ascorbic-acid and Obesity

studies showed inflammatory background of overweight and obesity. Prevalence of weight disorders has dramatically increased over the past few decades. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and may be associated with weight disorders. This study aims to systematically review the relationship between dietary and serum vitamin C levels with anthropometric indices.. A systematic search was conducted in Medline database (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane library and Google Scholar up to the end of August 2021. All observational studies that assessed the relationship between dietary or circulating vitamin C levels and body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) on adults were included. The quality of included studies was assessed using the National Institute of Health quality assessment tool.. Among 11,689 studies, 47 and 37 articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, respectively. There was an inverse significant correlation between WC and serum vitamin C levels (r = -0.28, 95% CI: -0.35,-0.21, I. Results showed that both dietary and serum vitamin C levels were inversely associated with BMI and WC. More well-designed clinical trials are needed to assess the effect of vitamin C supplementation in prevention and treatment of obesity.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Body Weight; Dietary Supplements; Eating; Humans; Obesity; Overweight; Vitamins; Waist Circumference

Obesity in asthmatic patients has important relationships with asthma control, pulmonary function, and quality of life. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the effect of diet on asthma management in adults.. We searched PubMed, Embase, and Scopus (January 1948-October 2014) for randomized clinical trials that evaluated the effects of diet in adults with asthma.. Of 12,215 studies identified, 21 were included. A reduction in weight of at least 7.5% from baseline as a result of caloric restriction can be beneficial for improving disease control, quality of life, and pulmonary function in obese patients with asthma. A dietary pattern rich in foods with potential antioxidant effect had an impact in improving asthma control, but with little clinical significance. Studies involving antioxidant supplementation showed improvements in asthma control with magnesium supplementation and less decline in lung function with vitamin C supplementation. Studies of fatty acid supplementation demonstrated effects on weight loss and improvement of asthma control and lung function. Studies of supplementation with propolis and caffeine reported significant increases in FEV1. Conversely, studies of high dietary salt intake reported greater declines in lung function.. The evidence shows that, for obese adults with asthma, the best dietary intervention seems to be caloric restriction, regardless of specific dietary components.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Asthma; Caloric Restriction; Diet; Dietary Supplements; Fatty Acids; Humans; Lung; Micronutrients; Obesity; Quality of Life; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Weight Loss

The beneficial role of the Mediterranean diet in the prevention of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity, is well-recognized. In this context,

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Biofortification; Brassicaceae; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Chronic Disease; Diabetes Mellitus; Glucosinolates; Humans; Hydroxybenzoates; Obesity; Phytochemicals; Vegetables

Obesity means the accumulation of excessive fat that may interfere with the maintenance of optimal state of health. Obesity causes cardiac and vascular disease through well-known mediators such as hypertension, type-2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, but there are evidences for other mediators such as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and thrombosis. The decreased levels of antioxidants factors and nitric oxide predispose to further cardiovascular adverse events. To reduce the risks, antioxidants can help by neutralizing the free radicals and protecting from damage by donating electrons. Having the capacity, vitamin C protects from oxidative stress, prevention of non-enzymatic glycosylation of proteins, and enhances arterial dilation through its effect on nitric oxide release. It also decreases lipid peroxidation, and alleviates inflammation. The anti-inflammatory property of vitamin C could be attributed to ability to modulate the NF-

Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cardiovascular Diseases; Humans; Inflammation; Obesity; Oxidative Stress

A critical role for peptide C-terminal amidation was apparent when the first bioactive peptides were identified. The conversion of POMC into adrenocorticotropic hormone and then into α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, an amidated peptide, provided a model system for identifying the amidating enzyme. Peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM), the only enzyme that catalyzes this modification, is essential; mice lacking PAM survive only until mid-gestation. Purification and cloning led to the discovery that the amidation of peptidylglycine substrates proceeds in two steps: peptidylglycine α-hydroxylating monooxygenase catalyzes the copper- and ascorbate-dependent α-hydroxylation of the peptidylglycine substrate; peptidyl-α-hydroxyglycine α-amidating lyase cleaves the N-C bond, producing amidated product and glyoxylate. Both enzymes are contained in the luminal domain of PAM, a type 1 integral membrane protein. The structures of both catalytic cores have been determined, revealing how they interact with metals, molecular oxygen, and substrate to catalyze both reactions. Although not essential for activity, the intrinsically disordered cytosolic domain is essential for PAM trafficking. A phylogenetic survey led to the identification of bifunctional membrane PAM in Chlamydomonas, a unicellular eukaryote. Accumulating evidence points to a role for PAM in copper homeostasis and in retrograde signaling from the lumen of the secretory pathway to the nucleus. The discovery of PAM in cilia, cellular antennae that sense and respond to environmental stimuli, suggests that much remains to be learned about this ancient protein.

Topics: alpha-MSH; Alternative Splicing; Amidine-Lyases; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Cilia; Copper; Evolution, Molecular; Gene Knockout Techniques; Genotype; Humans; Mixed Function Oxygenases; Multienzyme Complexes; Obesity; Oxygen; Pro-Opiomelanocortin; Protein Interaction Domains and Motifs; Proteolysis; Structure-Activity Relationship

Obesity and the subsequent reprogramming of the white adipose tissue are linked to human disease-complexes including metabolic syndrome and concurrent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The dietary imposed dyslipidemia promotes redox imbalance by the generation of excess levels of reactive oxygen species and induces adipocyte dysfunction and reprogramming, leading to a low grade systemic inflammation and ectopic lipid deposition, e.g., in the liver, hereby promoting a vicious circle in which dietary factors initiate a metabolic change that further exacerbates the negative consequences of an adverse life-style. Large epidemiological studies and findings from controlled in vivo animal studies have provided evidence supporting an association between poor vitamin C (VitC) status and propagation of life-style associated diseases. In addition, overweight per se has been shown to result in reduced plasma VitC, and the distribution of body fat in obesity has been shown to have an inverse relationship with VitC plasma levels. Recently, a number of epidemiological studies have indicated a VitC intake below the recommended daily allowance (RDA) in NAFLD-patients, suggesting an association between dietary habits, disease and VitC deficiency. In the general population, VitC deficiency (defined as a plasma concentration below 23 μM) affects around 10% of adults, however, this prevalence is increased by an adverse life-style, deficiency potentially playing a broader role in disease progression in specific subgroups. This review discusses the currently available data from human surveys and experimental models in search of a putative role of VitC deficiency in the development of NAFLD and NASH.

Topics: Adiposity; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Ascorbic Acid Deficiency; Biomarkers; Comorbidity; Humans; Inflammation; Life Style; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Prevalence; Prognosis; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors

Obesity has emerged as one of the major health threats worldwide. Moreover, an excessive body fat accumulation, which defines this disease, could lead to several associated clinical manifestations such as cardiovascular events, type 2 diabetes, inflammation, and some types of cancer. The appearance of these co-morbidities has been often related to an unbalanced oxidative stress. Therefore, antioxidant-based treatments could be considered as interesting approaches to possibly counteract obesity fat accumulation complications. In this context, it has been observed that vitamin C intake (ascorbic acid) is negatively associated with the occurrence of several conditions such as hypertension, gallbladder disease, stroke, cancers, and atherosclerosis, and also with the onset of obesity in humans and animals. Among the possible beneficial effects of ascorbic acid on obesity-related mechanisms, it has been suggested that this vitamin may: (a) modulate adipocyte lipolysis; (b) regulate the glucocorticoid release from adrenal glands; (c) inhibit glucose metabolism and leptin secretion on isolated adipocytes; (d) lead to an improvement in hyperglycemia and decrease glycosylation in obese-diabetic models; and (e) reduce the inflammatory response. Possibly, all these features could be related with the outstanding antioxidant characteristics of this vitamin. Thus, the present article reviews the up-to-date evidence regarding in vitro and in vivo effects of vitamin C in obesity and its co-morbidities.

Topics: Adipocytes; Adrenal Glands; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Glucocorticoids; Humans; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Vitamins

Despite continuous advances in the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD), critical issues associated with an unhealthy lifestyle remain an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in industrialized countries.. A growing body of literature supports a specific role for vitamin C in a number of reactions that are associated with vascular function and control including, for example, nitric oxide bioavailability, lipid metabolism, and vascular integrity.. A large body of epidemiological evidence supports a relationship between poor vitamin C status and increased risk of developing CVD, and the prevalence of deficiency continues to be around 10%-20% of the general Western population although this problem could easily and cheaply be solved by supplementation. However, large intervention studies using vitamin C have not found a beneficial effect of supplementation. This review outlines the proposed mechanism by which vitamin C deficiency worsens CVD progression. In addition, it discusses problems with the currently available literature, including the discrepancies between the large intervention studies and the experimental and epidemiological literature.. Increased insights into vitamin C deficiency-mediated CVD progression will enable the design of future randomized controlled trials that are better suited to test the efficacy of vitamin C in disease prevention as well as the identification of high-risk individuals which could possibly benefit from supplementation.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Ascorbic Acid Deficiency; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Disease Progression; Humans; Life Style; Obesity; Oxidation-Reduction; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Smoking

Cholesterol gallstones are among the most common gastrointestinal disorders in Western societies. Individuals with gallstones may experience various gastrointestinal symptoms and are also at risk of developing acute or chronic cholecystitis. Cholecystectomy is the most frequently recommended conventional treatment for symptomatic gallstones. Bile acids (ursodeoxycholic acid or chenodeoxycholic acid) are also used in some cases to dissolve radiolucent stones, but these drugs can cause gastrointestinal side effects and there is a high rate of stone recurrence after treatment is discontinued. Lithotripsy is used in some cases in conjunction with ursodeoxycholic acid for patients who have a single symptomatic non-calcified gallstone. There is evidence that dietary factors influence the risk of developing cholesterol gallstones. Dietary factors that may increase risk include cholesterol, saturated fat, trans fatty acids, refined sugar, and possibly legumes. Obesity is also a risk factor for gallstones. Dietary factors that may prevent the development of gallstones include polyunsaturated fat, monounsaturated fat, fiber, and caffeine. Consuming a vegetarian diet is also associated with decreased risk. In addition, identification and avoidance of allergenic foods frequently relieves symptoms of gallbladder disease, although it does not dissolve gallstones. Nutritional supplements that might help prevent gallstones include vitamin C, soy lecithin, and iron. In addition, a mixture of plant terpenes (Rowachol) has been used with some success to dissolve radiolucent gallstones. The gallbladder flush is a folk remedy said to promote the passage of gallstones. While minimal scientific evidence supports the efficacy of this treatment, anecdotal reports suggest the gallbladder flush may be beneficial for some people.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Cholesterol; Dietary Fats; Drug Combinations; Feeding Behavior; Gallstones; Humans; Iron, Dietary; Lecithins; Monoterpenes; Nutrition Disorders; Obesity

Humans have relatively low plasma ascorbate levels and high serum uric acid levels compared to most mammals due to the presence of genetic mutations in l-gulonolactone oxidase and uricase, respectively. We review the major hypotheses for why these mutations may have occurred. In particular, we suggest that both mutations may have provided a survival advantage to early primates by helping maintain blood pressure during periods of dietary change and environmental stress. We further propose that these mutations have the inadvertent disadvantage of increasing our risk for hypertension and cardiovascular disease in today's society characterized by Western diet and increasing physical inactivity. Finally, we suggest that a "planetary biology" approach in which genetic changes are analyzed in relation to their biological action and historical context may provide the ideal approach towards understanding the biology of the past, present and future.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Biological Evolution; Blood Pressure; Cardiovascular Diseases; Disease Outbreaks; Humans; L-Gulonolactone Oxidase; Models, Biological; Mutation; Obesity; Primates; Urate Oxidase; Uric Acid

Urolithiasis is a condition that can cause significant morbidity among patients. Dietary manipulations traditionally advised include fluid, protein, oxalate, calcium, citrate, and sodium changes in the diet. Evidence-based practice guidelines suggest that there is not ample evidence to confidently recommend dietary changes, since inadequate studies have been done to quantify the risks of diet in stone formation. While fluid intake patterns have the weightiest evidence in the literature, not even fluid intake meets the guidelines for evidence-based practice. Health care providers should recognize that current patient education is largely based on intuition. It behooves us as clinicians to look critically at all our practices, review the available literature, and question what we believe we know. A summary of available literature is provided to guide the clinician in educating patients in reducing their risk of recurrent calcium oxalate stone disease.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Calcium Oxalate; Calcium, Dietary; Citrates; Dehydration; Diet, Protein-Restricted; Diet, Sodium-Restricted; Evidence-Based Medicine; Feeding Behavior; Fluid Therapy; Humans; Information Services; Internet; Kidney Calculi; Nurse's Role; Nutritional Sciences; Obesity; Oxalates; Patient Education as Topic; Phytotherapy; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Recurrence; Risk Factors

The importance of diet in multiple aspects of the immune response is inescapable. Although only a few trials have attempted to apply knowledge derived from in-vitro and animal data to humans, the ability to modulate or "reset" the immune response by manipulating dietary intake will surely continue to be studied in the future. The role of various nutrients in immunity is reviewed and clinical applications are noted.

Topics: Adult; Amino Acids; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Calcium; Child; Clinical Trials as Topic; Diet; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Fats; Dietary Proteins; Fasting; Humans; Immunity; Infant; Iron; Lectins; Lipids; Magnesium; Mice; Models, Biological; Obesity; Protein-Energy Malnutrition; Selenium; Vitamin A; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamin D; Vitamin E; Vitamin K; Zinc

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Diet; Digestive System; Folic Acid Deficiency; Gonadal Steroid Hormones; Humans; Immunity; Lymphocytes; Nutrition Disorders; Obesity; Phorbol Esters; Vitamin A Deficiency; Vitamin B Deficiency; Vitamin E; Zinc

Optimum nutrition is the level of intake that should promote the highest level of health. Although excess caloric intake will lead to obesity, a deficit in nutrition may result in a tissue depletion of essential nutrients that can lead to biochemical changes and eventually to clinical signs and symptoms. Nutrition requirements may differ according to sex, age, activity, or physiological state and can be influenced by drugs, smoking, alcohol, and other factors. With ever-increasing sedentary life styles and less physically demanding jobs, the resulting reduced caloric requirements have made it more difficult to make nutritionally sound food choices. Nutrition is the single most important component of preventive health care. Diet has been associated with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, stroke and hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and cirrhosis of the liver. The ability of the human to respond to stresses, such as altitude, heat, trauma, surgery, and infection can be influenced by nutritional status. Nutritional status is reflected in a variety of metabolic processes that provide the basis for a number of methods for its assessment.

Topics: Alcoholism; Anemia, Hypochromic; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Avitaminosis; Climate; Dietary Fats; Female; Folic Acid; Food Additives; Health; Humans; Immunocompetence; Lactation; Male; Neoplasms; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutritional Requirements; Obesity; Physical Exertion; Pregnancy; Protein-Energy Malnutrition; Pyridoxine; Riboflavin; Smoking; Stress, Physiological; Thiamine; Trace Elements; Vitamin A; Vitamins; Zinc

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Anemia, Hypochromic; Arteriosclerosis; Ascorbic Acid; Child; Diet; Female; Humans; Iron; Male; Nutrition Disorders; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Physical Exertion; Vitamins; Zinc

Maternal nutrition represents one of the important influences on the course and outcome of pregnancy and attention to nutritional factors (i.e., assessment of nutritional status, dietary advice, and follow-up evaluation) properly constitute an essential component of prenatal care. Nearly all nutrients are required in increased amounts during gestation but the magnitude of the increase varies from nutrient to nutrient. Caloric needs increase by 300 kcal per day, representing an addition of 15 per cent, and should be sufficient to support a weight gain averaging 350 to 400 gm per week during the last two trimesters. Total protein intake during pregnancy should be 1.3 gm per kg for the mature woman and somewhat higher for the adolescent. Gestational needs for iron cannot be met by diet and supplementation (in the form of simple ferrous salts, 30 to 60 mg daily) should be provided. Folate requirements are doubled during pregnancy and, while these can be met by diet, supplementation may be considered as an option. Provision of the gestational calcium allowance from food sources is readily possible if (and only if) daily products are consumed. The generally increased need for other nutrients can be provided readily by the properly selected diet. Thus, with respect to supplements, iron and perhaps folate should be advised routinely while other vitamin-mineral supplements are probably neither helpful nor harmful. Prescription of vitamin-mineral supplements cannot be expected to compensate for poor dietary habits. Dietary restriction of nutrients in general, and energy and sodium in particular, has the potential for impairing the maternal capacity to make the required physiologic adjustments of pregnancy and interfering with fetal development. Restriction of any nutrient to levels below the guidelines provided by the Recommended Dietary Allowances is rarely if ever advisable.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Birth Weight; Body Weight; Calcium, Dietary; Dietary Proteins; Energy Metabolism; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Iron; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutritional Requirements; Obesity; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Pyridoxine; Sodium; Vitamin D

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Birth Weight; Body Height; Body Weight; Calcium, Dietary; Diet; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Fats; Dietary Proteins; Eclampsia; Energy Transfer; Female; Germany, West; Humans; Lactation; Maternal Mortality; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Pre-Eclampsia; Pregnancy; Prenatal Care; Vitamin A; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamin D; Vitamin E; Vitamin K

Topics: Adult; Aged; Animals; Arteriosclerosis; Ascorbic Acid; Catecholamines; Diet Therapy; Dietary Fats; Fats, Unsaturated; Female; Humans; Hypercholesterolemia; Hyperlipidemias; Hypertension; Injections, Intra-Arterial; Intermittent Claudication; Male; Mice; Middle Aged; Myocardial Infarction; Nicotine; Obesity; Procaine; Rabbits; Radiography; Smoking; Sympathectomy; Thiamine; Thromboangiitis Obliterans; Tolazoline; Vasodilator Agents

Hmong men in Minnesota exhibit a high prevalence of gout and hyperuricemia. Although evidence of vitamin C's effectiveness as a treatment for gout is mixed, analysis of therapeutic benefit based on an individual's multiomic signature may identify predictive markers of treatment success.. The primary objective of the Hmong Microbiome ANd Gout, Obesity, Vitamin C (HMANGO-C) study was to assess the effectiveness of vitamin C on serum urate in Hmong adults with and without gout/hyperuricemia. The secondary objectives were to assess if 1) vitamin C impacts the taxonomic and functional patterns of microbiota; 2) taxonomic and functional patterns of microbiota impact vitamin C's urate-lowering effects; 3) genetic variations impact vitamin C's urate-lowering effects; 4) differential microbial biomarkers exist for patients with or without gout; and 5) there is an association between obesity, gut microbiota and gout/hyperuricemia.. This prospective open-labelled clinical trial was guided by community-based participatory research principles and conducted under research safety restrictions for SARS-CoV-2. We aimed to enroll a convenient sample of 180 Hmong adults (120 with gout/hyperuricemia and 60 without gout/hyperuricemia) who provided medical, demographic, dietary and anthropometric information. Participants took vitamin C 500mg twice daily for 8 weeks and provided pre-and post- samples of blood and urine for urate measurements as well as stool samples for gut microbiome. Salivary DNA was also collected for genetic markers relevant to uric acid disposition.. We expected to quantify the impact of vitamin C on serum urate in Hmong adults with and without gout/hyperuricemia. The outcome will enhance our understanding of how gut microbiome and genomic variants impact the urate-lowering of vitamin C and associations between obesity, gut microbiota and gout/hyperuricemia. Ultimately, findings may improve our understanding of the causes and potential interventions that could be used to address health disparities in the prevalence and management of gout in this underserved population.. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04938024 (first posted: 06/24/2021).

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic; COVID-19; Gout; Gout Suppressants; Humans; Hyperuricemia; Male; Microbiota; Obesity; Prospective Studies; SARS-CoV-2; Uric Acid; Vitamins

We investigated the effects of Irvingia gabonensis (IG) kernel extract on the metabolism, adiposity indices, redox status, inflammation, adipocytokines, blood leukocyte relative telomere length (RTL), and aerobic capacity of overweight/obese individuals. All participants used the first 12-week phase to monitor body weight. They were then randomly divided into two groups: (1) 300 mg IG or (2) placebo (PLA). Both groups took one tablet per day for 12 weeks. The variables were measured before supplementation and after 3, 6, and 12 weeks of supplementation. RTL and aerobic capacity were measured before and after 12 weeks. Compared with the PLA, the IG increased plasma vitamin C after supplementation at 6 (p < 0.01) and 12 weeks (p < 0.05) and serum adiponectin after 3 weeks (p < 0.05). Compared with before supplementation, plasma malondialdehyde in the IG and serum leptin in the PLA were decreased after 12-week supplementation, without any differences between the groups. There were no differences between groups with respect to metabolism, inflammation, RTL, and aerobic capacity after the supplementation. We suggest that 12-week daily IG supplementation improved plasma vitamin C and adiponectin. The findings show the possible mechanism contributing to the effect of IG supplementation on a reduction in obesity-related complications.

Topics: Adipokines; Adiponectin; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Dietary Supplements; Double-Blind Method; Humans; Inflammation; Obesity; Overweight; Plant Extracts; Polyesters; Telomere

Mental stress (MS) is related to endothelial dysfunction in overweight/obese men. It is believed that the pro-oxidant profile, associated with an imbalance in the vascular remodeling process, may contribute to deleterious effects of MS on endothelial function. However, it is unknown whether administration of ascorbic acid (AA), a potent antioxidant, can prevent oxidative and remodeling dysfunction during MS in these subjects.. At baseline, MMP-9 activity (p < 0.01), the MMP-9/proMMP-9 ratio (p = 0.02) and TIMP-1 concentration (p = 0.05) were reduced, whereas proMPP-9 activity was increased (p = 0.02) after AA compared to PL infusion. After PL infusion, MS increased protein carbonylation (p < 0.01), catalase (p < 0.01), and the MMP-9/proMMP-9 ratio (p = 0.04) when compared to baseline. AA infusion reduced protein carbonylation (p = 0.02), MMP-9 activity (p < 0.01), and MMP-9/pro-MMP-9 ratio (p < 0.01), while SOD (p = 0.04 vs baseline), proMPP-9 (p < 0.01 vs PL), MMP-2 (p < 0.01 vs PL) and TIMP-2 (p = 0.02 vs baseline) remained elevated during MS.. AA appears to minimize the oxidative imbalance and vascular remodeling induced by MS.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Catalase; Cross-Over Studies; Endothelium, Vascular; Humans; Luminescence; Male; Matrix Metalloproteinase 2; Matrix Metalloproteinase 9; Obesity; Overweight; Oxidants; Protein Carbonylation; Risk Factors; Stress, Psychological; Stroop Test; Superoxide Dismutase; Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1; Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2; Vascular Remodeling; Young Adult

Comparing the effectiveness of dietary vitamin C and weight loss exercises interventions for weight loss on semen characteristics in normal obese man.. A total number of 200 men were randomly allocated into two groups based on body mass index, exercise and vitamin C groups. Also, 50 men with normal spermogram were placed in a control group. In exercise group, a 6 months intensive exercise program was designed under a coach's supervision to reduce the body weight. In vitamin C group, 1,000 mg of vitamin C were given every other day as supplement.. Weight loss increased the volume of semen in participants with 25-30 (P = .02) and more than 30 body mass index (P = .001). The increased concentration of sperm per mL of semen in body mass index (BMI) 25-30 group (P = .01) and more than 30 (P = .003) BMI was significant. Improving sperm motility after two hours in participants with more than 30 (P = .01) BMI was significant. In vitamin C group, the improvement of sperm concentration in participants who had less than 25 (P = .01), between 25 and 30 (P = .01), more than 30 (P = .02) BMI was significant. Sperm motility improved in all three groups (P = .001, P = .02 and P = .003, respectively).. Weight loss can significantly increase semen volume, its concentration, its mobility and percentage of normal morphology. Consuming vitamin C significantly improves sperm concentration and mobility, but the semen volume and the percentage of normal morphology will not change significantly.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Dietary Supplements; Exercise Therapy; Fertility; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Retrospective Studies; Semen Analysis; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Vitamins; Young Adult

Considering the pathologic importance of oxidative stress and altered lipid metabolism in osteoarthritis (OA), this study aimed to investigate the effect of l-carnitine supplementation on oxidative stress, lipid profile, and clinical status in women with knee OA. We hypothesized that l-carnitine would improve clinical status by modulating serum oxidative stress and lipid profile. In this randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 72 overweight or obese women with mild to moderate knee OA were randomly allocated into 2 groups to receive 750 mg/d l-carnitine or placebo for 8 weeks. Dietary intake was evaluated using 24-hour recall for 3 days. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid profile, visual analog scale for pain intensity, and patient global assessment of severity of disease were assessed before and after supplementation. Only 69 patients (33 in the l-carnitine group and 36 in the placebo group) completed the study. l-Carnitine supplementation resulted in significant reductions in serum MDA (2.46 ± 1.13 vs 2.16 ± 0.94 nmol/mL), total cholesterol (216.09 ± 34.54 vs 206.12 ± 39.74 mg/dL), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (129.45 ± 28.69 vs 122.05 ± 32.76 mg/dL) levels compared with baseline (P < .05), whereas these parameters increased in the placebo group. Serum triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and TAC levels did not change significantly in both groups (P > .05). No significant differences were observed in dietary intake, serum lipid profile, MDA, and TAC levels between groups after adjusting for baseline values and covariates (P > .05). There were significant intragroup and intergroup differences in pain intensity and patient global assessment of disease status after supplementation (P < .05). Collectively, l-carnitine improved clinical status without changing oxidative stress and lipid profile significantly in women with knee OA.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Benzothiazoles; Body Mass Index; Carnitine; Cholesterol, HDL; Cholesterol, LDL; Dietary Fats; Dietary Proteins; Dietary Supplements; Double-Blind Method; Energy Intake; Female; Humans; Lipid Metabolism; Malondialdehyde; Middle Aged; Motor Activity; Nutrition Assessment; Obesity; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Overweight; Oxidative Stress; Selenium; Sulfonic Acids; Thiobarbiturates; Triglycerides; Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Zinc

