Nutritional advice

Objectives:
Has flavonoid supplementation potential against obesity?

Study design:
This review article included 58 RCTs.
Analysis endpoints were calculated as the mean difference between baseline and post-treatment.
Flavonoids were in subclasses of flavanols, flavonols, isoflavones, flavanones, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. They were mostly in the form of supplements and dosages varying from 40 to 1300 mg/day.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found among flavonoid subclasses, flavanols showed potential for decreasing BMI, in the overall population [MD = -0.28 kg/m², p = 0.04, n = 21] and in the subgroups of Asians [MD = -0.42 kg/m², p = 0.046, n = 13], ages 50 years [MD = -0.50 kg/m², p = 0.008, n = 14], BMI ≥25 kg/m² [MD = -0.30 kg/m², p = 0.049, n = 15] and at doses ≥500 mg/day [MD = -0.36 kg/m², p = 0.049, n = 12].

The investigators found among flavonoid subclasses, isoflavones also significantly decreased BMI of non-Asian populations [MD = -0.26 kg/m², p = 0.035, n = 13] and doses ≥75 mg/day [MD = -0.34 kg/m², p = 0.027, n = 8].

The investigators found in the overall assessment, flavanols also significantly decreased waist circumference [MD = -0.60 cm, p = 0.02, n = 18] but had no significant effect on body fat percentage.

The investigators found the available trials did not reveal significant effects from flavonols, flavanones and anthocyanins on the specified anthropometric measures.

The investigators concluded that flavanols, particularly ≥500 mg/day and isoflavones, particularly ≥75 mg/day have potential against obesity.

Original title:
Flavanols are potential anti-obesity agents, a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials by Akhlaghi M, Ghobadi S, […], Mohammadian F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29759310

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

Objectives:
Findings from observational studies on the associations between vitamin E intake and stroke risk remain controversial and the dose-response relationship between vitamin E intake and risk of stroke remains to be determined. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does dietary vitamin E intake reduce risk of stroke?

Study design:
This review article included 9 prospective cohort studies involving 3,284 cases of stroke among 220,371 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found high dietary vitamin E intake significantly reduced risk of overall stroke with 17% [RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.94].
Omission of any single study (=sensitivity analysis) did not alter the summary result.

The investigators found high dietary vitamin E intake significantly reduced risk of overall stroke with 16% [RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.72 to 0.91] among individuals who were followed-up for 10 years.

The investigators found a non-linear association between dietary vitamin E intake and stroke risk [p = 0.0249].

The investigators concluded that a higher dietary vitamin E intake is associated with a lower stroke risk.

Original title:
Vitamin E intake and risk of stroke: a meta-analysis by Cheng P, Wang L, [...], Zhu J.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30401005

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on vitamin E and stroke prevention right here.

Objectives:
In the literature conflicting opinions are detectable on the onset of adverse events as autoimmune disease post HPV vaccine and often case reports describes the onset of one of these events, but don’t emerge a clear relationship and we don’t have data to support it. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does HPV vaccine increase risk of autoimmune diseases/disorders?

Study design:
This review article included 6 RCT’s (3 used a bivalent vaccine and 3 a quadrivalent vaccine), comprising 243,289 in vaccine group and 248,820 in control group.

The age of the enrolled subjects in the studies varied from 9 to 26 years and all studies reported the number of subjects who experienced a specific autoimmune disease.

4 of the 6 trials had a Jadad score of 3 or 4 indicating an adequate trial quality.

The most frequent autoimmune diseases observed across the 6 studies were musculoskeletal, CNS conditions and endocrinological conditions.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no correlation between autoimmune disorders and HPV vaccines [pooled OR = 1.038, 95% CI = 0.689-1.562].

The investigators concluded there is no correlation between autoimmune disorders and bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines. It's therefore essential to correctly inform the general population in order to try to increase both Italian and international vaccination coverage.

Original title:
HPV vaccine and autoimmune diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature by Genovese C, LA Fauci V, […], Squeri R.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6196376/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vaccination right here.

Objectives:
Infertility, which affects ∼15% of the world's population, is a global public health issue recognized by the WHO. Therefore, it is of major clinical and public health importance to investigate whether modifiable lifestyle factors,such as stress, drug use, smoking, alcohol intake and diet may influence human fertility. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

What is the effect of supplementation of nutrients on sperm quality parameters?

