost 4.2% more muscle (p = .01),
10.9% more SAT (p = .02), and 8.2% more intermuscular adipose tissue (p = .03) than CARB.
Relative to thigh volume changes, PRO gained 5.8% more muscle (p = .049) and lost 3.8%
greater SAT (p = .06) than CARB. Weight to leg LST ratio (r2 = .189, p = .02) and SAT (r2 =
.163, p = .04) predicted improved up and go, relative muscle (r2 = .238, p = .01) and SAT (r2 =
.165, p = .04) predicted improved transfer test, and %LST predicted improved balance (r2 =
.179, p = .04).
Conclusions. A higher protein intake during caloric restriction maintains muscle relative to
weight lost, which in turn enhances physical function in older women.
Full reference:
Mina C. Mojtahedi1, Matthew P. Thorpe, Dimitrios C. Karampinos2,Curtis L.
Johnson2, Donald K. Layman1, John G. Georgiadis, Ellen M. Evans. The Effects of a Higher
Protein Intake During Energy Restriction on Changes in Body Composition and Physical
Function in Older Women. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci(2011) 66A (11): 12181225.doi: 10.1093/gerona/glr120First published online: July 27, 2011
Soy Protein Diets and Fat Loss
Weight loss without losing muscle mass in pre-obese and obese subjects induced by a highsoy-protein diet.
OBJECTIVE: To determine change of weight, body composition, metabolic and hormonal
parameters induced by different intervention protocols.
DESIGN: Randomized, controlled study including participants exhibiting a BMI between 27.5
and 35. Three different interventions containing lifestyle education (LE-G), or a
substitutional diet containing a high-soy-protein low-fat diet with (SD/PA-G) or without (SDG) a guided physical activity program.
SUBJECTS: A total of 90 subjects (mean weight 89.9 kg; mean BMI 31.5), randomly assigned
to one of three treatment groups.
MEASUREMENTS: Change in body weight, fat mass and lean body mass measured with the
Bod Pod® device at baseline, 6 weeks and 6 months; change in metabolic and hormonal
parameters.
RESULTS: In all, 83 subjects completed the 6-months study. BMI dropped highly significantly
in all groups (LE-G: -2.2 1.43 kg/m2; SD-G: -3.1 1.29 kg/m2; SD/PA-G: -3.0 1.29 kg/m2).
Subjects in the SD-G and in the SD/PA-G lost more weight during the 6-months study (-8.9
3.9; -8.9 3.9 kg) than did those in the LE-G (-6.2 4.2 kg), and had a greater decrease in fat
mass (-8.8 4.27; -9.4 4.54 kg) than those in the LE-G (-6.6 4.59 kg). In contrast, no
significant intraindividual or between-group changes in the fat-free mass were seen. In all
groups, metabolic parameters showed an improvement in glycemic control and lipid profile.
CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that a high-soy-protein and low-fat diet can improve the
body composition in overweight and obese people, losing fat but preserving muscle mass.
Full Reference:
P Deibert et al. Weight loss without losing muscle mass in pre-obese and obese subjects
induced by a high-soy-protein diet. International Journal of Obesity (2004) 28, 1349–1352.
Studies on Alpha-lipoic Acid (ALA)
Effects of alpha-lipoic Acid on body weight in obese subjects.
PURPOSE:
alpha-lipoic acid is an essential cofactor for mitochondrial respiratory enzymes that
improves mitochondrial function. We previously reported that alpha-lipoic acid markedly
reduced body weight gain in rodents. The purpose of this study was to determine whether
alpha-lipoic acid reduces body weight in obese human subjects.
METHODS:
in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 20-week trial, 360 obese individuals
(body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m(2) or BMI 27-30 kg/m(2) plus hypertension, diabetes
mellitus, or hypercholesterolemia) were randomized to alpha-lipoic acid 1200 or 1800 mg/d
or placebo. The primary end point was body weight change from baseline to end point.
RESULTS:
the 1800 mg alpha-lipoic acid group lost significantly more weight than the placebo group
(2.1%; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-2.8; P<.05). Urticaria and itching sensation were the
most common adverse events in the alpha-lipoic acid groups, but these were generally mild
and transient.