Obesity is well associated as being an interfering factor in metabolic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes by increasing the secretion of proinflammatory markers from adipose tissue. Having healthy effects, vitamin C could work as an anti-inflammatory agent through its antioxidant capacity.. FPSK_Mac [13]04.. The aim of the study reported here was to identify the effect of vitamin C on reducing the levels of inflammatory markers in hypertensive and/or diabetic obese adults.. Sixty-four obese patients, who were hypertensive and/or diabetic and had high levels of inflammatory markers, from primary health care centers in Gaza City, Palestine, were enrolled into one of two groups in an open-label, parallel, randomized controlled trial. A total of 33 patients were randomized into a control group and 31 patients were randomized into an experimental group. The experimental group was treated with 500 mg vitamin C twice a day.. In the experimental group, vitamin C significantly reduced the levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and triglyceride (TG) after 8 weeks of treatment (overall: P<0.001); no changes appeared in total cholesterol (TC). In the control group, there were significant reductions in FBG and TG (P=0.001 and P=0.026, respectively), and no changes in hs-CRP, IL-6, or TC. On comparing the changes in the experimental group with those in the control group at the endpoint, vitamin C was found to have achieved clinical significance in treating effectiveness for reducing hs-CRP, IL-6, and FBG levels (P=0.01, P=0.001, and P<0.001, respectively), but no significant changes in TC or TG were found.. Vitamin C (500 mg twice daily) has potential effects in alleviating inflammatory status by reducing hs-CRP, IL-6, and FBG in hypertensive and/or diabetic obese patients.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Adult; Anti-Infective Agents; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Blood Glucose; C-Reactive Protein; Cholesterol; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Drug Administration Schedule; Female; Humans; Hypertension; Inflammation; Inflammation Mediators; Interleukin-6; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome; Triglycerides; Young Adult

Iron deficiency is common in overweight and obese individuals. This deficiency may be due to adiposity-related inflammation that increases serum hepcidin and decreases dietary iron absorption. Because hepcidin reduces iron efflux from the basolateral enterocyte, it is uncertain whether luminal enhancers of dietary iron absorption such as ascorbic acid can be effective in overweight and obese individuals.. In this study, we compared iron absorption from a meal with ascorbic acid (+AA) and a meal without ascorbic acid (-AA) in women in a normal-weight group (NW) with those in overweight and obese groups combined (OW/OB).. Healthy, nonanemic women [n = 62; BMI (in kg/m(2)): 18.5-39.9] consumed a stable-isotope-labeled wheat-based test meal -AA and a wheat-based test meal +AA (31.4 mg ascorbic acid). We measured iron absorption and body composition with the use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, blood volume with the use of a carbon monoxide (CO)-rebreathing method, iron status, inflammation, and serum hepcidin.. Inflammatory biomarkers (all P < 0.05) and hepcidin (P = 0.08) were lower in the NW than in the OW/OB. Geometric mean (95% CI) iron absorptions in the NW and OW/OB were 19.0% (15.2%, 23.5%) and 12.9% (9.7%, 16.9%) (P = 0.049), respectively, from -AA meals and 29.5% (23.3%, 38.2%) and 16.6% (12.8%, 21.7%) (P = 0.004), respectively, from +AA meals. Median percentage increases in iron absorption for -AA to +AA meals were 56% in the NW (P < 0.001) and 28% in OW/OB (P = 0.006). Serum ferritin [R(2) = 0.22; β = -0.17 (95% CI: -0.25, -0.09)], transferrin receptor [R(2) = 0.23; β = 2.79 (95% CI: 1.47, 4.11)], and hepcidin [R(2) = 0.13; β = -0.85 (95% CI: -1.41, -0.28)] were significant predictors of iron absorption.. In overweight and obese women, iron absorption is two-thirds that in normal-weight women, and the enhancing effect of ascorbic acid on iron absorption is one-half of that in normal-weight women. Recommending higher intakes of ascorbic acid (or other luminal enhancers of iron absorption) in obese individuals to improve iron status may have a limited effect. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01884506.

Topics: Absorptiometry, Photon; Adiposity; Adult; Anemia, Iron-Deficiency; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Breakfast; Down-Regulation; Female; Food, Fortified; Hepcidins; Humans; Intestinal Absorption; Iron Isotopes; Iron, Dietary; Obesity; Overweight; Risk; Switzerland; Young Adult

Oxidative stress and low-grade systemic inflammation may contribute to the pathogenesis of obesity-induced comorbidities, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Increasing intake of dietary antioxidants might be beneficial, but there are few data in obese children. To examine the effect of antioxidant supplementation on biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and liver function, we randomly assigned overweight or obese children and adolescents (n = 44; mean ± SD age: 12.7 ± 1.5 y) participating in a lifestyle modification program to a 4-mo intervention with daily antioxidants (vitamin E, 400 IU; vitamin C, 500 mg; selenium, 50 μg) or placebo. We measured anthropometrics, antioxidant status, oxidative stress (F(2)-isoprostanes, F(2)-isoprostane metabolites), inflammation, liver enzymes, fasting insulin and glucose, and lipid profile at baseline and endpoint. There was a significant treatment effect of antioxidant supplementation on antioxidant status [α-tocopherol, β = 23.2 (95% CI: 18.0, 28.4); ascorbic acid, β = 70.6 (95% CI: 51.7, 89.4); selenium, β = 0.07 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.12)] and oxidative stress [8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, β = -0.11 (95% CI: -0.19, -0.02)] but not on any of the inflammatory markers measured. There was a significant treatment effect on alanine aminotransferase [β = -0.13 (95% CI: -0.23, -0.03)], a trend toward a significant effect on aspartate aminotransferase [β = -0.04 (95% CI: -0.09, 0.01)], and no significant effect on γ-glutamyltransferase [β = -0.03 (95% CI: -0.11, 0.06)]. In summary, antioxidant supplementation for 4 mo improved antioxidant-oxidant balance and modestly improved liver function tests; however, it did not reduce markers of systemic inflammation despite significant baseline correlations between oxidative stress and inflammation. The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01316081.

Topics: Adolescent; Alanine Transaminase; alpha-Tocopherol; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Biomarkers; Child; Dietary Supplements; Female; gamma-Glutamyltransferase; Humans; Inflammation; Inflammation Mediators; Isoprostanes; Liver; Liver Function Tests; Male; Micronutrients; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Selenium; Weight Reduction Programs

Cross-sectional data suggests that a low level of plasma ascorbic acid positively associates with both Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference (WC). This leads to questions about a possible relationship between dietary intake of ascorbic acid and subsequent changes in anthropometry, and whether such associations may depend on genetic predisposition to obesity. Hence, we examined whether dietary ascorbic acid, possibly in interaction with the genetic predisposition to a high BMI, WC or waist-hip ratio adjusted for BMI (WHR), associates with subsequent annual changes in weight (∆BW) and waist circumference (∆WC).. A total of 7,569 participants' from MONICA, the Diet Cancer and Health study and the INTER99 study were included in the study. We combined 50 obesity associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in four genetic scores: a score of all SNPs and a score for each of the traits (BMI, WC and WHR) with which the SNPs associate. Linear regression was used to examine the association between ascorbic acid intake and ΔBW or ΔWC. SNP-score × ascorbic acid interactions were examined by adding product terms to the models.. We found no significant associations between dietary ascorbic acid and ∆BW or ∆WC. Regarding SNP-score × ascorbic acid interactions, each additional risk allele of the 14 WHR associated SNPs associated with a ∆WC of 0.039 cm/year (P = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.005 to 0.073) per 100 mg/day higher ascorbic acid intake. However, the association to ∆WC only remained borderline significant after adjustment for ∆BW.. In general, our study does not support an association between dietary ascorbic acid and ∆BW or ∆WC, but a diet with a high content of ascorbic acid may be weakly associated to higher WC gain among people who are genetically predisposed to a high WHR. However, given the quite limited association any public health relevance is questionable.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Body Weight; Cohort Studies; Denmark; Diet; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Prospective Studies; Waist Circumference; Waist-Hip Ratio

We tested the hypothesis that infusion of ascorbic acid (AA), a potent antioxidant, would alter vasodilator responses to exercise in human obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). Forearm blood flow (FBF, Doppler ultrasound) was measured in lean, obese, and MetSyn adults (n = 39, 32 ± 2 yr). A brachial artery catheter was inserted for blood pressure monitoring and local infusion of AA. FBF was measured during dynamic handgrip exercise (15% maximal effort) with and without AA infusion. To account for group differences in blood pressure and forearm size, and to assess vasodilation, forearm vascular conductance (FVC = FBF/mean arterial blood pressure/lean forearm mass) was calculated. We examined the time to achieve steady-state FVC (mean response time, MRT) and the rise in FVC from rest to steady-state exercise (Δ, exercise - rest) before and during acute AA infusion. The MRT (P = 0.26) and steady-state vasodilator responses to exercise (ΔFVC, P = 0.31) were not different between groups. Intra-arterial infusion of AA resulted in a significant increase in plasma total antioxidant capacity (174 ± 37%). AA infusion did not alter MRT or steady-state FVC in any group (P = 0.90 and P = 0.85, respectively). Interestingly, higher levels of C-reactive protein predicted longer MRT (r = 0.52, P < 0.01) and a greater reduction in MRT with AA infusion (r = -0.43, P = 0.02). We concluded that AA infusion during moderate-intensity, rhythmic forearm exercise does not alter the time course or magnitude of exercise-mediated vasodilation in groups of young lean, obese, or MetSyn adults. However, systemic inflammation may limit the MRT to exercise, which can be improved with AA.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Antioxidants; Arterial Pressure; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Blood Flow Velocity; Brachial Artery; C-Reactive Protein; Exercise; Female; Forearm; Humans; Inflammation Mediators; Infusions, Intra-Arterial; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Obesity; Regional Blood Flow; Time Factors; Vasodilation; Young Adult

Older adults with cardiovascular disease exhibit microvascular dysfunction and increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). We hypothesized that microvascular impairments begin early in the disease process and can be improved by scavenging ROS. Forearm blood flow (Doppler ultrasound) was measured in 45 young (32 ± 2 yr old) adults (n = 15/group) classified as lean, obese, and metabolic syndrome (MetSyn). Vasodilation in response to endothelial (ACh) and vascular smooth muscle [nitroprusside (NTP) and epoprostenol (Epo)] agonists was tested before and after intra-arterial infusion of ascorbic acid to scavenge ROS. Vasodilation was assessed as a rise in relative vascular conductance (ml·min(-1)·dl(-1)·100 mmHg(-1)). ACh and NTP responses were preserved (P = 0.825 and P = 0.924, respectively), whereas Epo responses were lower in obese and MetSyn adults (P < 0.05) than in lean controls. Scavenging of ROS via infusion of ascorbic acid resulted in an increase in ACh-mediated (P < 0.001) and NTP-mediated (P < 0.001) relative vascular conductance across all groups, suggesting that oxidative stress influences vascular responsiveness in adults with and without overt cardiovascular disease risk. Ascorbic acid had no effect on Epo-mediated vasodilation (P = 0.267). These results suggest that obese and MetSyn adults exhibit preserved endothelium-dependent vasodilation with reduced dependence on prostacyclin and are consistent with an upregulation of compensatory vascular control mechanisms.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Case-Control Studies; Endothelium, Vascular; Epoprostenol; Humans; Infusions, Intra-Arterial; Metabolic Syndrome; Microvessels; Muscle, Skeletal; Muscle, Smooth, Vascular; Nitroprusside; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Regional Blood Flow; Ultrasonography, Doppler; Vasodilation; Vasodilator Agents

Moderate energy restriction and exercise are recommended for effective weight loss. Obese individuals oxidize less fat and report a higher perceived exertion during exercise, characteristics that may negatively influence exercise behavior. Because vitamin C status has been linked to fatigability, we compared the effects of vitamin C supplementation on self-reported fatigue and on the respiratory exchange ratio and the Ratings of Perceived Exertion scale during moderate exercise in healthy obese adults adhering to a hypocaloric diet.. Twenty adults (4 men and 16 women) were stratified and randomly assigned to receive 500 mg of vitamin C (VC) or placebo (CON) daily for 4 wk while adhering to a vitamin C-controlled, calorie-restricted diet. Feelings of general fatigue as assessed by the Profile of Mood States questionnaire were recorded on a separate day from the exercise session at weeks 0 and 4. Participants walked on a treadmill at an intensity of 50% predicted maximal oxygen consumption for 60 min at weeks 0 and 4, and heart rate, respiratory exchange ratio, and Ratings of Perceived Exertion were recorded.. After 4 wk, the two groups lost similar amounts of weight (≈ 4 kg), and the respiratory exchange ratio was not altered by group. Heart rate and the Ratings of Perceived Exertion during exercise were significantly decreased in the VC versus the CON group (-11 versus -3 beats/min, P = 0.022, and -1.3 versus +0.1 U, P = 0.001, respectively), and the general fatigue score was decreased 5.9 U for the VC group versus a 1.9 U increase for the CON group (P = 0.001).. These data provide preliminary evidence that vitamin C status may influence fatigue, heart rate, and perceptions of exertion during moderate exercise in obese individuals.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Caloric Restriction; Dietary Supplements; Exercise Test; Exercise Therapy; Fatigue; Female; Heart Rate; Humans; Male; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Perception; Pulmonary Gas Exchange; Weight Reduction Programs

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with oxidative stress. Bariatric surgery for the treatment of obesity may affect biomarkers of oxidative stress.. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on blood markers of oxidative stress, such as vitamins C and E, β-carotene, reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP), and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS).. A prospective controlled clinical trial was carried out. The participants were distributed into two groups: a control group (n=35), which was evaluated once, and a bariatric group (n=35), which was evaluated at baseline as well as 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery.. After surgery, the BMI decreased from 47.05±1.46 to 30.53±1.14 kg/m (P<0.001), but 25.7% of the participants regained weight after 24 months. In relation to the baseline, postsurgery reductions were found in vitamin C (31.9±4.6%, P<0.001), β-carotene (360.7±368.3%, P<0.001), vitamin E (22.8±4.1%, P<0.001), GSH (6.6±5.2%, P=0.090), CAT (12.7±5.6%, P=0.029), and FRAP (1.2±3.8%, P=0.085) 2 years after RYGB. TBARS levels decreased after 12 months (71.6±2.9%, P<0.001) in relation to the baseline but increased by 195.0±28.2% between the 12th and the 24th month (P<0.001).. The present findings show that oxidative stress returned 2 years after RYGB. Concentrations of vitamin C, β-carotene, GSH, CAT, and FRAP were decreased, whereas the concentration of TBARS decreased in the first year but increased in the following year, which may be partly explained by the imbalance between antioxidants and pro-oxidants.

Topics: Adult; Anthropometry; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Biomarkers; Body Mass Index; Body Weight; Catalase; Energy Intake; Female; Gastric Bypass; Glutathione; Humans; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Postoperative Period; Prospective Studies; Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances; Vitamin E

There are concerns that weight-loss (WL) diets based on very low carbohydrate (LC) intake have a negative impact on antioxidant status and biomarkers of cardiovascular and metabolic health. Obese men (n 16) participated in a randomised, cross-over design diet trial, with food provided daily, at approximately 8.3 MJ/d (approximately 70 % of energy maintenance requirements). They were provided with two high-protein diets (30 % of energy), each for a 4-week period, involving a LC (4 % carbohydrate) and a moderate carbohydrate (MC, 35 % carbohydrate) content. Body weight was measured daily, and weekly blood samples were collected. On average, subjects lost 6.75 and 4.32 kg of weight on the LC and MC diets, respectively (P < 0.001, SED 0.350). Although the LC and MC diets were associated with a small reduction in plasma concentrations of retinol, vitamin E (α-tocopherol) and β-cryptoxanthin (P < 0.005), these were still above the values indicative of deficiency. Interestingly, plasma vitamin C concentrations increased on consumption of the LC diet (P < 0.05). Plasma markers of insulin resistance (P < 0.001), lipaemia and inflammation (P < 0.05, TNF-α and IL-10) improved similarly on both diets. There was no change in other cardiovascular markers with WL. The present data suggest that a LC WL diet does not impair plasma indices of cardiometabolic health, at least within 4 weeks, in otherwise healthy obese subjects. In general, improvements in metabolic health associated with WL were similar between the LC and MC diets. Antioxidant supplements may be warranted if LC WL diets are consumed for a prolonged period.

Topics: Adult; Aged; alpha-Tocopherol; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cross-Over Studies; Cryptoxanthins; Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted; Diet, Reducing; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Proteins; Endothelium, Vascular; Energy Intake; Humans; Hyperlipidemias; Inflammation Mediators; Insulin Resistance; Male; Metabolic Diseases; Middle Aged; Nutritional Requirements; Obesity; Risk Factors; Vitamin A; Weight Loss; Xanthophylls

Peripheral vasodilation response plays an important role in the pathophysiology of obesity and heart disease.. To evaluate the chronic effect of vitamin C (VitC) supplementation on blood pressure and on vasodilation response to mental stress.. In a double-blind, randomized and prospective study we evaluated obese children with 8 to 12 years in 2 similar groups: 1) supplemented with 500 mg VitC (n = 11) and 2) placebo (n = 10) for 45 days. Eight age-matched lean control children were also studied. We evaluated: mean blood pressure (MBP), heart rate (HR) and forearm blood flow by venous occlusion plethismography. Forearm vascular conductance (FVC) was calculated by: (forearm blood flow/PAM) X100.. On pre-intervention evaluations obese children showed higher MBP and lower FVC compared to lean control children. After intervention VitC diminished MBP at rest (81 ± 2 vs 75 ± 1 mmHg, p = 0.01), whereas placebo did not promote changes in MBP (p = 0.58). In addition, VitC promoted FVC increase at rest (3.40 ± 0.5 vs 5.09 ± 0.6 un, p = 0.04) and during the mental stress (3.92 ± 0.5 vs 6.68 ± 0.9 un, p = 0.03). Moreover, after VitC supplementation FVC levels were similar to the lean control children at rest (5.09 ± 0.6 vs 5.82 ± 0.4 un, p > 0.05) and during mental stress (6.68 ± 0.9 vs 7.35 ± 0.5 un, p > 0.05).. VitC supplementation reduced the MBP and restored peripheral vasodilatation response during mental stress in obese children.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Blood Pressure; Child; Double-Blind Method; Female; Forearm; Heart Rate; Humans; Male; Obesity; Prospective Studies; Stress, Psychological; Vasodilation

The present study assessed the effect of Ruscus aculeatus-hesperidin-methyl-chalcone-ascorbic acid (HMC-AA) on the quality of life (QoL) of patients suffering from chronic venous disorders (CVDs).. An observational, multicentre and prospective study was performed with 917 Mexican patients suffering from CVD. Patients were treated with R. aculeatus-HMC-AA. After 12 weeks of treatment, the physicians then assessed the patients' symptoms and QoL using Short Form (SF-12) and Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CIVIQ) auto-questionnaires.. Patients were mainly women (86.7%), overweight or obese (72.7%) or C2 (39.3%)-C3 (27.6%). All symptoms and ankle circumferences significantly improved over time, with increasing clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathophysiological (CEAP) classes and body mass index (BMI) (P < 0.001). Concerning QoL, all dimensions of the SF-12 score significantly improved over time (P < 0.001). Moreover, the CIVIQ scores significantly improved (P < 0.001) with increasing BMI (P < 0.002) and CEAP classes (P < 0.05).. R. aculeatus-HMC-AA significantly improved the symptoms and QoL of CVD patients.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Chalcone; Chronic Disease; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Hesperidin; Humans; Male; Mexico; Middle Aged; Obesity; Plant Extracts; Prospective Studies; Quality of Life; Ruscus; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vascular Diseases

The thermic effect of feeding (TEF: increase in energy expenditure following acute energy intake) is an important physiological determinant of total daily energy expenditure and thus energy balance. Approximately 40% of TEF is believed to be mediated by sympathoadrenal activation and consequent beta-adrenergic receptor stimulation of metabolism. In sedentary adults, acute administration of ascorbic acid, a potent antioxidant, augments the thermogenic response to beta-adrenergic stimulation. We hypothesized that acute ascorbic acid administration augments TEF in sedentary overweight and obese adults. Energy expenditure was determined (ventilated hood technique) before and 4 h after consumption of a liquid-mixed meal (caloric equivalent 40% of resting energy expenditure (REE)) in 11 sedentary, overweight/obese adults (5 men, 6 women; age: 24 +/- 2 years; BMI: 28.5 +/- 1.0 kg/m(2) (mean +/- s.e.)) on two separate, randomly ordered occasions: during continuous intravenous administration of saline (placebo control) and/or ascorbic acid (0.05 g/kg fat-free mass). Acute ascorbic acid administration prevented the increase in plasma concentration of oxidized low-density lipoprotein in the postprandial state (P = 0.04), but did not influence REE (1,668 +/- 107 kcal/day vs.1,684 +/- 84 kcal/day; P = 0.91) or the area under the TEF response curve (33.4 +/- 2.4 kcal vs. 30.5 +/- 3.6 kcal; P = 0.52) (control vs. ascorbic acid, respectively). Furthermore, acute ascorbic acid administration had no effect on respiratory exchange ratio, heart rate, or arterial blood pressure in the pre- and postabsorptive states (all P > 0.64). These data imply that the attenuated TEF commonly observed with sedentary lifestyle and obesity is not modulated by ascorbic acid-sensitive oxidative stress.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Energy Intake; Energy Metabolism; Female; Humans; Male; Obesity; Overweight; Oxidative Stress; Rest; Single-Blind Method

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the inflammatory response to a high-fat, low-carbohydrate weight loss diet (HF) we previously observed was due to oxidative stress. Nineteen overweight subjects (BMI>27 kg/m(2)) were randomly assigned to either an antioxidant supplement (AS) (1 g vitamin C/800 IU vitamin E) or a placebo (P) group and provided with a HF for 7 days. Fasted pre- and post serum samples were measured for markers of inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1)), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and glucose, whereas urine was measured for oxidative stress (8-epi-prostaglandin-F(2alpha) (8-epi)). HF resulted in significant reductions in weight (-3.2%), glucose (-18.7%), and MCP-1 (-15%) (all P<0.01), with no difference between groups. There was a trend for a differential effect between groups for CRP as it decreased 32% in the AS group but increased 50% for P (P=0.076). Inverse correlations were noted between initial values and changes in several inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, including CRP (r= -0.501), 8-epi (r= -0.863), and ORAC (r= -0.546) (all P<0.05). It was concluded that weight loss on a short-term HF caused reduction of some but not all markers of inflammation. A role for oxidative stress in causing inflammation was not confirmed; however, longer term diet-controlled studies are necessary to further explore the trend for a differential response in CRP with antioxidant supplementation.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Blood Glucose; C-Reactive Protein; Chemokine CCL2; Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted; Dietary Fats; Dinoprost; Drug Combinations; Female; Humans; Inflammation; Inflammation Mediators; Interleukin-6; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin E; Weight Loss

Oxidative stress is elevated in obesity, and may be a major mechanism for obesity-related diseases. Nonsmokers (n=396) were randomized to 1000 mg/day vitamin C, 800 IU/day vitamin E, or placebo, for 2 months. Treatment effect was examined in multiple regression analyses using an intention-to-treat approach. Vitamin C (P=0.001) and vitamin E (P=0.043) reduced plasma F2-isoprostanes. In the overall sample, changes from baseline were +6.8, -10.6, and -3.9% for placebo, vitamin C, and vitamin E groups, respectively. However, a significant interaction with baseline F2-isoprostane was found. When baseline F2-isoprostane was >50 microg/mL, vitamin C reduced F2-isoprostane by 22% (P=0.01). Vitamin E reduced it by 9.8% (P=0.46). Below that cut point, neither treatment produced further reductions. F2-isoprostane>50 microg/mL was strongly associated with obesity, and was present in 42% of the sample. Change in malondialdehyde concentration was minimal. These findings suggest a role for vitamin C in reducing lipid peroxidation. Future research on effects of vitamins C or E on plasma F2-isoprostane should limit participants to those with baseline levels >50 mug/mL. Further studies are needed to establish whether treatment with vitamins C or E in persons with concentrations above that cut point could slow the development of cardiovascular disease.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; F2-Isoprostanes; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Placebos; Regression Analysis; Vitamin E

Glucosamine is a popular nutritional supplement used to treat osteoarthritis. Intravenous administration of glucosamine causes insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. However, rigorous clinical studies evaluating the safety of oral glucosamine with respect to metabolic and cardiovascular pathophysiology are lacking. Therefore, we conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover trial of oral glucosamine at standard doses (500 mg p.o. t.i.d.) in lean (n = 20) and obese (n = 20) subjects. Glucosamine or placebo treatment for 6 weeks was followed by a 1-week washout and crossover to the other arm. At baseline, and after each treatment period, insulin sensitivity was assessed by hyperinsulinemic-isoglycemic glucose clamp (SI(Clamp)) and endothelial function evaluated by brachial artery blood flow (BAF; Doppler ultrasound) and forearm skeletal muscle microvascular recruitment (ultrasound with microbubble contrast) before and during steady-state hyperinsulinemia. Plasma glucosamine pharmacokinetics after oral dosing were determined in each subject using a high-performance liquid chromatography method. As expected, at baseline, obese subjects had insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction when compared with lean subjects (SI(Clamp) [median {25th-75th percentile}] = 4.3 [2.9-5.3] vs. 7.3 [5.7-11.3], P < 0.0001; insulin-stimulated changes in BAF [% over basal] = 12 [-6 to 84] vs. 39 [2-108], P < 0.04). When compared with placebo, glucosamine did not cause insulin resistance or endothelial dysfunction in lean subjects or significantly worsen these findings in obese subjects. The half-life of plasma glucosamine after oral dosing was approximately 150 min, with no significant changes in steady-state glucosamine levels detectable after 6 weeks of therapy. We conclude that oral glucosamine at standard doses for 6 weeks does not cause or significantly worsen insulin resistance or endothelial dysfunction in lean or obese subjects.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Pressure; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Endothelium, Vascular; Glucosamine; Heart Rate; Humans; Insulin Resistance; Obesity; Reference Values; Thinness

To determine whether antioxidant (AOX) supplementation attenuates post-exercise oxidative stress and contributors to oxidative stress (inflammation, blood lipids) in overweight young adults.. This was a randomized, double-blind, controlled study. Overweight (BMI, 33.2 +/- 1.9 kg/m(2)) and comparative normal-weight (BMI, 21.9 +/- 0.5 kg/m(2)) adults 18 to 30 years old (total N = 48) were enrolled. Participants received either daily antioxidant (AOX) treatment (800 IU of vitamin E, 500 mg of vitamin C, 10 mg of beta-carotene) or placebo (PL) for 8 weeks for a total of four groups. All participants completed a standardized 30-minute cycle exercise bout at baseline and 8 weeks. Exercise-induced changes in lipid hydroperoxide (DeltaPEROX), C-reactive protein (DeltaCRP), interleukin-6 (DeltaIL-6), cholesterol subfractions, triglycerides, total AOX status (DeltaTAS), and adiponectin were assessed.. Exercise-induced DeltaPEROX was lower in the overweight-AOX group (0.09 nM/kg per min) compared with PL-treated overweight and normal-weight groups (0.98, 0.53 nM/kg per min) by 8 weeks (p < 0.05). Adiponectin was increased in both overweight and normal-weight AOX groups (22.1% vs. 3.1%; p < 0.05) but reduced in PL groups. DeltaIL-6, Deltatotal cholesterol, and Deltalow-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations during exercise were lower in the AOX-treated groups compared with PL groups (all p < 0.05). After controlling for BMI, the Deltatotal cholesterol, Deltalow-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, Deltaadiponectin, and DeltaTAS explained 59.1% of the variance of the regression model of the DeltaPEROX by 8 weeks (total model R(2) = 0.600; p = 0.015).. AOX lowers exercise-induced oxidative stress in overweight adults. Inflammatory and lipid markers may also be attenuated with AOX. Further studies are needed to determine whether AOX may be used in cardiovascular disease prevention in the overweight population.

