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Study Reveals Dangers of Muscle-Building Supplements for Adolescents and Young Adults

The University of Toronto’s recent study, a comprehensive exploration of the prevalence, influences, and associated risks of muscle-building supplements among adolescents and young adults in Canada, has just been published. This research, with significant implications for healthcare, public health, and policy professionals, sheds light on the widespread use of these supplements.

Based on data from 912 participants in the Canadian Study of Adolescent Health Behaviors, the study focused on individuals aged 16 to 30. Nearly 60% reported using protein bars; just over half used whey protein powders or shakes, the most popular supplements. Usage rates were higher among boys and men compared to girls, women, and transgender/gender expansive individuals.

Lead author Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, MSW, highlighted that boys and men in the study used an average of three muscle-building supplements in the past year, illustrating a widespread pursuit of the muscular body ideal.

Nearly half of the participants’ primary influencers were social media influencers, while fitness communities and friends also played significant roles. Over two-thirds sought information online, with gender differences in information sources; girls and women tended to consult healthcare professionals, whereas boys and men relied more on online forums like Reddit and YouTube.

Ganson emphasised the importance of healthcare and policy professionals understanding where young people obtain information on muscle-building supplements. Given weak regulations in Canada and minimal content restrictions on social media platforms, this could influence perceptions of safety and effectiveness.

Only 9.8% of participants considered their supplement use problematic, though transgender/gender expansive individuals perceived higher levels of concern compared to cisgender participants. The study also found that nearly two-thirds of users experienced symptoms such as fatigue, digestive issues, and cardiovascular problems, yet a significant majority did not seek medical help.

While the study did not confirm causation between supplement use and symptoms, it highlighted health concerns that young people should be aware of. Ganson stressed the need for healthcare providers to be informed about muscle-building supplements and to routinely discuss their use with adolescents and young adults, mainly focusing on harm reduction and risk awareness.

The findings underscored the necessity for public health initiatives to educate about the potential dangers of muscle-building supplements, especially among transgender/gender expansive and sexual minority individuals who reported higher symptom rates. To mitigate potential harms, the authors recommended stronger regulations on selling and advertising these supplements, particularly on social media platforms.”

More information: Kyle T. Ganson et al, Describing use of muscle-building supplements among adolescents and young adults in Canada, Performance Enhancement & Health. DOI: 10.1016/j.peh.2024.100284

Journal information: Performance Enhancement & Health Provided by University of Toronto

Discrimination: A Catalyst for Accelerated Ageing

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A recent study by NYU School of Global Public Health researchers sheds light on how discrimination may hasten biological ageing processes. Published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity-Health, the research reveals that interpersonal discrimination is linked to molecular-level changes that could exacerbate disparities in aging-related health outcomes.

According to Adolfo Cuevas, assistant professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at NYU’s School of Global Public Health and senior author of the study, experiencing discrimination appears to accelerate ageing, potentially contributing to increased susceptibility to diseases and premature mortality among affected individuals.

The study highlights that individuals who face discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, weight, or disability are at heightened risk of various health issues, including heart disease, hypertension, and depression. While the exact biological mechanisms underlying these health disparities remain incompletely understood, chronic activation of the body’s stress response is thought to play a significant role. Moreover, mounting evidence suggests that persistent exposure to discrimination may impact the biological processes associated with ageing.

To explore this connection further, Cuevas and his team examined three measures of DNA methylation—a marker used to gauge the biological effects of stress and ageing—in nearly 2,000 U.S. adults participating in the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study, funded by the National Institute on Aging. Participants provided blood samples and completed surveys detailing their experiences of discrimination across everyday interactions, major life events, and workplace settings.

The findings revealed a compelling association between discrimination and accelerated biological ageing. Individuals reporting higher levels of discrimination tended to exhibit faster biological ageing than those reporting lower levels. Specifically, everyday discrimination and major discriminatory events consistently correlate with accelerated ageing. Discrimination in the workplace also showed a link to accelerated ageing, though its impact was somewhat less pronounced.

Further analysis indicated that health behaviours such as smoking and body mass index accounted for approximately half of the observed association between discrimination and accelerated ageing. This suggests that additional stress responses triggered by discrimination—including elevated cortisol levels and disrupted sleep patterns—contribute significantly to accelerated biological ageing.