CONCLUSION:
alpha-lipoic acid 1800 mg/d led to a modest weight loss in obese subjects. Alpha-lipoic acid
may be considered as adjunctive therapy for obesity.
Full reference:
Koh EH, Lee WJ, Lee SA, Kim EH, Cho EH, Jeong E, Kim DW, Kim MS, Park JY, Park KG, Lee
HJ, Lee IK, Lim S, Jang HC, Lee KH, Lee KU. Effects of alpha-lipoic Acid on body weight in
obese subjects. Department of Internal Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine,
Seoul, Republic of Korea. Am J Med. 2011 Jan;124(1):85.e1-8.
Green Tea
Green Tea – One cup burns 3g fat
Does green tea affect postprandial glucose, insulin and satiety in healthy subjects: a
randomized controlled trial.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Results of epidemiological studies have suggested that consumption of green tea could
lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Intervention studies show that green tea may decrease
blood glucose levels, and also increase satiety. This study was conducted to examine the
postprandial effects of green tea on glucose levels, glycemic index, insulin levels and satiety
in healthy individuals after the consumption of a meal including green tea.
METHODS:
The study was conducted on 14 healthy volunteers, with a crossover design. Participants
were randomized to either 300 ml of green tea or water. This was consumed together with
a breakfast consisting of white bread and sliced turkey. Blood samples were drawn at 0, 15,
30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. Participants completed several different satiety score scales
at the same times.
RESULTS:
Plasma glucose levels were higher 120 min after ingestion of the meal with green tea than
after the ingestion of the meal with water. No significant differences were found in serum
insulin levels, or the area under the curve for glucose or insulin. Subjects reported
significantly higher satiety, having a less strong desire to eat their favorite food and finding
it less pleasant to eat another mouthful of the same food after drinking green tea compared
to water.
CONCLUSIONS:
Green tea showed no glucose or insulin-lowering effect. However, increased satiety and
fullness were reported by the participants after the consumption of green tea.
Full Reference:
Josic J, Olsson AT, Wickeberg J, Lindstedt S, Hlebowicz J. Does green tea affect postprandial
glucose, insulin and satiety in healthy subjects: a randomized controlled trial. Nutr J. 2010
Nov 30;9:63
Burning Fat
Efficacy of a green tea extract rich in catechin polyphenols and caffeine in increasing 24-h
energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Current interest in the role of functional foods in weight control has focused on plant
ingredients capable of interfering with the sympathoadrenal system.
OBJECTIVE:
We investigated whether a green tea extract, by virtue of its high content of caffeine and
catechin polyphenols, could increase 24-h energy expenditure (EE) and fat oxidation in
humans.
DESIGN:
Twenty-four-hour EE, the respiratory quotient (RQ), and the urinary excretion of nitrogen
and catecholamines were measured in a respiratory chamber in 10 healthy men. On 3
separate occasions, subjects were randomly assigned among 3 treatments: green tea
extract (50 mg caffeine and 90 mg epigallocatechin gallate), caffeine (50 mg), and placebo,
which they ingested at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
RESULTS:
Relative to placebo, treatment with the green tea extract resulted in a significant increase in
24-h EE (4%; P < 0.01) and a significant decrease in 24-h RQ (from 0.88 to 0.85; P < 0.001)
without any change in urinary nitrogen. Twenty-four-hour urinary norepinephrine excretion
was higher during treatment with the green tea extract than with the placebo (40%, P <
0.05). Treatment with caffeine in amounts equivalent to those found in the green tea
extract had no effect on EE and RQ nor on urinary nitrogen or catecholamines.
CONCLUSIONS:
Green tea has thermogenic properties and promotes fat oxidation beyond that explained by
its caffeine content per se. The green tea extract may play a role in the control of body
composition via sympathetic activation of thermogenesis, fat oxidation, or both.
Full Reference:
Dulloo AG, Duret C, Rohrer D, Girardier L, Mensi N, Fathi M, Chantre P, Vandermander J.
Efficacy of a green tea extract rich in catechin polyphenols and caffeine in increasing 24-h
energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans. Department of Physiology, Faculty of
Medicine, University of Geneva. Am J Clin Nutr. 1999 Dec;70(6):1040-5.