Study design:
This review article included 28 articles (RCTs) for qualitative analysis and 15 for quantitative meta-analysis.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found total sperm concentrations were significantly increased by:
-selenium [MD = 3.91 × 106 spz/mL, 95% CI = 3.08 to 4.73 spz/mL];
-zinc [MD = 1.48 × 106 spz/mL, 95% CI = 0.69 to 2.27 spz/mL];
-omega 3 fatty acids [MD = 10.98 × 106 spz/mL, 95% CI = 10.25 to 11.72 spz/mL] and
-coenzyme Q10 [MD = 5.93 × 106 spz/mL, 95% CI = 5.36 to 6.51 spz/mL].

The investigators found sperm counts were significantly increased by:
-omega 3 fatty acids [MD = 18.70 × 106 spz/mL, 95% CI = 16.89 to 20.51 spz/mL] and
-coenzyme Q10 [MD = 10.15 × 106 spz/mL, 95% CI = 8.34 to 11.97 spz/mL].

The investigators found sperm total motility was significantly increased by:
-selenium [MD = 3.30%, 95% CI = 2.95% to 3.65%];
-zinc [MD = 7.03%, 95% CI = 6.03% to 8.03%];
-omega 3 fatty acids [MD = 7.55%, 95% CI = 7.09% to 8.01%];
-coenzyme Q10 [MD = 5.30%, 95% CI = 4.98% to 5.62%] and
-carnitines [MD = 7.84%, 95% CI = 6.54% to 9.13%].

The investigators found sperm progressive motility significantly increased by supplementation with carnitines [MD = 7.45%, 95% CI = 6.24% to 8.67%].

The investigators found sperm morphology was significantly enhanced by:
-selenium [MD = 1.87%, 95% CI = 1.50% to 2.24%];
-omega 3 fatty acid [MD = 0.91%, 95% CI = 0.69% to 1.13%];
-coenzyme Q10 [MD = 1.06%, 95% CI = 0.72% to 1.41%] and
-carnitine [MD = 4.91%, 95% CI = 3.68% to 6.15%].

The investigators concluded evidence from RCTs shows that some dietary supplements beneficially modulate sperm quality parameters and affect male fertility. However, results must be cautiously interpreted due to the limited sample size of the meta-analyzed studies and the considerable observed interstudy heterogeneity.

Original title:
The Effect of Nutrients and Dietary Supplements on Sperm Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials by Salas-Huetos A, Rosique-Esteban N, […], Salas-Salvadó J.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30462179

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on mineral, antioxidants and pregnancy right here.

 

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

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

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:
Find more information/studies on vitamin B12 and chronic diseases right here.

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:
Tuberculosis (TB) is associated with increased mortality. The high risk of micronutrients deficiency, including selenium, in tuberculosis patients is of great concern because it increases the risk of death. However, it is not clear whether selenium supplementation could improve the treatment outcomes in tuberculosis patients. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Have tuberculosis patients a low serum selenium concentration?

Study design:
This review article included 6 observational studies. Of them, 4 were carried out in Asia and one each in Africa and South America.

Potential sources of heterogeneity included study design and selenium measurement methods.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the random pooled effect size was 1.6 [95% CI = 0.9 to 2.4, I2 = 95.1%]. This means that the probability is 160% for an individual with tuberculosis to have low levels of selenium as compared to an individual without tuberculosis.

The investigators concluded that serum selenium is lower in tuberculosis patients as compared with individuals without tuberculosis. Therefore, it is advisable to individually assess selenium status in tuberculosis patients and decide whether selenium supplement is needed or not.

Original title:
Serum selenium levels in tuberculosis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Muzembo BA, Mbendi NC, […], Ikeda S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30262288

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition, selenium and food fortification right here.

Objectives:
Epidemiological studies regarding the association between dietary fiber intake and ovarian cancer risk are still inconsistent. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does dietary fiber intake reduce ovarian cancer risk?

Study design:
This review article included 10 case-control studies and 3 cohort studies, with a total of 5,777 ovarian cancer cases and 142,189 participants.

All the included studies provided RRs that were adjusted for energy intake and most provided RRs that were adjusted for age, oral contraceptive use, menopausal status and parity.
All the original studies measured dietary intakes using a food-frequency questionnaire. NOS scores ranged from 6 to 8 and 7 studies were considered high quality.

Funnel plot shapes demonstrated a symmetrical distribution and no evidence of publication bias was detected by the Egger’s regression test [p = 0.73].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest vs. the lowest category of dietary fiber intake a significantly reduced risk of 22% [pooled multivariable RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.70 to 0.88, I2 = 4.20%, p = 0.40] for ovarian cancer.