Cuevas emphasised that while health behaviours play a role in these disparities, a range of psychosocial stressors likely contribute to the accelerated ageing observed among individuals facing discrimination. He highlighted the need for comprehensive approaches to address discrimination to improve health outcomes and promote equity in healthy ageing.

The study also revealed variations in the impact of discrimination on biological ageing across different racial groups. Black participants, who reported higher levels of discrimination, tended to exhibit older biological ages and faster rates of biological ageing. In contrast, White participants, despite reporting lower levels of discrimination overall, showed heightened susceptibility to its effects when they did experience it—potentially due to less frequent exposure and fewer coping mechanisms.

“These findings underscore the critical importance of addressing discrimination in all its forms to support healthy ageing and advance health equity,” Cuevas concluded. The study advocates for broader efforts to mitigate the adverse health effects of discrimination and promote conditions conducive to healthy ageing across diverse populations.

More information: Adolfo G. Cuevas et al, Multi-discrimination exposure and biological aging: Results from the midlife in the United States study, Brain Behavior & Immunity – Health. DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100774

Journal information: Brain Behavior & Immunity – Health Provided by New York University

Beyond Toxicity: Lactate Emerges as a Major Body Fuel Post Carbohydrate Consumption

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Robert Leija’s journey from high school athlete to kinesiology student at Fresno State and now a graduate student at the University of California, Berkeley, has been marked by a transformative shift in understanding the role of lactate in the body. Initially obsessed with improving his track and field performance and reducing muscle soreness attributed to lactic acid buildup, Leija’s perspective changed dramatically when he encountered a groundbreaking textbook that challenged conventional wisdom.

At Fresno State, Leija was introduced to an out-of-print textbook authored by George Brooks, a prominent figure in exercise physiology. This text upended Leija’s belief that lactate was merely a metabolic waste product indicating oxygen depletion during exercise. Instead, Brooks’s research posited that lactate was a normal byproduct of metabolic activity essential for fueling muscles during prolonged physical exertion.

As a member of Brooks’s research team at UC Berkeley, Leija has contributed to groundbreaking studies elucidating lactate’s integral role in metabolic processes. Published in the journal Nature Metabolism, their research conclusively demonstrates that lactate is produced naturally in response to carbohydrate ingestion and enters the bloodstream rapidly, sometimes even before glucose. This challenges the traditional view of glucose as the sole energy carrier in the body, highlighting lactate as a crucial component in managing carbohydrate metabolism.

The study involved 15 healthy, physically active adults who underwent rigorous testing involving glucose ingestion and monitoring of lactate levels. The researchers meticulously tracked the kinetics of lactate and glucose in the bloodstream by infusing lactate and glucose tracers into participants before carbohydrate intake. Their findings not only underscored the rapid conversion of dietary glucose to lactate but also revealed that lactate acts synergistically with insulin to regulate blood glucose levels, thereby challenging previous notions about lactate’s role in metabolic processes.

George Brooks’s concept of the “lactate shuttle” was pivotal in reshaping the understanding of lactate’s function beyond exercise physiology. This metabolic feedback loop posits lactate as a preferred fuel source for various tissues, including skeletal muscle, heart muscle, and the brain, even during intense activity. Furthermore, Brooks’s research has demonstrated that lactate is crucial in signalling fat tissue to conserve energy reserves, further highlighting its multifaceted role in metabolic regulation.

Moreover, the study conducted at UC Berkeley extended these findings to non-exercise conditions and debunked the misconception that elevated lactate levels indicate anaerobic metabolism or oxygen deficiency. Instead, it suggests that sustained high lactate levels in the bloodstream may signify disruptions in the lactate shuttle cycle rather than inherent harm to the body.

This research journey has been personally transformative for Robert Leija, aligning his academic pursuits with his passion for athletic performance. From initially grappling with the complexities of lactate metabolism as a high school athlete to contributing to pioneering research at one of the world’s leading institutions, Leija’s story underscores scientific discovery’s profound impact on personal and professional growth. As he continues his doctoral studies, Leija remains committed to unravelling further mysteries surrounding lactate metabolism and its implications for human health and performance.

