Nutritional advice

Objectives:
Carbohydrate-restricted diets may increase low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol or bad cholesterol) and thereby cardiovascular risk. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do carbohydrate restriction diets increase cholesterol and triglycerides levels in overweight/obese adults?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs with a total of 1,633 participants, of which 818 in carbohydrate-restricted diet group (intervention group) and 815 low-fat diet group (control group).

All RCTs had more than 100 participants with duration of at least 6 months.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared with low-fat diets, carbohydrate-restricted diets showed no significant difference in LDL-cholesterol levels after 6, 12 and 24 months.
Although an overall pooled analysis statistically favoured low-fat diets [0.07 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.02-0.13, p = 0.009], this was clinically insignificant.

The investigators found when compared with low-fat diets, carbohydrate-restricted diets significant increased HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels [0.08 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.06-0.11, p 0.00001] after 6 and 12 months.
These favourable changes were more marked in the subgroup with very-low carbohydrate content [50 g/d: 0.12 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.10-0.14, p  0.00001].

The investigators found when compared with low-fat diets, carbohydrate-restricted diets significant reduced plasma triglycerides levels [-0.13 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.19 to -0.08, p  0.00001 after 6 and 12 months.
These favourable changes were more marked in the subgroup with very-low carbohydrate content [50 g/d: -0.19 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.26 to -0.12, p = 0.02].

The investigators concluded large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of at least 6 months duration with carbohydrate restriction, particularly 50 g/d carbohydrates, is superior in improving HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides levels in overweight/obese adults when compared with low-fat diets. Dietary guidelines should consider carbohydrate restriction as an alternative dietary strategy for the prevention/management of dyslipidemia for populations with cardiometabolic risk.

Original title:
Effects of carbohydrate-restricted diets on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in overweight and obese adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Gjuladin-Hellon T, Davies IG, […], Amiri Baghbadorani R.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30544168

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on carbohydrate, cholesterol and overweight right here.

50 grams of carbohydrates per day corresponds to a diet with 10 En% carbohydrates.
The easiest way to follow a diet with 10 En% carbohydrates is to choose only meals/products with 10 En% carbohydrates.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with 10 En% carbohydrates is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should contain on average 10 En% carbohydrates. Check here which products contain 10 En% carbohydrates.

Objectives:
Is there an association between dietary factors and the risk of gout and hyperuricemia?
 
Study design:
This review article included 10 prospective cohort studies (the follow-up duration ranged from 6 years to 26 year) and 9 cross-sectional studies.

Based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), the quality assessment of included studies yielded a mean NOS score of 7.1, suggesting the presence of high methodologic quality.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting gout significantly increased with:
29% [OR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.16-1.44] for dietary red meat intake;
31% [OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.01-1.68] for dietary seafoods intake;
158% [OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.81-3.66] for dietary alcohol intake;
114% [OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.65-2.78] for dietary fructose intake.

The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting gout significantly decreased with:
44% [OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.44-0.70] for dietary dairy products intake;
15% [OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.76-0.96] for dietary soy foods intake;
14% [OR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.75-0.98] for dietary high-purine vegetables intake;
53% [OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.37-0.59] for dietary coffee intake.

The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting hyperuricemia (an excess of uric acid in the blood) significantly increased with:
24% [OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.04-1.48] for dietary red meat intake;
47% [OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.16-1.86] for dietary seafoods intake;
106% [OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.60-2.67] for dietary alcohol intake;
85% [OR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.66-2.07] for dietary fructose intake.

The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting hyperuricemia (an excess of uric acid in the blood) significantly decreased with:
50% [OR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.37-0.66] for dietary dairy products intake;
30% [OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.56-0.88] for dietary soy foods intake.

The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting hyperuricemia (an excess of uric acid in the blood) non-significantly increase with:
10% [OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.88-1.39] for dietary high-purine vegetables intake.

The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting hyperuricemia (an excess of uric acid in the blood) non-significantly decreased with 24% [OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.55-1.06] for dietary coffee intake in men.
Non-significantly because OR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.55 to 1.06. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found in meta-analysis that the risk of getting hyperuricemia (an excess of uric acid in the blood) significantly increased with 58% [OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.16-2.16] for dietary coffee intake in women.
Significant because OR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 1.16 to 2.16. OR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators concluded that the risk of hyperuricemia and gout is positively correlated with the dietary intake of red meat, seafoods, alcohol or fructose and negatively with dairy products or soy foods. High-purine vegetables show no association with hyperuricemia, but negative association with gout. Coffee intake is negatively associated with gout risk, whereas it is positively associated with hyperuricemia risk in women.

Original title:
Dietary factors and risk of gout and hyperuricemia: a meta-analysis and systematic review by Li R, Yu K and Li C.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30485934

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Objectives:
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most distressful complication of herpes zoster. Postherpetic neuralgia results in an impaired quality of life and higher healthcare utilization. Vitamin B12 has been proven to be effective in pain relief for various conditions. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do postherpetic neuralgia patients benefit from vitamin B12 supplementation?

Study design:
This review article included 4 RCTs (published between 2013 and 2016) including 383 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared with the placebo group, the vitamin B12 group exhibited a significant decrease in the Numeric Rating Scale score, with a mean difference of -4.01 [95% CI = -4.70 to -3.33].