The investigators found a significantly reduced risk of 12% [summarized RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.82 to 0.93, I2 = 7.3%, p = 0.38] for ovarian cancer per 10 g/day increase of dietary fiber intake.

The investigators found there was no evidence for a nonlinear association between dietary fiber intake and ovarian cancer risk [p for nonlinearity = 0.83].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis a significantly reduced risk of 23% [pooled RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.90] for ovarian cancer in case-control studies. However, the reduced risk was not significant in cohort studies [pooled RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.65 to 1.10].

The investigators found sensitivity analysis showed that none of the studies influenced the combined results substantially, with a range from 0.77 [95% CI = 0.68 to 0.87] to 0.81 [95% CI = 0.71 to 0.91].

The investigators concluded that 10g dietary fiber intake per day may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer with 12%. May reduce because the reduced risk was not significant in cohort studies.

Original title:
Dietary fiber intake and reduced risk of ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis by Zheng B, Shen H, […], Qin Y.

Link:
https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-018-0407-1

Additional information of El Mondo:
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Objectives:
The timing of the introduction of egg to an infant's diet is of current interest, as new evidence raises questions regarding the benefit of delaying egg introduction. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Does early introduction of egg into an infant’s diet reduce risk of egg allergy?

Study design:
This review article included 6 RCTs with a total of 3,032 participants.
The RCTs compared early (between 3 and 6 months of age) egg introduction to no early introduction. The primary outcome was the development of egg allergy.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared early (between 3 and 6 months of age) egg introduction to no early introduction, early introduction of egg significantly reduced risk of egg allergy with 40% [RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.44-0.82, p = 0.002, I2 = 23%, low to moderate level of evidence].

The investigators found the absolute risk reduction for a population with an incidence of egg allergy was 9.3% or 37 fewer cases [95% CI = 17-52] per 1,000 people.

The investigators found consumption of 4,000 mg/week of egg protein had a greater preventive effect than a higher dose.

The investigators concluded that introduction of egg into an infant’s diet between 3 and 6 months of age reduces risk of egg allergy, particularly for 4,000 mg/week of egg protein. Furthermore, the nature and dose of egg protein exposure may play a role. These findings should be addressed in the context of primary studies.

Original title:
Early Introduction of Egg and the Development of Egg Allergy in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Al-Saud B and Sigurdardóttir ST.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30184525

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on protein and pregnancy right here.
 

Objectives:
A previous version of this Cochrane Review identified that insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are effective at reducing child mortality, parasite prevalence and uncomplicated and severe malaria episodes. Insecticide-treated nets have since become a core intervention for malaria control and have contributed greatly to the dramatic decline in disease incidence and malaria-related deaths seen since the turn of the millennium. However, this time period has also seen a rise in resistance to pyrethroids (the insecticide used in ITNs), raising questions over whether the evidence from trials conducted before resistance became widespread can be applied to estimate the impact of ITNs on malaria transmission today. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

The objective of this review article is to assess the impact of insecticide-treated nets on mortality and malaria morbidity, incorporating any evidence published since the previous update into new and existing analyses and assessing the certainty of the resulting evidence using GRADE?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 23 RCT’s (20 trials of previous update and 3 new trials), enrolling more than 275,793 adults and children.
The RCTs were individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs comparing bed nets or curtains treated with a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide at a minimum target impregnation dose recommended by the WHO with no nets or untreated nets.

The studies were conducted between 1987 and 2001.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found insecticide-treated nets significantly reduced child mortality from all causes by 17% [rate ratio = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.89, 5 trials, 200,833 participants, high-certainty evidence] compared to no nets.
This corresponds to a saving of 5.6 lives [95% CI = 3.6 to 7.6] each year for every 1,000 children protected with insecticide-treated nets.

The investigators found insecticide-treated nets significantly reduced the incidence of uncomplicated episodes of Plasmodium falciparum malaria by almost a half [rate ratio = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.48 to 0.64, 5 trials, 35,551 participants, high-certainty evidence] and the incidence of uncomplicated episodes of Plasmodium vivax malaria by 39% [risk ratio = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.48 to 0.77, 2 trials, 10,967 participants, moderate-certainty evidence].

The investigators found insecticide-treated nets significantly reduced the prevalence of P falciparum malaria by 17% [RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.71 to 0.98, 6 trials, 18,809 participants, high-certainty evidence] compared to no nets. However, they had little or no effect on the prevalence of P vivax malaria [RR 1.00, 95% CI = 0.75 to 1.34, 2 trials, 10,967 participants, low-certainty evidence].