In essence, Robert Leija’s trajectory from athlete to researcher epitomizes the evolution of scientific understanding, challenging entrenched beliefs and paving the way for a more nuanced appreciation of lactate’s pivotal role in human physiology. His collaboration with George Brooks and their team at UC Berkeley is a testament to scientific inquiry’s transformative power in reshaping our understanding of metabolic processes and their implications for health and performance.

More information: Robert G. Leija et al, Enteric and systemic postprandial lactate shuttle phases and dietary carbohydrate carbon flow in humans, Nature Metabolism. DOI: 10.1038/s42255-024-00993-1

Journal information: Nature Metabolism Provided by University of California, Berkeley

Weight Loss Surgery Reduces Heart Risks and Mortality in Obese Patients with Sleep Apnea: Cleveland Clinic Study

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Ali Aminian, M.D., director of Cleveland Clinic’s Bariatric & Metabolic Institute and primary investigator of the MOSAIC study, highlighted that weight loss achieved through bariatric surgery significantly correlates with a 42% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events and a 37% decrease in mortality risk among patients suffering from obesity and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. This underscores the potential life-saving benefits of surgical intervention for this high-risk population.

Research published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine indicates that nearly 1 billion adults worldwide are affected by obstructive sleep apnea, with obesity being a primary risk factor. The Obesity Medicine Association reports that approximately 70% of adults diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea are also obese. This combination exacerbates metabolic disruptions and contributes to heightened risks of severe health conditions, including heart attacks and heart failure.

The MOSAIC (Metabolic surgery for OSA and Incident Cardiovascular disease) study, led by Cleveland Clinic, represents the first comprehensive analysis of long-term cardiovascular outcomes following bariatric surgery in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and obesity. From 2004 to 2018, the observational study involved 13,657 adult patients with a body mass index ranging from 35 to 70 and diagnosed with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea through sleep study tests.

Among the participants, 970 underwent bariatric surgery, while 12,687 served as a nonsurgical control group, balanced using overlap weighting methods. Follow-up continued until September 2022, revealing compelling findings about the benefits of surgical weight loss interventions.

Over ten years, the cumulative incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events was markedly lower among those who underwent bariatric surgery (27%) compared to the nonsurgical group (35.6%). This encompassed coronary artery events, cerebrovascular events, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and all-cause mortality. Similarly, the cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality at ten years was 9.1% in the bariatric surgery cohort versus 12.5% in the nonsurgical group, indicating a significant survival advantage associated with surgical intervention.

Steven Nissen, M.D., Chief Academic Officer of the Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic and senior author of the study, emphasised the lack of approved drug therapies specifically targeting obstructive sleep apnea. Before the MOSAIC study, no intervention had demonstrated efficacy in reducing major adverse cardiovascular events or mortality rates in patients with this condition.

Patients who underwent bariatric surgery experienced substantial weight loss, averaging 33.2 kg over the 10-year study period, in contrast to the nonsurgical group, which lost an average of 6.64 kg. Remarkably, those who underwent surgery maintained a 25% weight loss even after a decade post-procedure, underscoring the long-term efficacy of bariatric interventions in managing obesity.

Nancy Foldvary-Schaefer, D.O., director of Cleveland Clinic’s Sleep Disorders Center, noted that current guidelines for managing obstructive sleep apnea stress the importance of weight loss and lifestyle modifications. The findings from the MOSAIC study reinforce these guidelines but also highlight the necessity for more effective and durable interventions, such as bariatric surgery, to enhance cardiovascular outcomes and survival in affected patients.

Dr. Aminian further emphasised that bariatric surgery can be a life-saving treatment for select patients, suggesting a dose-dependent relationship between weight loss and cardiovascular benefits in those with obstructive sleep apnea. More significant weight loss correlated with lower risks of heart complications, illustrating the potential for substantial health improvements through surgical intervention.

Looking ahead, with the emergence of new obesity medications capable of achieving average weight loss rates of 15-20%, similar cardiovascular benefits may be achievable through medical therapies. This possibility underscores ongoing advancements in obesity management and the potential to broaden treatment options for patients with complex health conditions like obstructive sleep apnea and obesity.