Topics: Adiponectin; Adolescent; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Body Weight; C-Reactive Protein; Cholesterol; Dietary Supplements; Double-Blind Method; Exercise; Female; Humans; Interleukin-6; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Triglycerides; Vitamin E

Oxidative stress is higher in obese diabetic than in non-diabetic subjects. This pilot study evaluates oxidative stress during short-term administration of a very low calorie diet in obese persons. Nine obese Type 2 diabetic patients (age 55+/-5 years, BMI 35.9+/-1.9 kg/m2) and nine obese non-diabetic control subjects (age 52+/-6 years, BMI 37.3+/-2.1 kg/m2) were treated by a very low calorie diet (600 kcal daily) during 8 days stay in the hospital. Serum cholesterol, triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (B-HB), ascorbic acid (AA), alpha-tocopherol (AT), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in erythrocytes were measured before and on day 3 and 8 of very low calorie diet administration. A decrease of serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations on day 8 was associated with a significant increase of NEFA (0.30+/-0.13 vs. 0.47+/-0.11 micromol/l, p<0.001) and B-HB (0.36+/-.13 vs. 2.23+/-1.00 mmol/l, p<0.001) in controls but only of B-HB (1.11+/-0.72 vs. 3.02+/-1.95 mmol/l, p<0.001) in diabetic patients. A significant decrease of plasma MDA and serum AT together with an increase of SOD activity and AA concentration (p<0.01) was observed in control persons, whereas an increase of SOD activity (p<0.01) was only found in diabetic patients after one week of the very low calorie diet. There was a significant correlation between NEFA or B-HB and SOD activity (p<0.01). We conclude that one week of a very low calorie diet administration decreases oxidative stress in obese non-diabetic but only partly in diabetic persons. Diabetes mellitus causes a greater resistance to the effects of a low calorie diet on oxidative stress.

Topics: Adult; Aged; alpha-Tocopherol; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Caloric Restriction; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Female; Humans; Male; Malondialdehyde; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Pilot Projects; Superoxide Dismutase

To determine effects of oat and antioxidant vitamin (C 500 mg, E 400 IU) ingestion on endothelial function in overweight, dyslipidemic adults.. Randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover trial Intervention(s): Subjects (16 males > or = age 35; 14 postmenopausal females) were assigned, in random order, to oats (60 g oatmeal), vitamin E (400 IU) plus vitamin C (500 mg), the combination of oats and vitamins, or placebo, and underwent brachial artery reactivity scans (BARS) following a single dose of each treatment, and again following 6 weeks of daily ingestion, with 2-week washout periods. At each test, a provocation high-fat meal (50 g, predominantly saturated) was administered and subjects were scanned pre, and 3 hours post-ingestion.. Mean flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD; measured as percent diameter change before and after treatments) at baseline was 6.35 +/- 3.37. Oats increased FMD non-significantly (p > 0.05) with both single acute dose (from 6.07 +/- 6.25 to 9.22 +/- 8.82) and six weeks of sustained treatment (from 6.01 +/- 10.07 to 8.69 +/- 8.42). The direction of effect was negative for vitamins and the oat/vitamin combination with both acute and sustained treatment. There were no significant differences in FMD change among the treatments in either phase of the study, however when acute and sustained effects were pooled, oat treatment significantly augmented FMD (p < 0.05).. This trial suggests but does not confirm a beneficial influence of oat ingestion on endothelial function in overweight, dyslipidemic adults. Further study of this potential association is warranted.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Avena; Blood Flow Velocity; Brachial Artery; Cross-Over Studies; Dietary Fats; Dietary Supplements; Double-Blind Method; Endothelium, Vascular; Female; Humans; Hyperlipidemias; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Postprandial Period; Vasodilation; Vitamin E

At 60 patients with coronary artery disease and high blood pressure studied effects of a diet with low lipid and flavons. The application of a diet and flavons promoted positive dynamics (changes) of clinical manifestations of disease, lipid spectrum and antioxidants.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Antioxidants; Arteriosclerosis; Ascorbic Acid; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diet; Electrocardiography; Flavonoids; Humans; Hypertension; Lipid Peroxidation; Malondialdehyde; Middle Aged; Myocardial Ischemia; Obesity

Topics: Administration, Oral; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Brachial Artery; Diabetes Mellitus; Diabetes, Gestational; Double-Blind Method; Endothelium, Vascular; Female; Humans; Obesity; Postpartum Period; Vasodilation

The relation between the self-reported intake of various dietary constituents and insulin-mediated glucose disposal was evaluated in 52 healthy volunteers. Insulin-mediated glucose uptake was independently associated with degree of obesity (inversely) and estimates of level of physical activity (directly). An independent relation between increased intake of vitamin A and insulin action was shown, ie, the greater the intake of vitamin A, the more effective was insulin in stimulating glucose disposal. However, there was no independent relation noted between insulin-mediated glucose disposal and estimates of the intake of carbohydrate, protein, amount or kind of fat, fiber, or vitamins C and E. Furthermore, the 20 individuals with estimates of vitamin A consumption > 10 000 IU/d had significantly lower plasma glucose (P < 0.01) and insulin (P < 0.05) responses to oral glucose, and insulin-mediated glucose disposal values that were higher (P < 0.005) than those of the 20 individuals whose estimated vitamin A intake was < 8000 IU/d. These results suggest that vitamin A intake, but not intakes of vitamin C and E, fiber, fat, or carbohydrate is associated with enhanced insulin-mediated glucose disposal.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Fats; Dietary Fiber; Exercise; Female; Glucose; Humans; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Male; Middle Aged; Nutrition Assessment; Obesity; Regression Analysis; Software; Surveys and Questionnaires; Time Factors; Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Vitamins

A double blind placebo controlled trial of ascorbic acid was carried out in 41 severely obese subjects. 38 patients completed the 6 week trial. 19 received 3g of ascorbic acid per day, 19 received placebo. The weight loss during the trial was small in both groups but was significantly greater in the ascorbic acid treated group.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Clinical Trials as Topic; Double-Blind Method; Female; Humans; Obesity; Time Factors

The importance of diet in multiple aspects of the immune response is inescapable. Although only a few trials have attempted to apply knowledge derived from in-vitro and animal data to humans, the ability to modulate or "reset" the immune response by manipulating dietary intake will surely continue to be studied in the future. The role of various nutrients in immunity is reviewed and clinical applications are noted.

Topics: Adult; Amino Acids; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Calcium; Child; Clinical Trials as Topic; Diet; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Fats; Dietary Proteins; Fasting; Humans; Immunity; Infant; Iron; Lectins; Lipids; Magnesium; Mice; Models, Biological; Obesity; Protein-Energy Malnutrition; Selenium; Vitamin A; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamin D; Vitamin E; Vitamin K; Zinc

Forty-two female patients with refractory obesity completed a 20-week double-blind study during which they were given a diet designed to provide not more than 40 mg vitamin C and 1000 kcal (4.2 MJ) daily. Twenty-two of the patients took 600 mg of supplementary vitamin C daily and the remainder, a matched placebo. All were given their highest tolerated dose of fenfluramine up to a maximum of 160 mg daily. There was no significant difference in the mean weight loss of the two groups. This study fails to support the hypothesis that the anti-obesity effect of fenfluramine is influenced by the vitamin C intake.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Clinical Trials as Topic; Diet, Reducing; Double-Blind Method; Drug Evaluation; Drug Interactions; Female; Fenfluramine; Humans; Obesity; Placebos

The effect of increasing doses of fenfluramine on dream patterns was studied in 20 patients receiving a reducing diet with or without a controlled dietary intake of vitamin C daily. The dream pattern was unchanged in six patients and dreams disappeared in another who normally dreamed often. In 13 patients dreams increased in frequency and intensity, and in five the dreams assumed frightening proportions. There was a significant straight-line relation between response and the size of the dose. When placebo tablets were given to four patients their dreams disappeared or assumed their pretreatment normal pattern. Absence of vitamin C from the diet did not significantly affect the dream pattern. That fenfluramine has dose-related cerebral effects should be remembered in patients with a history of mental illness.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Clinical Trials as Topic; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Dreams; Female; Fenfluramine; Humans; Male; Obesity

Ascorbic acid has been suggested to regulate obesity in obese male rodents. Moreover, increased adipocyte size has been associated with metabolic disease. Thus, we investigated the effects of ascorbic acid on adipocyte hypertrophy and insulin resistance in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese ovariectomized (OVX) C57BL/6J mice, an animal model of obese postmenopausal women. Administration of ascorbic acid (5% w/w in diet for 18 weeks) reduced the size of visceral adipocytes without changes in body weight and adipose tissue mass in HFD-fed obese OVX mice compared with obese OVX mice that did not receive ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid inhibited adipose tissue inflammation, as shown by the decreased number of crown-like structures and CD68-positive macrophages in visceral adipose tissues. Ascorbic acid-treated mice exhibited improved hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and glucose and insulin tolerance compared with nontreated obese mice. Pancreatic islet size and insulin-positive β-cell area in ascorbic acid-treated obese OVX mice decreased to the levels observed in low-fat diet-fed lean mice. Ascorbic acid also suppressed pancreatic triglyceride accumulation in obese mice. These results suggest that ascorbic acid may reduce insulin resistance and pancreatic steatosis partly by suppressing visceral adipocyte hypertrophy and adipose tissue inflammation in obese OVX mice.

Topics: Adipocytes; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Diet, High-Fat; Female; Hypertrophy; Inflammation; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mice, Obese; Obesity; Pancreatic Diseases

The aim of the present study is to examine whether overweight or obese people in Taiwan have an inadequate intake of selected micronutrients. A population-based study was conducted using data from the Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT) 2013-2016. We evaluated fourteen nutrient intakes using the 24 h dietary recall method. The dietary reference intake (DRI) adherence was estimated by the prevalence of participants whose intake was lower than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) or adequate intakes (AIs) for selected micronutrients. Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 27 kg/m

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Eating; Female; Humans; Magnesium; Male; Micronutrients; Obesity; Overweight; Taiwan; Vitamins

Higher body weight is known to negatively impact plasma vitamin C status. However, despite this well-documented inverse association, recommendations on daily vitamin C intakes by health authorities worldwide do not include particular reference values for people of higher body weight. This suggests that people of higher body weight and people with obesity may be receiving insufficient vitamin C in spite of ingesting the amounts recommended by their health authorities. The current preliminary investigation sought to estimate how much additional vitamin C people with higher body weights would need to consume in order to attain a comparable vitamin C status to that of a lower weight person consuming an average Western vitamin C intake. Data from two published vitamin C dose-concentration studies were used to generate the relationship: a detailed pharmacokinetic study with seven healthy non-smoking men and a multiple depletion-repletion study with 68 healthy non-smoking men of varying body weights. Our estimates suggest that an additional intake of 10 mg vitamin C/day is required for every 10 kg increase in body weight to attain a comparable plasma concentration to a 60 kg individual with a vitamin C intake of ~110 mg/day, which is the daily intake recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Thus, individuals weighing e.g., 80 and 90 kg will need to consume ~130 and 140 mg vitamin C/day, respectively. People with obesity will likely need even higher vitamin C intakes. As poor vitamin C status is associated with increased risk of several chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, these findings may have important public health implications. As such, dose-finding studies are required to determine optimal vitamin C intakes for overweight and obese people.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Humans; Male; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Reference Values; Vitamins

Aimed to demonstrate the association of VC and metabolism in the obesity or overweight and determine VC changes after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).. A total of 253 overweight or people with obesity were recruited, including 61 with LSG. They were divided into group A (VC < 34 ug/ml) and group B (VC ≥ 34 ug/ml). Glucose-lipid metabolic parameters were compared, and VC status before and 6 and 12 months after LSG were measured.. (1) Body weight, body mass index (BMI), neck circumference (NC), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio, heart rate (HR), diastolic systolic pressure (DBP), 2-hour postprandial glucose (2h-BG), fasting insulin (FINS), 2-hour postprandial insulin (2h-INS), glycosylated hemoglobin (HBG), homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol (TCH), triglyceride (TG) and free fatty acid (FFA) were higher while high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) was lower in group A than group B (p < 0.05). (2) VC was negatively correlated with body weight, BMI, NC, WC and HC, HR, SBP, DBP, and 2h-BG, FINS, 2h-INS, HGB, HOMA-IR, TG and FFA, while positively with HDL-C (p < 0.05). (3) Patients with obesity or hypertriglyceridemia or low HDL-C had lower VC than corresponding group. (p < 0.05). (4) Logistic regression analysis showed that VC was the independent risk factor of hypertriglyceridemia, obesity and low HDL-C 5) VC concentrations were slightly increased in 6 months after LSG, and unchanged in 12 months after LSG.. VC was closely associated with glucose-lipid metabolism, and may play a protective role in metabolic disorders. LSG would not worsen the VC status or deficiency.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Body Mass Index; Body Weight; Cholesterol; Fatty Acids, Nonesterified; Gastrectomy; Glucose; Glycated Hemoglobin; Humans; Hypertriglyceridemia; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Laparoscopy; Lipid Metabolism; Lipoproteins, HDL; Obesity; Overweight; Triglycerides

Deficits in cognitive functions dependent on the prefrontal cortex related to the dietary intake of nutrients and adiposity in young individuals are not well known. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of high adiposity on executive functioning and their relationship with dietary intake of macro- and micronutrients in young women.. Ninety-five young women were categorized based on body fat percentage. The study included 42 women with normal adiposity and 53 women with high adiposity. Executive functions, sustained attention, selective attention, category formation, cognitive flexibility, and verbal fluency test scores were obtained to assess executive functioning. Dietary intake of macro- and micronutrients was measured using three 24-h recalls, and correlated with the test scores.. The high-adiposity group was characterized by deficits in executive function, category formation and cognitive flexibility, poor sustained and selective attention, and less verbal fluency. Executive functions were negatively correlated with saturated fat and positively correlated with cholesterol and carbohydrates. Category formation was negatively correlated with saturated fat and vitamin E. Sustained attention was positively correlated with lipids, carbohydrates, and cholesterol. Long reaction times in the selective attention test were positively correlated with unsaturated fat and negatively correlated with vitamin C. Cognitive flexibility test scores were negatively correlated with vitamin E. Cholesterol, vitamin C, and vitamin E were predictors of executive functioning in the high-adiposity group.. These findings suggest that impairments in executive functioning may predispose young women to overconsumption of unhealthy nutrients that consequently induces obesity.

Topics: Adiposity; Ascorbic Acid; Cholesterol; Eating; Executive Function; Female; Humans; Micronutrients; Obesity; Vitamin E

This study investigated the association between micronutrient intake and breast cancer risk in South Korean adult women. This association was stratified according to body mass index (BMI) categories. Data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) and the Health Examinee Study were analyzed. Altogether, 63,337 individuals (aged ≥40 years) completed the baseline and first follow-up surveys; 40,432 women without a history of cancer at baseline were included in this study. The association between micronutrient intake and breast cancer was determined by estimating the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) using the Cox proportional hazard regression model. A stratified analysis by BMI (<25 kg/m2 and ≥25 kg/m2) was performed. The an analysis of 15 micronutrients and breast cancer risk revealed that none of the micronutrients were associated with breast cancer risk after adjusting for covariates. In obese women, the risk of breast cancer was significantly reduced in the group that consumed vitamin C more than the recommended level (HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.31−0.93) and vitamin B6 levels above the recommended level (HR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.25−0.89). In obese women, exceeding the recommended daily intake levels of vitamin C and vitamin B6 was associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. However, other micronutrients were not associated with breast cancer risk in these women.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Breast Neoplasms; Cohort Studies; Eating; Female; Humans; Micronutrients; Obesity; Republic of Korea; Risk Factors; Vitamin B 6

Dysregulation of adipose tissue involves increased cellular hypoxia, ER stress, and inflammation and altered adipokine production, contributing to the aetiology of obesity-related diseases including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Vitamin C supplementation on these processes in primary human preadipocytes and adipocytes. Treatment of preadipocytes and adipocytes with the proinflammatory cytokine TNFα and palmitic acid (PA), to mimic the obesogenic milieu, significantly increased markers of hypoxia, ER stress and inflammation and reduced secretion of high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin. Importantly, Vitamin C abolished TNFα+PA induced hypoxia and significantly reduced the increases in ER stress and inflammation in both cell types. Vitamin C also significantly increased the secretion of HMW adiponectin from adipocytes. These findings indicate that Vitamin C can reduce obesity-associated cellular stress and thus provide a rationale for future investigations.

Topics: Adipocytes; Adiponectin; Ascorbic Acid; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Humans; Hypoxia; Inflammation; Obesity; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha

Obese or overweight is a risk factor for some chronic diseases, and oxidative stress and inflammation may be one of the molecular mechanisms leading to the persistence of these chronic diseases. Discovering interventions to alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation in the overweight/obese population, is very important for public health and health education.. A two-week panel intervention study (Run 0-Run 1-Run 2) was conducted. The subjects were 77 overweight/obese undergraduates attending Dali University, with a BMI>24 kg/m. The results demonstrated (1) Walking significantly alleviated ROS levels, and this was consistent in Run 1 and Run 2; (2) During Run1, all three intervention modes reduced levels of 8-OHdG, but there was a statistically insignificant increase during Run 2; (3) No alleviating effects of the three intervention modes on TNF-α levels during Run 1 and Run 2 were observed; (4) The alleviating effects of the three intervention modes on IL-1β levels during Run 1 and Run 2 were clear.. Walking and taking vitamin C can reduce levels of ROS, 8-OHdG and IL-1β, but not TNF-α, in overweight/obese participants. These interventions may become potential preventive measures for the overweight against obese-induced oxidative stress and inflammation.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Inflammation; Obesity; Overweight; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Students; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; Walking

Obesity is an increasing problem that can lead to noncommunicable diseases. The role of dietary factors on one's obesity is confirmed in many studies. One nutritional approach that can be used for assessment of the foods and diets is the Index of Nutritional Quality (INQ). Our study is aimed at exploring the association between INQ and obesity. Our hypothesis is that enriched and high-quality diets reduce the risk of overweight or obesity. This study was carried out on 6248 overweight and obese participants, from whom 4356 (69.7%) and 1892 (30.3%) were overweight and obese, respectively. To assess the dietary intake for the participants, a valid food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) with 130 food items was utilized. The analysis revealed an inverse association between the overweight and the INQ of iron, thiamin, riboflavin, B6, folate, zinc, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin C and E. For the obese group, this inverse association was found for iron, B6, folate, zinc, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin C and E. These results approved our hypothesis that a rich nutrition diet may lead to a lower risk of obesity.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Calcium; Diet; Folic Acid; Humans; Iron; Magnesium; Nutritive Value; Obesity; Overweight; Vitamins; Zinc

Topics: Adiposity; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Obesity; Palmitates

Nutrient patterns have been associated with an increased risk for chronic disease. Evidence to confirm a direct relationship between nutrient patterns and obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) throughout population-based differences including cultural contexts add complexity is not well established yet. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between nutrient patterns and MetS among overweight and obese Iranian women.. Three hundred and sixty obese and overweight women (25 < BMI < 40) were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Dietary intake of 19 nutrients was evaluated by a semi-quantitative standard food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). MetS was determined by abdominal obesity > 88 (cm) in females, Triglycerides ≥ 150 (mg/dL), dyslipidemia (HDL < 50 mg/dL), systolic blood pressure > 130/85 (millimeters), and glucose > 100 (mg/dL). Body composition was assessed by a multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance analyzer, InBody 770 scanner. Principle components analysis was applied and four nutrient patterns were identified as following: Pattern 1 (thiamin, iron, carbohydrate, zinc, niacin, protein, magnesium, phosphorus, riboflavin), represented the carbo-vitamin group. Lipid group was showed in pattern 2 (PUFAs, MUFA, vitamin E, trans fatty acids, and Pattern 3 (beta-carotene, vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C) represented the anti-oxidant group, finally Pattern 4 was the indicator of the milk group (vitamin D, calcium).. A significant positive association was observed between the anti-oxidant group and obesity (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.09-1.8; P = 0.01). No relationship between other nutrient pattern and MetS was observed.. The nutrient patterns that are highly loading of beta-carotene, vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C in nutrient patterns may be associated to higher risk of obesity in overweight and obese Iranian women.. Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Iran; Metabolic Syndrome; Nutrients; Obesity; Overweight; Vitamin A; Vitamin K

Topics: Adiposity; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Obesity; Palmitates

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of metabolic abnormalities. The citrus fruit calamondin contains nobiletin and hesperidin, which are involved in lipid metabolism, and vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. We investigated the metabolic profiles of C57BL/6 mice fed a normal diet, high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + 1% (w/w) calamondin puree (HFD + CL1), or HFD + 5% (w/w) calamondin puree (HFD + CL5). Glucose tolerance was significantly higher in HFD + CL than in HFD-fed mice. Histological analysis revealed less lipid accumulation in the livers of HFD + CL-fed mice than in those of HFD-fed control mice. Hepatocyte ballooning and large lipid droplets - key non-alcoholic fatty liver disease characteristics - were observed in HFD-fed mice after 4 weeks; however, they were nearly absent in HFD + CL-fed mice. The serum expression level of inflammation-associated Ccl2 was lower in HFD + CL-fed mice than in HFD-fed mice. Thus, calamondin may ameliorate HFD-induced metabolic disturbances, including the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Topics: Adipose Tissue; Alanine Transaminase; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Chemokine CCL2; Citrus; Diet; Diet, High-Fat; Dietary Supplements; Gene Expression; Inflammation; Insulin; Lipid Metabolism; Liver; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Obesity

DNA methylation contributes to obesity, but the role of the DNA demethylase ten-eleven translocation protein 1 (Tet1) in obesity remains unclear. Vitamin C is a cofactor for the Tet family of proteins, but whether vitamin C can be used to treat obesity via Tet1 awaits clarification.. Tet1. The results reveal a novel function of Tet1 in obesity and provide a new mechanism for the beneficial role of vitamin C in metabolic diseases through enhanced Tet1 activity.

Topics: Adipogenesis; Adipose Tissue, White; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Diet, High-Fat; DNA Methylation; DNA-Binding Proteins; Fatty Liver; Haploinsufficiency; Hepatocytes; Lipolysis; Liver; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Obesity; Proto-Oncogene Proteins

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between fruit intake and abnormalities in body composition (bone, muscle, and adipose tissue) related to osteosarcopenic obesity (OSO) in postmenopausal women.. The data of 1420 postmenopausal women aged 50-64 years were collected from cross-sectional studies conducted by the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 2008 to 2010.. A dietary intake survey was administered using the 24-h dietary recall method, and intakes of nutrients and food groups were analyzed. Body composition was evaluated using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Body composition abnormalities include low bone mass (T-score<-1.0), low muscle mass (weight-adjusted appendicular skeletal muscle mass below the mean reference value of healthy young adults), and obesity (waist circumference ≥85 cm). The associations between nutrient intake and fruit groups and the number of abnormalities in body composition were tested by logistic regression analysis.. The intakes of vitamin C and potassium per 1000 kcal of total energy intake were significantly lower in women with a larger number of abnormalities in body composition (p = 0.0155 and p = 0.0037, respectively). After controlling for covariates, women with a high intake of fruit (≥257.4 g/d) had a significantly reduced likelihood of multiple abnormalities in body composition compared with women with no fruit intake (p for trend: p < 0.01 for those with one, two, or three abnormalities).. Intake of fruits rich in vitamin C and potassium may help to decrease OSO-related risks in middle-aged postmenopausal women.