The investigators found a 44% reduction [rate ratio = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.38 to 0.82, 2 trials, 31,173 participants, high-certainty evidence] in the incidence of severe malaria episodes in the insecticide-treated nets group, as well as an increase in mean haemoglobin (expressed as mean packed cell volume) compared to the no-nets group [mean difference = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.42 to 2.16, 5 trials, 11,489 participants, high-certainty evidence].

The investigators found insecticide-treated nets probably reduced child mortality from all causes by a third compared to untreated nets [rate ratio = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.36 to 1.23, 2 trials, 25,389 participants, moderate-certainty evidence].
This corresponds to a saving of 3.5 lives [95% CI = 2.4 to 6.8] each year for every 1,000 children protected with insecticide-treated nets.

The investigators found insecticide-treated nets significantly reduced the incidence of uncomplicated P falciparum malaria episodes by 42% [rate ratio = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.44 to 0.78, 5 trials, 2036 participants, high-certainty evidence]. However, no significant reduction was seen for the incidence of uncomplicated P vixax malaria episodes [rate ratio = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.51 to 1.05, 3 trials, 1,535 participants, low-certainty evidence].

The investigators found insecticide-treated nets non-significantly reduces P falciparum prevalence by one-tenth in comparison to use of untreated nets [RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.78 to 1.05, 3 trials, 2,259 participants, moderate-certainty evidence].

The investigators found, however, based on the current evidence it was unclear whether or not insecticide-treated nets had impact on P vivax prevalence [1 trial, 350 participants, very low certainty evidence] or mean packed cell volume [2 trials, 1,909 participants, low certainty evidence].

The investigators found that the 3 new trials did not affect the conclusions of previous review.

The investigators concluded although there is some evidence that insecticide resistance frequency has some effects on mosquito mortality, it is unclear how quantitatively important this is. It appears insufficient to downgrade the strong evidence of benefit on mortality and malaria illness from the trials conducted earlier. However, future research should continue to concentrate on monitoring the spread of insecticide resistance and understanding if there is a relationship between observed resistance and reduced effectiveness of insecticide‐based vector control interventions.

Original title:
Insecticide-treated nets for preventing malaria by Pryce J, Richardson M and Lengeler C.

Link:
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000363.pub3/full

Additional information of El Mondo:
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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

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis, chocolate consumption and overweight right here.

Objectives:
High potato intake has been suggested as a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does potato intake increase risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 6 prospective cohort studies with a total of 4,545,230 person-year of follow-up and 17,758 diabetes cases.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for every increment of 1 serving/day of total potato consumption a significantly increased risk of 20% [HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.127, p 0.001, I2 = 27.1%, p for heterogeneity = 0.23] for type 2 diabetes both in men en women.

The investigators found for 2 servings/day of total potato consumption a significantly increased risk of 44% [HR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.28 to 1.63] for type 2 diabetes both in men en women.

The investigators found for 3 servings/day of total potato consumption a significantly increased risk of 74% [HR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.45 to 2.09] for type 2 diabetes both in men en women.

The investigators found significant evidence of a non-linear association between total potato consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes [X2 = 17.5, p for linearity 0.001].

The investigators concluded that long-term high consumption of potato (each serving a day increase) is strongly associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes. These findings suggest that diet-health policy may be of importance in the prevention of diabetes.

Original title:
Potato consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: A dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies by Bidel Z, Teymoori F, […], Nazarzadeh M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30144898

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

According to the USDA Dietary Guidelines a serving of potato is 1 cup diced, mashed or baked or 1 medium boiled potato.

 

Objectives:
The 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) is the only licensed PCV with serotype 3 polysaccharide in its formulation. Post-licensure PCV13 effectiveness studies against serotype 3 invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in children have shown inconsistent results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) effective against serotype 3 invasive pneumococcal disease in children?

Study design:
This review article included 4 published observational studies and 2 conference posters that provided PCV13 vaccine effectiveness (VE) estimates stratified by serotype.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in random effects meta-analysis that pooled PCV13 vaccine effectiveness against serotype 3 invasive pneumococcal disease was 63.5% [95% CI = 37.3-89.7].

The investigators found sensitivity analysis including conference posters gave PCV13 vaccine effectiveness against serotype 3 invasive pneumococcal disease of 72.4% [95% CI = 56.7-88.0].

