Abstract: Background/Objectives: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a major global health concern that is intimately linked to neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and complicated metabolic abnormalities. Traditional antidepressants frequently fail short, highlighting the urgent need for new, safer, and more acceptable therapeutic techniques. Phytochemicals, or natural antidepressants derived from plants, are emerging as powerful plant-based therapies capable of targeting many pathogenic pathways at the same time. Summary: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from preclinical and clinical studies on the efficacy of phytochemicals such as curcumin, polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids in lowering depressed symptoms. Consistent data show that these substances have neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, altering neuroimmune interactions, reducing oxidative damage, and improving mitochondrial resilience. Particularly, polyphenols and flavonoids have great therapeutic potential because of their capacity to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, inhibit cytokine activity, and encourage neuroplasticity mediated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Despite promising results, the heterogeneity in study designs, phytochemical formulations, and patient demographics highlights the importance of thorough, standardized clinical studies. Conclusion: This review identifies phytochemicals as compelling adjuvant or independent therapies in depression treatment, providing multimodal mechanisms and enhanced tolerability. Additional research into improved dose, pharmacokinetics, long-term safety, and integrative therapy approaches is essential. Using phytotherapeutics could considerably improve holistic and customized depression care, encouraging new research routes in integrative neuroscience and clinical psychiatry.

Abstract: Background: Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disorder marked by widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Recent studies suggest that low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress play key roles in FMS pathophysiology. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs), high in inflammatory ingredients, may exacerbate these mechanisms. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the relationship between UPF intake and inflammatory dietary patterns in FMS patients compared to healthy controls. Methods: A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted with 89 participants: 45 FMS patients and 44 healthy controls. The study was approved by the institutional ethics committee of the Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Canarias (CHUC_2024_27). Data collection took place from January 17, 2025 to April 9, 2025. Dietary intake was assessed using the NOVA classification system for UPF consumption and the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) for inflammatory dietary patterns. Symptoms were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results: FMS patients consumed significantly more UPFs (34.5%) than controls (26.7%) (p < 0.001). FMS participants also reported higher pain (VAS: 6.8 ± 1.9) and fatigue (FSS: 5.1 ± 1.1) compared to controls (VAS: 1.2 ± 0.5, FSS: 4.8 ± 1.0). Inflammatory dietary patterns were more pronounced in FMS patients, who consumed higher levels of saturated fats (29.4 ± 6.1 g/day vs. 24.8 ± 5.7 g/day; p = 0.02) and lower levels of anti-inflammatory nutrients like magnesium (240.5 ± 36.7 mg/day vs. 278.9 ± 40.2 mg/day;p < 0.001) and vitamin C (58.2 ± 12.9 mg/day vs. 74.6 ± 13.5 mg/day; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results suggest that higher UPF consumption and a pro-inflammatory dietary pattern are associated with increased pain and fatigue in FMS patients. Reducing UPF intake and improving dietary quality could be beneficial in managing FMS symptoms.

Abstract: Background: Periodontal disease and gingival inflammation are globally highly prevalent and may entail distal consequences on systemic health. While professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) is the standard treatment, dietary interventions may provide additional benefits. The French maritime pine bark extract Pycnogenol® has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but its impact on inflammatory biomarkers in saliva and serum has not been studied in a controlled clinical trial. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a total of 91 participants received Pycnogenol® (100 mg twice daily; n = 46) or a placebo (n = 45) following PMPR. Saliva and serum samples were collected at baseline, and after two and three months. Biomarkers associated with inflammation (IL-1β, IL-6, MMP-8, MMP-9) and polyphenol concentrations were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/MS). Results: Pycnogenol® supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in salivary MMP8 levels (p = 0.0261), and lower serum IL-6 levels compared to placebo after three months (p = 0.0409). Additionally, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and the gut microbial metabolite 5-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone (M1) significantly increased in saliva following Pycnogenol® intake. Correlation analysis revealed a significant inverse association between the percentage of bleeding on probing and M1 concentration in saliva (r = -0.3476, p = 0.0167). Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with Pycnogenol® significantly reduced key inflammatory biomarkers and increased polyphenol concentrations in saliva. These findings suggest a potential anti-inflammatory effect of Pycnogenol® on gingival inflammation.

