Abstract:

Background: Diabetic animals show increased plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein levels, along with decreased body weight and glycogen in the liver and muscles. While effective diabetic treatments are still being investigated, plants and herbs have historically contributed to treatment of ailments. The current study explores an alternative, complementary and potential treatment for diabetes. In ethno-medicine, various parts of Mangifera indica are used to treat diabetes mellitus. Methods: The present study aims at investigating antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, and histopathological analysis of Mangifera indica leaf methanolic extract (MIME) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice by administering different oral doses (200,400 and 600 mg/kg body weight). After induction of diabetes, the animals are assigned into six groups (one control group and five treatment groups). The treatment groups are treated by different dose of extract, and glibenclamide, and their blood glucose levels were measured. The BGL recording is done using blood glucose test strips OneTouch glucometer on weekly intervals for five weeks. Hematology and other parameters such as liver, renal and total lipid profiles were determined in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice after oral administration of the extract for 28 days. Post-treatment histopathological changes in the diabetic mice organs, like the pancreas, liver, and kidney, were assessed at the end of treatments. Results: Daily oral administration of MIME (200,400 and 600 mg/kg body weight) and glibenclamide (6 mg/kg) showed significant effects on blood glucose level (P<0.001) as well as in improving kidney, liver functions and hyperlipidemia due to diabetes. The extract treatment also showed to enhanced body weight of diabetic mice as compared to diabetic control group. The NIME showed a restorative effect on pancrease, liver and kidney from the study of histopathological changes. Conclusions: Mageferin indica possess anti-diabetic property in diabetic mice. It improves body weight, liver profile, renal profile and lipid profiles. It has a favorable effect in inhibiting diabetic-induced damage of islets of Langerhans in the pancreas.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: The study aimed to describe the effect of muscle-targeted oral nutritional supplementation (MT-ONS) on enhancing physical performance and nutritional status in frail adults at risk of falls. Methods: A prospective, open-label, single-centre, descriptive study was conducted. Patients ≥70 years attending an outpatient fall clinic were recruited, assessed at baseline and after at least 90 days with MT-ONS 100% whey protein enriched with leucine and vitamin D. Sociodemographic, physical performance [Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB)], nutritional status [Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form, (MNA^®-SF)], walking ability [Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC)], number of falls, muscle strength (dynamometry), body composition (Tanita), health-related quality-of-life (SF-12), functional capacity (Barthel Index) and adherence data were collected. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. Results: Twenty-six patients were assessed (58% women age: 82.1 ±5.4 years). Mean SPPB score increased from 7.3 (±3.6) to 8.0 (±4.0). At baseline, 35% were malnourished, 42% at risk of malnutrition, and 23% well-nourished. After ≥90 days of muscle-targeted ONS, 4% were malnourished; 54% at risk and 42% well-nourished. The number of falls decreased from 1.2 falls/month (±0.9) to 0.2 falls/month (±0.3, p<0.0001). Change to better physical performance correlated positively with better nutritional status (p=0.03) after MT-ONS. 92% of patients nearly always followed the ONS recommendations due to pleasant taste (71%) and smell (58%) and good health perception (58%). Conclusions: Frail adults at risk of falls who received MT-ONS, 100% whey protein enriched with leucine and vitamin D for ≥90 days improved their physical performance and nutritional status and reduced the number of falls.

Abstract: This study examined how soluble and insoluble fibers affect blood sugar control, gut bacteria, and intestinal health in mice with type 2 diabetes. Thirty C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: diabetic control, inulin-fed, and wheat-bran-fed. After 12 weeks, fasting glucose dropped by 31% and HOMA-IR by 45% in the inulin group, while the wheat bran group showed smaller drops of 18% and 20%. Analysis of metabolites showed that inulin raised butyrate and lactate levels, while wheat bran increased propionate and valerate. The inulin group also had about 60% higher Occludin protein levels (P < 0.01), showing better gut barrier function. These results show that soluble fiber improves insulin response by supporting short-chain fatty acid formation and maintaining gut integrity, while insoluble fiber works mainly through slower fermentation. The study shows that fiber type plays an important role in managing blood sugar, offering evidence for choosing the right kind of fiber to support diabetes care.