The investigators found pooled data from case-control studies with similar methodologies and high quality supported direct PCV13 protection against serotype 3 invasive pneumococcal disease in children.

The investigators concluded that 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) is effective against serotype 3 invasive pneumococcal disease in children.

Original title:
Effectiveness of 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Against Invasive Disease Caused by Serotype 3 in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies by Sings HL, De Wals P, [...], Jodar L.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30357326

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vaccination right here.

Objectives:
Medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs) may affect circulating lipids and lipoproteins differently than long-chain saturated fatty acids (LCSFAs), but the results from human intervention trials have been equivocal. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Have medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs) and long-chain saturated fatty acids (LCSFAs) differential impacts on blood lipids and lipoproteins in humans?

Study design:
This review article included 11 crossover and 1 parallel trial with a total of 299 participants [weighted mean ± SD age: 38 ± 3 y; weighted mean ± SD body mass index (kg/m²): 24 ± 2]

There was no evidence of statistical heterogeneity for HDL cholesterol, apoA-I and triglyceride concentrations. However, significant heterogeneity was observed for the total cholesterol [I2 = 49%] and LDL cholesterol analysis [I2 = 58%].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found diets enriched with medium-chain saturated fatty acids led to significantly higher HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) concentrations than diets enriched with long-chain saturated fatty acids [MD = 0.11 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.07 to 0.15 mmol/L] with no effect on triglyceride, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol concentrations.

The investigators found consumption of diets rich in medium-chain saturated fatty acids significantly increased apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) concentrations compared with diets rich in long-chain saturated fatty acids [MD = 0.08 g/L, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.14 g/L].  

The investigators concluded diets enriched with medium-chain saturated fatty acids lead to higher HDL cholesterol concentrations and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) concentrations than diets enriched with long-chain saturated fatty acids. However, further investigations are warranted to elucidate the mechanism by which the lipid profile is altered.

Original title:
Differential effects of medium- and long-chain saturated fatty acids on blood lipid profile: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Panth N, Abbott KA, […], Garg ML.

Link:
https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article-abstract/108/4/675/5100313?redirectedFrom=fulltext

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

Medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFAs) have approximately 6 to 12 carbon atoms in the chain. Coconut oil, palm kernel oil and coconut milk are by far the foods with the highest amounts of medium-chain saturated fatty acids.

Apolipoprotein AI (apo AI) is the major apoprotein of HDL and its serum concentration also correlates inversely with the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD).

 

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

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on lowering blood pressure, salt intake and chronic disease right here.
 

Objectives:
Does Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination increase multiple sclerosis risk?

Study design:
This review article included 7 articles.
Funnel plot showed the presence of publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found no statistically significant association was observed for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination and multiple sclerosis risk [pooled OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.96-1.49 and for pooled adjusted OR = 0.965, 95% CI = 0.886-1.051].

The investigators found meta regression showed that year of publication was negatively [β: -0.019, p 0.001] and NOS score and publishing in Europe are positively associated with OR value.

The investigators concluded Hepatitis B vaccination may not be associated with an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. May not be associated because there was publication bias.

Original title:
HBV vaccine and risk of developing multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Sestili C, Grazina I and La Torre G.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30260264

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on food fortification/malnutrition and vaccination right here.

Objectives:
Several B vitamins are essential in the one-carbon metabolism pathway, which is central to DNA methylation, synthesis and repair. Moreover, an imbalance in this pathway has been linked to certain types of cancers. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between dietary vitamin intake and risk of esophageal cancer (EC)?

Study design:
This review article included 24 patient-control studies and 2 cohort studies with a total of 510,954 participants and 6,404 esophageal cancer cases, which included 1,919 esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) patients, 2,010 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients and 2,475 esophageal cancer (EC) patients.

The quality scores of all studies ranged from 6 to 8, with a median score of 7.

There was no significant publication bias in the final analysis with respect to vitamin B2 [p = 0.244], vitamin B6 [p = 0.068], folate [p = 0.054] or vitamin B12 [p = 0.093].

A sensitivity analysis revealed that no individual study affected the pooled effect size.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest level versus the lowest level of dietary folate intake, a significantly reduced risk of 38% [pooled OR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.56-0.68, I2 = 40.2%] for esophageal cancer.
Subgroup analysis revealed that this inverse correlation (reduced risk) was present in the US [OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.51-0.67], Europe [OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.40-0.65] and Australia [OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.58-0.95], but not in Asia [OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.59-1.01].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis that each 100 μg/day increase in dietary folate intake significantly reduced the risk of esophageal cancer by 12% [OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.86-0.91].
Significant means that there is an association with a 95% confidence.