The investigators found compared with the placebo group, vitamin B12 administration improved the quality of life of postherpetic neuralgia patients with moderate quality evidence and significantly decreased the number of patients using analgesics.

The investigators concluded that vitamin B12 appears to be an attractive complementary therapy for postherpetic neuralgia patients. However, further investigation is needed before conclusive recommendations can be made.

Original title:
Vitamin B12 for herpetic neuralgia: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials by Wang JY, Wu YH, [...], Lu PH.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30477853

Additional information of El Mondo:
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Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a nerve pain (neuralgia) that persists after a shingles rash has cleared. Postherpetic neuralgia is caused by the chickenpox (varicella-zoster) virus.
 

Objectives:
Does magnesium supplementation reduce C-reactive protein concentrations in humans?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs (2004-2014) with 349 participants.

The mean age of participants ranged from 18 to 85 years.
The range of duration of the supplementation intervention across studies was from 8 h to 6.5 months.
The consumed range of magnesium dose in these studies was from 320 to 1500 mg/day. The baseline level (at the start of the study) of the CRP varied between the studies from 0.42 mg/dL as minimum to 9.4 mg/dL as maximum.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found magnesium supplementation significantly reduced serum CRP levels [WMD = -1.33 mg/dL, 95% CI = -2.63 to -0.02, p 0.001, I2 = 29.1%, p 0.123] across all studies.
In leave-one-out sensitivity analyses, the pooled effect estimates remained similar across all studies for CRP levels [WMD = -1.33 mg/dL, 95% CI = -2.63 to -0.02].

The investigators found after adjustment of the effect size for potential publication bias using the “trim and fill” correction, no potentially missing studies were imputed in the funnel plot [WMD = -1.33 mg/dL, 95% CI = -2.63 to -0.02]. The “fail-safe N” test showed that 146 studies would be needed to bring the WMD down to a non-significant [p > 0.05] value.

The investigators found in random-effects meta-regression changes in serum CRP levels were independent of the dosage of magnesium [slope = -0.004, 95% CI = -0.03 to 0.02, p = 0.720, and duration [slope = -0.06, 95% CI = -0.37 to 0.24, p = 0.681] of supplementation.

The investigators found in 4 RCTs that subjects with a baseline CRP of ≥ 2 mg/dL had more significant reduction in the serum CRP level [WMD = -2.95 mg/dL, 95% CI = -3.35 to -2.25, p 0.001, I2 = 1.1%, p = 0.952] compared with subjects with a baseline CRP of 2 mg/dL [WMD = -0.23 mg/dL, 95% CI = -0.195 to -0.326, p 0.001, I2 = 1.3% p = 0.923].

The investigators found magnesium supplementation non-significantly reduced IL-6 levels [WMD = -0.16 pg/dL, 95% CI = -3.52 to 3.26, p = 0.236, I2 = 2.3%, p = 0.802] across all studies.

The investigators found magnesium supplementation significantly increased TNF-α levels [WMD = 1.97 pg/dL, 95% CI = 1.12 to 2.82, p = 0.043, I2 = 2.1%, p = 0.869] across all studies.

The investigators found magnesium supplementation non-significantly decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels [WMD = -0.61 mg/dL, 95% CI = -2.72 to 1.48, p = 0.182, I2 = 6.1%, p = 0.742] across all studies.

The investigators found magnesium supplementation non-significantly decreased systolic blood pressure levels [WMD = -0.93 mmHg, 95% CI = -3.03 to 1.20, p = 0.293, I2 = 3.6%, p = 0.526] across all studies.

The investigators found magnesium supplementation non-significantly decreased diastolic blood pressure levels [WMD = -0.30 mmHg, 95% CI = -2.80 to 2.19, p = 0.639, I2 = 3.8%, p = 0.489] across all studies.

The investigators found magnesium supplementation non-significantly increased BMI levels [WMD = 0.27 kg/m², 95% CI = -0.59 to 1.15, p = 0.542, I2 = 2.0%, p = 0.906] across all studies.  

The investigators concluded that 320 to 1500 mg/day magnesium supplementation decreases serum CRP levels, especially with the baseline values ≥ 2 mg/dL. To provide more conclusive results and clarify the mechanistic pathways, RCTs with a larger sample size and a long-term follow-up period are warranted.

Original title:
Effect of magnesium supplements on serum C-reactive protein: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Mazidi M, Rezaie P and Banach M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6040119/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on magnesium and chronic diseases right here.
 

Objectives:
Cocoa and dark chocolate (DC) have been reported to be effective for health promotion; however the exact effect of cocoa/dark chocolate on anthropometric measures have not been yet defined. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Has cocoa/dark chocolate supplementation positive effect on weight, BMI and waist circumference (WC)?   

Study design:
This review article included a total of 35 RCTs, investigating the effects of cocoa/dark chocolate on weight, BMI and waist circumference.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analysis did not suggest any significant effect of cocoa/dark chocolate supplementation on:
-body weight [-0.108 kg, 95% CI = -0.262 to 0.046 p = 0.168]
-BMI [-0.014 kg/m², 95% CI = -0.105 to 0.077, p = 0.759] and
-WC [0.025 cm, 95% CI = -0.083 to 0.129, p = 0.640].

The investigators found, however, subgroup analysis revealed that weight and BMI were significantly reduced with ≥ 30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks.

Furthermore, supplementation of ≥ 30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks significantly reduced waist circumference in non-linear fashion [r = 0.042, p-nonlinearity = 0.008].