Abstract: Food hypersensitivity remains an understudied and overlooked subject globally. It is characterized by adverse reactions to dietary substances potentially triggered by various mechanisms. Food allergy, a subset of food hypersensitivity, denotes an immune response to food proteins categorized into immunoglobulin IgE-mediated or non-IgE-mediated reactions. Conversely, food intolerance, another facet of food hypersensitivity, refers to non-immunological reactions occurring at typically tolerated doses of food or its components. The main objective of this study is to determine and differentiate the differences, characteristics, and types of food hypersensitivities. We conducted an extensive review encompassing the key studies from 1990 onwards, including prospective studies, nested case-control studies, and meta-analysis. In conclusion, there are big differences between the main characteristics such as symptoms, complications, and treatments between allergies, and food intolerances. Commonly reported trigger foods include cow milk, gluten, eggs, nuts, and seafood.

Abstract: Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring fat-soluble carotenoid antioxidant. Astaxanthin exhibits multiple protective mechanisms, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-regulatory, anti-apoptotic, nervous system-protective, anti-tumor, and anti-fibrotic effects. These effects make it a potential natural compound for the prevention of chronic disease. Astaxanthin can protect the nervous system against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. It also protects the liver and helps reduce chronic kidney disease. Additionally, it improves cardiovascular health and has anti-diabetic properties. This review highlights the mechanisms by which astaxanthin protects against chronic diseases, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, and discusses its potential as an adjuvant therapeutic agent.

Abstract: Background: The development of non-dairy probiotic products is a challenge for the food industry while cereals as probiotic carriers provide the means to incorporate probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber into the human diet. The present study investigated the effects of Lactococcus cremoris spp. immobilized oat flakes on blood and urine biomarkers in a randomized placebo-controlled single-blind clinical trial. Methods: Fifty-four eligible participants were randomized to placebo or probiotic group that consumes 5g of oat flakes daily, tor 12 weeks. Blood and urine samples were collected at the baseline and at the 6th and 12th week of consumption. Glycemic, lipemic, inflammatory, immunological, antioxidant biomarkers and vitamins were analyzed. Results: Compared to the control group, IL-6 (p=0.045) and hs-CRP (p=0.02) were significantly decreased at week 6 and 12 respectively in the intervention group. Conclusions: Lactococcus cremoris spp immobilized on oat flakes seems to improve biomarkers related to human health. However, further studies are required to characterize the probiotic properties of the studied strain.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Adolescence is a pivotal stage marked by physiological and behavioral shifts that shape dietary habits and health outcomes. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 662 questionnaire responses to explore associations between socio-demographic variables, dietary behaviors, and health practices among school-aged children and adolescents. Results: The analysis reveals significant gender differences in body mass index (BMI), weight-loss behaviors, and family structure. Female adolescents were more likely to be underweight (18.27%) compared to male adolescents (10.82%), while overweight prevalence was higher among male adolescents (18.66%) than female adolescents (11.68%) (χ² = 11.457, p = 0.009). Dietary patterns varied significantly across age groups, with high school-aged children demonstrating lower vegetable consumption and increased autonomy over food choices. Primary school children exhibited higher intake of carbonated beverages (OR = 0.185, p = 0.002 for high school; OR = 0.116, p &lt; 0.001 for middle school), whereas teenagers showed a preference for structured meals and lower fast-food intake. Meat consumption frequency correlated with greater diversity in protein sources (χ² = 48.77, p &lt; 0.001), while chaotic eating behaviors were more prevalent among middle and high school-aged children (OR = 2.291, p = 0.032 for middle school; OR = 2.225, p = 0.030 for high school). Hydration habits played an essential role in dietary quality, with school-age children consuming ≥3 liters of water daily exhibiting healthier eating patterns (OR = 7.146, p = 0.001). Additionally, psychological factors such as fatigue and stress were significantly associated with unhealthy dietary choice. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for targeted nutritional education, school-based interventions, and family-focused strategies to improve adolescent health behaviors.