Topics: Absorptiometry, Photon; Ascorbic Acid; Body Composition; Body Weight; Bone Diseases, Metabolic; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diet; Energy Intake; Female; Fruit; Humans; Middle Aged; Nutrition Surveys; Obesity; Postmenopause; Republic of Korea; Sarcopenia; Vitamins; Waist Circumference

The contribution of 100% fruit juice (FJ) to the total daily intakes of energy, sugars, and select vitamins and minerals and to the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) or adequate intake (AI) of these micronutrients was assessed in individuals reporting the consumption of 100% FJ in the national dietary intake surveys of the United States (U.S.;

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Ascorbic Acid; Brazil; Child; Child, Preschool; Data Analysis; Dietary Carbohydrates; Eating; Energy Intake; Folic Acid; Food Analysis; Fruit and Vegetable Juices; Humans; Infant; Magnesium; Nutrition Assessment; Nutrition Surveys; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutritive Value; Obesity; Overweight; Recommended Dietary Allowances; United Kingdom; United States

Topics: Adiposity; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Obesity; Palmitates

Localized adiposity (AL) is the accumulation of subcutaneous adipose tissue, placed in definite anatomic areas, building up an alteration of the body silhouette. The aim of the present clinical and histological study is to assess the effectiveness of an injectable solution containing sodium salt of ascorbic acid 0.24% and surfactant agent at 0.020% ascorbyl-palmitate (SAP) for treating local adiposity.. Eighty healthy female adult patients were selected, suffering from local adiposity in the abdominal region. The patients underwent a cycle of 6 sessions, with biweekly treatments, without the addition of any active ingredient. Direct infiltration of pharmacologically active SAP solutions into the adipose tissue with a long needle, very similar to the needles used for spinal anesthesia, was performed. This procedure is quick and painless (does not require any anesthesia) with moderate infiltration speed.. All the patients treated showed good results with good satisfaction of the circumferential reductions. Before treatment: Waist (cm) 78.8 ± 10.6 and hip 93.6 ± 9.0 with WHR 0.84 ± 0.07. After treatment: Waist (cm) 70.8 ± 9.6 and hip 92.6 ± 8.0 with WHR 0.76 ± 0.06. Indeed, signs of adipocyte apoptosis were observed in subcutaneous skin after injection of SAP.. The results showed in the present study suggest that the SAP utilized induces apoptosis of adipocytes and could be of use as a safe and effective method with which to eliminate subcutaneous abdominal fat.. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Topics: Adiposity; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Female; Humans; Obesity; Palmitates; Treatment Outcome

In this paper, we hypothesized that the gap between estimated cardiovascular age (eCV-age) and chronological age had a gender-wise correlation with the Korean Healthy Eating Index (KHEI). We tested the hypothesis in adults aged 20-64 years old using the KNHANES 2013-2017 data. eCV-age was estimated based on the designated risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and age-gap was calculated by subtracting the eCV-age from the chronological age in 12,317 adults. Adjusted odds ratios for the age-gap were measured according to KHEI, while controlling for covariates to influence risk factors of CVD, using logistic regression analysis with the complex sample survey design. Age-gaps were divided into four groups: >4 (High), 0-4 (Moderate), -4-0 (Mild), and <-4 years (Low). The higher the age-gap, the lower the cardiovascular risk. Persons included in the following categories belonged to the high and moderate age-gap groups: young (<40 years), women, urban living, better than high school education, higher income, lean, mild drinking, and exercising regularly. KHEI scores were overall higher in women than men (

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Ascorbic Acid; Breakfast; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cardiovascular Physiological Phenomena; Cardiovascular System; Diet, Healthy; Dietary Fiber; Energy Intake; Feeding Behavior; Female; Humans; Income; Logistic Models; Male; Middle Aged; Nutrition Surveys; Obesity; Regression Analysis; Risk Factors; Socioeconomic Factors; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Diet, Reducing; Humans; Lipids; Liver; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Obesity; Selenomethionine; Silymarin; Ubiquinone; Vitamin E

The consumption of fruits is strongly associated with better health and higher bacterial diversity in the gut microbiota (GM). Camu camu (. By using metabolic tests coupled with 16S rRNA gene-based taxonomic profiling and faecal microbial transplantation (FMT), we have assessed the effect of a crude extract of camu camu (CC) on obesity and associated immunometabolic disorders in high fat/high sucrose (HFHS)-fed mice.. Treatment of HFHS-fed mice with CC prevented weight gain, lowered fat accumulation and blunted metabolic inflammation and endotoxaemia. CC-treated mice displayed improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity and were also fully protected against hepatic steatosis. These effects were linked to increased energy expenditure and upregulation of uncoupling protein 1 mRNA expression in the brown adipose tissue (BAT) of CC-treated mice, which strongly correlated with the mRNA expression of the membrane bile acid (BA) receptor TGR5. Moreover, CC-treated mice showed altered plasma BA pool size and composition and drastic changes in the GM (eg, bloom of. Our results show that CC prevents visceral and liver fat deposition through BAT activation and increased energy expenditure, a mechanism that is dependent on the GM and linked to major changes in the BA pool size and composition.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Endotoxemia; Energy Metabolism; Fatty Liver; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation; Fruit; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Homeostasis; Male; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Mice, Obese; Obesity; Panniculitis; Plant Extracts

Topics: Adipose Tissue; Adult; Aminophylline; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Carnitine; Cheek; Drug Combinations; Female; Humans; Hyaluronoglucosaminidase; Injections; Lidocaine; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Pheniramine

Obesity is a medical and sociological problem of great importance due to the high percentage of people affected and the important health consequences that it involves. Most cases of obesity are related to an inadequate diet, rich in fats, which could lead to changes in the patient's oxygenic metabolism. That is why this study has been proposed to evaluate how some aspects of oxygenic metabolism are affected in a nutritional experimental model, with a controlled hyperlipidic liquid diet based on olive oil, and the effect of the antioxidant vitamin C on these conditions. Wistar rats were divided into four groups which received a control and hyperlipidic liquid diet for 30 days, with or without a vitamin C supplement (CO, COC, HO and HOC). First of all the body and fat tissue development was measured in the four groups. Our results showed that the excessive intake of nutritional and healthy fat such as olive oil did not prevent the appearance of obesity and the supplementation with vitamin C did not have a protective effect on body and fat development. The study of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in total liver, liver cytosol, abdominal white fat, brown fat and blood cells showed that vitamin C could have different selectivities and affinities for different enzymes and compartments/tissues of the body. Finally, the effect of vitamin C on various metabolic parameters (glucose, pyruvate, lactate, LDH, ATP, acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate) provided positive protection against oxidative stress especially under hyperlipidic conditions. All things considered, the present study concludes that vitamin C treatment could protect Wistar rats from the oxidative stress impairment induced by obesity generated by an excessive intake of fats.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Catalase; Dietary Supplements; Glutathione Peroxidase; Humans; Liver; Male; Malondialdehyde; Obesity; Olive Oil; Oxidative Stress; Oxygen; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Superoxide Dismutase

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are detoxifying enzymes for a number of substrates, including some food compounds. Selected GST polymorphisms have been proven to significantly affect enzymatic activity; however, it is unclear whether this altered metabolism influences dietary composition. The objective of this study was to locate the correlation between GST polymorphisms and selected nutritional parameters, namely, fiber and vitamin C intake.. This study was conducted on a cohort of 472 individuals (mean age 45.26 years; mean body mass index [BMI] 32.36) from the South Moravian region of the Czech Republic. Basic anthropometrical parameters were measured and no association was found for the selected polymorphisms. Polymorphisms in GSTA1, GSTM1, and GSTT1 were genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methodology. Food intake was monitored using a self-administered 7-day questionnaire that was subsequently analyzed with a special focus on vitamin C intake, fiber intake, and total energy intake.. For GSTA1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms, an association was observed with fiber intake. Though no association was found with vitamin C intake, mean vitamin C intake was found to be higher than recommended daily values. No association was found with either daily energy intake or anthropometric parameters.. Based on our results, GST polymorphisms seem to affect dietary composition; however, they have no effect on total energy intake or any association with obesity.

Topics: Adult; Anthropometry; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Cohort Studies; Czech Republic; Diet; Dietary Fiber; Energy Intake; Female; Genotype; Glutathione Transferase; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Polymorphism, Genetic

There is evidence that the brain's energy status is lowered in obesity despite of chronic hypercaloric nutrition. The underlying mechanisms are unknown. We hypothesized that the brain of obese people does not appropriately generate energy in response to a hypercaloric supply.. Glucose was intravenously infused in 17 normal weights and 13 obese participants until blood glucose concentrations reached the postprandial levels of 7 mmol/L and 10 mmol/L. Changes in cerebral adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and phosphocreatine (PCr) content were measured by. Cerebral high-energy phosphates were increased at blood glucose levels of 7 mmol/L in normal weights, which was completely missing in the obese. Brain energy content moderately raised only at blood glucose levels of 10 mmol/L in obese participants. Vitamin C concentrations generally correlated with the brain energy content at blood glucose concentrations of 7 mmol/L.. Our data demonstrate an inefficient cerebral energy gain upon a glucose load in obese men, which may result from a dysfunctional glucose transport across the blood-brain barrier or a downregulated energy synthesis in mitochondrial oxidation processes. Our finding offers an explanation for the chronic neuroenergetic deficiency and respectively missing satiety perception in obesity.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Brain; Energy Metabolism; Female; Glucose; Homeostasis; Humans; Insulin; Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; Male; Obesity; Young Adult

Enhanced DNA damage and disturbances in DNA repair mechanisms are reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases like obesity, atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cancer. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether anthropometric factors and dietary habits are related to endogenous DNA damage. One hundred and fourteen premenopausal, apparently healthy women were included in the study: 88 obese individuals and 26 controls. The comet assay was used to measure basal DNA damage. Biochemical measurements included lipids, apolipoproteinAI, fasting insulin, glucose, and C-reactive protein high sensitivity (CRP-hs). Dietary intakes were assessed by 3-day food records. The mean level of DNA damage was almost two times higher in obese than in non-obese women (

Topics: Adult; Anthropometry; Apolipoprotein A-I; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; C-Reactive Protein; Case-Control Studies; Cholesterol; Chronic Disease; Diet; DNA Damage; Female; Humans; Incidence; Inflammation; Insulin; Middle Aged; Nutrition Assessment; Obesity; Triglycerides; Vitamin E; Young Adult

In obesity and dyslipidemia, hydrolysis of triacylglycerol (TAG) into non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) may contribute to insulin resistance, and production of oxygenated, bioactive polyunsaturated fatty acids may increase oxidative stress. Here we show that after six weeks of high-fat feeding of obese prone rats (Crl:OP(CD), vitamin C was increased both in liver (P < 0.01) and plasma (P < 0.001), while both TAG (P < 0.01) and NEFA (P < 0.001) were lower than in low-fat fed control rats. Hepatic vitamin C biosynthesis was similar between groups, indicating that a new steady state level was established with a higher vitamin C level adequate for supplying the systemic needs. Glucose and insulin sensitivity were unaffected at this stage. Eventually, the mobilization of vitamin C may be seen as a mechanism to protect the host against insulin resistance.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Diet, High-Fat; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Liver; Obesity; Rats; Triglycerides

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum ferritin level and antioxidative status and metabolic dysregulation in young adult obese population. This cross-sectional study included 300 subjects of either sex, grouped as obese and non-obese subjects. The body mass index, total iron binding capacity, fasting blood glucose, superoxide dismutase activity, and levels of serum ferritin, iron, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, glutathione, and vitamin C were estimated. Analysis showed a significant alteration in all the parameters in obese adults. The correlation of ferritin level and body mass index showed a positive correlation (r = -0.81, p < 0.001, respectively) with levels of fasting blood glucose, superoxide dismutase, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride in obese individuals, whereas an insignificant correlation with vitamin C and glutathione level was observed in obese individuals. The significant positive correlation of ferritin level with the metabolic parameters and some antioxidative parameters in obese individuals signifies the development of metabolic disorders. Therefore, estimation of serum ferritin level will be an important early indicator for the risk of developing metabolic disorders in young adults.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Body Mass Index; Cholesterol; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Ferritins; Glutathione; Humans; Iron; Male; Metabolic Diseases; Obesity; Superoxide Dismutase; Young Adult

Obesity refers to the accumulation of fatty tissues and it favors the occurrence of oxidative stress. Alternatives that can contribute to body weight reduction have been investigated in order to reduce the production of reactive oxygen species responsible for tissue damage. The aim of the current study was to assess whether the oxidant and antioxidant markers of obese women before and after bariatric surgery were able to reduce oxidative damage.. We have assessed 16 morbidly obese women five days before and 180 days after the surgery. The control group comprised 16 non-obese women. Levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, carbonylated proteins, reduced glutathione and ascorbic acid were assessed in the patients' plasma.. Levels of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation in the pre-surgical obese women were higher than those of the controls and post-surgical obese women. Levels of reduced glutathione in the pre-surgical obese women were high compared to the controls, and declined after surgery. Levels of ascorbic acid fell in the pre--surgical obese women compared to the control and post-surgical obese women.. Body weight influences the production of reactive oxygen species. Bariatric surgery, combined with weight loss and vitamin supplementation, reduces cellular oxidation, thus reducing tissue damage.

Topics: Adult; Analysis of Variance; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Bariatric Surgery; Biomarkers; Case-Control Studies; Female; Glutathione; Humans; Lipid Peroxidation; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Postoperative Period; Protein Carbonylation; Reactive Oxygen Species; Statistics, Nonparametric; Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances

The association of dietary vitamin C (vit C) on periodontitis requires more valid evidence from large representative samples to enable sufficient adjustments. This study aimed to evaluate the association between dietary vit C intake and periodontitis after controlling for various confounders in the representative Korean adult population.. A total of 10,930 Korean adults (≥19 years) from the fourth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data set were included in this cross-sectional study. Periodontitis was defined as community periodontal index score of 3 or 4. Dietary vit C intake was estimated from a 24-hour dietary record, and categorized into adequate and inadequate according to the Korean Estimated Average Requirement value. Potential confounders included age, sex, income, frequency of tooth brushing, use of floss, dental visit, drinking, smoking, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and obesity. A multivariable logistic regression analysis and stratified analysis were applied.. Those with inadequate dietary vit C intake were more likely by 1.16 times to have periodontitis than those with adequate dietary vit C intake (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.16, 95% confidence interval = 1.04-1.29). Lowest and middle-low quartile of dietary vit C intake, compared to highest quartile of dietary vit C intake, showed significant association (aOR = 1.28 and 1.22 respectively), which was in a biological-gradient relationship (trend-p <0.05).. Our data showed that inadequate dietary vit C intake was independently associated with periodontitis among Korean adults. Hence, adequate intake of dietary vitamin C could be substantially important on the promotion of periodontal health among Korean adults.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Alcohol Drinking; Ascorbic Acid; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Mellitus; Female; Humans; Income; Male; Middle Aged; Nutrition Surveys; Obesity; Odds Ratio; Periodontal Index; Periodontitis; Republic of Korea; Smoking; Toothbrushing; Vitamins; Young Adult

Inappropriate dietary intake and poor nutritional status are reported to be associated with metabolic syndrome and psychopathology in patients with schizophrenia. We hypothesized that inappropriate dietary habits and insufficient dietary intake of specific nutrients are associated with schizophrenia. To test the hypothesis, we assessed the dietary habits and nutritional intake of patients with schizophrenia and then developed suitable dietary guidelines. In total, 140 subjects (73 controls and 67 patients with schizophrenia from community mental health centers) were included, and dietary intakes were analyzed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. As a result, the proportion of overweight or obese patients was significantly higher in schizophrenia subjects (64.2%) compared with control subjects (39.7%) (P=.004). The male schizophrenia patients had significantly lower dietary intakes of protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamin K, niacin, folate, and vitamin C than the male control subjects. In all multiple logistic regression models, subjects with the "low" dietary intake of protein, n-3 PUFAs, niacin, folate, and vitamin C had a significantly higher odds ratios for schizophrenia compared with those with the "high" dietary intake category of each nutrient. Therefore, maintenance of a healthy body weight and sufficient dietary intake of protein, PUFAs, niacin, folate, and vitamin C are recommended for Korean patients with schizophrenia.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Diet; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Feeding Behavior; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Minerals; Niacin; Nutrition Policy; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Overweight; Schizophrenia; Vitamins

Insulin resistance is a prevalent syndrome in developed as well as developing countries. It is the predisposing factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus, the most common end stage development of metabolic syndrome in the United States. Previously, studies investigating type 2 diabetes have focused on beta cell dysfunction in the pancreas and insulin resistance, and developing ways to correct these dysfunctions. However, in recent years, there has been a profound interest in the role that oxidative stress in the peripheral tissues plays to induce insulin resistance. The objective of this review is to focus on the mechanism of oxidative species generation and its direct correlation to insulin resistance, to discuss the role of obesity in the pathophysiology of this phenomenon, and to explore the potential of antioxidants as treatments for metabolic dysfunction.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Humans; Obesity; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress

Obesity is a multifactorial disease that comes from an imbalance between food intake and energy expenditure. Moreover, studies have shown a relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and obesity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of acerola juices (unripe, ripe, and industrial) and its main pharmacologically active components (vitamin C and rutin) on the activity of enzymes of energy metabolism in the brain of mice fed a palatable cafeteria diet. Two groups of male Swiss mice were fed on a standard diet (STA) or a cafeteria diet (CAF) for 13 weeks. Afterwards, the CAF-fed animals were divided into six subgroups, each of which received a different supplement for one further month (water, unripe, ripe or industrial acerola juices, vitamin C, or rutin) by gavage. Our results demonstrated that CAF diet inhibited the activity of citrate synthase in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and hypothalamus. Moreover, CAF diet decreased the complex I activity in the hypothalamus, complex II in the prefrontal cortex, complex II-III in the hypothalamus, and complex IV in the posterior cortex and striatum. The activity of succinate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase was not altered by the CAF diet. However, unripe acerola juice reversed the inhibition of the citrate synthase activity in the prefrontal cortex and hypothalamus. Ripe acerola juice reversed the inhibition of citrate synthase in the hypothalamus. The industrial acerola juice reversed the inhibition of complex I activity in the hypothalamus. The other changes were not reversed by any of the tested substances. In conclusion, we suggest that alterations in energy metabolism caused by obesity can be partially reversed by ripe, unripe, and industrial acerola juice.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Brain; Diet, Western; Dietary Supplements; Eating; Energy Metabolism; Fruit and Vegetable Juices; Male; Malpighiaceae; Mice; Obesity; Plant Extracts; Random Allocation

A poor early life nutrition environment is well established to result in a range of cardiometabolic disorders in offspring in later life. These effects can be exacerbated via exposure to an obesogenic dietary environment. To date, the effect of maternal diet and/or a post-natal obesogenic nutritional environment on key characteristics related to lens growth and oxidative stress has not been undertaken. The present study, therefore, examined the characteristics and oxidative status of the lens.. Using a model of moderate maternal under-nutrition, rat dams were fed either a control diet (100% ad libitum, CON) or undernourished throughout pregnancy (50% of ad libitum intake, UN) and offspring fed either a control (5% fat, C) or high fat (30% fat, HF) diet post-weaning, resulting in four nutritional groups; CON-C, CON-HF, UN-C, and UN-HF. Offspring lenses were extracted at 160 days of age, weighed, imaged under dark and bright field microscopy, and then dissected into cortical and core fractions for biochemical analyses of oxidative stress markers.. Our findings reveal that lenses from all groups were transparent. However, gender specific changes were evident at the biochemical level with increased oxidative stress detected in the cortex and core of female but not male UN-C lenses, and in the cortex of male but not female CON-HF lenses. The greatest increase in oxidative stress was detected in the UN-HF group in the cortex and core regions of the lens and for both genders.. These findings show that oxidative stress is exacerbated in the lens as a result of a combination of altered pre-natal and post-natal diet. This demonstrates a novel interaction between the two developmental windows and warrants further investigations toward devising appropriate nutritional strategies for minimizing oxidative stress in the lens.

Topics: Adiposity; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Blood Glucose; Body Weight; Diet, High-Fat; Female; Glutathione; Insulin; Lens Diseases; Lens, Crystalline; Leptin; Male; Malnutrition; Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Pregnancy; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Vitamin E

Prevention of frail skin is important in older people because frail skin is associated with a risk of injury in this population. In this study, we investigated the association of nutritional status and habitual dietary intake with skin conditions in community-dwelling older people.. Cross-sectional study.. Three community settings in Japan from autumn to winter.. Older people aged ≥65 years without care-need certification (n=118).. Malnutrition and obesity were evaluated to assess the nutritional status. Nutrient and food group intakes per 1000 kcal were evaluated using a brief self-administered diet history questionnaire. Dietary patterns based on food groups were evaluated by principal component analysis. Skin condition parameters, including stratum corneum hydration, appearance of xerosis (specific symptom sum score [SRRC score]), and dermal intensity by high-frequency ultrasonography, were measured on a lower leg. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed with adjustment for confounders.. The mean (standard deviation) age was 74.1 (4.8) years, and 83.1% of participants were female. A higher intake of plant fat (p=0.018) was associated with a lower SRRC score. Higher intakes of α-tocopherol (p=0.050) and vitamin C (p=0.017) were associated with increased dermal intensity. A body mass index ≥25 (p=0.016) was associated with decreased dermal intensity. A dietary pattern characterized by higher vegetable and fruit intake was associated with a better skin condition.. Plant fat, antioxidant vitamins, and a dietary pattern characterized by vegetables and fruits showed positive and obesity showed negative associations for frail skin in community-dwelling older people.

Topics: Aged; alpha-Tocopherol; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diet; Fatty Acids, Monounsaturated; Female; Fruit; Humans; Independent Living; Japan; Linear Models; Male; Malnutrition; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Principal Component Analysis; Skin; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vegetables

To describe body composition (fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM)), strength, and nutritional characteristics of patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis undergoing total joint arthroplasty.. In this prospective pilot study, osteoarthritic patients underwent body composition assessment using bioelectrical impedance analysis, grip strength measurement, and completed a 24-h dietary recall during their pre-operative assessment.. Fifty-five patients were included (∼66% females, age 43-89 years). Mean ± SD body mass index (BMI) was 32.79 ± 6.48 kg/m(2) and 62% were obese. Compared with hip osteoarthritis patients, knee osteoarthritis patients had a higher BMI (P = 0.018) and males with knee osteoarthritis had a lower grip strength (P = 0.028). There was a wide range in FM and FFM values across the BMI spectrum. Patients with a higher FM index (FMI, FM/height in m(2)) had higher levels of pain (P = 0.036) and females with higher FMI had a lower grip strength (P = 0.048). Dietary under-reporting was common and many patients did not meet recommendations for protein, vitamins C and E, or omega-3 fatty acids. Those who consumed less protein than the recommended dietary allowance were older (P = 0.018).. A wide variability of body composition and dietary intake was observed which may impact strength and ultimately affect physical function. As such, patients with osteoarthritis may benefit from targeted nutrition and physical activity interventions before and after surgery.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Ascorbic Acid; Body Composition; Body Mass Index; Diet; Dietary Proteins; Electric Impedance; Exercise; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Female; Hand Strength; Humans; Male; Mental Recall; Middle Aged; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Osteoarthritis, Hip; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Pilot Projects; Prospective Studies; Recommended Dietary Allowances; Vitamin E

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most prevalent chronic liver disease all over the world. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between dietary vitamin C intake and NAFLD.. Subjects were diagnosed with NAFLD by abdominal ultrasound examination and the consumption of alcohol was less than 40g/day for men or less than 20g/day for women. Vitamin C intake was classified into four categories according to the quartile distribution in the study population: ≤74.80 mg/day, 74.81-110.15 mg/day, 110.16-146.06 mg/day, and ≥146.07 mg/day. The energy and multi-variable adjusted odds ratio (OR), as well as their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI), were used to determine the relationship between dietary vitamin C intake and NAFLD through logistic regression.. The present cross-sectional study included 3471 subjects. A significant inverse association between dietary vitamin C intake and NAFLD was observed in the energy-adjusted and the multivariable model. The multivariable adjusted ORs (95%CI) for NAFLD were 0.69 (95%CI: 0.54-0.89), 0.93 (95%CI: 0.72-1.20), and 0.71 (95%CI: 0.53-0.95) in the second, third and fourth dietary vitamin C intake quartiles, respectively, compared with the lowest (first) quartile. The relative odds of NAFLD was decreased by 0.71 times in the fourth quartile of dietary vitamin C intake compared with the lowest quartile. After stratifying data by sex or the status of obesity, the inverse association remained valid in the male population or non-obesity population, but not in the female population or obesity population.. There might be a moderate inverse association between dietary vitamin C intake and NAFLD in middle-aged and older adults, especially for the male population and non-obesity population.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cross-Sectional Studies; Dietary Supplements; Energy Intake; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Multivariate Analysis; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Obesity; Odds Ratio; Risk Factors; Vitamins

Continuous energy conversion is controlled by reduction-oxidation (redox) processes. NAD(+) and NADH represent an important redox couple in energy metabolism. 4-Hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-N-oxyl (TEMPOL) is a redox-cycling nitroxide that promotes the scavenging of several reactive oxygen species (ROS) and is reduced to hydroxylamine by NADH. TEMPOL is also involved in NAD(+) production in the ascorbic acid-glutathione redox cycle. We utilized the chemical properties of TEMPOL to investigate the effects of antioxidants and NAD(+)/NADH modulators on the metabolic imbalance in obese mice. Increases in the NAD(+)/NADH ratio by TEMPOL ameliorated the metabolic imbalance when combined with a dietary intervention, changing from a high-fat diet to a normal diet. Plasma levels of the superoxide marker dihydroethidium were higher in mice receiving the dietary intervention compared with a control diet, but were normalized with TEMPOL consumption. These findings provide novel insights into redox regulation in obesity.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cyclic N-Oxides; Diet, High-Fat; Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy; Energy Metabolism; Ethidium; Glutathione; Humans; Mice; Mice, Obese; NAD; Obesity; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Spin Labels

The aim of this study was to identify demographic and modifiable lifestyle factors that may be related to endogenous oxidant and antioxidant activity measured in blood specimens from putatively healthy women recruited at the Roswell Park Cancer Institute (Buffalo, NY, USA). Total glutathione (TGSH), catalase (CAT), CuZn-superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured in 124 healthy women, and associations with epidemiological factors were tested using general linear models. There were significant differences in oxidant and antioxidant enzyme activities according to lifestyle factors, after adjusting for duration of blood storage and season of blood draw. Compared to women who consumed ≤2.8 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, those consuming >5.3 servings had on average 31 % lower MPO activity (p-trend = 0.02), as a marker of oxidative stress, 16 % higher antioxidant GPx activity (p-trend = 0.08), and 9 % higher TAC (p-trend = 0.05). Obese women (body mass index, BMI ≥ 30) in contrast showed 17 % lower antioxidant GPx activity, 44 % higher MPO activity (p-trend = 0.03), and 10 % higher TAC (p-trend = 0.03) compared to women with normal BMI < 25. Smoking was associated with higher TGSH activity (p-trend = 0.01) and lower TAC (p-trend = 0.05). Higher TAC levels were most strongly associated with increasing age (standardized β = 0.40, p < 0.0001), BMI (standardized β = 0.17, p = 0.03), and GPx activity (standardized β = 0.23, p = 0.005), and inversely associated with CuZn-SOD activity (standardized β = -0.14, p = 0.07). Physical activity levels, multivitamin use, and alcohol intake were not associated with TAC. Our data indicate that endogenous oxidant and antioxidant enzyme activities are associated with lifestyle factors and, therefore, may be potentially modifiable, with implications for risk reduction of chronic conditions related to oxidative stress.