The investigators concluded that ≥ 30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks reduce weight, BMI and waist circumference.

Original title:
Does cocoa/dark chocolate supplementation have favorable effect on body weight, body mass index and waist circumference? A systematic review, meta-analysis and dose-response of randomized clinical trials by Kord-Varkaneh H, Ghaedi E, […], Shab-Bidar S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29553824

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Objectives:
Dietary salt reduction in the general population lowers blood pressure and cardiovascular risk. Despite being widely recommended, there is limited evidence as to whether this is applicable to individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Study design:
This review article included 4 RCTs (91 participants), of which 3 were crossover trials and 1 was a parallel study.
Participants were 18 years and over; a reduction in salt intake of at least 1 g/day over 1 week and no concomitant interventions during the study.
The primary outcome was change in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary salt reduction was associated with an 8.4 mmHg [95% CI = 4.8-12.0, Ι2 = 0%] reduction in systolic blood pressure and a 4.4 mmHg [95% CI = 2.2-6.6, Ι2 = 0%] reduction in diastolic blood pressure.

The investigators concluded that a reduction in salt intake of at least 1 g/day over 1 week reduces blood pressure among individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving dialysis.

Original title:
The effect of dietary salt on blood pressure in individuals receiving chronic dialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials by Cole NI, Swift PA, […], Suckling RJ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30413764

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Find more information/studies on lowering blood pressure, salt intake and chronic disease right here.
 

Objectives:
Modifiable factors that reduce the burden of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), particularly plant-derived biomarkers, have been a recent focus of rising interest. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do dietary carotenoids reduce risk of metabolic syndrome?  

Study design:
This review article included 11 cross-sectional studies.
Publication bias was absent and harvest plots indicated consistency upon replication for β-carotene and total carotenoid exposures.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary total carotenoids intake significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 44% [pooled OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.56-0.78, 1 SD ∼ 0.82 µmol/L, n = 5 studies]. This reduced risk was the strongest for β-carotene, followed by α-carotene and β-crypotoxanthin.

The investigators found no association between retinol (vitamin A from animal products) and risk of metabolic syndrome [pooled OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.88-1.13, 1 SD ∼ 2.14 µmol/L, n = 6 studies].

The investigators concluded that carotenoids, particularly β-carotene, followed by α-carotene and β-crypotoxanthin may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome. May reduce because this review article only included cross-sectional studies and no cohort studies.

Original title:
Carotenoids, vitamin A, and their association with the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Beydoun MA, Chen X, [...], Canas JA.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30202882

Additional information of El Mondo:
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Objectives:
The association between coffee consumption and the circulating level of adiponectin and leptin has been evaluated in several epidemiological studies with conflicting results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there an association between coffee consumption and the circulating level of adiponectin and leptin in humans?

Study design:
This review article included 12 cross-sectional studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared the highest versus the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a higher circulating adiponectin level [SMD = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.17, p 0.001].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis when compared the highest versus the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a higher circulating adiponectin level in women [SMD = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.20, p = 0.01], but not in men [SMD = 0.03, 95% CI = -0.08 to 0.14, p = 0.59].

The investigators found when compared the highest versus the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a lower circulating leptin level [SMD = -0.19, 95% CI = -0.28 to -0.10, p 0.001].

The investigators concluded that coffee consumption is associated with a higher circulating level of adiponectin in women and a lower circulating level of leptin. However, more well-designed prospective cohort studies and randomised controlled trials are needed to further elaborate the concerned issues.

Original title:
Associations of coffee consumption with circulating level of adiponectin and leptin. A meta-analysis of observational studies by Zhang Y and Zhang DZ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29513118

Additional information of El Mondo:
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Adiponectin is a unique adipokine, which is specifically and abundantly expressed in adipose tissues and improves insulin resistance. Having insulin resistance may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Objectives:
What are the effects of ginger intake on weight loss, glycemic control and lipid profiles among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects?

Study design:
This review article included 14 RCTs with in total of 473 subjects.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that supplementation with ginger significantly decreased among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects:
-body weight (BW) [SMD -0.66, 95% CI = -1.31 to -0.01, p = 0.04];
-waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) [SMD = -0.49, 95% CI = -0.82 to -0.17, p = 0.003];
-hip ratio (HR) [SMD = -0.42, 95% CI = -0.77 to -0.08, p = 0.01];
-fasting glucose [SMD = -0.68, 95% CI = -1.23 to -0.05, p = 0.03] and;
-insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) [SMD= -1.67, 95% CI = -2.86 to -0.48, p = 0.006].

The investigators found that supplementation with ginger significantly increased HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels [SMD = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.70, p = 0.009] among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects.

The investigators found, however, that supplementation with ginger had no detrimental effect on:
-body mass index (BMI) [SMD = -0.65, 95% CI = -1.36 to 0.06, p = 0.074];
-insulin [SMD = -0.54, 95% CI = -1.43 to 0.35, p = 0.23];
-triglycerides [SMD = -0.27, 95% CI = -0.71 to 0.18, p = 0.24];
-total cholesterol [SMD = -0.20, 95% CI = -0.58 to 0.18, p = 0.30] and;
-LDL-cholesterol [SMD = -0.13, 95% CI = -0.51 to 0.24, p = 0.48].