Abstract: Background/objectives: Gluten-free diets have become very popular in recent years and unjustified exclusion of gluten happens extremely frequently. There are isolated reports which warn that symptoms of psoriasis, atopic dermatitis or chronic urticaria can be aggravated by the supply of gluten in the patient's diet. The aim of the study was (i) to assess the prevalence of antibodies typical for gluten-dependent enteropathy in patients with the above-mentioned skin diseases and in the comparison group; (ii) to assess the relationship between the declared diet in patients with selected dermatoses and the presence of antibodies typical for gluten-dependent enteropathy; (iii) to assess the occurrence of IgE specific to selected allergens, including wheat and rye flours, in the studied groups; (iv) to assess dietary behaviour in patients with selected skin diseases and in the comparison group. Methods: An interviewer-supervised auditory questionnaire was used to obtain information on the health status of the subjects. Their individual gluten intake was assessed by means of one of the retrospective dietary assessment methods. The method of consumption frequency was applied. Antibodies directed against smooth muscle endomysium, tissue transglutaminase and gliadin were detected in the patients and in the comparison group. The tests were performed using ready-made kits according to the manufacturer's recommended test instructions. In addition, blood allergy tests were performed in all the subjects in the study and control groups. Results: Based on the study, the diagnosis of visceral disease and gluten allergy was ruled out in all the subjects. However, significant differences were shown regarding the intake of certain foods. Conclusions: In patients with autoimmune diseases with associated gastrointestinal symptoms, a full diagnostic workup for gluten-dependent enteropathy and gluten intolerance is necessary. Patients who report gastrointestinal symptoms should not implement a gluten-free diet without appropriate diagnostics and consultation with their doctor.

Abstract: Background/objectives: Individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) have a reduced life expectancy of 15-25 years. This is due to a number of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Levels of overweight and obesity in this group are 1.8 times higher than in the general population and diet quality is poor. Excess weight is linked to a range of serious long-term physical and mental health conditions. This paper presents the findings of a large cross-sectional survey of adults living with SMI. The survey aimed to understand the current weight, weight gain and diet quality of this group and secondly, to explore the association between weight change, diet quality, antipsychotic medication and weight management. Methods: Five hundred and twenty-nine participants (58% male, mean age 49.3) living with SMI completed the survey. Results: Results showed 42% of the sample were living with obesity and almost half reported having gained 6kg or more at least once in their adult life. Overall, 6% of the sample reported eating no fruit or vegetables and the same proportion had the highest consumption of carbonated drinks. There was no difference by weight category. Those taking antipsychotic medication and currently managing their weight were more likely to experience weight gain or fluctuation. Conclusions: These results suggest that excess weight and poor diet quality are a major problem in adults with SMI and that current weight management provision is ineffective in addressing the specific needs of people living with SMI.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Despite advances in public health and medical treatment, the number of patients with type 2 diabetes is increasing and it remains among the top 10 causes of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. Early interventions with innovative approaches are essential to improving dietary intake and blood glucose control, potentially preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes and related complications. This study examined the effects of integrating real-time feedback from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) into individualized nutrition therapy (INT) on diet and sleep quality in individuals with prediabetes and overweight or obesity. Methods: Thirty participants were randomized to either the treatment (n=15) or the control group (n=15). Both groups received individualized nutrition recommendations tailored to energy needs for weight maintenance and blood glucose control. The treatment group had real-time access to CGM data, while the control group remained blinded. Dietary intake and sleep quality were assessed using ASA24 recall and analyzed via general linear model repeated measures. Results: Overall incorporating CGM feedback into nutrition therapy improved diet and sleep quality. The treatment group significantly increased intake of whole grains (p=0.02) and plant-based protein (p=0.02), with trends toward increased fruit intake (p=0.07) and reduced percent calorie intake from carbohydrates (p=0.08). Sleep efficiency also improved significantly by 5% (p=0.02) following the intervention. Conclusions: These findings support the effectiveness of CGM-enhanced nutrition therapy in improving diet and sleep quality in individuals with prediabetes and overweight or obesity. Further research is needed to assess the sustainability and long-term impact of this approach.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Early microbial colonization in infants is known to be the key to establishing a healthy microbial community in later life stages. Breast milk is an optimal source of macro-micronutrients for newborns as well as a potential source of bacteria. Thus, we aimed to compare the microbial composition of breast milk and maternal fecal samples in our study. Methods: We recruited 20 healthy women on the 15th postpartum day. We excluded women who had any acute or chronic disease or who were using drugs or probiotics. We recorded the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants and performed anthropometric measurements. We obtained maternal fecal and mature breast milk samples. We determined the microbiota composition of these samples via 16S rRNA next-generation sequencing and calculated the Shannon index. Results: The mean age of the breastfeeding women was 24.2±2.94 years. Both the maternal fecal and mature breast milk microbiota were dominated by the phylum Firmicutes (50.2% vs. 72.8%, respectively). However, the predominant bacterial families were Ruminococcaceae (14.2%) in the maternal gut and Streptococcaceae (42.0%) in the breast milk. However, there were relatively high higher levels of Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, and Akkermansia in the fecal samples, whereas Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Proteus were detected in the breast milk samples. Additionally, the microbial diversity of breast milk was significantly lower than the maternal fecal samples. Conclusions: The results indicate that there is a similarity between the intestinal microbiota of lactating women and the microbiota of breast milk. However, human milk and maternal gut microbiota are associated with higher levels of certain bacterial species, suggesting that breast milk and maternal microbiota interact.