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Catalase; Cross-Sectional Studies; Exercise; Female; Glutathione; Glutathione Peroxidase; Glutathione Reductase; Glutathione Transferase; Humans; Life Style; Linear Models; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress; Peroxidase; Smoking; Superoxide Dismutase; Surveys and Questionnaires

In this study, we examined the relationship between sarcopenic obesity (SO) and nutrition status, according to sex in Korean adults who were 60 years or older. Body composition was categorized as SO, sarcopenic nonobesity, nonsarcopenic obesity, and nonsarcopenic nonobesity. Obesity was defined by body mass index. Sarcopenia was defined as an appendicular skeletal muscle mass divided by weight (Wt) of less than 1 SD below the sex-specific mean for young adults. Subjects included 1433 subjects (658 men and 775 women) who were 60 years or older and who participated in the fifth Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2010. Sarcopenic obesity was more prevalent in women (31.3%) than in men (19.6%). Individuals with SO had significantly higher fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (male: 3.2 ± 1.4, female: 3.4 ± 2.1), and triglycerides (male: 167.3 ± 90.6 mg/dL, female: 160.7 ± 85.0 mg/dL). High-density lipoprotein was under the normal criteria (50 mg/dL) in women. Intake of nutrients associated with muscle loss (protein, vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin C) was significantly different among the male but not the female groups. Although protein intake was normal, calcium and vitamin D intakes were insufficient in all groups. In conclusion, body composition changes were related to nutrient intakes in elderly (60 years or older) men but not elderly women. Women had a higher prevalence of SO than did men, suggesting that early nutritional intervention in elderly women may help them address age-associated body composition changes.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Ascorbic Acid; Asian People; Body Composition; Body Mass Index; Body Weight; Calcium, Dietary; Cholesterol, HDL; Dietary Proteins; Energy Intake; Female; Healthy Volunteers; Humans; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Male; Middle Aged; Muscle, Skeletal; Nutrition Surveys; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Prevalence; Republic of Korea; Risk Factors; Sarcopenia; Triglycerides; Vitamin D; Young Adult

Controversy exists as to whether supplementation with the antioxidants vitamin E and vitamin C blocks adaptation to exercise. Exercise is a first-line means to treat obesity and its complications. While diet-induced obesity alters mitochondrial function and induces insulin resistance (IR), no data exist as to whether supplementation with vitamin E and vitamin C modify responses to exercise in pre-existing obesity. We tested the hypothesis that dietary supplementation with vitamin E (0.4 g α-tocopherol acetate/kg) and vitamin C (0.5 g/kg) blocks exercise-induced improvements on IR and mitochondrial content in obese rats maintained on a high-fat (45% fat energy (en)) diet. Diet-induced obese, sedentary rats had a 2-fold higher homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and larger insulin area under the curve following glucose tolerances test than rats fed a low-fat (10% fat en) diet. Exercising (12 weeks at 5 times per week in a motorized wheel) of obese rats normalized IR indices, an effect not modified by vitamin E and vitamin C. Vitamin E and vitamin C supplementation with exercise elevated mtDNA content in adipose and skeletal muscle to a greater extent (20%) than exercise alone in a depot-specific manner. On the other hand, vitamin C and vitamin E decreased exercise-induced increases in mitochondrial protein content for complex I (40%) and nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (35%) in a muscle-dependent manner. These data indicate that vitamin E and vitamin C supplementation in obese rodents does not modify exercise-induced improvements in insulin sensitivity but that changes in mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial protein expression may be modified by antioxidant supplementation.

Topics: Adipose Tissue; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cholesterol; DNA, Mitochondrial; Endpoint Determination; Glucose Tolerance Test; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Male; Mitochondrial Proteins; Muscle, Skeletal; NADP Transhydrogenase, AB-Specific; Obesity; Physical Conditioning, Animal; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Triglycerides; Vitamin E

Total fruit intake in the United States is ~1 cup equivalent per day, or one-half of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendation for adults. Two-thirds of the fruit consumed is whole fruit and one-third is 100% juice. The nutritional value of whole fruit, with the exception of fiber and vitamin C, may be retained with appropriate juice production methods and storage conditions. One-hundred percent fruit juice consumption is associated with a number of health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health and decreased obesity, although some of these and other potential benefits are controversial. Comprehensive analyses of the evidence by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2014, the US Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee in 2010, and the Australian Dietary Guidelines of 2013 concluded that 100% fruit juice is not related to adiposity in children when consumed in appropriate amounts for age and energy needs. However, some reports suggest the consumption of fruit juice contributes to unhealthful outcomes, particularly among children. A dietary modeling study on the best ways to meet the fruit intake shortfall showed that a combination of whole fruit and 100% juice improved dietary density of potassium and vitamin C without significantly increasing total calories. Notably, 100% juice intake was capped at amounts consistent with the 2001 American Pediatric Association guidance. The preponderance of evidence supports the position that 100% fruit juice delivers essential nutrients and phytonutrients, provides year-round access to a variety of fruits, and is a cost-effective way to help people meet fruit recommendations.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Australia; Child; Diet; Feeding Behavior; Fruit; Fruit and Vegetable Juices; Health; Humans; Nutrition Policy; Nutritive Value; Obesity; Potassium; United States

A high-fat diet (HFD) promotes the oxidative stress formation, which in turn has hazardous effects on reproductive system and fertility. The present study examines the potential positive effects of a restricted high-fat diet (RHFD) and antioxidants consumption on sperm parameters and testis tissue in rats.. Male rats (n = 48) were divided into four groups (12 in each group): control group (Cont), HFD group, RHFD, and RHFD with astaxanthin and vitamins E and C group (RHFDA). After 12 weeks, serum analysis and sperm parameters study were performed. Sections of fixed testes were stained with Hematoxilin and Eosin to study the histological changes. A one-way ANOVA was used to compare the data.. HFD fed animals presented significant increase in weight load and serum low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels (P < 0.05). The sperm count in RHFD was lower than three other groups (P < 0.05) and sperm motility of RHFDA group was significantly higher than HFD and RHFD groups (P < 0.05). The histological study was showed a significant increase in spermatogonium number in RHFDA compared to three other groups (P < 0.05). The number of spermatocyte I and spermatid in RHFD was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than Cont and HFD groups.. HFD and obesity can affect sperm parameters and spermatogenesis and antioxidants consumption may improve their quality. Although the RHFD is a benefit way in weight loss and decrease of LDL-C of serum, but it is suggested that is not effective on sperm quality improvement.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Caloric Restriction; Diet, High-Fat; Infertility, Male; Lipoproteins, LDL; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatids; Spermatocytes; Vitamin E; Xanthophylls

This study investigated whether exercise or antioxidant supplementation with vitamin C and E during exercise affects bone structure and markers of bone metabolism in obese rat. Sprague-Dawley rats, 6-week old, were fed a normal-fat diet (NF, 10 % kcal as fat) and a high-fat diet (HF, 45 % with extra fat from lard) ad libitum for 14 weeks. Then, rats on the high-fat diet were assigned randomly to three treatment groups for additional 12 weeks with forced exercise: HF; HF + exercise (HF + Ex); and HF with vitamin C (0.5 g ascorbate/kg diet) and vitamin E (0.4 g α-tocopherol acetate/kg diet) supplementation + exercise (HF + Ex + VCE). At the end of the study, body weight and fat (%) were similar among NF, HF + Ex, and HF + Ex + VCE, whereas HF had greater body weight and fat (%) than other groups. Compared to NF, HF had elevated serum leptin, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and IGF-1; increased trabecular separation and structural model index; and lowered bone mineral density, trabecular connectivity density, and trabecular number in distal femur, while HF + Ex and HF + Ex + VCE had elevated serum TRAP and decreased bone volume/total volume and trabecular number of distal femurs. Compared to HF, HF + Ex and HF + Ex + VCE had decreased serum TRAP and osteocalcin and improved bone structural properties of the distal femur. These findings suggest that exercise, while decreasing body fat, does not fully protect against the negative skeletal effects of existing obesity induced by a high-fat diet. Furthermore, vitamin C and E supplementation has no additional benefits on bone structural properties during exercise.

Topics: Adiposity; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Bone and Bones; Bone Density; Diet, High-Fat; Dietary Supplements; Disease Models, Animal; Obesity; Physical Conditioning, Animal; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; Vitamin A; X-Ray Microtomography

Insulin resistance and abdominal obesity are present in the majority of people with the metabolic syndrome. Antioxidant therapy might be a useful strategy for type 2 diabetes and other insulin-resistant states. The combination of vitamin C (Vc) and vitamin E has synthetic scavenging effect on free radicals and inhibition effect on lipid peroxidation. However, there are few studies about how to define the best combination of more than three anti-oxidants as it is difficult or impossible to test the anti-oxidant effect of the combination of every concentration of each ingredient experimentally. Here we present a math model, which is based on the classical Hill equation to determine the best combination, called Fixed Dose Combination (FDC), of several natural anti-oxidants, including Vc, green tea polyphenols (GTP) and grape seed extract proanthocyanidin (GSEP). Then we investigated the effects of FDC on oxidative stress, blood glucose and serum lipid levels in cultured 3T3-L1 adipocytes, high fat diet (HFD)-fed rats which serve as obesity model, and KK-ay mice as diabetic model. The level of serum malondialdehyde (MDA) in the treated rats was studied and Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) staining or Oil red slices of liver and adipose tissue in the rats were examined as well. FDC shows excellent antioxidant and anti-glycation activity by attenuating lipid peroxidation. FDC determined in this investigation can become a potential solution to reduce obesity, to improve insulin sensitivity and be beneficial for the treatment of fat and diabetic patients. It is the first time to use the math model to determine the best ratio of three anti-oxidants, which can save much more time and chemical materials than traditional experimental method. This quantitative method represents a potentially new and useful strategy to screen all possible combinations of many natural anti-oxidants, therefore may help develop novel therapeutics with the potential to ameliorate the worldwide metabolic abnormalities.

Topics: 3T3-L1 Cells; Adipocytes; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Catechin; Cell Differentiation; Diet, High-Fat; Dietary Supplements; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Free Radical Scavengers; Grape Seed Extract; Hydroxyl Radical; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Malondialdehyde; Metabolic Syndrome; Mice; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Proanthocyanidins; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley

The current study investigated whether sardine protein mitigates the adverse effects of fructose on plasma glucagon‑like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and oxidative stress in rats. Rats were fed casein (C) or sardine protein (S) with or without high‑fructose (HF) for 2 months. Plasma glucose, insulin, GLP‑1, lipid and protein oxidation and antioxidant enzymes were assayed. HF rats developed obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance and oxidative stress despite reduced energy and food intakes. High plasma creatinine and uric acid levels, in addition to albuminuria were observed in the HF groups. The S‑HF diet reduced plasma glucose, insulin, creatinine, uric acid and homeostasis model assessment‑insulin resistance index levels, however increased GLP‑1 levels compared with the C‑HF diet. Hydroperoxides were reduced in the liver, kidney, heart and muscle of S‑HF fed rats compared with C‑HF fed rats. A reduction in liver, kidney and heart carbonyls was observed in S‑HF fed rats compared with C‑HF fed rats. Reduced levels of nitric oxide (NO) were detected in the liver, kidney and heart of the S‑HF fed rats compared with C‑HF fed rats. The S diet compared with the C diet reduced levels of liver hydroperoxides, heart carbonyls and kidney NO. The S‑HF diet compared with the C‑HF diet increased the levels of liver and kidney superoxide dismutase, liver and muscle catalase, liver, heart and muscle glutathione peroxidase and liver ascorbic acid. The S diet prevented and reversed insulin resistance and oxidative stress, and may have benefits in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Topics: alpha-Tocopherol; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Caseins; Catalase; Diet; Energy Intake; Fish Proteins; Fructose; Glucagon-Like Peptide 1; Hydrogen Peroxide; Kidney; Liver; Male; Nitric Oxide; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Superoxide Dismutase

Obesity-induced changes in lipid metabolism are mechanistically associated with the development of insulin resistance and prediabetes. Recent studies have focused on the extent to which obesity-induced insulin resistance is mediated through oxylipins, derived from enzymatic and nonenzymatic lipid peroxidation. Vitamin E and vitamin C are widely used antioxidant supplements, but conflicting data exist as to whether supplementation with vitamins E and C reduces insulin resistance. The purpose of this work is (1) to test the hypothesis that supplementation with vitamin E and vitamin C prevents the development of insulin resistance and (2) to determine the extent to which antioxidant supplementation modifies obesity-induced changes in hepatic oxylipins. Using obesity-prone Sprague-Dawley rats fed a high-fat, hypercaloric diet, we found that vitamin E and C supplementation did not block the development of insulin resistance, despite increased plasma levels of these antioxidants and decreased hepatic F2-isoprostane (F2-IsoP) concentrations. The obese phenotype was associated with increased hepatic concentrations of cytochrome P450 (CYP450)-dependent linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid-derived epoxides. Antioxidant supplementation, but not obesity, decreased levels of the lipoxygenase (LOX)-dependent, arachidonic acid-derived products lipoxin A4 (LXA4), 8,15-dihydroxtetraenoate (8,15-DiHETE), and 5,15-DiHETE. Our data demonstrate that antioxidant supplementation and obesity impact hepatic LOX- and CYP450-dependent oxylipin metabolism.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Dietary Supplements; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Lipid Metabolism; Lipid Peroxidation; Liver; Male; Obesity; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress; Oxylipins; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Vitamin E

This study's objectives were to investigate the prevalence of self-reported knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA) stratified by age and sex and to examine the association of modifiable factors with knee and hip OA prevalence. The study was conducted using randomly sampled data gathered from four communities in the province of Alberta, Canada.. A large adult population sample (N = 4733) of individuals ≥18 years were selected. Health-related information was collected through telephone interviews and community measurement clinics for which a sub-sample (N = 1808) attended. Participants self-reported OA during telephone interviews. Clinic interviews further assessed if the diagnosis was made by a health care professional. Statistical analyses compared prevalence of OA between sexes and across age categories. Associations between modifiable factors for OA and the prevalence of knee and hip OA were assessed using binary logistic regression modelling.. Overall prevalence of self-reported OA in the total sample was 14.8 %, where 10.5 % of individuals reported having knee OA and 8.5 % reported having hip OA. Differences in prevalence were found for males and females across age categories for both knee and hip OA. In terms of modifiable factors, being obese (BMI >30 kg/m2) was significantly associated with the prevalence of knee (OR: 4.37; 95 % CI: 2.08,9.20) and hip (OR: 2.52; 95 % CI: 1.17,5.43) OA. Individuals who stand or walk a lot, but do not carry or lift things during their occupational activities were 2.0 times less likely to have hip OA (OR: 0.50; 95 % CI: 0.26,0.96). Individuals who usually lift or carry light loads or have to climb stairs or hills were 2.2 times less likely to have hip OA (OR: 0.45; 95 % CI: 0.21,0.95). The odds of having hip OA were 1.9 times lower in individuals consuming recommended or higher vitamin C intake (OR: 0.52; 95 % CI: 0.29,0.96). Significant differences in prevalence were found for both males and females across age categories.. The prevalence of knee and hip OA obtained in this study is comparable to other studies. Females have greater knee OA prevalence and a greater proportion of women have mobility limitations as well as hip and knee pain; it is important to target this sub-group.

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Alberta; Ascorbic Acid; Female; Hip Joint; Humans; Knee Joint; Lifting; Logistic Models; Male; Middle Aged; Mobility Limitation; Musculoskeletal Pain; Obesity; Osteoarthritis, Hip; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Posture; Prevalence; Self Report; Sex Factors; Vitamins; Walking

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Bacteria; Biomass; Cell Cycle; Diabetes Mellitus; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Erythrocytes; Glucose; Humans; Obesity; Polyhydroxyalkanoates; Sewage; Starvation; United Kingdom; Vitamin A; Vitamin A Deficiency

Owing to its ability to inactivate harmful radicals, vitamin C plays a key role in antioxidant defense. The bioavailability of this vitamin depends upon the nutritional intake and its uptake by cells, mainly through the sodium-dependent transporters SVCT1/Svct1 and SVCT2/Svct2 (human/rat). Here, we investigated the effect of liver metabolic/oxidative stress on the expression of these transporters in extrahepatic tissues.. In Zucker rats, used here as a model of liver steatosis, Svct1-2 mRNA levels were similar in obese and lean animals, except for lung tissue, where Svct2 was up-regulated. Diabetes mellitus, developed by streptozotocin administration, was accompanied by a down-regulation of Svct1 in liver and kidney, together with a down-regulation of Svct2 in kidney and brain. Complete obstructive cholestasis due to bile duct ligation for 1 week induced a significant down-regulation of both Svct1 and Svct2 in ileum, whereas Svct2 was up-regulated in liver, and no significant changes in the expression of either transporter were found in kidney, brain or lung. In rat hepatoma Can-10 cells, bile acids, but not the FXR agonist GW4064, induced an up-regulation of Svct1 and Svct2. In human hepatoma Alexander cells transfected with FXR/RXRα/OATP1B1, neither GW4064 nor unconjugated or glycine-/taurine-conjugated major bile acids were able to up-regulate either SVCT1 or SVCT2.. Pathological circumstances characterized by the presence of metabolic/oxidative stress in the liver induce different responses in the expression of ascorbic acid transporters in intrahepatic and extrahepatic tissues, which may affect the overall bioavailability and cellular uptake of this vitamin.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Bile Acids and Salts; Biological Availability; Carcinoma, Hepatocellular; Cell Line, Tumor; Cholestasis; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; Disease Models, Animal; Fatty Liver; Gene Expression; Humans; Kidney; Liver; Liver Neoplasms; Male; Obesity; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Zucker; RNA, Messenger; Sodium-Coupled Vitamin C Transporters; Stress, Physiological

To validate an FFQ to assess antioxidant intake in overweight postmenopausal women.. A seventy-four-item antioxidant 1-month FFQ was developed based on major antioxidant sources in the American diet. Forty overweight postmenopausal women participated in a 9-month observational study and completed four sets of FFQ and 7 d food record (7dFR) every 3 months. Twelve-hour fasting blood was collected for plasma antioxidant measurement at the first visit.. Connecticut, USA.. Forty overweight postmenopausal women.. Spearman correlation coefficients of 1-month antioxidant intake estimated from the first set of FFQ and 7dFR ranged from 0·34 to 0·87, except for γ-tocopherol. The proportion of participants categorized into the extremely opposite tertiles averaged 7 %. Significant correlations were observed for diet-plasma vitamin C, α-tocopherol and carotenoids (P < 0·05). No time effect was observed on the dietary antioxidant intakes estimated from four 7dFR and four FFQ. Dietary antioxidants estimated from averaged four 7dFR showed moderate to high correlation with those estimated from averaged four FFQ and from each FFQ collected every 3 months. Bland-Altman plots did not show any systematic bias. Averaged misclassifications were below 10 % between these two instruments.. These findings attested a reasonable validity and a good acceptance of this 1-month FFQ in assessing both short-term and long-term diverse antioxidant intakes in these overweight postmenopausal women. The use of this FFQ in associating antioxidant intake with disease risk needs further investigation.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Carotenoids; Connecticut; Diet; Diet Surveys; Feeding Behavior; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Nutrition Assessment; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Postmenopause; Reproducibility of Results; Surveys and Questionnaires; Tocopherols

Obesity has been studied as a metabolic and an inflammatory disease and is characterized by increases in the production of pro-inflammatory adipokines in the adipose tissue.To elucidate the effects of natural dietary components on the inflammatory and metabolic consequences of obesity, we examined the effects of unripe, ripe and industrial acerola juice (Malpighia emarginata DC.) on the relevant inflammatory and lipolysis proteins in the adipose tissue of mice with cafeteria diet-induced obesity.. Two groups of male Swiss mice were fed on a standard diet (STA) or a cafeteria diet (CAF) for 13 weeks. Afterwards, the CAF-fed animals were divided into five subgroups, each of which received a different supplement for one further month (water, unripe acerola juice, ripe acerola juice, industrial acerola juice, or vitamin C) by gavage. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, Western blotting, a colorimetric method and histology were utilized to assess the observed data.. The CAF water (control obese) group showed a significant increase in their adiposity indices and triacylglycerol levels, in addition to a reduced IL-10/TNF-α ratio in the adipose tissue, compared with the control lean group. In contrast, acerola juice and Vitamin C intake ameliorated the weight gain, reducing the TAG levels and increasing the IL-10/TNF-α ratio in adipose tissue. In addition, acerola juice intake led to reductions both in the level of phosphorylated JNK and to increases in the phosphorylation of IκBα and HSLser660 in adipose tissue.. Taken together, these results suggest that acerola juice reduces low-grade inflammation and ameliorates obesity-associated defects in the lipolytic processes.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Ascorbic Acid; Cytokines; Diet; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Energy Intake; Epididymis; Fruit; Humans; Inflammation Mediators; Intra-Abdominal Fat; Lipolysis; Male; Malpighiaceae; Mice; Mice, Obese; Obesity; Plant Extracts

Vitamin C (vitC) deficiency has been linked to obesity and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Whereas humans are unable to synthesize vitC and therefore to compensate for increased turnover, we investigated whether mice--independent of dietary vitC--are able to modulate their vitC homeostasis during high-fat (HF) feeding.. Twenty-five male 5-week-old C57BL/6 mice were fed high- or low-fat diets for 14 weeks. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed after 12 weeks of intervention. Terminal fasting plasma samples were analyzed for insulin, glucose and vitC concentrations. Hepatic vitC concentration and gulonolactone oxidase (GLO) capacity, as a measure of vitC de novo biosynthesis, were analyzed in liver homogenates.. HF diet significantly increased plasma concentrations of vitC compared with a control diet low in fat (P < 0.05). Hepatic de novo biosynthesis of vitC was upregulated (P < 0.05) as measured by GLO capacity, and liver vitC was reduced (P < 0.01) by HF feeding compared with low-fat feeding. Moreover, plasma concentration of vitC was significantly positively correlated with plasma glucose and insulin concentrations as well as glucose intolerance as measured by an OGTT (P < 0.05).. Our data suggest that mice have the ability to adapt to increased vitC turnover induced by HF diet by increasing hepatic de novo synthesis and mobilization.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Diet, High-Fat; Dietary Fats; Glucose Tolerance Test; Homeostasis; Insulin; Liver; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Obesity; Oxidative Stress

Antioxidant capacity testing is commonly used in clinical investigations to provide an estimate of in vitro antioxidant capacity of biosamples. Although beneficial to measure the synergistic contribution of all compounds with antioxidant functionality, assessing the capacity of non-protein fractions or small molecules like ascorbic acid with primary antioxidant functionality may be more beneficial in specific populations. Thus, efficacy of solvent/s to precipitate serum proteins is critical to assessing the antioxidant contribution of these compounds.. To compare protein precipitation efficiency of a validated precipitating solvent system to acetone, the commonly utilized precipitating solvent in the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay, and to evaluate antioxidant contribution of small molecular weight compounds in serum from 20 adults aged 65 and older with stage I or stage II obesity, yet who were otherwise healthy.. Precipitating solvent/s included acetone (1:8 (v/v)) or methanol/acetonitrile/acetone (MAA) (1:1:1, v/v/v) in a ratio of 1:4 (v/v). Protein concentration and antioxidant capacity were measured by the Biuret and ORAC assay, respectively.. Significant differences (p<0.001) were observed in protein precipitation efficiency such that the protein content of serum remaining after acetone deproteination was 2.30±0.76mg/mL compared to 0.85±0.60mg/mL with MAA. Antioxidant capacity of whole serum was significantly greater (p<0.001) than that of serum deproteinated with MAA or acetone. Small molecular weight compounds contributed 6.18±2.46% to antioxidant capacity of whole serum.. Precipitation by MAA is more effective than acetone alone in precipitating high molecular weight proteins, thus allowing for assessment of antioxidant capacity of small molecules in serum.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Chemical Precipitation; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Molecular Weight; Obesity; Proteins; Reactive Oxygen Species; Serum

Our goal was to assess the effects of weight loss on antioxidant enzymes of red blood cells and it's relation with vitamins A, E and C intake in 30 obese women.. General information, anthropometric measurements, 3-day food recall, and fasting blood samples were collected from 30 obese women at the beginning of the study and after 3 months intervention. Weight loss was set at about 10% of their weight before the intervention.. Glutathione reductase and catalase activities showed a significant increase (P < 0.01) after weight reduction, but no significant changes were seen in the superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities. There was a positive linear correlation between daily vitamin C intake with superoxide dismutase enzyme after intervention (P = 0.004, r = 0.507). There was a negative linear correlation between vitamin E intake and glutathione peroxidase activity before intervention (P = 0.005, r = -0.5). A negative correlation was found between daily vitamin A intake and glutathione reductase enzyme before and after intervention (r = -0.385, r = -0.397, P < 0.05) respectively. No significant correlation was observed between vitamins A, C, E amounts and catalase activity.. Ten percent weight reduction can have a significant role in increasing antioxidant enzymes activities, especially glutathione reductase, and catalase enzymes in obese women. However, it is important to take into consideration a balanced amount of certain nutrients while administering a diet with limited energy.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Caloric Restriction; Catalase; Female; Glutathione Peroxidase; Glutathione Reductase; Hemoglobins; Humans; Middle Aged; Non-Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Obesity; Oxidoreductases; Superoxide Dismutase; Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Weight Loss; Young Adult

Visceral obesity is more common in the Arab population and more closely related to morbidity, including diabetes and related cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Possible mechanisms that link visceral fat/obesity to diabetes and CVD complications include inflammation and increased oxidative stress; however, few data are available from the Arab population. Our aim was to determine whether increased adiposity in obese diabetic United Arab Emirates citizens is associated with sub-clinical inflammation and/or increased oxidative stress. A hundred diabetic patients who were part of a randomized controlled trial of nutritional supplements had their baseline characteristics assessed from anthropometric and clinical data following informed written consent. We used WHO figures to classify general and central obesity. Fasting blood samples were collected for the measurement of antioxidants and markers of oxidative damage and inflammation. We found that increased adiposity measured by both body mass index and waist circumference was associated with increased C-reactive protein (CRP) and decreased vitamin C after adjusting for age, duration and treatment of diabetes (p < 0.05). Although there is a clear trend of increased inflammatory markers, notably CRP, and decreased antioxidants with increased BMI and waist circumference in both men and women, the results are statistically significant for women only. CRP were also inversely associated with HDL. Overall, we found that BMI underestimates the rates of obesity compared to waist circumference and that increased adiposity is associated with increased inflammation and decreased HDL and antioxidant status.