Green Tea and Protein
Green tea catechin plus caffeine supplementation to a high-protein diet has no additional
effect on body weight maintenance after weight loss
Background: Green tea (epigallocatechin gallate + caffeine) and protein each were shown to
improve body weight maintenance after weight loss.
Objective: We investigated the effect of a green tea–caffeine mixture added to a highprotein (HP) diet on weight maintenance (WM) after body weight loss in moderately obese
subjects.
Design: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind parallel trial in 80 overweight and
moderately obese subjects [age (mean ± SD): 44 ± 2 y; body mass index (BMI; in kg/m 2):
29.6 ± 2.0] matched for sex, age, BMI, height, body mass, and with a habitually low caffeine
intake. A very-low-energy diet intervention during 4 wk was followed by 3 mo of WM;
during the WM period, the subjects received a green tea–caffeine mixture (270 mg
epigallocatechin gallate + 150 mg caffeine/d) or placebo, both in addition to an adequate
protein (AP) diet (50–60 g protein/d) or a HP diet (100–120 g protein/d).
Results: Subjects lost 7.0 ± 1.6 kg, or 8.2 ± 2.0%, body weight (P < 0.001). During the WM
phase, WM, resting energy expenditure (REE), and fat-free mass (FFM) were relatively
increased in both the HP groups and in the AP + green tea–caffeine mixture group (P < 0.05),
whereas respiratory quotient and body fat mass were reduced, all compared with the AP +
placebo group. Satiety was only increased in both HP groups (P < 0.05). The green tea–
caffeine mixture was only effective with the AP diet.
Conclusion: Green tea–caffeine mixture, as well as an HP diet improved WM independently
through thermogenesis, fat oxidation, sparing FFM, and, for the HP diet, satiety; a possible
synergistic effect failed to appear.
Full reference:
Rick Hursel, Margriet S Westerterp-Plantenga. Green tea catechin plus caffeine
supplementation to a high-protein diet has no additional effect on body weight
maintenance after weight loss. Am J Clin Nutr March 2009 ajcn.27043
Green Tea stackers don’t work without exercise
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate and postprandial fat oxidation in overweight/obese male
volunteers: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVES:
Drinking green tea is associated with many health benefits, including increased fat
oxidation. We tested the hypothesis that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the main green
tea catechin, increases fat oxidation in obese men.
METHODS:
Ten healthy overweight/obese males (body mass index 31.3+/-0.8 kg/m(2)) were studied in
a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover trial. Study supplements were low
EGCG (300 mg), high EGCG (600 mg), caffeine (200 mg), EGCG/caffeine (300 mg/200 mg) or
placebo and were taken orally for 3 days. At the third day of supplementation, O(2)
consumption and CO(2) production was measured by indirect calorimetry to assess energy
expenditure and fat oxidation over 4 h each after overnight fasting and after a standardized
test meal.
RESULTS:
Energy expenditure was not affected by any supplementation, neither after overnight
fasting nor after the test meal. During the first 2 h after overnight fasting, fat oxidation
increased by 7.7 (not significant, NS), 15.2 (NS), 26.3 (P<0.05 vs placebo) and 35.4% (P<0.01
vs placebo and low EGCG), for low EGCG, high EGCG, caffeine and EGCG/caffeine,
respectively. During the first 2 h after the meal, the mean increase in fat oxidation was 33.3
(P<0.05 vs placebo), 20.2 (NS), 34.5 (P<0.05 vs placebo) and 49.4% (P<0.05 vs placebo) for
low EGCG, high EGCG, caffeine and EGCG/caffeine, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS:
Low EGCG increases postprandial fat oxidation in obese men and this to the same extent as
200 mg caffeine, whereas high EGCG does not exert this effect. Fasting fat oxidation is
increased only by caffeine (with or without EGCG). There is no synergism of low EGCG and
200 mg caffeine. Energy expenditure is not affected by EGCG.
Full reference:
Thielecke F, Rahn G, Böhnke J, Adams F, Birkenfeld AL, Jordan J, Boschmann M.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate and postprandial fat oxidation in overweight/obese male
volunteers: a pilot study. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Jul;64(7):704-13.