Abstract: Background: Western diets, rich in refined fats and carbohydrates, are recognized as a major player in hepatic lipid accumulation in adults and youngsters, leading to the growing prevalence of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), the gate to cirrhosis and cancer. Due to the lack of efficacious therapies, antioxidant-rich dietary regimens targeting different pathologic pathways may be clinically advantageous. Objective: As tomatoes are a major available source of antioxidant/inflammatory nutrients, we have investigated whether a novel whole tomato-based food supplement (WTFS), possessing an effective antioxidant activity and hindering multiple metabolic pathways, can interfere with mechanisms fostering MASLD progression. Methods: Lipidomic and proteomic analyses were performed in the HepG2 liver human cell line treated with WTSF. Results: WTFS induces a marked reduction in triglycerides and cholesterol ester content, a decrease in the relative levels of diacylglycerols, lysophosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylethanolamines, phosphatidylethanolamines, and lower expression of transforming growth factor-α, tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), and Fms-related tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (FLT3LG), signaling relevant to MASLD progression. Conclusions: WTFS may represent a potential candidate for clinical trials in supplementing antioxidant-rich dietary regimens such as the healthy but hard-to-follow Mediterranean diet, the presently first-line preventive and therapeutic nutritional regimen for MASLD.

Abstract: Background: Fermentation is among the oldest and most versa-tile food processing techniques, enhancing not only shelf life but also nutritional and functional value. While Asian and Western fermented foods are extensively studied, traditional Eastern European fermentations—such as sauerkraut, kefir, bryndza, kvass, and sourdough—remain underexplored, despite their enduring cultural and dietary importance. These foods combine spontaneous or mixed-culture fermentations, diverse substrates, and unique microbial consortia that may yield distinct bioactive pro-files with potential health benefits. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes data from scientific articles, regional reports, and ethnographic sources retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to 2025. Studies were selected for relevance to composition, microbiology, bioactive compounds, and human or experimental health outcomes related to Eastern European fermented foods. Results: Evidence indicates that traditional fermented dairy, ce-real, and vegetable products contain bioactive peptides, poly-phenols, vitamins, organic acids, and live or non-viable micro-organisms contributing to antioxidant, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, and metabolic effects. Mechanistic studies support the generation of ACE-inhibitory peptides, microbial vitamins, and prebiotic/postbiotic compounds. However, variability in artisanal production and the scarcity of standardized human trials limit definitive conclusions. Conclusions: Eastern European fermented foods represent a culturally unique yet scientifically under characterized component of functional nutrition. Their complex microbial ecosystems and diverse substrates offer valuable models for studying diet–microbe interactions. Further omics-based and clinical research is warranted to clarify bioavailability, mechanisms of action, and their potential integration into evidence-based dietary strategies.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Long-term alternate-day fasting (ADF) effectively combats obesi-ty, but short-term effects are less clear. Like other diets, ADF-induced weight loss often in-cludes muscle loss, and whether protein supplementation mitigates this is uncertain. This study examined the effects of short-term ADF on body composition and health, and whether protein supplementation preserves muscle mass during weight loss in young Asian men with unhealthy BMI (≥23.0 kg/m2). Methods: Twenty participants were re-cruited for a single-arm trial to address the first objective, and 26 participants were ran-domly assigned to a control (C) or protein group (P) in a follow-up trial to address the second objective. Participants alternated between feeding (ad libitum) and fasting (400-600 kcal consumed between 12-2 PM) days for four weeks. P consumed 25 g whey protein as part of the fasting day meal. Pre-post body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Anthropometry, fasting blood glucose (FG) and resting blood pres-sure (BP) were measured weekly. Results: Since interaction effects were absent, data from all three groups were combined for analyses. Four weeks ADF significantly (p< .001) re-duced body (2.4 kg), fat (1.6 kg), and fat-free (0.8 kg) mass. BP and FG remained un-changed (p=.753-.919). No significant differences were detected between C and P in any measure. Conclusions: Short-term ADF effectively reduces body and fat mass, but also muscle mass which cannot be attenuated with protein supplementation during fasting days. Future studies should explore the effectiveness of protein or leucine supplementa-tion, throughout the feeding and fasting days, in preserving muscle during weight loss.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: International guidelines recommend a short-term milk-free elimination diet and oral food challenge (OFC), with or without specific IgE testing, for diagnosing cow’s milk allergy (CMA), with extensively hydrolysed formulas (eHF) or amino acid formulas (AAF) as first-line nutritional therapy. In some countries, par-tially hydrolysed whey formula (pHF-W) is used as a step-down, or bridge, to intact cow’s milk protein (CMP), despite limited supporting evidence. This study explored real-world diagnostic practices and experiences with pHF-W step-down use among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in China and the Middle East. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among 600 HCPs including paediatricians, gas-troenterologists, allergists/immunologists, and dermatologists, from China, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates. IPSOS translated the 25-item ques-tionnaire into local languages, were responsible for HCP selection and implementation. Results: While 71% of respondents used a food elimination diet, OFCs were only used by 46%. The majority relied on history/physical examination (91%) and/or specific IgE testing (85%), raising concerns about misdiagnosis. While most respondents reported using eHF or AAF for first-line nutritional management, 20% used pHF-W, diverging from guideline recommendations. Seventy-seven percent of HCPs employed pHF-W as a step-down formula before intact CMP, citing improved tolerance and reduced re-currence. Over 80% of HCPs using pHF-W in this way expressed satisfaction, with 53% recommending it for 3–6 months. Conclusions: CMA diagnostic and management practices in China and the Middle East show variable adherence to international guidelines. Frequent pHF-W use highlights the need for educational interventions, better guideline dissemination, and further research to evaluate its safety and efficacy in step-down approach for CMA management.