The investigators concluded that ginger intake reduces body weight, waist-to-hip ratio, hip ratio, fasting glucose and insulin resistance index and increases HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol), but has no affect on insulin, BMI, triglycerides, total- and LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels among overweight and obese subjects.

Original title:
The effects of ginger intake on weight loss and metabolic profiles among overweight and obese subjects: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Maharlouei N, Tabrizi R, […], Asemi Z.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29393665

Additional information of El Mondo:
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Persons with overweight are advised to choose products/meals with maximum 30 En% fat, maximum 7 En% saturated fat, maximum 0.2 grams salt per 100 kcal and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal. Check here which products/meals are suitable for persons with overweight.
 

Objectives:
Inflammation is associated with an increased risk of a range of chronic diseases. A diet high in fruit and vegetables may help to reduce inflammation, as fruit and vegetables are rich sources of antioxidants and other biologically active substances, which may improve immune function. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Does fruit or vegetables intake reduce inflammation and improve immune function?

Study design:
This review article included 71 clinical trials and 12 were observational studies (n = 10 cross-sectional studies and n = 2 cohort studies).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found among observational studies (n = 10 studies) an inverse association between intakes of fruit or vegetables and inflammatory biomarkers.

The investigators found the majority of the intervention studies (n = 48 studies) reported beneficial effects of fruit or vegetable intake on ≥1 biomarker of systemic or airway inflammation.

The investigators found a meta-analysis of included studies showed that fruit or vegetable intake significantly decreased circulating levels of C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor-α [p 0.05] and significantly increased the γδ-T cell population [p 0.05].

The investigators concluded that higher intakes of fruit and vegetables lead to both a reduction in proinflammatory mediators and an enhanced immune cell profile.

Original title:
Effects of fruit and vegetable consumption on inflammatory biomarkers and immune cell populations: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis by Hosseini B, Berthon BS, […], Wood LG.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29931038

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The level of C-reactive protein (CRP), which can be measured in your blood, increases when there's inflammation in your body.

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) is recognized as an important mediator in many cytokine-dependent inflammatory events.

 

Objectives:
Although glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have showed beneficial effects on joint tissues in osteoarthritis (OA), their therapeutic use in the clinical setting is still debatable. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Do glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements relieve pain of knee osteoarthritis?

Study design:
This review article included RCTs.

The pain of knee osteoarthritis was measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) and/or the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that glucosamine supplements significantly reduced pain of knee osteoarthritis (expressed as Visual Analog Scale (VAS) [WMD = - 7.41 mm, 95% CI = - 14.31 to - 0.51, p = 0.04].
Significant means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found that chondroitin supplements significantly reduced pain of knee osteoarthritis (expressed as Visual Analog Scale (VAS) [WMD = - 8.35 mm, 95% CI = - 11.84 to - 4.85, p  0.00001].
Significant because the found p-value of 0.00001 is less than 0.05.

The investigators found that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements non-significantly reduced pain of knee osteoarthritis (expressed as Visual Analog Scale (VAS) [WMD = - 0.28 mm, 95% CI = - 8.87 to 8.32, p = 0.95].
Non-significantly because the found p-value of 0.95 is greater than 0.05.

The investigators found that none of the glucosamine, chondroitin supplements or their combination had a significant positive effect on the total WOMAC index and its subscores.

The investigators concluded that oral supplementation with glucosamine or chondroitin sulfate reduces pain in knee osteoarthritis. However, there is no additional effect using both therapeutic agents in combination for the management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

Original title:
Effect of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials by Simental-Mendía M, Sánchez-García A, […], Simental-Mendía LE.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29947998

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Objectives:
In the past, some observational studies have been carried out on the relationship between milk and dairy intake and risk of acne occurrence. However, their results were conflicting. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Does milk and dairy intake increase risk of acne?

Study design:
This review article included observational studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for highest compared with lowest category of dairy intake a significantly increased risk of 161% for acne [OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.20 to 5.67].

Significant means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found for highest compared with lowest category of total milk intake a significantly increased risk of 48% for acne [OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.31 to 1.66].
Significantly means it can be said with a 95% confidence that a high total milk intake really increased the risk of getting acne with 48%. 

The investigators found for highest compared with lowest category of low-fat milk intake a significantly increased risk of 25% for acne [OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.10 to 1.43].
Significant because OR of 1 was not found in the 95% CI of 1.10 to 1.43. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators found for highest compared with lowest category of skim milk intake a significantly increased risk of 82% for acne [OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.34 to 2.47].

The investigators found results of dose-response analysis revealed a significant linear relationship between dairy, whole milk and skim milk and risk of acne and a nonlinear association between dairy, milk, low-fat milk and skim milk intake and acne.

The investigators concluded there is a positive relationship between dairy, total milk, whole milk, low-fat and skim milk consumption and acne occurrence. In contrary, there is no significant association between yogurt/cheese and acne development.

Original title:
Dairy intake and acne development: A meta-analysis of observational studies by Aghasi M, Golzarand M, […], Taheri F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29778512

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Objectives:
The evidence is mixed on the use of long chain omega 3 fatty acids in the prevention and management of childhood asthma. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Does fish consumption reduce risk of childhood asthma?

Study design:
This review article included 23 observational studies on fish intake in association with childhood asthma.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in 15/23 studies early introduction of fish (6-9 months) and regular consumption (at least once a week) improved asthma symptoms and reduced risk in children 0-14 years as compared to no fish consumption; 6/23 showed no effect and 2/23 studies suggested adverse effects.