More information: Ali Aminian et al, Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity: Metabolic Surgery versus Usual Care, Journal of the American College of Cardiology. DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2024.06.008

Journal information: Journal of the American College of Cardiology Provided by Cleveland Clinic

High Prevalence of Eating Disorder Symptoms Among Individuals with Insulin-Dependent Diabetes

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A recent meta-analysis conducted at the University of Eastern Finland reveals that one in four patients aged 16 years and older with insulin-dependent diabetes exhibits symptoms indicative of eating disorders. These symptoms encompass typical manifestations such as binge eating and food restriction, alongside a unique behaviour known as insulin omission. This practice involves intentionally restricting or skipping insulin doses due to fears of weight gain despite its detrimental effects on blood glucose management.

Doctoral Researcher Pia Niemelä underscores the severity of insulin omission, noting its dual impact on weight loss and disrupted diabetes control. The meta-analysis, which synthesised data from 45 previous studies encompassing 11,592 individuals, highlights that 20% of patients reported engaging in intentional insulin omission.

Published in Eating Behaviors, the study reveals a gender disparity in the prevalence of eating disorder symptoms, with a higher incidence among women compared to men. Contrary to assumptions that eating disorders primarily affect younger demographics, the meta-analysis underscores their prevalence across all age groups among adults with diabetes.

Niemelä emphasises the lack of specific care pathways in Finland for patients with both diabetes and eating disorders, underscoring the need for improved identification and management strategies. The coexistence of these conditions significantly elevates the risk of diabetes-related complications and comorbidities, necessitating structured screening methods such as the DEPS-R survey, which yielded positive results in 27% of subjects in this meta-analysis.

Understanding the scope and clinical implications of eating disorder symptoms in individuals with insulin-dependent diabetes is crucial for developing targeted treatment approaches and comprehensive care pathways.

More information: Pia E. Niemelä et al, Prevalence of eating disorder symptoms in people with insulin-dependent-diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Eating Behaviors. DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2024.101863

Journal information: Eating Behaviors Provided by University of Eastern Finland

Maternal Inheritance Linked to Higher Alzheimer’s Disease Risk

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A recent investigation led by researchers from Mass General Brigham underscores the impact of parental inheritance on the development of Alzheimer’s disease. The study, involving 4,400 cognitively unimpaired adults aged 65-85, revealed that individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s, particularly on their mother’s side, exhibit heightened levels of amyloid in the brain—a hallmark of the disease. The findings in JAMA Neurology shed light on how familial lineage, especially maternal, can influence biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s.

Senior corresponding author Dr Hyun-Sik Yang, a neurologist at Mass General Brigham, highlighted the study’s key revelations. Previous smaller studies hinted at the maternal link to increased Alzheimer’s risk, prompting the team to delve deeper using a larger dataset from the Anti-Amyloid Treatment in Asymptomatic Alzheimer’s (A4) study. This clinical trial provided insights into memory loss symptoms among participants’ parents, corroborating earlier findings of maternal influence on amyloid levels.

Collaborating with Vanderbilt and Stanford University experts, the researchers explored family histories and clinical data to discern patterns. They discovered that participants with a maternal history of memory impairment, regardless of onset age, exhibited higher amyloid levels. Conversely, paternal history of early-onset memory issues also correlated with elevated amyloid, whereas late-onset paternal symptoms showed no association.

Dr. Mabel Seto, the study’s first author, emphasised the study’s significance in understanding genetic predispositions and sex differences in Alzheimer’s disease. The study found no significant differences between male and female participants in how maternal inheritance influenced amyloid accumulation, challenging previous assumptions.

Despite its insights, the study acknowledges limitations, such as incomplete parental health records and demographic homogeneity among participants. Seto highlighted the need for future research to encompass diverse populations to validate these findings across different ethnicities and races.

Looking ahead, the researchers aim to expand their investigation to explore how parental history influences long-term cognitive decline and amyloid accumulation. This ongoing work could provide critical insights into preventive strategies and personalised healthcare approaches for Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Reisa Sperling, a co-author and principal investigator of the A4 Study, underscored the clinical implications of these findings. She suggested that understanding maternal inheritance patterns could help identify asymptomatic individuals at risk, potentially enhancing the efficacy of future prevention trials and clinical interventions.