HMB
EFFECT OF β-HYDROXY-β-METHYLBUTYRATE SUPPLEMENTATION DURING ENERGY
RESTRICTION IN FEMALE JUDO ATHLETES
Wei Hung, Tsung-Han Liu, Chung-Yu Chen, Chen-Kang Chang. EFFECT OF β-HYDROXY-βMETHYLBUTYRATE SUPPLEMENTATION DURING ENERGY RESTRICTION IN FEMALE JUDO
ATHLETES. Department of Exercise and Health Science, National Taiwan College of Physical
Education, Taichung, TAIWAN. J Exerc Sci Fit, Vol 8 No 1 50–53 2010
Your body burns more fat with BCAA isoleucine
Isoleucine prevents the accumulation of tissue triglycerides and upregulates the expression
of PPARalpha and uncoupling protein in diet-induced obese mice.
In this study, we investigated the effects of the branched-chain amino acid l-isoleucine (Ile)
on both obesity and glucose/fat homeostasis in mice that were fed a high-fat (45% energy)
diet. The mice were divided into different treatment groups and given a high-fat diet for 6
wk. During the last 4 wk, Ile was dissolved and added to the drinking water to a final
concentration of 2.5%. The control mice received vehicle alone. The mice in the Ile group
had an almost 6% lower body weight gain and 49% less epididymal white adipose tissue
(WAT) mass with the control group (P < 0.05). The hepatic and skeletal muscle triglyceride
(TG) concentrations and degree of hyperinsulinemia in the Ile group mice were also lower
than the control group by 38, 47, and 39%, respectively (P < 0.05). The WAT leptin
concentration was also lower, whereas that of adiponectin was higher, in the Ile group
compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The hepatic levels of protein CD36/fatty acid
translocase, PPARalpha, and uncoupling protein (UCP) 2 and the levels of UCP3 in skeletal
muscle were all greater in the Ile group than in the control mice (P < 0.05). These results
demonstrate that the liver and muscle TG concentrations are both lowered by Ile treatment.
In addition, the PPARalpha and UCP expression levels in the mouse tissues were greater in
the Ile group compared with the controls. Our current data thus suggest that
supplementation with Ile might be useful in the treatment of metabolic syndrome.
Full reference:
Nishimura J, Masaki T, Arakawa M, Seike M, Yoshimatsu H. Isoleucine prevents the
accumulation of tissue triglycerides and upregulates the expression of PPARalpha and
uncoupling protein in diet-induced obese mice. J Nutr. 2010 Mar;140(3):496-500
Blueberries and their role in reducing post prandium serum markers of oxidation
Consumption of blueberries with a high-carbohydrate, low-fat breakfast decreases
postprandial serum markers of oxidation.
We sought to determine whether consumption of blueberries could reduce postprandial
oxidation when consumed with a typical high-carbohydrate, low-fat breakfast. Participants
(n 14) received each of the three treatments over 3 weeks in a cross-over design.
Treatments consisted of a high blueberry dose (75 g), a low blueberry dose (35 g) and a
control (ascorbic acid and sugar content matching that of the high blueberry dose). Serum
oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), serum lipoprotein oxidation (LO) and serum
ascorbate, urate and glucose were measured at fasting, and at 1, 2 and 3 h after sample
consumption. The mean serum ORAC was significantly higher in the 75 g group than in the
control group during the first 2 h postprandially, while serum LO lag time showed a
significant trend over the 3 h for both blueberry doses. Changes in serum ascorbate, urate
and glucose were not significantly different among the groups. To our knowledge, this is the
first report that has demonstrated that increased serum antioxidant capacity is not
attributable to the fructose or ascorbate content of blueberries. In summary, a practically
consumable quantity of blueberries (75 g) can provide statistically significant oxidative
protection in vivo after a high-carbohydrate, low-fat breakfast. Though not tested directly, it
is likely that the effects are due to phenolic compounds, either directly or indirectly, as they
are a major family of compounds in blueberries with potential bioactive activity.