The investigators found for the highest level versus the lowest level of dietary vitamin B6 intake, a significantly reduced risk of 41% [pooled OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.52-0.66, I2 = 46.8%] for esophageal cancer.
This inverse relationship remained significant in subgroup analyses for esophageal adenocarcinoma [OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.49-0.68] and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma [OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.33-0.67].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a significantly reduced risk of 18% [OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.76-0.88] for esophageal cancer for 2.0 mg/day of dietary vitamin B6 intake.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a significantly reduced risk of 33% [OR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.59-0.75] for esophageal cancer for 2.5 mg/day of dietary vitamin B6 intake.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a significantly reduced risk of 45% [OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.44-0.67] for esophageal cancer for 3.0 mg/day of dietary vitamin B6 intake.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis that each 1 mg/day increase in dietary B6 increase significantly reduced the risk of esophageal cancer by 16% [OR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.80-0.89].

The investigators found for the highest level versus the lowest level of dietary vitamin B12 intake, a significantly increased risk of 30% [pooled OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.05-1.62, I2 = 73.5%] for esophageal cancer.
A subgroup analysis based on geographic location revealed similar results in the US [OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.03-1.53] and Europe [OR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.16-5.53], but not in Australia [OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.73-1.19].
A subgroup analysis based on histological type revealed that this correlation was present among patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma [OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.02-2.11], but not among patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma [OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.63-1.61].

The investigators found in dose-response analysis that each 1 μg/day increase in dietary B12 intake significantly increased the risk of esophageal cancer by 2% [OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.00-1.03].

The investigators concluded that both dietary vitamin B6 intake (at least 1 mg/day) and dietary folate intake (at least 100 μg/day) are inversely correlated with esophageal cancer risk, whereas dietary vitamin B12 intake (at least 1 μg/day) increases esophageal cancer risk.

Original title:
Intake of Dietary One-Carbon Metabolism-Related B Vitamins and the Risk of Esophageal Cancer: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis by Qiang Y, Li Q, […], Wang F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073467/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on folate, vitamin B6 and B12 and cancer 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:
Find more information/studies on carotenoids consumption, vitamin A and overweight right here.

Objectives:
Evidence of an adverse influence of soil transmitted helminth (STH) infections on cognitive function and educational loss is equivocal. Prior meta-analyses have focused on randomized controlled trials only and have not sufficiently explored the potential for disparate influence of STH infection by cognitive domain. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Have soil transmitted helminth (STH) infections adverse influence on cognitive function and educational loss in children?

Study design:
This review article included 36 studies of 12,920 children (5-20y) that evaluated STH associated differences in psychometrically evaluated cognitive tests, educational attainment or school attendance. Of these, 5,932 children were evaluated in the context of STH treatment (with or without randomization) and 6,978 were evaluated as part of observational study.

Heterogeneity of the pooled effects in all 6 domains was high [p 0.01, I2 = 66-99%]. Application of outlier treatment reduced heterogeneity in learning domain [p = 0.12, I2 = 33%] and strengthened STH-related associations in all domains but intelligence [SMD = -0.20, p = 0.09].

Results varied by study design and ROB.

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) include infections with roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) and hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the overall analysis showed that STH-infected/non-treated children performed significantly worse than uninfected/dewormed children in the 3 of the 6 domains including: memory [SMD = -0.31, p = 0.01], learning [SMD = -0.44, p 0.0001] and intelligence [SMD = -0.27, p = 0.03].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis among observational study designs, STH infection/non-treatment was significantly and consistently associated with deficits in memory, learning, reaction time and intelligence [SMD ranging from -0.42 to -0.23, p 0.01-0.05].

However, the investigators found in subgroup analysis among experimental intervention studies, there was no association between STH treatment and educational loss/performance in tests of memory, reaction time and innate intelligence [SMD ranging from = -0.27 to 0.17, p = 0.18-0.69].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis among studies classified as low risk of bias, STH infection/non-treatment was associated with significant deficits in memory, learning and school attendance [SMD ranging from -0.39 to -0.55, p 0.0001-0.03].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis among Schistosoma infection co-prevalent settings, associations were generally stronger and statistically robust for STH-related deficits in learning, memory and reaction time tests [SMD ranging from -0.36 to -0.55, p = 0.003-0.02].