Topics: Adiposity; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Body Mass Index; C-Reactive Protein; Cholesterol, HDL; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Female; Humans; Inflammation; Interleukin-6; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; United Arab Emirates; Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Waist Circumference

Pre-pregnancy obesity has been associated with adverse birth outcomes. Poor essential fatty acid (EFA) and micronutrient status during pregnancy may contribute to these associations. We assessed the associations between pre-pregnancy BMI and nutritional patterns of maternal micronutrient and EFA status during mid-pregnancy.. A cross-sectional analysis from a prospective cohort study. Women provided non-fasting blood samples at ≥ 20 weeks’ gestation that were assayed for red cell EFA; plasma folate, homocysteine and ascorbic acid; and serum retinol, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, a-tocopherol, soluble transferrin receptors and carotenoids. These nutritional biomarkers were employed in a factor analysis and three patterns were derived: EFA, Micronutrients and Carotenoids.. The Antidepressant Use During Pregnancy Study, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.. Pregnant women (n 129).. After adjustment for parity, race/ethnicity and age, obese pregnant women were 3.0 (95% CI 1.1, 7.7) times more likely to be in the lowest tertile of the EFA pattern and 4.5 (95% CI 1.7, 12.3) times more likely to be in the lowest tertile of the Carotenoid pattern compared with their lean counterparts. We found no association between pre-pregnancy obesity and the Micronutrient pattern after confounder adjustment.. Our results suggest that obese pregnant women have diminished EFA and carotenoid concentrations.

Topics: Adult; alpha-Tocopherol; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Body Mass Index; Carotenoids; Cross-Sectional Studies; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Fatty Acids, Essential; Female; Folic Acid; Homocysteine; Humans; Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Micronutrients; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Pregnancy; Prospective Studies; Receptors, Transferrin; Vitamin A; Vitamin D; Women's Health; Young Adult

The cytokines, adipokines, and oxidative stress have been implicated in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, such data remain scarce in India. The present study evaluated pro-inflammatory cytokines, adipokines, and markers of oxidative stress in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and their association with degree of adiposity, insulin resistance and markers of disease severity.. The present prospective cross-sectional pilot study included 79 subjects; 34 NAFLD, 22 chronic hepatitis B (CH-B) and 23 healthy controls (HC). The parameters studied were adiponectin, leptin, tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin-1 and 6 (IL-1, IL-6), and systemic markers of oxidative stress.. The mean body mass index (kg/m 2 ) in NAFLD patients, CHB, and HC were 26.4±3.7, 21.3±2.3, and 22.3±2.7, respectively. The median serum levels of all pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly higher (P<0.001) in NAFLD compared to control groups. Compared to HC, levels of adiponectin and leptin were significantly (P<0.05, P<0.01) reduced in both NAFLD and CHB. IL-6 showed marked and selective increase only in NAFLD patients. The levels of IL-6 were significantly (P<0.02) higher in NAFLD patients with advanced histology grade and correlated with IR (r=0.42, P=0.02). In a sub-group, markers of oxidative stress were significantly higher, and that of antioxidant potential were significantly lower among NAFLD patients compared to control subjects.. Patients with NAFLD revealed significantly elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, increased oxidative stress, and a significant association of IL-6 with IR and advanced histopathology.

Topics: Adipokines; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Cytokines; Fatty Liver; Female; Hepatitis B, Chronic; Humans; India; Inflammation; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Lipid Peroxidation; Liver; Male; Malondialdehyde; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Statistics as Topic; Superoxide Dismutase

The aim of this study was to investigate whether L-Ascorbic acid would facilitate the anti-obesity effects of chitosan and psyllium husk in vivo. The study was carried out with male Hartley guinea pigs for 5 weeks. The results show that chitosan itself did not influence body weight gain and food efficiency ratio (FER). However, the addition of L-Ascorbic acid to chitosan decreased these parameters; the body weight gain and FER in the chitosan-2 group (high-fat diet group with 5 % chitosan containing 0.5 % L-Ascorbic acid) was significantly (p < 0.05) lower than that in F-controls (high-fat diet group), and was similar to that in controls (normal diet group). L-Ascorbic acid enhanced significantly (p < 0.05) the increases of total fecal weight and fecal fat excretion by chitosan. The addition of L-Ascorbic acid to psyllium husk did not differ from psyllium husk alone in terms of changes in weight gain, plasma lipid levels, and fat pad weight. We found that the addition of L-Ascorbic acid to chitosan influenced the reduction in body weight gain and FER, and the increase in total fecal weight and fecal fat excretion in guinea pigs fed a high-fat diet.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Obesity Agents; Ascorbic Acid; Chitosan; Diet, High-Fat; Drug Interactions; Fats; Feces; Guinea Pigs; Male; Obesity; Psyllium; Weight Gain

We explored the characteristics of the vitamin status in 471 patients with cardiovascular diseases, according to sex, and BMI values. All patients underwent examination of the system Nutritest-IP: studying their actual meals at home, determined anthropometric measurement, body composition, using biochemical methods evaluated the state of the protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, the functional state of liver and biliary tract, hemostasis, vitamin provision. The results suggest a lack of availability of patients with vitamins C and B group. The number of patients with deficient serum beta-carotene increased proportional to body mass index. The concentration of beta-carotene decreased and vitamin E - increased in blood serum proportionally to increase the degree of obesity. Thus the availability of vitamins in the blood serum depends from sex and body mass index values of the patients. These data suggest that the rate of supply of vitamins are reliable markers to assess the adequacy of the diet consumed by the content of vitamins in people with normal body weight. Appraisingly the content of beta-carotene and vitamin E in the serum of patients it should be taken into account that they have overweight or obese, and abnormality of lipid spectrum of blood serum.

Topics: Aged; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Body Mass Index; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diet; Female; Humans; Male; Meals; Middle Aged; Obesity; Riboflavin; Sex Factors; Vitamin B 6; Vitamin E; Vitamins

Consumption of 100% orange juice (OJ) has been positively associated with nutrient adequacy and diet quality, with no increased risk of overweight/obesity in children; however, no one has examined these factors in adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of 100% OJ consumption with nutrient adequacy, diet quality, and risk factors for metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a nationally representative sample of adults.. Data from adults 19+ years of age (n = 8,861) participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2006 were used. The National Cancer Institute method was used to estimate the usual intake (UI) of 100% OJ consumption, selected nutrients, and food groups. Percentages of the population below the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) or above the Adequate Intake (AI) were determined. Diet quality was measured by the Healthy Eating Index-2005 (HEI-2005). Covariate adjusted logistic regression was used to determine if consumers had a lower odds ratio of being overweight or obese or having risk factors of MetS or MetS.. Usual per capita intake of 100% OJ was 50.3 ml/d. Among consumers (n = 2,310; 23.8%), UI was 210.0 ml/d. Compared to non-consumers, consumers had a higher (p < 0.05) percentage (% ± SE) of the population meeting the EAR for vitamin A (39.7 ± 2.5 vs 54.0 ± 1.2), vitamin C (0.0 ± 0.0 vs 59.0 ± 1.4), folate (5.8 ± 0.7 vs 15.1 ± 0.9), and magnesium (51.6 ± 1.6 vs 63.7 ± 1.2). Consumers were also more likely to be above the AI for potassium (4.1 ± 0.8 vs 1.8 ± 0.2). HEI-2005 was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in consumers (55.0 ± 0.4 vs 49.7 ± 0.3). Consumers also had higher intakes of total fruit, fruit juice, whole fruit, and whole grain. Consumers had a lower (p < 0.05) mean body mass index (27.6 ± 0.2 vs 28.5 ± 0.1), total cholesterol levels (197.6 ± 1.2 vs 200.8 ± 0.75 mg/dL), and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels (112.5 ± 1.4 vs 116.7 ± 0.93 mg/dL). Finally, compared to non-consumers of 100% OJ, consumers were 21% less likely to be obese and male consumers were 36% less likely to have MetS.. The results suggest that moderate consumption of 100% OJ should be encouraged to help individuals meet the USDA daily recommendation for fruit intake and as a component of a healthy diet.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Beverages; Biomarkers; Body Mass Index; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cholesterol; Citrus sinensis; Diet; Edible Grain; Female; Folic Acid; Fruit; Humans; Magnesium; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Motor Activity; Nutrition Surveys; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Potassium, Dietary; Regression Analysis; Risk Factors; Socioeconomic Factors; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vitamin A

Ovarian hormone decline after menopause is linked to many pathophysiological reactions. Female rats submitted to ovariectomy are employed as a model of post-menopausal condition. This study investigated the effects of diphenyl diselenide (PhSe)(2) on body weight gain, intra-abdominal fat deposition, plasma lipid profile and hepatic oxidative stress in ovariectomized rats.. Female adult Wistar rats were ovariectomized (OVX rats) or sham-operated and divided into four groups: (i) sham-operated, (ii) (PhSe)(2), (iii) OVX and (iv) OVX + (PhSe)(2). (PhSe)(2) (5 mg/kg; 5 ml/kg, p.o.) was administered once a day for 30 days to groups (ii) and (iv). After that, rats were anaesthetized for blood sample gathering and submitted to euthanasia.. (PhSe)(2) (5 mg/kg) was effective in preventing the rise in body weight gain and intra-abdominal fat deposition induced in OVX rats. Although (PhSe)(2) was not effective in avoiding the increase in plasma total cholesterol and non-HDL levels induced in OVX rats, (PhSe)(2) reduced plasma triglycerides and augmented HDL levels in OVX rats. (PhSe)(2) also increased hepatic ascorbic acid levels, reduced glutathione content, glutathione S-transferase activity and restored catalase activity in liver of OVX rats.. These findings suggest that (PhSe)(2) could be a promising alternative to minimize menopause related symptoms.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Benzene Derivatives; Female; Hormones; Intra-Abdominal Fat; Lipids; Liver; Models, Animal; Obesity; Organoselenium Compounds; Ovariectomy; Oxidative Stress; Postmenopause; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Weight Gain

Vitamin C supplementation has been suggested to reduce cardiovascular disease risk. However, no studies have examined the relationship between vitamin C status and vascular dysfunction in lean and obese individuals in the absence of supplementation. We examined whether vascular function is interrelated with vitamin C status and inflammation in healthy, college-aged lean and obese men with no history of dietary supplementation. A cross-sectional study was conducted during winter 2008 in lean and obese men aged 21±3 years (n=8/group). Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was measured to determine vascular endothelial function. Plasma antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, and thiols), inflammatory proteins (C-reactive protein [CRP], myeloperoxidase [MPO], and cytokines), and cellular adhesion molecules were measured. Participants also completed 3-day food records on the days preceding their vascular testing. Group differences were evaluated by t tests, and correlation coefficients were determined by linear regression. FMD was 21% lower (P<0.05) in obese men. They also had 51% lower vitamin C intakes and 38% lower plasma vitamin C concentrations. Obese men had greater plasma concentrations of CRP, MPO, inflammatory cytokines, and cellular adhesion molecules. Participants' CRP and MPO were each inversely related (P<0.05) to FMD (r=-0.528 and -0.625) and plasma vitamin C (r=-0.646 and -0.701). These data suggest that low vitamin C status is associated with proinflammatory responses and impaired vascular function in lean and obese men. Additional study is warranted to determine whether improving dietary vitamin C intakes from food attenuate vascular dysfunction.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Flow Velocity; Brachial Artery; C-Reactive Protein; Cell Adhesion Molecules; Cross-Sectional Studies; Cytokines; Endothelium, Vascular; Humans; Inflammation; Male; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Peroxidase; Thinness; Ultrasonography; Vitamin E; Young Adult

Previous research indicates that animals fed a high fat (HF) diet supplemented with disodium ascorbyl phytostanyl phosphate (DAPP) exhibit reduced mass accumulation when compared to HF control. This compound is a water-soluble phytostanol ester and consists of a hydrophobic plant stanol covalently bonded to ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). To provide insight into the mechanism of this response, we examined the in vivo effects of a high fat diet supplemented with ascorbic acid (AA) in the presence and absence of unesterified phytosterols (PS), and set out to establish whether the supplements have a synergistic effect in a diet-induced obesity mouse model. Our data indicate that HF diet supplementation with a combination of 1% w/w phytosterol and 1% w/w ascorbic acid results in reduced mass accumulation, with mean differences in absolute mass between PSAA and HF control of 10.05%; and differences in mass accumulation of 21.6% (i.e. the PSAA group gained on average 21% less mass each week from weeks 7-12 than the HF control group). In our previous study, the absolute mass difference between the 2% DAPP and HF control was 41%, while the mean difference in mass accumulation between the two groups for weeks 7-12 was 67.9%. Mass loss was not observed in animals supplemented with PS or AA alone. These data suggest that the supplements are synergistic with respect to mass accumulation, and the esterification of the compounds further potentiates the response. Our data also indicate that chronic administration of PS, both in the presence and absence of AA, results in changes to fecal output and food transit time, providing insight into the possibility of long-term changes in intestinal function related to PS supplementation.

Topics: Adiposity; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Calorimetry; Dietary Fats; Dietary Supplements; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Eating; Feces; Gastrointestinal Transit; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Obesity; Oxygen Consumption; Phytosterols; Weight Gain

Underlying cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a risk factor for the exacerbation of air pollution health effects. Pulmonary oxidative stress, inflammation, and altered iron (Fe) homeostasis secondary to CVD may influence mammalian susceptibility to air pollutants. Rodent models of CVD are increasingly used to examine mechanisms of variation in susceptibility. Baseline cardiac and pulmonary disease was characterized in healthy normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats, cardiovascular compromised spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), and spontaneously hypertensive heart failure (SHHF) rats. Blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing frequencies were measured in rats 11 to 12 wk of age, followed by necropsy at 14 to 15 wk of age. Blood pressure and heart rate were increased in SHR and SHHF relative to WKY rats (SHR > SHHF > WKY). Increased breathing frequency in SHHF and SHR (SHR > SHHF > WKY) resulted in greater minute volume relative to WKY. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) protein and neutrophils were higher in SHHF and SHR relative to WKY (SHHF >> SHR > WKY). Lung ascorbate and glutathione levels were low in SHHF rats. BALF Fe-binding capacity was decreased in SHHF relative to WKY rats and was associated with increased transferrin (Trf) and ferritin. However, lung ferritin was lower and Trf was higher in SHHF relative to WKY or SHR rats. mRNA for markers of inflammation and oxidative stress (macrophage inflammatory protein [MIP]-2, interleukin [IL]-1alpha, and heme oxygenase [HO]-1) were greater in SHHF and SHR relative to WKY rats. Trf mRNA rose in SHR but not SHHF relative to WKY rats, whereas transferrin receptors 1 and 2 mRNA was lower in SHHF rats. Four of 12 WKY rats exhibited cardiac hypertrophy despite normal blood pressure, while demonstrating some of the pulmonary complications noted earlier. This study demonstrates that SHHF rats display greater underlying pulmonary complications such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired Fe homeostasis than WKY or SHR rats, which may play a role in SHHF rats' increased susceptibility to air pollution.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid; Cardiovascular Diseases; Disease Models, Animal; Ferritins; Gene Expression; Glutathione; Heart Failure; Hemodynamics; Homeostasis; Hypertension; Inflammation; Iron; Lung; Lung Diseases; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Inbred SHR; Rats, Inbred WKY; Respiratory Function Tests; Stroke; Transferrin

Antioxidant-based treatments are emerging as an interesting approach to possibly counteract obesity fat accumulation complications, since this is accompanied by an increased systemic oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to analyze specific metabolic effects of vitamin C (VC) on epididymal primary rat adipocytes. Cells were isolated and incubated for 72 h in culture medium, in the absence or presence of 1.6 nM insulin, within a range of VC concentrations (5-1000 microM). Glucose- and lipid-related variables as well as the secretion/expression patterns of several obesity-related genes were assessed. It was observed that VC dose dependently inhibited glucose uptake and lactate production, and also reduced glycerol release in both control and insulin-treated cells. Also, VC caused a dramatic concentration-dependent fall in leptin secretion especially in insulin-stimulated cells. In addition, VC (200 microM) induced Cdkn1a and Casp8, partially inhibited Irs3, and together with insulin drastically reduced Gpdh (listed as Gpd1 in the MGI database) gene expressions. Finally, VC and insulin down-regulatory effects were observed on extracellular and intracellular reactive oxygen species production respectively. In summary, this experimental assay describes a specific effect of VC in isolated rat adipocytes on glucose and fat metabolism, and on the secretion/expression of important obesity-related proteins.

Topics: Adipocytes; Adipokines; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cells, Cultured; Culture Media; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Glucose; Leptin; Lipid Metabolism; Male; Metabolic Networks and Pathways; Obesity; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Reactive Oxygen Species; RNA, Messenger

All humans are double knockouts. Humans lack the ability to synthesize vitamin C due to a mutation in L-gulono-lactone oxidase that occurred during the late Eocene, and humans have higher serum uric acid levels due to a mutation in uricase that occurred in the mid Miocene. In this paper we review the hypothesis that these mutations have in common the induction of oxidative stress that may have had prosurvival effects to enhance the effects of fructose to increase fat stores. Fructose was the primary nutrient in fruit which was the main staple of early primates, but this food likely became less available during the global cooling that occurred at the time of these mutations. However, in today's society, the intake of fructose, primarily in the form of added sugars, has skyrocketed, while the intake of natural fruits high in vitamin C has fallen. We suggest that it is the interaction of these genetic changes with diet that is responsible for the obesity epidemic today. Hence, we propose that Neel's thrifty gene hypothesis is supported by these new insights into the mechanisms regulating fructose metabolism.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Awards and Prizes; Biological Evolution; Birds; Diet; Fructose; History, Ancient; Hominidae; Humans; L-Gulonolactone Oxidase; Models, Biological; Mutation; Obesity; Urate Oxidase; Uric Acid

Defective insulin-dependent vasodilation might contribute importantly to metabolic and vascular abnormalities of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, despite extensive investigation, the precise mechanisms involved in insulin's vasoactive effects have not been fully elucidated. Therefore, this study sought to better characterize insulin's physiological actions on vascular reactivity and their potential derangement in the MetS. Forearm blood flow responses to graded doses of acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside, and verapamil were assessed by strain-gauge plethysmography in patients with obesity-related MetS (n = 20) and in matched controls (n = 18) before and after intra-arterial infusion of insulin (0.2 mU·kg(-1)·min(-1)). Possible involvement of increased oxidative stress in the impaired insulin-stimulated vasodilator responsiveness of patients with MetS (n = 12) was also investigated using vitamin C (25 mg/min). In control subjects, significant potentiation of the vasodilator responses to acetylcholine, nitroprusside, and verapamil was observed after insulin infusion (all P < 0.05). However, no significant change in vasodilator reactivity to either of these drugs was observed following hyperinsulinemia in patients with MetS (all P > 0.05). Interestingly, administration of vitamin C to patients with MetS during hyperinsulinemia significantly enhanced the vasodilator responsiveness to acetylcholine, nitroprusside, and verapamil (all P < 0.05 vs. hyperinsulinemia alone). In conclusion, insulin exerts a generalized facilitatory action on vasodilator reactivity, and this effect is impaired in patients with MetS likely because of increased oxidative stress. Given the importance of vasodilator reactivity in affecting glucose disposal and vascular homeostasis, this defect may then contribute to the development of metabolic and vascular complications in insulin-resistant states.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Analysis of Variance; Ascorbic Acid; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Female; Forearm; Glutathione; Humans; Hyperinsulinism; Insulin; Interleukin-6; Male; Metabolic Syndrome; Nitroprusside; Obesity; Regional Blood Flow; Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; Vasodilation; Vasodilator Agents; Verapamil

High levels of oxidative stress were reported in obesity-linked type 2 diabetes and were associated with elevated formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Many studies have focused on the effect of antioxidants on vascular and circulating cells such as macrophages. However, despite the major role of adipocytes in the etiology of diabetes, little is known about the effect of natural antioxidants on adipocyte response to oxidative stress. The present study reports the differential protective effects of plant nutrients toward adipose cells subjected to oxidative stress. Caffeic acid, quercetin, L: -ascorbic acid, and alpha-tocopherol were tested on SW872 liposarcoma cells subjected to a free radical generator or to AGEs. Proliferation, viability, free radical formation, and superoxide dismutase expression were assessed in treated cells. Caffeic acid and quercetin appeared as the most potent antioxidant nutrients. Our findings clearly show a novel antioxidant role for caffeic acid and quercetin at the adipose tissue level. These new data confirm the beneficial role of phytotherapy as an interesting alternative mean for the development of novel therapeutical and nutritional strategy to prevent metabolic disorders inherent to obesity-linked diabetes.

Topics: Adipocytes; Amidines; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Caffeic Acids; Cattle; Cell Line; Cell Proliferation; Cell Survival; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Free Radicals; Glycation End Products, Advanced; Humans; Obesity; Oxidants; Oxidative Stress; Phytotherapy; Quercetin; Serum Albumin, Bovine; Superoxide Dismutase; Tocopherols; Up-Regulation

Obesity and smoking represent the leading preventable causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States. This study compared the prevalence of obesity among smokers seeking cessation treatment (n=1,428) vs. a general population (n=4,081) of never smokers, former smoker, and current smokers. Data from treatment-seeking smokers in the Wisconsin Smokers' Health Study (WSHS) and individuals who completed the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2006 were pooled and obesity rates and other health characteristics were compared. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher among WSHS treatment-seeking smokers (36.8%) vs. NHANES current smokers (29.6%), but the obesity rates of WSHS treatment-seeking smokers did not differ from NHANES former smokers (36.5%) or never smokers (36.5%). Treatment-seeking smokers were more likely to be female and to have higher educational attainment compared to NHANES participants. Analysis of health characteristics revealed that treatment-seeking smokers had higher levels of dietary fiber and vitamin C and lower blood levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting glucose compared to NHANES current smokers. Results suggest that treatment-seeking smokers may have a different health profile than current smokers in the general population. Health care providers should be aware of underlying heath issues, particularly obesity, in patients seeking smoking cessation treatment.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Blood Glucose; Dietary Fiber; Educational Status; Feeding Behavior; Female; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Humans; Lipids; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Patient Acceptance of Health Care; Prevalence; Sex Factors; Smoking; Smoking Cessation; Smoking Prevention; United States; Young Adult

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Catecholamines; Dietary Fats; Energy Metabolism; Humans; Insulin Resistance; Lipolysis; Metabolic Syndrome; Motor Activity; Obesity; Rats

The aim of this research was to investigate differential gene expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CKIs) in white adipose tissue (WAT) and liver from high-fat fed male Wistar rats with or without vitamin C (VC) supplementation (750 mg/kg of body weight). After 56 d of experimentation, animals fed on a cafeteria diet increased significantly body weights and total body fat. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) studies showed that cafeteria diet decreased p21 and p57 mRNA expression in subcutaneous WAT and increased p21 mRNA in liver. Overall, these data provide new information about the role of high fat intake on mRNA levels of several CKIs with implications in adipogenesis, cell metabolism and weight homeostasis. Interestingly, VC supplementation partially prevented diet-induced adiposity and increased p27 mRNA in liver without any changes in the other tissues and genes analyzed. Thus, hepatic mRNA changes induced by ascorbic acid indicate a possible role of these genes in diet-induced oxidative stress processes.