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 25% [OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.60-0.95] for all fish intake on current asthma in children up to 4.5 years old. 

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 38% [OR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.48-0.80] for all fish intake on current wheeze in children up to 4.5 years old.

The investigators found as compared to no fish intake, a significantly reduced risk of 65% [OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.18-0.67] for fatty fish intake on asthma in children 8-14 years old. 

The investigators concluded that introduction of fish early in life (6-9 months) and regular consumption of all fish (at least once a week) reduces asthma and wheeze in children up to 4.5 years old, while fatty fish intake has beneficial effects in older children (8-14 years). Future well-designed clinical trials are recommended to confirm the promising findings documented in this literature analysis.

Original title:
The role of fish intake on asthma in children: A meta-analysis of observational studies by Papamichael MM, Shrestha SK, [...], Erbas B.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29524247

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Objectives:
Does vegetable and/or fruit consumption reduce metabolic syndrome (MetS)?

Study design:
This review article included 20 cross-sectional studies, 1 case-control study and 5 cohort studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in 16 studies when comparing the highest versus the lowest category of vegetable consumption a significantly reduced risk of 11% [overall multivariable-adjusted RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.85-0.93, p 0.001] for metabolic syndrome.

The investigators found in 16 studies when comparing the highest versus the lowest category of fruit consumption a significantly reduced risk of 19% [overall multivariable-adjusted RR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.75-0.88, p 0.001] for metabolic syndrome.

The investigators found in 8 studies when comparing the highest versus the lowest category of vegetable and fruit consumption a significantly reduced risk of 25% [overall multivariable-adjusted RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.63-0.90, p = 0.002] for metabolic syndrome.

The investigators concluded that vegetable and/or fruit consumption is negatively associated with metabolic syndrome. However, more well-designed prospective cohort studies are needed to elaborate the concerned issues further.

Original title:
Associations of vegetable and fruit consumption with metabolic syndrome. A meta-analysis of observational studies by Zhang Y and Zhang DZ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29506604

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Find more information/studies on overweight and fruit and vegetable consumption right here.

Objectives:
Zinc is an essential trace element for living organisms and their biological processes. Zinc plays a key role in more than 300 enzymes and it is involved in cell communication, proliferation, differentiation and survival. Zinc also plays a role in regulating the immune system with implications in pathologies where zinc deficiency and inflammation are observed. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Do zinc deficiency increase risk of autoimmune disorders?

Study design:
This review article included 62 case-control studies.

The manner of collecting and investigating zinc samples was very heterogeneous.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in fixed model that serum zinc concentration of autoimmune disease patients was significantly lower than in controls [mean effect = -1.19, 95% CI = -1.26 to -1.11].

The investigators found in fixed model that plasma zinc concentration of autoimmune disease patients was significantly lower than in controls [mean effect = -3.97, 95% CI = -4.08 to -3.87].

The investigators concluded that a deficiency of zinc in serum and plasma increases risk of autoimmune disorders in humans.

Original title:
Zinc Status and Autoimmunity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Sanna A, Firinu D, […], Valera P.

Link:
http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/10/1/68/htm

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find here more information/studies about zinc and chronic diseases.

An autoimmune disease is a condition in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your body. These are the most common autoimmune diseases:  

1. Addison’s disease: Caused by an adrenal hormone insufficiency. Addison’s disease can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue, nausea, weight loss, irritability, low blood pressure, low blood sugar and depression.
2. Celiac disease (gluten allergy): Celiac disease is a reaction to gluten (found in barley, rye and wheat) that causes damage to the lining of the small intestine.
3. Graves’ disease: Caused by extremely overactive thyroid gland. People who have Graves’ disease may have difficulty sleeping, bulging of the eyes, irritability, brittle hair, unexplained weight loss, sensitivity to heat, muscle weakness, light menstrual periods and shakiness of the hands. On the other hand, some people with Graves’ disease may experience no symptoms at all.
4. Hashimoto’s disease: Caused by inflammation of the thyroid gland. Although sometimes no symptoms occur, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis often results in a goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland, which may be visible as a bulge in the neck), weight gain, fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, cold sensitivity, dry hair and skin, and constipation.
5. Inflammatory bowel disease: This disease refers to a group of inflammatory diseases of the colon and small intestine.
6. Multiple Sclerosis or MS: This disease affects the brain and spinal cord. People who have MS may experience weakness, trouble with balance and coordination, problems speaking and walking, tremors, paralysis and numbness in the extremities.
7. Psoriasis: This is a skin condition that causes redness and irritation as well as thick, flaky, silver-white patches.
8. Pernicious anemia: Caused by the inability to absorb vitamin B12 leading to a decrease in red blood cells.
9. Reactive arthritis: Caused by inflammation of joints, the urethra and eyes.
10. Raynaud’s phenomenon: People with Raynaud’s have a problem with blood flow, resulting in numbness, tingling of the fingers, discoloration, toes and tip of the nose with exposure to cold temperatures.
11. Rheumatoid arthritis: In rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmunity causes the immune system to attack tissues in the joints. It typically affects the small joints in your hands and feet causing painful swelling, stiffness and loss of movement in the joints that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
12. Scleroderma: Scleroderma is a connective tissue disease that causes changes in skin, muscles, blood vessels and internal organs.
13. Sjögren’s syndrome: Caused by destruction of the glands that produce tears and saliva causing dry eyes and mouth.
14. Systemic lupus erythematosus: In lupus, antibodies made by the immune system attack the body. Systemic lupus erythematosus can affect skin, kidneys, joints and brain.
15. Type 1 diabetes: In type 1 diabetes, the immune system attacks cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. When your insulin levels are insufficient, your body cannot control your blood glucose level, which can lead to a number of problems, including kidney failure, stroke, vision loss, circulation problems and heart disease.