The investigators concluded there is evidence of superior performance in 5 of 6 educational and cognitive domains assessed for STH uninfected/dewormed versus STH infected/not-dewormed school-aged children from helminth endemic regions. Cautious interpretation is warranted due to high ROB in some of the primary literature and high between study variability in most domains. Notwithstanding, this synthesis provides empirical support for a cognitive and educational benefit of deworming. The benefit of deworming will be enhanced by strategically employing, integrated interventions. Thus, multi-pronged inter-sectoral strategies that holistically address the environmental and structural roots of child cognitive impairment and educational loss in the developing world may be needed to fully realize the benefit of mass deworming programs.

Original title:
Soil-transmitted helminth infection, loss of education and cognitive impairment in school-aged children: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Pabalan N, Singian E, […], Ezeamama AE.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5766095/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis and deworming right here.

Objectives:
Low birth weight infant (LBWIs) are prone to mental and behavioural problems. As an important constituent of the brain and retina, long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential for foetal infant mental and visual development. The effect of lactation supplemented with long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) on the improvement of intelligence in low birth weight children requires further validation. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Do long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA or PUFA) supplements improve intelligence in low birth weight children?

Study design:
This review article included 10 studies with a total of 1,793 individuals, of which 908 cases in the intervention group (group with LCPUFA supplements) and 885 controls (group without LCPUFA supplements).

The mean birth weights in 8 studies were less than 1500g and those in 2 studies were more than 1500g. None of the included studies had infants with birth weight less than 750g.

LCPUFA supplements were DHA+AA, DHA+EPA+DPA or DHA+AA+EPA.

There was no evidence of publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher mental development index (MDI) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = 0.07, 95% CI = -0.05 to 0.19, I2 = 23.8%, p = 0.222].
Subgroup analysis showed that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation groups did not have significantly higher mental development index scores than the control groups.

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher psychomotor development index (PDI) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = -0.01, 95% CI = -0.23 to 0.21, I2 = 60.5%, p = 0.906].
Subgroup analysis showed that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation groups did not have significantly higher psychomotor development index scores than the control groups.

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher full scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = 0.00, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.14, I2 = 0.00%, p = 0.991].

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = 0.01, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.12, I2 = 42.2%, p = 0.844].

The investigators found that the long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplemented group did not have significantly higher performance intelligence quotient (PIQ) scores than the group without supplementation [SMD = -0.01, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.13, I2 = 0.00, p = 0.877].

The investigators concluded that long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA or PUFA) supplements do not improve intelligence in low birth weight children. Therefore, whether long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplements are beneficial for LBWIs has not been shown conclusively.

Original title:
The effect of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on intelligence in low birth weight infant during lactation: A meta-analysis by Song Y, Liu Y, […], Li D.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5892917/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and pregnancy right here.

 

Objectives:
The associations of various dietary or circulating antioxidants with the risk of all-cause mortality in the general population have not been established yet. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do dietary or circulating antioxidants reduced risk of all-cause mortality in the general population?

Study design:
This review article included 41 prospective observational studies with a total of 507,251 participants and 73,965 cases of all-cause mortality.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating total carotenes concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 40% [RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.46 to 0.74] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating vitamin C concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 39% [RR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.53 to 0.69] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating selenium concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 38% [RR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.45 to 0.79] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating β-carotene concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 37% [RR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.57 to 0.70] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating α-carotene concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 32% [RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.58 to 0.78] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating total carotenoids concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 32% [RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.56 to 0.80] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating lycopene concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 25% [RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.54 to 0.97] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of circulating α-tocopherol concentrations a significantly reduced risk of 16% [RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.91] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of total carotenoids a significantly reduced risk of 24% [RR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.66 to 0.85] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of total antioxidants a significantly reduced risk of 23% [RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.81] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of selenium a significantly reduced risk of 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.73 to 0.85] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of α-carotene a significantly reduced risk of 21% [RR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.63 to 0.94] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of β-carotene a significantly reduced risk of 18% [RR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.86] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of vitamin C a significantly reduced risk of 12% [RR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.83 to 0.94] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category of dietary intakes of total carotenes a significantly reduced risk of 11% [RR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.81 to 0.97] for all-cause mortality.  

The investigators found for the highest compared with the lowest category a nonsignificant inverse association between dietary zinc, zeaxanthin, lutein and vitamin E and all-cause mortality risk.

The investigators found in nonlinear dose-response meta-analyses a linear inverse association in the analyses of dietary β-carotene and total antioxidant capacity, as well as in the analyses of circulating α-carotene, β-carotene, selenium, vitamin C and total carotenoids.