The study underscores the complex interplay of genetic inheritance, particularly from maternal lines, in influencing Alzheimer’s disease risk markers. By elucidating these relationships, the research contributes to ongoing efforts to understand better, predict, and manage Alzheimer’s disease in diverse populations.

More information: Mabel Seto et al, Parental History of Memory Impairment and β-Amyloid in Cognitively Unimpaired Older Adults, JAMA Neurology. DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2024.1763

Journal information: JAMA Neurology Provided by Mass General Brigham

Airplane Noise: A Potential Contributor to Chronic Disease Risk

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A recent study has uncovered a correlation between increased exposure to aircraft noise and higher body mass index (BMI), serving as an indicator for obesity and a precursor to conditions such as stroke and hypertension. This research underscores the profound impact of environmental factors, including inequalities in exposure, on health outcomes. Studies consistently show that noise from aircraft and helicopters is more bothersome than noise from other forms of transportation, with mounting evidence suggesting significant contributions to adverse health effects.

The study conducted jointly by the Boston University School of Public Health and Oregon State University reveals that individuals exposed to aircraft noise levels exceeding 45 dB were more likely to report higher BMIs, with the association particularly pronounced at 55 dB or higher noise levels. To put this in context, normal conversation at home registers around 50 dB, highlighting the relatively modest threshold at which aircraft noise begins to impact health. BMI, a widely accepted measure of obesity, is not just a matter of aesthetic concern but a crucial marker for various cardiometabolic diseases.

Published in Environment International, the study marks the first national-level investigation into the relationship between aircraft noise exposure and obesity in the United States, expanding on previous studies primarily focused on European populations. Dr. Matthew Bozigar, the lead researcher and assistant professor of epidemiology at OSU, noted the unexpected strength of the correlation, particularly among women across the US. The study draws on Nurses’ Health Studies data, encompassing nearly 75,000 participants residing near 90 major US airports over 15 years.

The findings underscore the multifaceted impact of environmental factors on health outcomes, highlighting obesity as a condition influenced not just by individual lifestyle choices but also by broader environmental exposures. Dr. Bozigar stressed the potential for policy interventions aimed at mitigating these environmental drivers of obesity, offering hope for a healthier future. Examining regional differences in the study, researchers noted stronger associations between aircraft noise and BMI among participants on the West Coast and in arid climates.

Factors such as building design, climate conditions affecting window opening behaviours, and insulation levels were considered potential contributors to these variations. Dr Junenette Peters, the senior author and associate professor of environmental health at BUSPH, emphasised the need for further research into these regional disparities and their implications for public health policies. She highlighted the disproportionate exposure to aircraft noise among Black, Hispanic, and low-income populations, suggesting a need for targeted interventions to address environmental injustices in noise exposure.

The study utilised a day-night noise level estimate (DNL) to quantify aircraft noise exposure, applying a 10 dB adjustment for night-time noise due to lower background noise levels. While acknowledging BMI’s limitations as a metric, the researchers found a robust and independent association between higher aircraft noise exposure and increased BMI. Looking ahead, the importance of further research to delve deeper into understanding the mechanisms through which aircraft noise influences obesity and related health outcomes cannot be overstated.

This includes investigating broader inequities in noise exposure across different demographic groups and geographical regions. Dr. Bozigar stressed the urgency of addressing these environmental injustices in transportation noise exposure alongside other drivers of poor health outcomes. In conclusion, the study contributes valuable evidence to the growing body of literature linking environmental noise, particularly from aircraft, to adverse health effects. By elucidating these connections, researchers hope to inform policies that can mitigate the health impacts of noise pollution and promote healthier environments for all individuals.

More information: Matthew Bozigar et al, Aircraft noise exposure and body mass index among female participants in two Nurses’ Health Study prospective cohorts living around 90 airports in the United States, Environment International. DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108660

Journal information: Environment International Provided by Boston University School of Public Health

Embracing Snakes: Exploring a High-Protein Superfood

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Research conducted by Honorary Research Fellow Dr Daniel Natusch from Macquarie University’s School of Natural Sciences, in collaboration with scientists from several international institutions, sheds light on the remarkable efficiency of python farming in Southeast Asia. The study, published in Scientific Reports, compares the growth and protein conversion rates of reticulated pythons (Malayopython reticulatus) and Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) on commercial farms in Thailand and Vietnam.