Full Reference:
Blacker BC, Snyder SM, Eggett DL, Parker TL. Consumption of blueberries with a highcarbohydrate, low-fat breakfast decreases postprandial serum markers of oxidation. Br J
Nutr. 2012 Aug 31:1-8.
Berries and Insulin
Berries Reduce Postprandial Insulin Responses to Wheat and Rye Breads in Healthy Women.
Starch in white wheat bread (WB) induces high postprandial glucose and insulin responses.
For rye bread (RB), the glucose response is similar, whereas the insulin response is lower. In
vitro studies suggest that polyphenol-rich berries may reduce digestion and absorption of
starch and thereby suppress postprandial glycemia, but the evidence in humans is limited.
We investigated the effects of berries consumed with WB or RB on postprandial glucose and
insulin responses. Healthy females (n = 13-20) participated in 3 randomized, controlled,
crossover, 2-h meal studies. They consumed WB or RB, both equal to 50 g available starch,
with 150 g whole-berry purée or the same amount of bread without berries as reference. In
study 1, WB was served with strawberries, bilberries, or lingonberries and in study 2 with
raspberries, cloudberries, or chokeberries. In study 3, WB or RB was served with a mixture
of berries consisting of equal amounts of strawberries, bilberries, cranberries, and
blackcurrants. Strawberries, bilberries, lingonberries, and chokeberries consumed with WB
and the berry mixture consumed with WB or RB significantly reduced the postprandial
insulin response. Only strawberries (36%) and the berry mixture (with WB, 38%; with RB,
19%) significantly improved the glycemic profile of the breads. These results suggest than
when WB is consumed with berries, less insulin is needed for maintenance of normal or
slightly improved postprandial glucose metabolism. The lower insulin response to RB
compared with WB can also be further reduced by berries.
Full reference:
Törrönen R, Kolehmainen M, Sarkkinen E, Poutanen K, Mykkänen H, Niskanen L. Berries
Reduce Postprandial Insulin Responses to Wheat and Rye Breads in Healthy Women. J
Nutr. 2013 Jan 30.
Favourable effects of berry consumption on cholesterol, blood pressure and platelet
function
Favorable effects of berry consumption on platelet function, blood pressure, and HDL
cholesterol
Background: Berries are a particularly rich source of polyphenols. They also contain other
bioactive substances, such as vitamin C. Previous studies indicated that the consumption of
polyphenol-rich foods (eg, cocoa, tea, and red wine) may induce beneficial changes in
pathways related to cardiovascular health. Whether the consumption of berries has similar
effects is unknown.
Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of berry consumption on hemostatic
function, serum lipids, and blood pressure (BP).
Design: Middle-aged unmedicated subjects (n = 72) with cardiovascular risk factors
consumed moderate amounts of berry or control products for 8 wk in a single-blind,
randomized, placebo-controlled intervention trial.
Results: Berry consumption inhibited platelet function as measured with a platelet function
analyzer (using collagen and ADP as platelet activator) [changes: 11% and −1.4% in the berry
and control groups, respectively; P = 0.018, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA)]. Plasma
biomarkers of platelet activation, coagulation, and fibrinolysis did not change during the
intervention. Serum HDL-cholesterol concentrations increased significantly more (P = 0.006,
ANCOVA) in the berry than in the control group (5.2% and 0.6%, respectively), but total
cholesterol and triacylglycerol remained unchanged. Systolic BP decreased significantly (P =
0.050, ANCOVA); the decrease mostly occurred in subjects with high baseline BP (7.3 mm Hg
in highest tertile; P = 0.024, ANCOVA). Polyphenol and vitamin C concentrations in plasma
increased, whereas other nutritional biomarkers (ie, folate, tocopherols, sodium, and
potassium) were unaffected.
Conclusion: The consumption of moderate amounts of berries resulted in favorable changes
in platelet function, HDL cholesterol, and BP. The results indicate that regular consumption
of berries may play a role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Full reference:
Iris Erlund et al. Favorable effects of berry consumption on platelet function, blood
pressure, and HDL cholesterol. Am J Clin Nutr February 2008 vol. 87 no. 2 323-331
Can Ginger be used as a weight loss supplement?
Ginger consumption enhances the thermic effect of food and promotes feelings of satiety
without affecting metabolic and hormonal parameters in overweight men: a pilot study.
