Nutrition
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effects of probiotic yogurt on glycemic indexes and endothelial dysfunction markers in patients with metabolic syndrome.
The relationship between gut microflora and metabolic syndrome components such as obesity, low-grade chronic systemic inflammation, dyslipidemia, and altered glucose metabolism is now acknowledged. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of probiotic yogurt on glycemic indexes and endothelial dysfunction markers in patients with metabolic syndrome. ⋯ Consumption of probiotic yogurt improved fasting blood glucose and partly modified serum endothelial function markers. These results suggest that regular intake of probiotic yogurt may exert positive effects on the treatment of metabolic syndrome.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Influence of enhanced bioavailable curcumin on obesity-associated cardiovascular disease risk factors and arterial function: A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial.
This study aimed to determine whether an enhanced bioavailable curcumin formulation, CurQfen®, would improve circulating cardiovascular disease-related blood biomarkers and arterial function in young (age 18-35 y), obese (body mass index ≥ 30.0 kg/m2) men. ⋯ Our data provide evidence for an enhanced bioavailable curcumin to improve homocysteine and high-density lipoprotein concentrations, which may promote favorable cardiovascular health in young, obese men. Improvements in endothelial function or blood pressure were not observed with curcumin supplementation, thus further investigation is warranted.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Cocoa flavanol effects on markers of oxidative stress and recovery after muscle damage protocol in elite rugby players.
Strenuous exercise can impair athletic performance due to muscular inflammation and oxidative stress. Antioxidants such as cocoa flavanols have been used as a supplement to prevent oxidative stress; however, the benefits of dietary antioxidants for athletic performance after muscle soreness (MS) is unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of cocoa flavanols after a MS inducing protocol. ⋯ Cocoa flavanols added to a post-exercise recovery beverage for 7 d has no oxidative stress or athletic performance benefits.