Abstract:

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the colorectum, posing a significant global health burden. Recent studies highlight the critical role of gut microbiota and its metabolites, particularly bile acids (BAs), in UC’s pathogenesis. The relationship between BAs and gut microbiota is bidirectional: microbiota influence BA composition, while BAs regulate microbiota diversity and activity through receptors like Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5). Targeting bile acid metabolism to reshape gut microbiota presents a promising therapeutic strategy for UC. This review examines the classification and synthesis of BAs, their interactions with gut microbiota, and the potential of nutritional and microbial interventions. By focusing on these therapies, we aim to offer innovative approaches for effective UC management.

Abstract: Introduction: Manganese is an essential trace element for humans. It has been recognized as a potential occupational toxic but its danger as toxic in patients under parenteral nutrition is often forgotten. Case report: 73-year-old man, logged 210 days in Intensive Care Unit (ICU), receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for a month, current disease chorea-type movements in the head and neck and left hemi body. Diagnostic tests: Magnetic resonance image findings suggest manganese deposit, total blood manganese concentration (34 µg. L-1) (reference range: less than 13 µg. L-1). Diagnosis: Abnormal movements can be caused by manganese poisoning due to parenteral nutrition and are associated with liver failure in the ICU. Discussion and Conclusions: After a prolonged stay in ICU, assessing liver failure caused by septic and protracted parenteral nutrition, manganese poisoning should be considered as a cause of chorea-type movements.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Good feeding practices beginning early in life and are crucial for preventing all forms of malnutrition and non-communicable diseases. This time frame encompasses the delicate phase of complementary feeding, which traditionally involved homemade meals. The use of commercial complementary foods (CCF) began more than a century ago and represents a convenient alternative. We aim to outline both the profile of CCF consumers while accurately describe CCF dietary patterns. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study analysing a final cohort of 75 infants 6-12 months admitted for various respiratory or gastrointestinal conditions to the Paediatrics Department of the "Grigore Alexandrescu" Emergency Hospital for Children in Bucharest, Romania, from June 2024 to December 2024. The mothers were requested to complete a two-section questionnaire. The first section elicited information on: child demographics, feeding patterns, nutritional status, ma-ternal educational level and monthly family income. The second section focused spe-cifically on the utilization of commercial baby food products. Results: Eighty percent of the study population consumed at least once a CCF product, p< 0.001. The CCF products were divided in 6 categories: milk-based products, cereals, pseudocereals, fruit jars/pouches, vegetables puree and meat jars and biscuits and pastas (flour-based products) similar to the one from European Commission. First administered products were in order of their distribution: biscuits and pastas in 16 infants (26.7%), fruits puree in 14 infants (23.3 %), cereals (including pseudocereals) in 12 infants (20%) and yogurt and vegetables/vegetables with meat jars, each in 9 infants (15%), p=0,530. Median [IQR] age at first administration of a CCF product is 6 months [5.25-7]. CCF consumption was not overall influenced by family income or educational level; however, at an in-dividual level, we identified pseudocereals consume associated with higher education and income (p=0.008 respectively p=0.011). Amongst the most utilised vegetables were sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, among the fruits were apples and banana and chicken-meat was the most offered. Overall perception of mothers on CCF was fa-vourable, within the motivations and advantages of using them being their diversity and convenience. Conclusion: CCF are intensely utilized in our country. Regarding the composition of these products, there is a combination between traditions and new di-etary tendencies. Longitudinal, further studies, are necessary to characterize the long-term effects of this feeding pattern.