Evidence suggests that ginger consumption has anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive,
glucose-sensitizing, and stimulatory effects on the gastrointestinal tract. This study assessed
the effects of a hot ginger beverage on energy expenditure, feelings of appetite and satiety
and metabolic risk factors in overweight men. Ten men, age 39.1±3.3 y and body mass index
(BMI) 27.2±0.3 kg/m(2), participated in this randomized crossover study. Resting state
energy expenditure was measured using indirect calorimetry and for 6h after consumption
of a breakfast meal with or without 2 g ginger powder dissolved in a hot water beverage.
Subjective feelings of satiety were assessed hourly using visual analog scales (VAS) and
blood samples were taken fasted and for 3 h after breakfast consumption. There was no
significant effect of ginger on total resting energy expenditure (P=.43) or respiratory
quotient (P=.41). There was a significant effect of ginger on thermic effect of food (ginger vs
control=42.7±21.4 kcal/d, P=.049) but the area under the curve was not different (P=.43).
VAS ratings showed lower hunger (P=.002), lower prospective food intake (P=.004) and
greater fullness (P=.064) with ginger consumption versus control. There were no effects of
ginger on glucose, insulin, lipids, or inflammatory markers. The results, showing enhanced
thermogenesis and reduced feelings of hunger with ginger consumption, suggest a potential
role of ginger in weight management. Additional studies are necessary to confirm these
findings.
Full reference:
Mansour MS, Ni YM, Roberts AL, Kelleman M, Roychoudhury A, St-Onge MP. Ginger
consumption enhances the thermic effect of food and promotes feelings of satiety without
affecting metabolic and hormonal parameters in overweight men: a pilot study.
Metabolism. 2012 Oct;61(10):1347-52.
Turmeric inhibits conversion of amino acids into glucose
Curcumin activates AMPK and suppresses gluconeogenic gene expression in hepatoma cells.
Curcumin, the bioactive component of curry spice turmeric, and its related structures
possess potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Several lines of evidence
suggest that curcumin may play a beneficial role in animal models of diabetes, both by
lowering blood glucose levels and by ameliorating the long-term complications of diabetes.
However, current understanding of the mechanism of curcumin action is rudimentary and is
limited to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study we examine potential
anti-diabetic mechanisms of curcumin, curcumin C3 complex), and tetrahydrocurcuminoids
(THC). Curcuminoids did not exert a direct effect on receptor tyrosine kinase activity, 2deoxy glucose uptake in L6-GLUT4myc cells, or intestinal glucose metabolism measured by
DPP4/alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity. We demonstrate that curcuminoids effectively
suppressed dexamethasone-induced phosphoenol pyruvate carboxy kinase (PEPCK) and
glucose6-phosphatase (G6Pase) in H4IIE rat hepatoma and Hep3B human hepatoma cells.
Furthermore, curcuminoids increased the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase
(AMPK) and its downstream target acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) in H4IIE and Hep3B cells
with 400 times (curcumin) to 100,000 times (THC) the potency of metformin. These results
suggest that AMPK mediated suppression of hepatic gluconeogenesis may be a potential
mechanism mediating glucose-lowering effects of curcuminoids.
Full reference:
Kim T, Davis J, Zhang AJ, He X, Mathews ST. Curcumin activates AMPK and suppresses
gluconeogenic gene expression in hepatoma cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2009 Oct
16;388(2):377-82.
You are likely to have a lower fat percentage if you consume more magnesium in your diet
Correlation of magnesium intake with metabolic parameters, depression and physical
activity in elderly type 2 diabetes patients: a cross-sectional study.
BACKGROUND:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major global public health problem in the worldwide and is
increasing in aging populations. Magnesium intake may be one of the most important
factors for diabetes prevention and management. Low magnesium intake may exacerbate
metabolic abnormalities. In this study, the relationships of magnesium intake with
metabolic parameters, depression and physical activity in elderly patients with type 2
diabetes were investigated.
METHODS:
This cross-sectional study involved 210 type 2 diabetes patients aged 65 years and above.
Participants were interviewed to obtain information on lifestyle and 24-hour dietary recall.