The investigators found the association appeared to be U-shaped in the analyses of serum lycopene and dietary vitamin C.

The investigators concluded that a diet with high antioxidant properties reduces the risk of all-cause mortality. These findings confirm current recommendations that promote higher intake of antioxidant-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables.

Original title:
Dietary Antioxidants, Circulating Antioxidant Concentrations, Total Antioxidant Capacity, and Risk of All-Cause Mortality: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Observational Studies by Jayedi A, Rashidy-Pour A, […], Shab-Bidar S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30239557

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis/cohort studies, nutrients, antioxidants and elderly right here.

Objectives:
Low carbohydrate diets, which restrict carbohydrate in favour of increased protein or fat intake, or both, are a popular weight-loss strategy. However, the long-term effect of carbohydrate restriction on mortality is controversial and could depend on whether dietary carbohydrate is replaced by plant-based or animal-based fat and protein. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a relationship between carbohydrate diet and all-cause mortality?

Study design:
This review article included 8 cohort studies with a total of 432,179 participants, of which 40,181 deaths.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in the meta-analysis of 8 cohort studies, low carbohydrate consumption (40 En%) significantly increased all-cause mortality risk with 20% [pooled HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.09-1.32].

The investigators found in the meta-analysis of 8 cohort studies, high carbohydrate consumption (>70 En%) significantly increased all-cause mortality risk with 23% [pooled HR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.11-1.36].

The investigators found, however, results varied by the source of macronutrients: all-cause mortality increased when carbohydrates were exchanged for animal-derived fat or protein [HR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.08-1.29] and all-cause mortality decreased when the substitutions were plant-based [HR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.78-0.87].

The investigators found a U-shaped relationship between carbohydrate intake and all-cause mortality, with minimum risk observed with 50-55% of energy from carbohydrate.

The investigators concluded that both high (>70 En%) and low percentages of carbohydrate diets (40 En%) are associated with increased all-cause mortality, with minimal risk observed at 50-55 En% carbohydrate intake. Low carbohydrate dietary patterns favouring animal-derived protein and fat sources, from sources such as lamb, beef, pork and chicken, are associated with higher all-cause mortality, whereas those that favoured plant-derived protein and fat intake, from sources such as vegetables, nuts, peanut butter and whole-grain breads, are associated with lower all-cause mortality, suggesting that the source of food notably modifies the association between carbohydrate intake and all-cause mortality.

Original title:
Dietary carbohydrate intake and mortality: a prospective cohort study and meta-analysis by Seidelmann SB, Claggett B, […], Solomon SD.

Link:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(18)30135-X/fulltext

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis/cohort studies, carbohydrates and elderly right here.

The most easy way to follow a diet with 50-55 En% carbohydrates is to choose only meals/products with 50-55 En% carbohydrates.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with 50-55 En% carbohydrates is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should contain on average 50-55 En% carbohydrates. Check here which products contain 50-55 En% carbohydrates.
 

Objectives:
High prevalence of anemia attributable to intestinal parasite infection occurs among children in developing countries. As a result mass treatment of all children with anti-helminthic drugs particularly in school setting is being implemented. There are few studies conducted to assess impact of deworming on anemia prevalence among school children with inconclusive finding. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does deworming decrease prevalence of anemia among school children?

Study design:
This review article included 5 cross-sectional studies and 3 RCTs, which enrolled a total of 1,005,239 school children.

Each study enrolled at least 144 school children with in the program and assessed the level of hemoglobin or status of anaemia among dewormed and non-dewormed children. Children were received at least one or more round of deworming 6 months apart and followed for at least a year and the studies were published during the period 1998-2015.  

The funnel plot showed no evidence of publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found, the overall change in the hemoglobin level after deworming was 1.6 [95% CI = 1.01-2.25] gram/deciliter. There was no difference between the random effect model and the fixed effect model.

The investigators found the prevalence of anemia was markedly changed after the program, particularly in the studies which implemented deworming with hygiene program, co-administration of iron and retinol (vitamin A).

The investigators concluded school based deworming program decreases prevalence of anemia and will contribute to reduction of iron deficiency anemia in the community. Therefore, the program should be expanded in all areas and integrated with other child care programs.

Original title:
The Effect of Deworming School Children on Anemia Prevalence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Girum T and Wasie A.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6110060/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on iron, vitamin A, food fortification/malnutrition and deworming right here.