Unlike conventional livestock such as chickens and cattle, pythons demonstrate superior feed-to-weight conversion ratios, reaching slaughter weight within their first year after hatching. According to Dr Natusch, snake meat is white and high in protein. It offers a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock in regions grappling with food insecurity exacerbated by climate change and resource depletion.

The study highlights how python farming requires minimal water and food input compared to conventional livestock, making it a viable option in areas facing agricultural challenges. Dr Natusch emphasises that while snake meat is already a staple in diets across Southeast Asia and China, mainstream agricultural research has primarily overlooked its potential.

Professor Rick Shine, co-author from Macquarie University, underscores the economic benefits and environmental advantages of python farming over traditional livestock farming. Snake farms, typically large barns with optimal basking conditions, sidestep many animal welfare concerns associated with caged mammals and birds. Cold-blooded reptiles like pythons are extraordinarily efficient at converting food into body tissue, far outpacing warm-blooded creatures in energy efficiency.

The research team’s experiments with feeding pythons various protein sources, including agricultural waste and vegetable proteins hidden within meat-based sausages, revealed a surprising adaptability. Pythons can digest soy and other plant proteins, demonstrating their ability to thrive on a diverse diet without compromising growth rates or welfare. This flexibility not only enhances food production efficiency but also significantly reduces waste generation, offering hope for a more sustainable future.

From an environmental perspective, python farming is a step in the right direction. Pythons produce fewer greenhouse gases and minimal water and solid waste than traditional livestock, making them an environmentally sustainable choice. Moreover, their ability to utilise agricultural by-products effectively further reduces waste generation, offering a promising solution to the environmental pressures associated with conventional agriculture.

Despite these benefits, the researchers acknowledge that python farming may face cultural and regulatory challenges outside regions where snake meat is culturally accepted. Professor Shine notes that while python farming presents significant opportunities in countries with a historical precedent for consuming snake meat, its adoption in regions like Australia or Europe may need to be faster due to cultural barriers.

The study underscores the potential of python farming as a sustainable solution to global food insecurity and environmental pressures associated with conventional agriculture. By highlighting the efficiency and versatility of pythons in converting waste into valuable products, the research advocates for further exploration and integration of snake farming practices into global agricultural strategies, particularly in regions where alternative food sources are urgently needed.

More information: D. Natusch et al, Python farming as a flexible and efficient form of agricultural food security, Scientific Reports. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54874-4

Journal information: Scientific Reports Provided by Macquarie University

Canadian Sea Buckthorn Berries: A Potential Antioxidant Superfood for Managing Diabetes and Obesity

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A study featured in SCI’s Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture sheds light on the potential of sea buckthorn shrubs as a significant source of natural antioxidants in North America. Conducted by researchers at Memorial University of Newfoundland, led by Professor Fereidoon Shahidi, the research highlights the nutritional profile of Canadian-grown sea buckthorn berries and their commercial promise as a bioactive superfood.

Sea buckthorn, a thorny deciduous shrub native to northwestern Europe and parts of central Asia, is renowned for its nutritional, pharmaceutical, and functional properties. Its berries and leaves are widely used, and sea buckthorn oil is particularly rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins E, B, and A, and polyphenols.

Introduced to Canada in the early 2000s after governmental research recognised its commercial potential, sea buckthorn has garnered interest for its unique qualities. Renan Danielski, a PhD student at the University of Newfoundland and a study author, underscores the distinctiveness of sea buckthorn, stating, “Sea buckthorn is a crop with unique qualities and vast potential. Its popularity in Asia and Europe presents an opportunity to replicate this success in North America by leveraging locally grown varieties.”

Motivated by the experimental status and limited commercialisation of sea buckthorn in North America, the researchers aimed to characterise the polyphenolic composition of Canadian cultivars. “Understanding how our cultivar compares globally can help convey its benefits to consumers and establish a market presence,” notes Professor Shahidi, corresponding author of the study.