Objectives:
Women have a 50% risk of urinary tract infection (UTI) over their lifetime and 20-30% experience a subsequent urinary tract infection recurrence. Cranberry (Vaccinium spp.) has been advocated for treatment of urinary tract infection; however, its efficacy is controversial. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does cranberry reduce the risk of urinary tract infection recurrence in healthy women?

Study design:
This review article included 7 RCTs conducted in healthy nonpregnant women aged ≥18 years with a history of urinary tract infection (n = 1498 participants).
Risk of bias indicated that 2 studies had high loss to follow-up or selective outcome reporting. Overall, the studies were relatively small, with only 2 having >300 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that cranberry significantly reduced the risk of urinary tract infection by 26% [pooled risk ratio = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.55-0.98, I2 = 54%].

The investigators concluded that cranberry may be effective in preventing urinary tract infection recurrence in generally healthy women. May be effective because the studies were relatively small, with only 2 having >300 participants. Therefore, larger high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Original title:
Cranberry Reduces the Risk of Urinary Tract Infection Recurrence in Otherwise Healthy Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Zhuxuan Fu, DeAnn Liska, […], Mei Chung.

Link:
http://jn.nutrition.org/content/147/12/2282.abstract

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Find more information/studies on chronic disease and fruit right here.
 

Objectives:
Randomised controlled trials comparing low- versus high-fat diets on cardiometabolic risk factors in people with overweight or obesity have shown inconsistent results, which may be due to the mixed metabolic status of people with excess adiposity. The role of dietary fat manipulation in modifying cardiometabolic indicators in people with overweight or obese without metabolic disturbance is unclear. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does a low-fat diet modify cardiometabolic indicators in people who are overweight (BMI>25) or obese (BMI>30) without metabolic disturbance?

Study design:
This review article included 20 RCTs with 2,106 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found total cholesterol levels in people who are overweight or obese without metabolic disturbance were significantly lower following low-fat diet compared with high-fat diet [WMD = -7.05 mg/dL, 95% CI = -11.30 to -2.80, p = 0.001].  

The investigators found LDL-cholesterol levels (bad cholesterol) in people who are overweight or obese without metabolic disturbance were significantly lower following low-fat diet compared with high-fat diet [WMD = -4.41 mg/dL, 95% CI = -7.81 to -1.00, p = 0.011].  

The investigators found HDL-cholesterol levels (good cholesterol) in people who are overweight or obese without metabolic disturbance were significantly lower following low-fat diet compared with high-fat diet [WMD = -2.57 mg/dL, 95% CI = -3.85 to -1.28, p 0.001].  

The investigators found TAG levels (blood fat levels) in people who are overweight or obese without metabolic disturbance were significantly higher following low-fat diet compared with high-fat diet [WMD = -11.68 mg/dL, 95% CI = 5.90 to 17.45, p 0.001].  

The investigators concluded a low-fat diet reduces cholesterol and TAG levels in people with overweight or obesity without metabolic disturbances.

Original title:
Effects of low-fat compared with high-fat diet on cardiometabolic indicators in people with overweight and obesity without overt metabolic disturbance: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials by Lu M, Wan Y, [...], Li D.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29212558

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fat, cholesterol and overweight right here.

A triglyceride (TG, triacylglycerol, TAG or triacylglyceride) is an ester derived from glycerol and three fatty acids. Triglycerides are the main constituents of body fat in humans.

Those with overweight or obesity are advised to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
The most easy way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is to choose meals/products with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should on average contain maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.

Objectives:
Epidemiological studies have provided controversial evidence between beverage consumption and the risk of ulcerative colitis (UC). Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between beverage consumption and risk of ulcerative colitis?

Study design:
This review article included 13 case-control studies and 3 prospective cohort studies, with a total of 3,689 cases (subjects with ulcerative colitis) and 335,339 controls (subjects without ulcerative colitis).

Egger test detected no significant publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found high intake of soft drinks versus low intake, significantly increased risk of ulcerative colitis with 69% [pooled RR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.24-2.30, I2  =  12.9%, p  = 0 .332].
In subgroup analysis, no substantial changes of the primary result were found between subgroups.

The investigators found high tea consumption versus low consumption, significantly decreased risk of ulcerative colitis with 31% [pooled RR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.58-0.83, I2  =  0.0%, p  = 0 .697].
In subgroup analysis, no substantial changes of the primary result were found between subgroups.

The investigators found no significant association between alcohol [pooled RR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.66-1.51] or coffee consumption [pooled RR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.33-1.05, I2  =  87.5%, p    0.001] and risk of ulcerative colitis. No significant association because RR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.66 to 1.51. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators concluded high consumption of soft drinks increases the risk of ulcerative colitis, while high tea consumption decreases the risk.

Original title:
Beverage consumption and risk of ulcerative colitis. Systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies by Nie JY and Zhao Q.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5728934/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on chronic disease, alcohol and tea consumption right here.
 