Topics: Adipogenesis; Adipose Tissue, White; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p21; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p27; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor p57; Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor Proteins; Dietary Fats; Disease Models, Animal; Energy Intake; Gene Expression Regulation; Leptin; Liver; Male; Malondialdehyde; Obesity; Organ Size; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger

An enhanced oxidative stress status has been documented in obese patients and animal models, and a depletion of the antioxidant mechanisms in these conditions is a common feature. Therefore, we have tested the hypothesis that food supplementation with an antioxidant molecule such as vitamin C could prevent fat deposition induced by a high-fat diet in rodents. Ascorbic acid dietary supplementation reduced body weight and the retroperitoneal and subcutaneous fat depots in cafeteria diet-induced obese rats, without affecting food intake. Microarray technology has been applied in rat subcutaneous fat to assess the molecular mechanisms underlying the depletion of fat stores induced by ascorbic acid. Thus, expression of genes involved in cell proliferation, regulation of transcription, and host response are upregulated while a number of genes participating in lipid metabolism, cell adhesion, differentiation, and steroidogenesis (such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and hydroxysteroid 11-beta dehydrogenase 2) are downregulated. These data provide new insights to understand that not only calories count in weight gain, but also that the antioxidant status and other mechanisms affecting energy conversion efficiency could participate in energy homeostasis, in which glucocorticoids could be involved.

Topics: Adipose Tissue, White; Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Composition; Body Weight; Dietary Fats; Eating; Gene Expression Regulation; Male; Obesity; Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis; Organ Size; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction; RNA, Messenger; Steroids

Comparative analysis of vitamin C, B2 and A sufficiency evaluation of the patients suffering from obesity and cardiovascular diseases has been done by means of rated vitamin intake on the basis of foodstuff consumption frequency and blood serum level detection. According to both methods the surveyed had optimal sufficiency with vitamin C. At lowered in comparison with recommended receipt of these vitamins with a diet in 56-94% of patients retinol blood serum concentration was within the limits of norm, while only 15% of patients had lowered concerning the bottom border of norm riboflavin blood serum level.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Ascorbic Acid; Cardiovascular Diseases; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Riboflavin; Vitamin A

Hypoferremia is more prevalent in obese than nonobese adults, but the reason for this phenomenon is unknown. To elucidate the role dietary factors play in obesity-related hypoferremia, the intake of heme and nonheme iron and the intake of other dietary factors known to affect iron absorption were compared cross-sectionally from April 2002 to December 2003 in a convenience sample of 207 obese and 177 nonobese adults. Subjects completed 7-day food records, underwent phlebotomy for serum iron measurement, and had body composition assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, during a 21-month period. Data were analyzed by analysis of covariance and multiple linear regression. Serum iron (mean+/-standard deviation) was significantly lower in obese than nonobese individuals (72.0+/-61.7 vs 85.3+/-58.1 microg/dL [12.888+/-11.0443 vs 15.2687+/-10.3999 micromol/L]; P<0.001). The obese cohort reported consuming more animal protein (63.6+/-34.5 vs 55.7+/-32.5 g/day; P<0.001) and more heme iron (3.6+/-2.8 vs 2.7+/-2.6 mg/day; P<0.001). Groups did not differ, however, in total daily iron consumption, including supplements. Obese subjects reported consuming less vitamin C (77.2+/-94.9 vs 91.8+/-89.5 mg/day; P=0.01), which may increase absorption of nonheme iron, and less calcium (766.2+/-665.0 vs 849.0+/-627.2 mg/day; P=0.038), which may decrease nonheme iron absorption, than nonobese subjects. Groups did not significantly differ in intake of other dietary factors that can impact absorption of iron, including phytic acid, oxalic acid, eggs, coffee, tea, zinc, vegetable protein, or copper. After accounting for demographic covariates and dietary factors expected to affect iron absorption, fat mass (P=0.007) remained a statistically significant negative predictor of serum iron. This cross-sectional, exploratory study suggests that obesity-related hypoferremia is not associated with differences in reported intake of heme and nonheme iron or intake of dietary factors that can affect iron absorption.

Topics: Absorptiometry, Photon; Adipose Tissue; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Composition; Calcium, Dietary; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diet; Diet Records; Female; Humans; Intestinal Absorption; Iron; Iron Deficiencies; Iron, Dietary; Male; Nutrition Assessment; Obesity

Obesity is a chronic disease that is linked to the presence of numerous chronic illnesses, including venous disease. Venous disease can lead to chronic wounds, which may be exacerbated by vitamin, mineral, and macro-nutritional deficiencies. A cross-sectional observational design was used to examine the nutritional status of patients with chronic venous leg ulcers (VLUs) who are overweight or obese and to explore the relationship between nutritional status and severity of venous ulceration. Nutritional status was evaluated using anthropometric measurements, nutrient analysis from a 3-day dietary intake log, serum albumin, vitamins A and C, and zinc levels. Wound severity was assessed using the Leg Ulcer Measurement Tool (LUMT). Eight patients participated; six patients were men, and all eight patients were more than 50 years of age. Patients had an average daily caloric intake below their estimated caloric need. When compared with recommended daily intake levels, dietary nutrient intake was suboptimal for protein, vitamin C, and zinc. Serum levels were below normal for at least one of these nutrients in six patients. A positive correlation was found only between serum albumin, average daily intake, and percent recommended daily intake of protein (r(s) = 0.93, P = .003). An inverse relationship was found between LUMT score and serum vitamin A levels (r(s) = -0.83, P = .01), and a positive correlation was observed between LUMT score and serum vitamin C (r(s) = 0.74, P = .04). No clear relationships were shown among serum zinc, albumin, and LUMT scores. Overweight and obese patients with VLU show nutritional deficits that are similar to those of the broader population of patients with leg ulcers. The relationships found between vitamins A and C and leg ulcer severity warrant further exploration. The nutritional differences in the study need to be examined in a larger sample of overweight and normal-weight patients to determine whether overweight patients are at greater risk for prolonged VLU because of poor nutrition than non-overweight patients.

Topics: Aged; Anthropometry; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Cross-Sectional Studies; Deficiency Diseases; Energy Intake; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Northwestern United States; Nutrition Assessment; Nutrition Policy; Nutrition Surveys; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Pilot Projects; Serum Albumin; Severity of Illness Index; Varicose Ulcer; Vitamin A; Zinc

The mechanisms of leptin resistance observed in most cases of human obesity are poorly understood. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of nitric oxide (NO) on the leptin-induced activation of Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (JAK/STAT3) pathways and on the leptin receptor (LEPR) expression using SH-SY5Y cells. Here, we show that the NO donor spermine/NONOate inhibited leptin-induced activation of STAT3 in vitro. The inhibition of leptin-mediated STAT3 phosphorylation caused by excessive NO was partially prevented by a sulfhydryl reducing agent, ascorbic acid. Cellular experiments show that reduced expression of long form leptin receptor (LEPR-b) and STAT3 protein instability induced by NO may be mechanisms of the NO-mediated inhibition of leptin-STAT3 signaling. We also present data showing that the hypothalamic NO content of high-fat (HF)-diet-induced obese mice was higher than that of control mice; this is likely caused by decreased caveolin-1 expression and increased nNOS expression induced by HF diet over 19 weeks. Concurrently with the overproduction of NO, the decrease of hypothalamic LEPR-b in obese mice also supports these in vitro data. Combined results suggest that excess of NO can induce the attenuation of leptin-mediated STAT3 activation through reduced expression of LEPR-b mRNA and instability of STAT3 protein at least in part. Furthermore, our in vivo data indicate that long-term HF diet induces hypothalamic overproduction of NO, which may be related with leptin insensitivity. However, further study is required to warrant direct in vivo evidence of a causal relationship between endogenous excess of hypothalamic NO and central leptin resistance.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Caveolin 1; Cell Line, Tumor; Dietary Fats; Down-Regulation; Drug Antagonism; Gene Expression; Humans; Hypothalamus; Leptin; Male; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Neuroblastoma; Nitrates; Nitric Oxide; Nitric Oxide Donors; Nitric Oxide Synthase Type I; Nitrites; Obesity; Phosphorylation; Receptors, Cell Surface; Receptors, Leptin; Spermine; STAT3 Transcription Factor

Carotenoid and vitamin C intakes, assessed by FFQ, have been positively associated with plasma concentrations in different populations. However, the influence of BMI on these associations has not been explored in detail. We explored in a cross-sectional study the relation between dietary carotenoid and vitamin C intakes, using a 135-item FFQ, with their plasma concentrations by BMI categories in 252 men and 293 women, 65 years and older. For men and women combined, significant (P < 0.05) Pearson correlations were observed between energy-adjusted dietary intakes and plasma concentrations (carotenoids adjusted for cholesterol) for: alpha-carotene 0.21, beta-carotene 0.19, lycopene 0.18, beta-cryptoxanthin 0.20 and vitamin C 0.36. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that the intake of carotenoids and vitamin C were significant predictors of their respective plasma concentration (P<0.01), and that BMI was inversely associated with plasma concentration of carotenoids (P< or =0.01) but not with plasma vitamin C. In addition, we observed significant interactions between BMI and the intakes of alpha-carotene and lutein + zeaxanthin, and to a lower extent beta-carotene, suggesting that these intakes in subjects with high BMI were not good predictors of their plasma concentration. The present data suggest that plasma carotenoids and vitamin C may be good markers of dietary intake in elderly subjects, but not so for alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and lutein + zeaxanthin in obese subjects.

Topics: Aged; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Body Mass Index; Carotenoids; Cholesterol; Cross-Sectional Studies; Cryptoxanthins; Diet; Energy Intake; Female; Humans; Lycopene; Male; Obesity; Overweight; Prevalence; Spain; Vitamins; Xanthophylls

We have previously shown that urinary sugars excretion in 24 h urine collections can serve as an independent biomarker of sugars consumption. In the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC) Norfolk study of nutrition and cancer, this biomarker in spot urines has been assessed in a cross-sectional comparison of 404 obese individuals aged 45 to 75 years with a body mass index (BMI) of >30 kg/m(2) and 471 normal weight individuals aged 45 to 75 years with a BMI of <25 kg/m(2). In individuals of normal weight, sucrose, protein, and vitamin C intake were positively and highly significantly related to biomarkers in spot urine or plasma (P < 0.001), but there were no significant associations between biomarkers and food intake reports in the obese. Odds ratios for a BMI of >30 were significantly elevated for urinary sucrose [trend per milligram per liter quintile, 1.13; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.02-1.25; P = 0.016], and the odds ratio for urinary sucrose/fructose ratio was highly significant (trend per quintile, 1.264; 95% CI, 1.142-1.401; P < 0.001). No associations for sugars intake and obesity were found using a food frequency questionnaire, and dietary vitamin C was apparently associated with increased risk (P < 0.001) despite an inverse association for plasma vitamin C. Nutritional biomarkers of consumption can complement existing methods for assessing cancer risk from diet in epidemiologic studies.

Topics: Aged; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Body Mass Index; Body Weight; Cohort Studies; Cross-Sectional Studies; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Proteins; Dietary Sucrose; Eating; Epidemiologic Studies; Europe; Feeding Behavior; Female; Fructose; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Prospective Studies; Vitamins

Accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic transplant dysfunction and cardiovascular disease in renal transplant recipients. We aimed to investigate which factors are associated with tissue AGE accumulation in renal transplant recipients.. The AGE accumulation was assessed using a validated skin-autofluorescence reader (AFR) in 285 consecutive renal transplant recipients (57% male, aged 50+/-12 years) visiting the outpatient clinic at a median (interquartile range) time of 73 (32-143) months after transplantation. Furthermore, various transplant- and recipient-related factors of interest were collected.. Average skin-autofluorescence of lower arm and leg was 2.7+/-0.8 a.u. Skin-autofluorescence was positively determined by recipient age, systolic blood pressure, smoking, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, duration of pre-transplant dialysis, and negatively by plasma vitamin C levels, creatinine clearance at baseline, and change in creatinine clearance since one year after transplantation in linear multivariate regression analysis. Together, these factors explained 41% of the variance of skin-autofluorescence.. Skin-autofluorescence was associated with several risk factors for cardiovascular disease and chronic renal transplant dysfunction. These results are in line with the hypothesis that AGEs play a role in the pathogenesis of these conditions in renal transplant recipients. Prospective studies are required to investigate whether the AFR can be used as a simple, non-invasive tool to identify and monitor patients at risk for chronic renal transplant dysfunction and cardiovascular disease.

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Ascorbic Acid; C-Reactive Protein; Cardiovascular Diseases; Comorbidity; Creatinine; Delayed Graft Function; Diabetes Complications; Female; Fluorometry; Forearm; Glycated Hemoglobin; Glycation End Products, Advanced; Histocompatibility; Humans; Hypercholesterolemia; Hypertension; Immunosuppressive Agents; Kidney; Kidney Failure, Chronic; Kidney Transplantation; Leg; Linear Models; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Risk Factors; Skin; Smoking; Vitamin E

Little is known about the effects of commonly used vitamins on serum inflammatory markers and the hormonal balance in obese postmenopausal women. We studied the effects of an 8-week open-label supplementation with vitamins C (500 mg), B6 (25 mg), B12 (1 mg), and folate (5 mg) on C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and estradiol levels in 20 obese (body mass index > or = 30) postmenopausal women. Outcomes were assessed in a blinded fashion. Folate and vitamin B12 levels rose significantly, suggesting that the supplement was well absorbed and that participants adhered to the protocol. Weight, blood pressure, and serum lipids remained stable. C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and leptin levels remained unchanged. Estradiol levels rose from a median of 22.0 pg/mL (IQR = 15.9-25.8) at baseline to a median of 27.8 pg/mL (IQR = 23.1-33.9) at follow-up (p = 0.003). Increments in serum estradiol caused by vitamin supplementation in postmenopausal women have not been previously described and probably merit further investigation.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; C-Reactive Protein; Dietary Supplements; Estradiol; Folic Acid; Inflammation; Interleukin-6; Leptin; Obesity; Postmenopause; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 6; Vitamin B Complex

Obesity is considered as an inflammatory disease, in which free radical-induced oxidative stress and excessive intake of macronutrients exacerbate their symptoms. In this context, we assessed in rats the possible preventive effect of the supplementation with an antioxidant molecule, ascorbic acid, in order to reduce the adiposity induced by the intake of a high-fat diet. For this purpose, during 56 days, three groups of male Wistar rats were fed on: a) standard pelleted diet, b) Cafeteria diet, c) ascorbate-supplemented (750 mg/kg of body weight) Cafeteria diet. At the end of the experimental period, microarray analysis was used to identify genes transcriptionally induced or repressed by both experimental dietary models (Cafeteria diet supplemented or not with ascorbic acid) in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Dietary ascorbic acid was able to protect against high fat diet effects, reducing the increase of body weight, total body fat and enlargement of different adipose depots induced by the Cafeteria diet without affecting food intake. An association analysis accurately and differentially allowed the detection of gene expression changes related with adiposity and insulin resistance. The genes that more strongly correlated with body fat and HOMA insulin resistance index were involved in adipocyte differentiation, lipid and glucocorticoid metabolism, cell cycle regulation, as well as in several insulin-induced processes. Some other transcripts are regulated by the vitamin C-mediated reduction of adiposity, such as genes that participate in glucocorticoid metabolism, adipogenesis, pentose phosphate pathway, or tricarboxylic acid cycle. This strategy was able to link variations in adipose tissue gene expression with markers of diet-induced obesity in rats, such as insulin resistance and body fat content.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Body Composition; Body Weight; Dietary Fats; Down-Regulation; Energy Intake; Gene Expression; Male; Obesity; Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Subcutaneous Fat; Up-Regulation

To assess relationships between energy, nutrient and food intakes, alcohol consumption, smoking status and body mass index (BMI), and serum concentrations of beta-carotene, alpha-tocopherol, vitamin C, selenium and zinc.. Data on health status, alcohol consumption, smoking habits, anthropometric data and biochemical measurements were obtained in 1821 women aged 35-60 y and 1307 men aged 45-60 y, participant to the SU.VI.MAX Study. Data on dietary intake were available on a subsample who reported six 24-h dietary records during the first 18 months of the study.. Women had higher baseline serum beta-carotene and vitamin C concentrations and lower concentration for serum vitamin E, zinc and selenium than men. In women, younger age was associated with lowered mean concentration of serum beta-carotene, vitamin E and selenium. In men, only differences were observed for serum zinc, which was lower in older men. Current smokers of both sexes had significantly lower concentrations of serum beta-carotene, vitamin C and selenium, and, only in women, of vitamin E, than nonsmokers. Alcohol consumers had lower concentrations of serum beta-carotene and higher selenium concentrations. Serum beta-carotene and vitamin C concentrations were lower in obese subjects. There were positive associations of dietary beta-carotene, vitamin C and E with their serum concentrations. Age, nutrient and alcohol intakes, serum cholesterol, BMI and smoking status explained 15.2% of the variance of serum beta-carotene in men and 13.9% in women, and 10.8 and 10.0% for serum vitamin C, and 26.3 and 28.6% for serum vitamin E, respectively.. Serum antioxidant nutrient concentrations are primarily influenced by sex, age, obesity, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption and especially dietary intake of those antioxidant nutrients.

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Alcohol Drinking; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Blood Chemical Analysis; Diet; Energy Intake; Female; France; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Selenium; Sex Factors; Smoking; Trace Elements; Vitamin E; Zinc

Antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid, play a role in scavenging free radicals to protect against oxidative endothelial damage. Excess fat may promote fatty acid oxidation and increase free radical concentrations, which could result in increased antioxidant use. Whether plasma ascorbic acid concentrations are associated with fat distribution remains unclear.. Our aim was to examine the association between abdominal obesity, as measured by the waist-to-hip ratio, and plasma ascorbic acid concentrations in the general population.. We examined the cross-sectional relation between anthropometric measurements of fat distribution and plasma ascorbic acid concentrations in 19 068 men and women aged 45-79 y without known chronic illness. Dietary ascorbic acid intake was estimated for a subgroup of 8178 men and women who kept 7-d food diaries coded for nutrient intake.. The waist-to-hip ratio was inversely related to plasma ascorbic acid concentrations in both men and women. This association was independent of body mass index, age, vitamin supplement use, cigarette smoking, and socioeconomic group. Waist and hip circumferences showed separate and opposite associations with plasma ascorbic acid concentrations, independent of body mass index and other covariates. Dietary ascorbic acid intake only partly explained the observed associations.. Plasma ascorbic acid was associated with fat distribution independent of body mass index. Differences in dietary intake and lifestyle habits, underlying systemic oxidative stress, or both may explain the inverse relation between fat distribution and plasma ascorbic acid concentrations. Additional studies are needed to determine the underlying explanation of these observations.

Topics: Abdominal Fat; Adipose Tissue; Aged; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Composition; Body Fat Distribution; Body Mass Index; Cohort Studies; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diet Records; Female; Humans; Life Style; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Prospective Studies; Waist-Hip Ratio

This study investigated levels of serum homocysteine, vitamin B12, folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin C, in 37 male and 112 female overweight and obese Thai volunteers (body mass index; BMI > or = 25.00), and 23 male and 90 female normal-weight Thai volunteers, who came for a physical check-up at the Out-patient Department, General Practice Section, Rajvithi Hospital, Bangkok from March to October of 2000. Data included anthropometric measurements and waist/hip ratios. All anthropometric variables, except height, were significantly higher for the overweight subjects than for the normal subjects. Statistically significantly higher levels of serum homocysteine were found in the overweight subjects. Serum homocysteine concentrations in overweight and obese males were significantly higher than in overweight and obese females. Serum folic acid and vitamin C in the overweight and obese were found to be statistically significantly lower than in the control subjects. No statistically significant difference in vitamin B12 was found in the overweight and obese subjects compared with the normal control subjects. The medians of serum folic acid and vitamin C concentrations for the overweight and obese males were significantly lower than those of the overweight and obese females. A negative correlation was found between serum folic acid and homocysteine concentrations in all overweight and obese subjects. A significant negative correlation between serum folic acid and vitamin B6 was observed in both male and female overweight and obese subjects. The results of the investigation suggest that homocysteine levels in overweight and obese subjects seem to be caused by insufficient dietary folic acid intake and probably not by B12 deficiency.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Constitution; Case-Control Studies; Female; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Thailand; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency; Vitamin B 6

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between body mass index (BMI), including low BMIs, and endothelial function.. Epidemiologic study has demonstrated that not only obesity but also a low BMI may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.. The forearm blood flow (FBF) response to acetylcholine (ACh) and isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) was measured in 87 healthy young men (15 low BMI, 51 normal, 14 obese, and 7 extremely obese).. Plasma concentrations of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and serum concentrations of malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein were higher in low BMI, obese, and extremely obese subjects than in normal subjects and were similar among the low BMI, obese, and extremely obese groups. The FBF response to ACh was greater in the normal group than in the other groups (p < 0.001), and was lower in the extremely obese group as compared with the other groups (p < 0.001). The ACh-stimulated vasodilation was similar between the low BMI group and the obese group. The ISDN-stimulated vasodilation was similar in all four groups. There were no significant differences in ACh-stimulated vasodilation between the four groups after the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor NG-monomethyl-L-arginine infusion. Co-infusion of vitamin C augmented the FBF response to ACh in low BMI, obese, and extremely obese groups--but not in normal BMI group.. These findings suggest that not only obesity but also a low BMI may be a risk factor for impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation through the increased oxidative stress, leading to the reduced bioavailability of NO.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Adult; Analysis of Variance; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Flow Velocity; Body Mass Index; Cardiovascular Diseases; Case-Control Studies; Endothelium, Vascular; Forearm; Humans; Isosorbide Dinitrate; Male; Nitric Oxide; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Plethysmography; Risk Factors; Thinness; Vasodilation; Vasodilator Agents

The influence of dietary lutein, with and without moderate amounts of vitamin C (VC) or vitamin E (VE), on biomarkers of oxidative stress was examined in rats. Nine groups of immature Zucker obese (fa/fa) and lean female rats (8/group) consumed ad libitum for 8 wk the AIN-93G diet (Control) to which was added either dl-alpha-tocopherol acetate (VE) at 0.60 mg/kg or ascorbic acid (VC) at 0.75 mg/kg diet. Each of these diets contained lutein oil (FloraGlo) at 0.5 (Lut0.5) or 1.0 (Lut1.0) mg/kg diet. Weight gain, food efficiency and relative liver weight were higher in obese than in lean rats. Although liver malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were significantly higher in obese than in lean rats, levels were significantly lower in obese rats fed VE, VE-Lut and VC-Lut0.5 compared with other obese groups. The accumulation of alpha-tocopherol in liver was 6- and 3-times greater in the VE and VE-Lut1.0 groups, respectively, compared with the obese and lean control groups. Lutein reduced the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in obese rats, independent of VC or VE, and raised the activity of glutathione peroxidase to higher levels in lean rats when combined with VC. Plasma insulin levels were dramatically higher in obese compared with lean rats, but significantly lower in obese rats fed VC-Lut0.5, VE-Lut1.0 and Lut1.0 compared with the Control group. These results suggest that lutein independently reduces the activity of SOD and alters more biomarkers of oxidative stress when combined with vitamin C than with vitamin E, and that vitamin E reduces liver lipid peroxidation in obese rats when the accumulation of liver alpha-tocopherol is very high.