Abstract: Adequate hydration is crucial for an athlete’s health and performance. There is some evidence that different compositions of various mineral waters may improve exercise performance and affect different biomarkers. The aim was to investigate the consumption of mineral water from the spring „Toplavoda” in terms of safety profile and its effect on body composition and functional and biochemical parameters in professional athletes. During the preparation phase of their mesocycle, 14 male professional handball players underwent a complete sports medical screening exam with cardiopulmonary stress test (CPET), blood gas analysis, and oxidative stress markers dynamics at four points during the CPET. The athletes were then randomized into two equal groups where the first group consumed mineral water, and the second group consumed tap water. After four weeks, biochemical analysis and CPET were repeated. Routine analyses showed that the “mineral water” group increased the mean corpuscular hemoglobin (ANCOVA=0,05) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (ANCOVA=0,001), a greater metabolic equivalent of task (MET) at the end of the test (ANCOVA=0,49), with no significant changes in other measured parameters. Consuming “mineral water” appears safe, with some potential positive effects compared to tap water, mostly on hemoglobin parameters, fatigue perception, and exercise tolerance.

Abstract: Previous research examining the effects of omnivorous and plant-based diets on cardiovascular diseases (CVD) outcomes has produced inconsistent findings, and the importance of diet quality is overlooked. Our study aimed to develop a novel heart-protective diet index to assess the association of a high-quality plant-based diet with CVD incidence and mortality. This study included 192,274 participants in the UK Biobank without CVD at baseline who completed a 24-hour recall Oxford WebQ questionnaire. Using the Oxford WebQ questionnaire, we developed and validated a novel heart-protective diet score (HPDS) based on 22 food groups. Cox proportional hazard models were used to study the associations between HPDS and outcomes. During a median follow-up of 12.3 years, 20,692 CVD events and 1,131 CVD deaths were observed. After adjusting for demographics, Townsend deprivation index, lifestyle, and history of chronic diseases, participants in the top HPDS quartile were at lower risk, compared to those in the bottom quartile, of overall CVD (HR: 0.92 [95%CI: 0.88,0.95]), IHD (HR: 0.88 [95%CI: 0.83,0.93]), MI (HR: 0.82 [95%CI: 0.74,0.90]), and HF (HR: 0.86 [95%CI: 0.78,0.95]). Adherence to a healthy plant-based heart-protective diet rich in non-starchy vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, and fish, is associated with a reduced cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Obesity is a growing public health issue, particularly among young adults, with long-term dietary strategies still under debate. This study evaluates the impact of the ketogenic diet (KD) and time-restricted eating (TRE) on QRISK3 cardiovascular risk scores over three months in individuals with obesity. Methods: Forty-nine participants were assigned to either a KD (n=23) with a controlled macronutrient composition or TRE (n=26) without specific macronutrient distribution. A certified clinical nutritionist prescribed and monitored the dietary interventions. Anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, and QRISK3 scores were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks to evaluate cardiovascular risk modifications. Results: Both interventions significantly reduced BMI (TRE: p &lt; 0.001, KD: p &lt; 0.001), waist circumference (WC) (TRE: p &lt; 0.001, KD: p &lt; 0.001), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (TRE: p &lt; 0.001, KD: p &lt; 0.001). However, the KD led to superior metabolic improvements, including increased HDL-C (p &lt; 0.001) and a lower TC/HDL-C ratio (p &lt; 0.001), while TRE showed no significant HDL-C changes (p = 0.30). Systolic blood pressure improved significantly only in the KD group (p &lt; 0.001). QRISK3 scores declined in both groups (TRE: p = 0.05, KD: p &lt; 0.001), with a greater reduction in KD. Linear regression (adjusted R² = 0.975) identified baseline QRISK (p &lt; 0.001) as the strongest predictor of final QRISK scores, while fasting glucose (p = 0.015) and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.048) were associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Interaction analysis (adjusted R² = 0.495) showed that older participants in the KD group experienced a more pronounced QRISK reduction (p = 0.011); Conclusions: The ketogenic diet proved to be more effective than time-restricted eating in reducing cardiovascular risk, improving lipid profile, and enhancing glycemic control. These findings support KD as a superior dietary intervention for individuals with obesity and metabolic dysfunction.