The study reveals significant concentrations of key polyphenolic compounds in sea buckthorn pomace and seeds, offering potential health benefits such as cardiovascular protection and anti-inflammatory properties. The influence of geographical factors on the polyphenolic profile is significant, with distinct bioactive compounds identified exclusively in Newfoundland-grown sea buckthorn cultivars.

Furthermore, extracts from sea buckthorn showed promising in vitro antidiabetic and anti-obesity properties, prompting further investigation into their mechanisms and therapeutic applications. “This marks an initial step in understanding how sea buckthorn polyphenols can positively influence our physiology,” explains Danielski. “Future research should delve into the underlying mechanisms and expand studies to include animal models and human trials. If confirmed in vivo, sea buckthorn polyphenols could potentially serve therapeutic and pharmacological purposes, aiding in the management of diabetes, obesity, and other conditions.”

The study underscores the potential of Canadian sea buckthorn berries as a valuable source of natural antioxidants in North America. As consumer interest in functional foods and nutraceuticals grows, sea buckthorn emerges as a sustainable option for enhancing health and well-being.

More information: Renan Danielski et al, Phenolic composition and bioactivities of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) fruit and seeds: an unconventional source of natural antioxidants in North America, Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.13386

Journal information: Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture Provided by Society of Chemical Industry

Exercise’s Role in Preserving Cognitive Function in Hypertensive Patients at Risk

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People with high blood pressure face an increased risk of cognitive impairment, including dementia. However, a recent study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine indicates that engaging in vigorous physical activity more than once a week can reduce this risk. The findings, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, highlight the role of exercise in mitigating cognitive decline.

Richard Kazibwe, M.D., assistant professor of internal medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and lead author of the study, emphasised the multifaceted benefits of physical exercise, such as lowering blood pressure, enhancing heart health, and potentially delaying cognitive decline. Despite these known benefits, the precise amount and intensity of exercise required to preserve cognition still need to be determined.

The study builds upon previous research, including the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) conducted in 2015. This landmark trial demonstrated that intensive blood pressure management reduced cardiovascular disease and mortality rates among participants aged 50 and older with hypertension. The trial’s findings prompted significant changes in blood pressure management guidelines.

Subsequently, the SPRINT MIND trial 2019, led by Wake Forest University School of Medicine, revealed that intensive blood pressure control also reduced the risk of mild cognitive impairment in older adults. Building on these insights, Kazibwe and his team conducted a secondary analysis focusing on the impact of vigorous physical activity on cognitive health.

Their findings suggest a notable benefit: individuals who engaged in vigorous physical activity at least once a week reported lower rates of mild cognitive impairment and dementia. This association was robust among participants under the age of 75. Encouragingly, nearly 60% of study participants, including older adults aged 75 and above, reported engaging in vigorous physical activity.

Dr. Kazibwe highlighted the positive trend of older adults recognising the importance of exercise and maintaining higher physical activity intensity levels. However, he also acknowledged the need for further research, including using device-based physical activity measurements and a more diverse participant pool.

While this study provides compelling evidence that regular vigorous exercise may help preserve cognitive function in individuals at high risk of hypertension-related cognitive decline, ongoing research is crucial to fully understand and optimise the role of physical activity in cognitive health maintenance.

More information: Richard Kazibwe et al, Effect of vigorous-intensity physical activity on incident cognitive impairment in high-risk hypertension, Alzheimer’s & Dementia. DOI: 10.1002/alz.13887

Journal information: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Provided by Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist

Exploring the Influence of Temperature and Fermentation Time on the Characteristics of Blueberry Wine

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Blueberries, known for their nutrient-rich profile and ubiquitous presence in breakfast smoothies, also find their way into winemaking. However, the process of fermenting these powerful berries raises questions about the preservation of their health-promoting compounds. Researchers from ACS Food Science & Technology delved into this inquiry, investigating how fermentation affects blueberry wine’s bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties.