Topics: alpha-Tocopherol; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Corticosterone; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Drug Combinations; Female; Glutathione; Insulin; Lipid Peroxidation; Liver; Lutein; Malondialdehyde; Obesity; Osmolar Concentration; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Zucker; Superoxide Dismutase; Thinness

Dietary modification is indispensable part of obesity treatment.. Assessment of vitamins supply in overweight and obese adults in habitual diet and during consuming a low-energy diet (about 1000 kcal/d). The studied group consisted of 67 women and 29 men, aged 20-68, with BMI above 25 kg/m2. Dietary assessment were carried out by 24-hours dietary recall. Intake of vitamin A, E, B1, B2, C, PP were evaluated. At baseline in men the lowest intake was found for vitamin A-87.6% of RDA, in women for vitamin B1--82.8% of RDA and for vitamin PP--90.2% of RDA, respectively. Low percentage of participants met the requirements for assessed vitamins. After 18 weeks of the low-energy diet the mean supply of assessed nutrients was below RDA. Only in subjects with baseline intake covering the requirement supply of nutrients on the low-energy diet was above the RDA level. Implementation of the low-energy diet can resulted in mean low supply of assessed vitamins. It is necessary to provide information for patients on energy value as well as nutritional value of food products. Subjects need consistent evaluation of realization of the low-energy diet.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Avitaminosis; Diet Records; Diet Surveys; Diet, Fat-Restricted; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Niacinamide; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Poland; Riboflavin; Thiamine; Time Factors; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Vitamins

The effects of dietary vitamin C supplementation on glucose homeostasis and insulin glycation were examined in adult lean and obese hyperglycemic (ob/ob) mice. In lean mice, supplementation of the drinking water with vitamin C (25 g/L) for 14 days did not affect food intake, fluid intake, glycated hemoglobin, plasma glucose, or plasma insulin concentrations. Total pancreatic insulin content and the percentage of glycated pancreatic insulin were also similar to control lean mice. In ob/ob mice, vitamin C supplementation caused significant reductions by 26% to 48% in food intake and fluid intake, glycated hemoglobin, plasma glucose, and insulin concentrations compared with untreated control ob/ob mice. The total insulin content and the extent of insulin glycation in the pancreas of ob/ob mice were also significantly decreased by 42% to 45% after vitamin C supplementation. This change was accompanied by a significant 80% decrease in the percentage of glycated insulin in the circulation of vitamin C-supplemented ob/ob mice. These data demonstrate that vitamin C supplementation can decrease insulin glycation and ameliorate aspects of the obesity-diabetes syndrome in ob/ob mice.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Body Weight; Dietary Supplements; Drinking Behavior; Energy Intake; Glycated Hemoglobin; Homeostasis; Hyperglycemia; Insulin; Insulin Secretion; Mice; Mice, Obese; Obesity; Reference Values

There are no prospective studies to determine whether plasma vitamin C modifies the risk of stroke among hypertensive and overweight individuals. We sought to examine whether plasma vitamin C modifies the association between overweight and hypertension and the risk of stroke in middle-aged men from eastern Finland.. We conducted a 10.4-year prospective population-based cohort study of 2419 randomly selected middle-aged men (42 to 60 years) with no history of stroke at baseline examination. A total of 120 men developed a stroke, of which 96 were ischemic and 24 hemorrhagic strokes.. Men with the lowest levels of plasma vitamin C (<28.4 micromol/L, lowest quarter) had a 2.4-fold (95% CI, 1.4 to 4.3; P=0.002) risk of any stroke compared with men with highest levels of plasma vitamin C (>64.96 micromol/L, highest quarter) after adjustment for age and examination months. An additional adjustment for body mass index, systolic blood pressure, smoking, alcohol consumption, serum total cholesterol, diabetes, and exercise-induced myocardial ischemia attenuated the association marginally (relative risk, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.2 to 3.8; P=0.01). Adjustment for prevalent coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation did not attenuate the association any further. Furthermore, hypertensive men with the lowest vitamin C levels (<28.4 micromol/L) had a 2.6-fold risk (95% CI, 1.52 to 4.48; P<0.001), and overweight men (> or =25 kg/m2) with low plasma vitamin C had a 2.7-fold risk (95% CI, 1.48 to 4.90; P=0.001) for any stroke after adjustment for age, examination months, and other risk factors.. Low plasma vitamin C was associated with increased risk of stroke, especially among hypertensive and overweight men.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Body Mass Index; Brain Ischemia; Cerebral Hemorrhage; Cohort Studies; Demography; Finland; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Prospective Studies; Risk; Risk Assessment; Risk Factors; Stroke

Endothelial dysfunction has been reported in obese subjects, but its mechanism has not been elucidated. We have therefore investigated 1) the possible relationship among BMI, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), and endothelium-dependent vasodilation and 2) whether oxidative stress participates in endothelial dysfunction. We recruited 76 healthy subjects (50 men and 26 women aged 21-45 years) and measured their BMI (kg/m2), WHR, and insulin resistance (IR) estimated by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA). Endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilation were assessed by increasing doses of acetylcholine (ACh) (7.5, 15, and 30 pg x ml(-1) x min(-1)) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) (0.8, 1.6, and 3.2 microg x ml(-1) x min(-1)) during saline and vitamin C coinfusion (24 mg/min). The effects of cyclooxygenase activity were evaluated by a dose-response curve to intrabrachial coinfusion of ACh and indomethacin (500 microg/min). Three different groups have been identified according to their BMI: group A (BMI <25), consisting of 10 men and 5 women; group B (BMI between 25 and 29), consisting of 16 men and 8 women; and group C (BMI > or =30), consisting of 24 men and 13 women. Obese subjects had significantly lower forearm blood flow (FBF) during ACh infusions (means +/- SD): 19.8 +/- 2.8, 10.8 +/- 2.7, and 6.5 +/- 1.8 ml x 100 ml(-1) tissue x min(-1) (P < 0.0001) for groups A, B, and C, respectively. SNP caused comparable increments in FBF in all groups. Regression analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between BMI (r = -0.676, P < 0.0001), WHR (r = -0.631, P < 0.0001), fasting insulin (r = -0.695, P < 0.0001), HOMA-IR (r = -0.633, P < 0.0001), and percent peak increase in FBF during ACh infusion. In obese subjects, both vitamin C and indomethacin increased the impaired vasodilating response to ACh, whereas the SNP effect was unchanged. In conclusion, in obese subjects, ACh-stimulated vasodilation is blunted, and the increase in FBF is inversely related to BMI, WHR, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR. The effects of both vitamin C and indomethacin on impaired ACh-stimulated vasodilation support the hypothesis that oxidative stress contributes to endothelial dysfunction in human obesity.

Topics: Acetylcholine; Adipose Tissue; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Drug Combinations; Endothelium, Vascular; Female; Humans; Indomethacin; Injections, Intra-Arterial; Male; Nitroprusside; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Vasodilation; Vasodilator Agents

Dietary antioxidants, waist circumference, and pulmonary function were measured in the Fourth Scottish MONICA cross-sectional survey of 865 men and 971 women aged 25-64 years. Waist circumference was inversely related to forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC), even after adjustment for age, height, weight, working status, energy intake, and smoking variables in a multiple linear regression model (men: beta = -0.017 for FEV1 l/cm, p < 0.01 and beta = -0.008 for FVC, p = 0.04; women: beta = -0.009 for FEV1, p < 0.01 and beta = -0.007 for FVC, p = 0.01). After additional adjustment for waist circumference, estimated vitamin C and beta-carotene intakes were positively associated with lung function in men (vitamin C: beta = 0.102 for FEV1 l/mg/day, p = 0.03; beta-carotene: beta = 0.073 for FVC l/g/day, p = 0.02). Retinol and vitamin E were not significantly related to lung function for either sex. A case-control study of airway obstruction showed that waist circumference was significantly associated, while vitamin C could be protective. The study suggests that adequate intake of antioxidants and avoidance of increasing girth could help to preserve lung function.

Topics: Adult; Airway Obstruction; Anthropometry; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Body Constitution; Case-Control Studies; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diet; Female; Forced Expiratory Volume; Humans; Linear Models; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Scotland; Vital Capacity; Vitamin A; Vitamin E

Previous studies of associations between diet, obesity, and blood concentrations of alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene have been equivocal. Furthermore, most studies used only body mass index (BMI) as an obesity measure.. Our objectives were to examine the associations between energy and nutrient intakes, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and serum cholesterol and serum concentrations of alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene, and to examine the associations between different measures of general and central adiposity and serum concentrations of alpha-tocopherol and beta-carotene.. This was a cross-sectional, population-based study of 253 men and 276 women aged 46-67 y. Nutrient data were collected by a modified diet history method. Measures of obesity included BMI, percentage of body fat (impedance analysis), waist-to-hip ratio, and waist circumference. The associations between serum nutrient concentrations and the other factors were examined by multiple linear regression.. Twenty-one percent of men and 34% of women used antioxidant supplements. The mean BMI was 26.1 in men and 25.4 in women. Serum beta-carotene concentration was positively associated with serum cholesterol concentration, fiber intake, and beta-carotene intake, and negatively associated with smoking and all measures of obesity. In men, serum beta-carotene concentration was not significantly associated with central adiposity after adjustment for body fat. Serum alpha-tocopherol concentration was positively correlated with serum cholesterol, obesity, and vitamin E intake. In women, serum alpha-tocopherol concentration was also positively associated with intakes of ascorbic acid and selenium. Serum alpha-tocopherol concentration was associated with central adiposity after adjustment for body fat.. Serum beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol concentrations have different associations with diet, smoking, general adiposity, and central adiposity.

Topics: Adipose Tissue; Aged; Alcohol Drinking; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Body Constitution; Body Mass Index; Cholesterol; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diet; Diet Surveys; Dietary Fiber; Dietary Supplements; Electric Impedance; Energy Intake; Female; Humans; Linear Models; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Selenium; Smoking; Surveys and Questionnaires; Sweden; Vitamin E

Fatty livers in humans and rats are less tolerant of ischemia, endotoxin, and alcohol. We hypothesized that fatty livers of obese (Ob) Zucker rats are oxidatively stressed and oxidative stress could be relieved by antioxidant treatment, leading to improved tolerance to ischemia. Total glutathione (GSH), tocopherol (TOC), ascorbic acid (AA), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and selenium-glutathione peroxidase (Se-GPx) were measured in the livers of Ob and lean (Ln) Zucker rats before and after treatment with high-dose TOC and ascorbate. Also, survival in treated Ob rats following a lethal 90 minutes of partial in vivo warm ischemia was examined. Fatty livers of Ob rats contained significantly less GSH, TOC, and CAT, in comparison with livers of Ln rats. Immunoblotting showed significantly decreased CAT protein without changes in mRNA in fatty livers. There were no significant differences in AA, SOD, and Se-GPx between the 2 groups. Pretreatment with TOC and ascorbate over 48 hours completely corrected the decreases in GSH, TOC, and CAT. Most importantly, TOC with or without ascorbate pretreatment significantly improved survival in Ob rats following ischemia in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, TOC administration corrected the oxidative stress in fatty livers of Ob Zucker rats and improved survival following lethal ischemia. Additional studies are needed to determine the efficacy of TOC-a relatively inexpensive agent-in treating patients with fatty livers in a variety of clinical conditions, possibly including liver transplantation.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Catalase; Fatty Liver; Glutathione; Glutathione Peroxidase; Hot Temperature; Ischemia; Liver; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Zucker; Superoxide Dismutase; Vitamin E

The influence of anti-atherosclerotic diet with including some biologically active additives, with contain vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, Zn, Cr, Se was studied in 80 patients with ischemic heart disease, hypertension disease. The usage of biologically active additives during 4 weeks has promoted positive changes of clinical symptoms of diseases against a background of lowering of serum cholesterol, triglycerides and increasing of IgA, IgG, vitamins A, E, C.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Cholesterol; Chromium; Complement C3; Diet, Reducing; Female; Humans; Hypertension; Immunoglobulins; Male; Middle Aged; Minerals; Myocardial Ischemia; Obesity; Selenium; Triglycerides; Vitamin E; Vitamins; Zinc

In vitro studies suggest that oxidized low density lipoprotein inhibits fibrinolysis by stimulating the production of plasminogen activator inhibitor -1 (PAI). We assessed the effects of dietary antioxidant vitamins for four weeks on three indices of copper mediated oxidation of very low and low density lipoproteins (VLDL+LDL) and plasma fibrinolytic activities in 15 male subjects with central obesity, a condition associated with increased PAI activity. Vitamin administration resulted in a decrease in production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances from 29.3 +/- 3.9 to 13.6 +/- 3.5 nmoles/mg VLDL + LDL protein (mean +/- SE, p <0.003), an increase in the lag phase of conjugated diene formation from 94.8 +/- 5.5 to 225.0 +/- 31.9 min (p <0.001) and an increase in reactivity of lysine residues from 73.6% +/- 4.8% to 86.8% +/- 3.6% (p <0.034) demonstrating a reduction in the susceptibility of the lipoproteins to oxidation. However, antioxidant vitamins had no effect on plasma PAI activity, PAI antigen, tissue-type plasminogen activator activity and antigen, fibrinogen and fibrin degradation products. These results do not support the hypothesis that lipoprotein oxidation is a significant cause of impaired fibrinolysis in men with central obesity.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Fibrinolysis; Humans; Lipoproteins, LDL; Lipoproteins, VLDL; Male; Obesity; Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1; Tissue Plasminogen Activator; Trinitrobenzenesulfonic Acid; Vitamins

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Diet; Humans; Obesity; Osteoarthritis; Vitamin D; Vitamin E

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Cholesterol, HDL; Cholesterol, LDL; Female; Humans; Mathematics; Obesity

In order to learn about the influence of dietary factors and obesity on prostatic cancer in our environment, a case-control study was performed. The group of cases consisted of 90 men histologically diagnosed with prostatic cancer in the 'La Paz' hospital (Madrid) during the 4-year period of 1983-1987. The controls were 180 men selected to obtain a random sample of males from the same hospital, stratified according to age and date of admission as compared with the prostatic cancer patients. The results of the study revealed that a diet rich in animal fats as well as high in meat consumption increased the risk of prostatic cancer. Low ingestion of vitamin A or vitamin C and obesity were unassociated to the disease.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Ascorbic Acid; Case-Control Studies; Diet; Dietary Fats; Humans; Male; Meat; Middle Aged; Obesity; Prostatic Neoplasms; Vitamin A

We have studied the binding of the dopaminergic agonist 2-[5,8-3H]amino-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene [( 3H]ADTN) to hypothalamic membranes from the genetically diabetic-obese (db/db) mice and their lean littermates. The specific binding of [3H]ADTN was defined as the difference between the radioligand binding to the membranes in the absence or presence of 1 microM (+)-butaclamol. In order to control nonspecific binding, all binding assays were performed in the presence of 0.1 mM catechol and 0.3 mM ascorbic acid. Binding of [3H]ADTN was rapid, dissociable, saturable and stereoselective. (+)-Butaclamol was very potent whereas (-)-butaclamol was ineffective in inhibiting the binding of this radioligand. Concentration-dependent binding experiments and Scatchard analysis of the data yielded dissociation constant (Kd) of 3.5-4.2 nM and number of binding sites (n) equivalent to 170-200 fmol/mg protein for lean mice. For db/db mice, the data yielded a Kd of 4.0-4.7 nM and an n of 400-500 fmol/mg protein. It was also shown that the anorexic drugs, amphetamine and fenfluramine, inhibited [3H]ADTN binding in a dose-dependent manner. Binding parameters, obtained using membranes from mice made obese by parenteral administration of gold thioglucose, were not significantly different from those obtained for the lean mice. It is concluded that the regulation of the hypothalamic dopaminergic receptors may be related to the lesion in the genetically obese mice.

Topics: Adenylyl Cyclases; Amphetamines; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Aurothioglucose; Catechols; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; Fenfluramine; Hypothalamus; Kinetics; Mice; Mice, Mutant Strains; Mice, Obese; Obesity; Radioligand Assay; Receptors, Dopamine; Stereoisomerism; Tetrahydronaphthalenes

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Cholesterol; Female; Humans; Male; Obesity; Triglycerides

We studied changes in serum levels of carotene, vitamins A, C, B12 and folate and iron in the immediate perioperative period after gastric by-pass surgery in nine morbidly obese patients and in six patients undergoing abdominal surgery. All parameters were measured preoperatively and 48 h postoperatively. Marked decreases occurred for vitamin A (2.04 +/- 0.45 mumol/l to 0.92 +/- 0.39 mumol/l, P less than 0.01), vitamin C (26 +/- 11.2 mumol/l to 4.9 +/- 4.0 mumol/l, P less than 0.01), iron (15 +/- 5.8 mumol/l to 4 +/- 2.7 mumol/l, P less than 0.01). A significant change also occurred for carotene (1.7 +/- 0.42 mumol/l to 1.25 +/- 0.48 mumol/l, P less than 0.05). No significant changes were seen for vitamins B12 and folate. Only changes in vitamins A and C were significantly greater in the morbidly obese patients compared to the control group of six patients. These changes likely represent redistribution of vitamins rather than enhanced urinary excretion.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Carotenoids; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Iron; Male; Obesity; Postoperative Period; Stomach; Vitamin A; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Adolescent; Ascorbic Acid; Ascorbic Acid Deficiency; Catalase; Child; Child, Preschool; Chronic Disease; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Female; Humans; Male; Obesity

Topics: Alcoholic Beverages; Allium; Ascorbic Acid; Caffeine; Capsicum; Diet; Dietary Fats; Fibrinolysis; Garlic; Glucose; Humans; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Plants, Medicinal; Vitamin E

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Diet, Reducing; Female; Humans; Male; Obesity

A data base of the National Center for Health Statistics, Health and Nutrition Examination Survey I (HANES I), was used to perform a computer-assisted, comprehensive analysis of the relation of 17 nutrients to the blood pressure profile of adult Americans. Subjects were 10,372 individuals, 18 to 74 years of age, who denied a history of hypertension and intentional modification of their diet. Significant decreases in the consumption of calcium, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C were identified as the nutritional factors that distinguished hypertensive from normotensive subjects. Lower calcium intake was the most consistent factor in hypertensive individuals. Across the population, higher intakes of calcium, potassium, and sodium were associated with lower mean systolic blood pressure and lower absolute risk of hypertension. Increments of dietary calcium were also negatively correlated with body mass. Even though these correlations cannot be accepted as proof of causation, they have implications for future studies of the association of nutritional factors and dietary patterns with hypertension in America.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Pressure; Calcium; Energy Intake; Female; Humans; Hypertension; Male; Middle Aged; National Center for Health Statistics, U.S.; Nutrition Surveys; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Potassium; Racial Groups; Sex Factors; Sodium; United States; Vitamin A

Following initial weight gain, reduction in appetite and pronounced weight loss occurred in scorbutic unsupplemented guinea-pigs. Hepatic ascorbic acid levels were significantly reduced and cholesterol concentration increased in the liver. Fenfluramine administration caused immediate loss of weight and appetite in the scorbutic guinea-pigs, these changes being more pronounced in the males. Hepatic ascorbic acid, cholesterol and triglycerides were reduced to lower levels in the fenfluramine-treated scorbutic animals than in the scorbutic guinea-pigs receiving diet alone. In contrast, weight and appetite increased in vitamin-C-supplemented animals while they were receiving fenfluramine. Their hepatic cholesterol and triglyceride levels became significantly reduced. It has been shown that supplementary vitamin C can inhibit the anti-obesity and anorectic actions of fenfluramine and counteract its effect in raising tissue cholesterol.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Ascorbic Acid Deficiency; Body Weight; Cholesterol; Disease Models, Animal; Female; Fenfluramine; Growth; Guinea Pigs; Lipid Metabolism; Liver; Male; Obesity; Sex Factors; Triglycerides

Increasing doses of fenfluramine were given to female guinea-pigs on a scorbutogenic diet with or without Ascorbic Acid (AA) supplementation. AA alone increased weight and appetite, hepatic and plasma AA. AA deficiency reduced weight after an initial rise. 10 mg/kg fenfluramine in association with the diet produced a gain in weight. Larger doses caused weight loss and reduced appetite. These effects were prevented by AA supplementation. Fenfluramine reduced hepatic and plasma AA significantly in comparison with the animals receiving the diet alone, or the diet with AA supplementation in the absence of fenfluramine administration. It is concluded that AA release plays an important role in the anti-obesity and anorectic actions of fenfluramine.

Topics: Animals; Appetite; Ascorbic Acid; Ascorbic Acid Deficiency; Body Weight; Female; Fenfluramine; Guinea Pigs; Liver; Obesity

Many edentulous patients are "sick patients." Often geriatric considerations are involved, as well obesity and postmenopausal problems. These patients have deficient tissues on which to build dentures. The degenerative processes which initiate the loss of teeth continue after extraction and cause further shrinkage of supporting tissues. Repeated relining and rebuilding of dentures can be avoided and happier and healthier patients maintained by (1) saturating patients with therapeutic dosages of vitamins and minerals prior to surgical intervention, (2) using scientifically evaluated liquid and semisolid diets containing the maximum quantities of nutrients and the minimum number of calories during the preoperative and postoperative periods, and (3) thereafter maintaining the patient on a high-protein, high-vitamin, high-mineral diet.

Topics: Aged; Aging; Ascorbic Acid; Calcium; Denture, Complete; Dietary Carbohydrates; Female; Humans; Menopause; Middle Aged; Mouth Mucosa; Mouth, Edentulous; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Osteoporosis; Protein Deficiency; Proteins; Salivary Glands; Stress, Physiological; Vitamin A; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamin D

Large doses (1 to 2g/3 hr) of ascorbic acid were administered intravenously to normal weight and obese, nondiabetic subjects. Glucose tolerance and fasting plasma glucose levels were unaffected, despite a 3- to 8-fold rise in plasma concentrations of the vitamin. Infusion of ascorbic acid did not alter fasting serum insulin levels in normal subjects, but was associated with lower concentrations of hormone during an intravenous glucose tolerance test. Plasma glucose, serum insulin, growth hormone, and glucagon levels in obese subjects remained unchanged during the ascorbic acid infusion.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Carbohydrate Metabolism; Female; Glucagon; Glucose Tolerance Test; Growth Hormone; Humans; Insulin; Male; Obesity

Topics: Aged; Anemia, Hypochromic; Ascorbic Acid; Australia; Avitaminosis; Calcium; Cooking; Diet; Feeding Behavior; Female; Financing, Personal; Folic Acid; Food; Humans; Male; Meat; Middle Aged; Nutrition Disorders; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutritional Requirements; Obesity; Social Welfare

Topics: Age Factors; Anemia, Hypochromic; Animals; Arteriosclerosis; Ascorbic Acid; Attitude to Health; Australia; Breast Feeding; Child; Food Additives; Humans; Infant; Infant Food; Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Infant, Newborn; Iron; Metric System; Milk; Obesity; Vitamin D; Weaning

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Australia; Body Height; Body Weight; Calcium, Dietary; Child; Child, Preschool; Dietary Proteins; Educational Status; Employment; Ethnicity; Feeding Behavior; Female; Housing; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander; Obesity; Rural Population; Thiamine

Topics: Analysis of Variance; Ascorbic Acid; Diet; Diet, Reducing; Humans; Obesity; Probability; Research Design; Statistics as Topic

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Calcium, Dietary; Diet; Diet, Reducing; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Fats; Dietary Proteins; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Female; Food Analysis; Humans; Iron; Methods; Middle Aged; Obesity; Prisons; Skinfold Thickness; Vitamin A

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Anemia, Hypochromic; Ascorbic Acid; Child; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Child, Preschool; Demography; Dental Caries; Diet; DMF Index; Ethnicity; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Male; Nutrition Disorders; Nutrition Surveys; Obesity; Pediatrics; Pregnancy; Societies, Medical; Socioeconomic Factors; United States; Vitamin A

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Alkaline Phosphatase; Ascorbic Acid; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Bilirubin; Carotenoids; Cholesterol; Drainage; Female; Folic Acid; Glucose Tolerance Test; Hepatitis; Humans; Ileum; Intestinal Absorption; Intestinal Obstruction; Intestine, Small; Jejunum; Lipids; Male; Middle Aged; Necrosis; Obesity; Postoperative Complications; Surgical Wound Infection; Thrombophlebitis; Triglycerides; Uric Acid; Vitamin A; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin E; Xylose

A survey of mothers attending infant welfare clinics showed that 26% changed their infant's milk in the first two weeks after birth and that multiple changes were common. Twenty-two per cent. were preparing a milk formula more concentrated than the recommended strength by using either heaped or packed scoops instead of level scoops of powder or by giving extra scoops. The commonest age for starting solid feeding was between 3 and 4 weeks and the practice of adding rusk or cereal to the bottle was common. There are obvious dangers of hypernatraemia from taking concentrated milk feeds and problems of obesity which may follow the early introduction of cereals.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Edible Grain; Humans; Hypernatremia; Infant; Infant Food; Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Infant, Newborn; Milk; Mother-Child Relations; Obesity; Powders; Vitamin A; Vitamin D

Topics: Adolescent; Ascorbic Acid; Calcium, Dietary; Dental Caries; Diet; Female; Hemoglobins; Humans; Iron; Male; Motor Activity; Nutrition Surveys; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutritional Requirements; Obesity; Pregnancy; Sex Factors; United States; Vitamin A; Vitamin B Complex

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Birth Weight; Body Height; Body Weight; Breast Feeding; Calcium; Child; Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Child, Preschool; Diet; Feeding Behavior; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Infant, Newborn; Iron; Male; Mother-Child Relations; Obesity; Phosphorus; Socioeconomic Factors; United States; Vitamins

Topics: Aging; Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Calcium; Cardiac Output; Diet; Heart; Humans; Iron; Kidney; Lung; Muscles; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Rats; Thiamine; Vitamin A

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Calcium; Calorimetry; Diet Therapy; Dietary Carbohydrates; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Obesity; Vitamin A; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamin D

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Cell Count; Blood Glucose; Blood Pressure; Body Weight; Diet Therapy; Feces; Female; Folic Acid; Gastric Acidity Determination; Humans; Ileum; Interpersonal Relations; Iron; Jejunum; Liver Function Tests; Malabsorption Syndromes; Methods; Middle Aged; Obesity; Postoperative Complications; Psychology; Water-Electrolyte Balance

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Carotenoids; Cholesterol; Electrolytes; Feces; Female; Hematocrit; Humans; Ileocecal Valve; Ileostomy; Intestinal Absorption; Jejunum; Male; Methods; Nitrogen; Obesity; Prothrombin Time; Spirometry; Vitamin A

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Ascorbic Acid; Body Height; Body Weight; Cholesterol; Czechoslovakia; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Nutrition Disorders; Nutrition Surveys; Obesity; Phospholipids

Topics: Adipose Tissue; Ascorbic Acid; Biomedical Research; Blood Chemical Analysis; Body Height; Body Weight; Carbohydrate Metabolism; Cholesterol; Czechoslovakia; Dietary Carbohydrates; Dietary Fats; Dietary Proteins; Food; Hemoglobinometry; Humans; Lipid Metabolism; Lipids; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutritional Sciences; Nutritional Status; Obesity; Phospholipids; Vitamins

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Carbohydrate Metabolism; Glucose; Glucose Tolerance Test; Humans; Insulin; Obesity; Vitamins