Abstract:

Tree nut and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) supplementation can improve cardiometabolic health. However, the effects of tree nut and EVOO consumption on aging biology is unknown. We carried out an exploratory four-week tree nut and EVOO supplementation intervention in 33 adults 48 – 81 years of age (mean age: 68 ± 9 years) with metabolic syndrome to generate preliminary data on a measure of biological aging – epigenetic aging, and qualitatively explored participants’ interest in knowing their epigenetic aging measures. Epigenetic aging was measured in all participants at baseline and after the 4-week intervention (DunedinPACE and GrimAge). At baseline, participants had advanced epigenetic aging measured by the DunedinPACE biomarker but not the GrimAge biomarker, with 100% of participants having DunedinPACE>1 (Wilcoxon test, p=3.73E-9), and 38% of participants having AgeAccelGrim>0 (Wilcoxon test, p=0.48). 84% of participants reported they thought they could participate in a similar 3-4 year study. The majority (77%) of participants educated about epigenetic aging reported they very much wanted to know their epigenetic age (77%), and that they would be somewhat likely (29%) or very likely (57%) to eat tree nuts and EVOO daily if it slowed biological aging. There was not a significant (p<0.05) change in epigenetic aging measures from baseline to after the 4-week intervention. This study further substantiates advanced epigenetic aging in individuals with metabolic syndrome. This pilot study also demonstrates participant interest in learning about biological age and supports the potential for biological aging measures to motivate behavior change.

Abstract:

The increasing focus on longevity and cellular health has brought into the spotlight two key compounds, urolithin A (UroA) and spermidine, for their promising roles in autophagy and mitophagy. UroA, a natural metabolite derived from ellagitannins, stimulates mitophagy through pathways such as PINK1/PRKN, leading to improved mitochondrial health and enhanced muscle function. On the other hand, spermidine, a polyamine found in various food sources, induces autophagy by regulating key signaling pathways such as AMPK and SIRT1, thus mitigating age-related cellular decline and promoting cardiovascular and cognitive health. While both UroA and spermidine target cellular maintenance, they affect overlapping as well as distinct signaling pathways. Thus, they do not have completely identical effects, although they overlap in many ways, and offer varying benefits in terms of metabolic function, oxidative stress reduction, and longevity. This review article aims to describe the mechanisms of action of UroA and spermidine not only on the maintenance of cellular health, which is mediated by the induction and maintenance of autophagy and mitophagy, but also on their potential clinical relevance. The analysis presented here suggests that although both compounds are safe and offer substantial health benefits and are involved in both autophagy and mitophagy, the role of UroA in mitophagy places it as a targeted intervention for mitochondrial health, whereas the broader influence of spermidine on autophagy and metabolic regulation may provide more comprehensive anti-aging effects.

Abstract:

Background: Food contamination is a major global issue that impacts public health, agriculture, and food security. The toxicological effects of contaminants can pose significant health risks, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to mitigate these dangers. Objectives: This narrative review explores the sources, toxicities, pathophysiological aspects and mitigation approaches related to food contaminants. Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted by analyzing relevant literature from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, with a focus on studies published in the last decade. Articles were chosen on the basis of their relevance, and a narrative approach was employed to summarize findings related to sources, toxicity, pathophysiology, and mitigation strategies for food contaminants. Results: This review highlights that food contaminants originate from diverse sources, including biological agents (bacteria, viruses), chemical substances (pesticides, heavy metals, mycotoxins), and physical materials (glass, plastics). Their toxicity varies, leading to acute and chronic health effects such as neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, endocrine disruption, and carcinogenicity. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include oxidative stress, deoxyribonucleic acid damage, inflammation, and metabolic dysfunction, which contribute to disorders such as cancer, metabolic syndrome, and neurological impairments. Effective mitigation strategies encompass good agricultural practices, advanced food processing and preservation techniques, regulatory enforcement, public education, and the incorporation of natural detoxifying agents, aiming to reduce contamination and ensure food safety. Conclusions: Food contaminants present significant health risks, so effective mitigation methods can reduce their impact. The development of new technologies and the enforcement of stricter food safety regulations are crucial in addressing emerging contaminants and safeguarding public health.