The study, led by Maria Serratosa and her team, began with 8 litres of blueberry juice sourced from southern Spain. Dividing the juice into 1-litre flasks, they subjected half to a water bath at 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit) and the other half to 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). Within each temperature condition, two flasks underwent a lengthy fermentation process to produce dry wine, while the remaining two underwent a shorter fermentation for sweet wine. This experimental setup allowed the researchers to compare the levels of bioactive compounds between the initial juice and the final wine products.

Key compounds of interest included anthocyanins, responsible for wine’s red hue, flavonols known for their antioxidant properties, flavan-3-ols, which contribute to vascular health, tannins that impart astringency, and vitamin C, crucial for tissue repair and immune function. Using a free-radical-scavenging assay, they measured the antioxidant activity of these compounds in both the juice and wines.

The findings revealed that longer fermentation times decreased anthocyanins, tannins, and flavonols while flavan-3-ols increased. Interestingly, vitamin C content remained unaffected by fermentation duration but was significantly lower in wines fermented at a higher temperature (21 degrees Celsius) than those fermented at a lower temperature (17 degrees Celsius). Despite these variations, all wines retained higher antioxidant activity than the original blueberry juice.

The study highlights that while fermenting blueberry juice into wine preserves many of the fruit’s beneficial compounds, temperature and fermentation duration play pivotal roles in shaping the final nutritional profile. Optimising these parameters could enhance the retention of bioactive compounds, thereby maximising the health benefits of this superfood-infused tipple. Further research in this domain could advance winemaking techniques and the nutritional value of blueberry-derived products.

More information: M. Angeles Varo et al, Exploring the Impact of Temperature and Fermentation Time on the Evolution of Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, and Color Evolution in Blueberry Wines, ACS Food Science & Technology. DOI: 10.1021/acsfoodscitech.4c00271

Journal information: ACS Food Science & Technology Provided by American Chemical Society

Revolutionary Advances in Combatting Fat and Inflammation: Groundbreaking Compounds Developed by Scientists

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Modified derivatives of natural products have spurred significant therapeutic advances and commercial success in recent years. Menthol, a cyclic monoterpene alcohol naturally found in plants like peppermint and spearmint, is a common ingredient in confectionery, chewing gums, and oral care products owing to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.

In a groundbreaking study published in Immunology on May 08, 2024, Professor Gen-ichiro Arimura and his team from Tokyo University of Science developed menthyl esters of valine (MV) and isoleucine (MI). These compounds, derived from menthol by replacing its hydroxyl group with valine and isoleucine, demonstrated exceptional anti-inflammatory effects in vitro and mouse models of induced disease conditions. Notably, MV and MI surpassed menthol in anti-inflammatory assays, suppressing vital inflammatory genes and showing promise in alleviating conditions like intestinal colitis.

The researchers delved into the mechanisms underlying the efficacy of MV and MI, discovering that their action was mediated through the liver X receptor (LXR), an intracellular nuclear receptor crucial for lipid metabolism. This unique mechanism, independent of the cold-sensitive receptor TRPM8 that detects menthol, underscores the intriguing pathway through which these menthyl esters exert their effects.

Building on their findings, the team explored the potential anti-obesity properties of MV and MI. They found that these compounds inhibited fat accumulation during the mitotic clonal expansion stage of adipocyte differentiation, which is crucial for combating diet-induced obesity in mouse models. This dual action against inflammation and obesity positions menthyl esters as promising candidates for addressing metabolic disorders and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Prof. Arimura expressed optimism about the broader implications of their research, suggesting that menthyl esters could potentially treat a spectrum of lifestyle-related diseases linked to metabolic syndrome, such as diabetes and hypertension, as well as allergic symptoms. Their multifaceted benefits and specific mechanisms distinguish them from conventional therapies, offering targeted solutions for individuals grappling with obesity-related complications and chronic inflammation, instilling hope for a healthier future.

The study highlights the potential of menthyl esters derived from natural sources as versatile therapeutic agents. Future research aimed at harnessing their full therapeutic potential could lead to novel treatments for the increasingly prevalent health challenges posed by obesity and inflammatory diseases.

More information: Seidai Takasawa et al, The powerful potential of amino acid menthyl esters for anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity therapies, Immunology. DOI: 10.1111/imm.13798

Journal information: Immunology Provided by Tokyo University of Science