Objectives:
Dietary fiber intake may provide beneficial effects on the components of metabolic syndrome (MetS); however, observational studies reported inconsistent results for the relationship between dietary fiber intake and metabolic syndrome risk. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does dietary fiber intake reduce risk of metabolic syndrome?

Study design:
This review article included 11 cross-sectional studies and 3 cohort studies.
There was evidence of publication bias in cross-sectional studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in cross-sectional studies when comparing the highest with lowest categories of dietary fiber intake, a significantly reduced risk of 33% [OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.58-0.78, I2 = 32.4%, p = 0.181] for metabolic syndrome. However, this reduced risk was not significant in cohort studies [pooled RR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.70-1.06]. Not significant because RR of 1 was found in the 95% CI of 0.70 to 1.06. RR of 1 means no risk/association.

The investigators concluded that a high dietary intake of fiber may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome. May reduce because there was evidence of publication bias in cross-sectional studies and the reduced risk was not significant in cohort studies. Therefore, more prospective cohort studies are needed to further verify the association between dietary fiber intake and the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Original title:
Fruit and vegetable consumption and risk of the metabolic syndrome: a meta-analysis by Tian Y, Su L, [...], Jiang X.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29151369

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on publication bias/cohort studies/significant, fiber consumption and overweight right here.  

Find out whether you are overweight or not right here.

Those with metabolic syndrome are advised to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
The most easy way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is to choose meals/products with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should on average contain maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.

Objectives:
Several epidemiological studies have been performed to evaluate the association of fruit and vegetable consumption with risk of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), but the results remain controversial. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does consumption of vegetables or fruit reduce risk of metabolic syndrome?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 9 studies for fruit consumption, 9 studies for vegetable consumption and 7 studies for fruit and vegetable consumption.

There was no evidence of small-study effect (publication bias)

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 13% [pooled RR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.82-0.92, I2 = 46.7%] for metabolic syndrome when comparing the highest fruit consumption versus the lowest consumption.

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 15% [pooled RR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.80-0.91, I2 = 0.0%] for metabolic syndrome when comparing the highest vegetable consumption versus the lowest consumption.

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 24% [pooled RR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.62-0.93, I2 = 83.5%] for metabolic syndrome when comparing the highest fruit and vegetable consumption versus the lowest consumption.

The investigators found in subgroup analyses stratified by continent, the inverse association of fruit consumption [RR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.77-0.96] and vegetable consumption [RR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.80-0.92] with risk of metabolic syndrome remained significant in Asia.

The investigators concluded that a high fruit or/and vegetable consumption reduce risk of metabolic syndrome, particularly among Asian. Therefore, people should consume more fruits and vegetables to reduce risk of metabolic syndrome.

Original title:
Fruit and vegetable consumption and risk of the metabolic syndrome: a meta-analysis by Tian Y, Su L, [...], Jiang X.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29151369

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fruit and vegetables consumption and overweight right here.  

Find out whether you are overweight or not right here.

Those with metabolic syndrome are advised to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
The most easy way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is to choose meals/products with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should on average contain maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.

Objectives:
The role of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 or n-3 PUFAs) in the pathogenesis and treatment of children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is unclear. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Do children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) benefit from n-3 PUFA supplementation?

Study design:
This review article included 7 RCTs and 7 case-control studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in 7 RCTs (n = 534 randomised youth with ADHD) n-3 PUFAs supplementation significantly improved ADHD clinical symptom scores [g = 0.38, p 0.0001].

The investigators found in 3 RCTs (n = 214 randomised youth with ADHD) n-3 PUFAs supplementation significantly improved cognitive measures associated with attention [g = 1.09, p = 0.001].

The investigators found children and adolescents with ADHD had lower levels of DHA [7 case-control studies, n = 412, g = -0.76, p = 0.0002], EPA (7 case-control studies, n = 468, g = -0.38, p = 0.0008] and total n-3 PUFAs [6 case-control studies, n = 396, g = -0.58, p = 0.0001].

The investigators concluded there is evidence that n-3 PUFAs supplementation monotherapy improves clinical symptoms and cognitive performances in children and adolescents with ADHD and that these youth have a deficiency in n-3 PUFAs levels. These findings provide further support to the rationale for using n-3 PUFAs as a treatment option for ADHD.

Original title:
Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Youths with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials and Biological Studies by Chang JC, Su KP, [...], Pariante CM.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28741625

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on chronic disease, n-3 PUFA right here.
EPA and DHA are n-3 PUFA.

Objectives:
The scientific literature shows conflicting evidence about the relationship between adiposity and bone mass in overweight and obese populations. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does a high adipose mass reduce bone mineral density in overweight and obese populations?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 16 studies, comprising 2587 participants and 75 correlation coefficients.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found strong evidence supported a negative relationship between relative (%) adipose mass and bone mineral density (BMD) in men [R = -0.37, 95% CI = -0.57 to -0.12] and in those aged less than 25 years [R = -0.28, 95% CI = -0.45 to -0.08].

The investigators concluded that a high relative (%) adipose mass reduces bone mineral density in overweight (BMI = 25-30) and obese populations (BMI > 30), particularly in men and those aged less than 25 years. Therefore, to prevent bone loss in overweight and obese populations, nutrition- and exercise-based interventions that focus on a controlled reduction of adipose mass with concomitant preservation of lean mass are recommended.