Assessment of depression was based on DSM-IV criteria. Clinical variables measured
included anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical determinations
of blood and urine samples. Linear regression was applied to determine the relationships of
magnesium intake with nutritional variables and metabolic parameters.
RESULTS:
Among all patients, 88.6% had magnesium intake which was less than the dietary reference
intake, and 37.1% had hypomagnesaemia. Metabolic syndromes and depression were
associated with lower magnesium intake (p < 0.05). A positive relationship was found
between magnesium intake and HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.005). Magnesium intake was
inversely correlated with triglyceride, waist circumference, body fat percent and body mass
index (p < 0.005). After controlling confounding factor, HDL-cholesterol was significantly
higher with increasing quartile of magnesium intake (p for trend = 0005). Waist
circumference, body fat percentage, and body mass index were significantly lower with
increase quartile of magnesium intake (p for trend < 0.001). The odds of depression, central
obesity, high body fat percentage, and high body mass index were significantly lower with
increasing quartile of magnesium intake (p for trend < 0.05). In addition, magnesium intake
was related to high physical activity level and demonstrated lower serum magnesium levels.
Serum magnesium was not significantly associated with metabolic parameters.
CONCLUSIONS:
The majority of elderly type 2 diabetes who have low magnesium intake may compound this
deficiency with metabolic abnormalities and depression. Future studies should determine
the effects of increased magnesium intake or magnesium supplementation on metabolic
control and depression in elderly people with type 2 diabetes.
Full reference:
Huang JH, Lu YF, Cheng FC, Lee JN, Tsai LC. Nutr J. Correlation of magnesium intake with
metabolic parameters, depression and physical activity in elderly type 2 diabetes patients: a
cross-sectional study.2012 Jun 13;11:41.
Magnesium and Testosterone
Magnesium and anabolic hormones in older men.
Optimal nutritional and hormonal statuses are determinants of successful ageing. The age
associated decline in anabolic hormones such as testosterone and insulin-like growth factor
1 (IGF-1) is a strong predictor of metabolic syndrome, diabetes and mortality in older men.
Studies have shown that magnesium intake affects the secretion of total IGF-1 and increase
testosterone bioactivity. This observation suggests that magnesium can be a modulator of
the anabolic/catabolic equilibrium disrupted in the elderly people. However, the
relationship between magnesium and anabolic hormones in men has not been investigated.
We evaluated 399 ≥65-year-old men of CHIANTI in a study population representative of two
municipalities of Tuscany (Italy) with complete data on testosterone, total IGF-1, sex
hormone binding globulin (SHBG), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) and serum
magnesium levels. Linear regression models were used to test the relationship between
magnesium and testosterone and IGF-1. Mean age of the population was 74.18 ± 6.43 (years
± SD, age range 65.2-92.4). After adjusting for age, magnesium was positively associated
with total testosterone (β ± SE, 34.9 ± 10.3; p = 0.001) and with total IGF-1 (β ± SE, 15.9 ±
4.8; p = 0.001). After further adjustment for body mass index (BMI), log (IL-6), log (DHEAS),
log (SHBG), log (insulin), total IGF-1, grip strength, Parkinson's disease and chronic heart
failure, the relationship between magnesium and total testosterone remained strong and
highly significant (β ± SE, 48.72 ± 12.61; p = 0.001). In the multivariate analysis adjusted for
age, BMI, log (IL-6), liver function, energy intake, log (insulin), log (DHEAS), selenium,
magnesium levels were also still significantly associated with IGF-1 (β ± SE, 16.43 ± 4.90; p =
0.001) and remained significant after adjusting for total testosterone (β ± SE, 14.4 ± 4.9; p =
0.01). In a cohort of older men, magnesium levels are strongly and independently associated
with the anabolic hormones testosterone and IGF-1.
Full reference:
Maggio M, Ceda GP, Lauretani F, Cattabiani C, Avantaggiato E, Morganti S, Ablondi
F, Bandinelli S, Dominguez LJ, Barbagallo M, Paolisso G, Semba RD,Ferrucci L. Magnesium
and anabolic hormones in older men. Int J Androl. 2011 Dec;34(6 Pt 2):e594-600.