Original title:
Influence of adipose tissue mass on bone mass in an overweight or obese population: systematic review and meta-analysis by Dolan E, Swinton PA, […], O'Reilly J.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29028271

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on overweight right here. 

Find out whether you are overweight or not right here.

Those with overweight (BMI = 25-30) or obesity (BMI > 30) are advised to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
The most easy way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is to choose meals/products with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should on average contain maximum 30 En% fat, of which maximum 7 En% saturated fat and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal.

Strength exercise is the best way to reduce adipose mass while preserving lean mass.

Objectives:
Recent data pose the question whether conservative management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) by means of a low-protein diet can be a safe and effective means to avoid or defer transition to dialysis therapy without causing protein-energy wasting or cachexia. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Do subjects with chronic kidney disease benefit from a low-protein diet?

Study design:
This review article included 16 controlled trials of low-protein diet in chronic kidney disease that met the stringent qualification criteria including having 30 or more participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared with diets with protein intake of >0.8 g/kg/day, diets with restricted protein intake (0.8 g/kg/day) were associated with higher serum bicarbonate levels, lower phosphorus levels, lower azotemia, lower rates of progression to end-stage renal disease and a trend towards lower rates of all-cause death.

The investigators found compared with diets with protein intake of >0.8 g/kg/day, very-low-protein diets (protein intake 0.4 g/kg/day) were associated with greater preservation of kidney function and reduction in the rate of progression to end-stage renal disease.

The investigators found safety and adherence to a low-protein diet was not inferior to a normal protein diet and there was no difference in the rate of malnutrition or protein-energy wasting.

The investigators concluded a low-protein diet, particularly protein intake 0.4 g/kg/day, appears to enhance the conservative management of non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease and may be considered as a potential option for chronic kidney disease patients who wish to avoid or defer dialysis initiation and to slow down the progression of chronic kidney disease, while the risk of protein-energy wasting and cachexia remains minimal.
 
Original title:
Low-protein diet for conservative management of chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials by Rhee CM, Ahmadi SF, [...], Kalantar-Zadeh K.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29094800

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on chronic disease and protein right here.
A protein intake of 0.8 g/kg/day usually corresponds to a diet with 11 En% protein.
A protein intake of 0.4 g/kg/day usually corresponds to a diet with 5.5 En% protein.
A diet with 5.5 En% protein is a diet with a lot of products with 5.5 En% protein. Check here which products contain 5.5 En% protein.
 

Objectives:
The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been greatly increased, worldwide. In recent years, investigators have proposed that sodium might contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome; however, the published data were conflicting. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does sodium contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome?

Study design:
This review article included 17 observational studies with 66,274 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that subjects with metabolic syndrome had significantly higher levels of sodium compared to healthy controls [Hedges' g = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.12-0.29, I2 = 68.6%]. Subgroup analyses revealed that the difference was significant when the sodium status was assessed using urinary sodium levels.

The investigators found that random effects meta-regression analysis also revealed that body sodium level increases with the number of metabolic syndrome components.

The investigators found that participants with highest dietary/urinary or serum sodium levels had a significantly 37% higher chance of developing metabolic syndrome when compared with participants with the lowest sodium levels [OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.31-1.42, I2 = 86.9%].

The investigators concluded that higher sodium input into the body is directly associated with the likelihood of metabolic syndrome. Prospective cohort studies and well-designed randomized clinical trials considering the effect of sodium restricted diets on the risk of metabolic syndrome as an outcome are necessary to represent the causal association.

Original title:
Sodium status and the metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies by Soltani S, Kolahdouz Mohammadi R, […], Salehi-Abargouei A.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28846446

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on overweight and sodium right here. 

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Those with metabolic syndrome are advised to select the following food items.

Sodium is part of table salt or sodium choride.

High-sodium or high-salt products are products with more than 0.3 gram salt per 100 kcal. These products are rich in salt.
A high-salt diet is a diet with many products with more than 0.3 gram salt per 100 kcal.

Objectives:
Over 200 clinical trials have examined the effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplements on risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. However, an updated analysis of the evidence is lacking. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Do EPA and DHA supplements reduce risk of cardiovascular diseases?

Study design:
This review article included 171 RCTs with acceptable quality (Jadad score ≥3).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced significant reductions of triglycerides of 0.368 mmol/L [95% CI = -0.427 to -0.309].
The triglyceride-lowering effect was dose-dependent.

The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced significant reductions of systolic blood pressure of 2.195 mmHg [95% CI = -3.172 to -1.217].

The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced significant reductions of diastolic blood pressure of 1.08 mmHg [95% CI = -1.716 to -0.444].

The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced significant reductions of heart rate of 1.37 bpm [95% CI = -2.41 to -0.325].

The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced significant reductions of C-reactive protein of 0.343 mg/L [95% CI = -0.454 to -0.232].

The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced a significant increase of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) [mean difference = 0.150 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.058 to 0.243].

The investigators found compared to placebo-control, EPA and DHA supplements produced a significant increase of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) [mean difference = 0.039 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.024-0.054].

The investigators concluded EPA and DHA supplements have lipid-lowering, hypotensive, anti-arrhythmic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Original title:
Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid containing supplements modulate risk factors for cardiovascular disease: a meta-analysis of randomised placebo-control human clinical trials by AbuMweis S, Jew S, […], Agraib L.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28675488

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Find more information/studies on EPA and DHA, cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases right here.