Abstract:

Background: Tribulus terrestris (Tt) is a popular herbal supplement marketed for performance enhancement. However, evidence regarding its efficacy and safety remains inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Tt use, awareness, and motivations for using it among athletes and gym-goers in Italy. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire, approved by the National Ethics Committee and developed in accordance with the GDPR and the Declaration of Helsinki, was administered in paper and digital formats across Italian gyms. The survey collected socio-demographic and anthropometric data, information on sports practice, dietary supplement and anabolic steroid use, and motivations for consumption. After data cleaning, 512 valid responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, and non-parametric analyses. Results: Dietary supplement use was widespread across genders and age groups. Only 5.1% of respondents reported using Tt-containing products in the past six months, while 14.9% were unsure whether their supplements contained Tt. Use of Tt was significantly associated with performance enhancement as the primary motivation (χ²(6) = 21.83, p = .001). No associations with age, gender, or purchase channels were observed. Anabolic steroid use was infrequent, but was linked to online purchasing from potentially unregulated sources. Conclusions: Supplement use appears normalized among Italian gym-goers, while Tt intake remains limited and poorly informed. These findings highlight the importance of targeted education and preventive strategies to address misinformation and dangerous self-administration behaviors.

Abstract: The global economic crisis, rising commodity prices, and climate change have a severe impact on nutrition and health, particularly among vulnerable groups. This review identifies challenges such as urbanization, economic inequality, and environmental degradation, contributing to food insecurity and diet-related problems. Targeted interventions for children, pregnant women, and the elderly, alongside sustainable agricultural practices, are crucial. The paper highlights the need for strict regulation against misleading marketing strategies adopted and promotes nutrition education along with public policy reforms to combat malnutrition and obesity. Thus, multisectoral collaboration advocates fortification, supplementation, and improved dietary quality. Therefore, coordinated global action is required to initiate equitable access to nutritious foods.

Abstract: While free amino acids (FAAs) are often regarded as simple building blocks for proteins, various studies show they have more complex roles in the body. This review expands on the FAA's functions, emphasizing their influence on diverse biological processes. It covers their significance in metabolism, energy production, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters, hormones, and antioxidants. FAAs also serve as signaling molecules that regulate critical pathways related to cell growth, autophagy, and metabolic control. The review highlights their impact on the immune system and their essential roles in gut health, nutrient sensing, and metabolic communication. Drawing on recent findings, we emphasize the importance of measuring FAA levels in biological samples and suggest that their supplementation could be beneficial in clinical nutrition, treating metabolic or immune disorders, and preventing sarcopenia. Overall, FAAs are presented as key signaling agents and biomarkers, with potential for targeting their levels to improve health and treat diseases.

Abstract:

Background: Lutein and zeaxanthin (LZ) are macular xanthophyll carotenoids with antioxidant and blue-light filtering properties, but their oral bioavailability is limited. Lipid-based delivery systems may enhance absorption. Methods: We compared four single-dose LZ delivery systems in male Sprague–Dawley rats: (G1) LZ in medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil; (G2) LZ in MCT + phosphatidylcholine (PC); (G3) LZ in MCT + phosphatidylserine (PS); (G4) LZ in liposomal powder. Following an overnight fast, each group (n = 6) received an oral gavage of the assigned formulation. Serial blood samples were collected up to 24 h post-dose. Plasma lutein + zeaxanthin concentrations were quantified by a validated LC–MS/MS method. Non-compartmental pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were computed (Phoenix WinNonlin®), and one-way ANOVA was used to make inter-group comparisons on ln-transformed metrics with Dunnett’s post hoc tests. Results: The PS-complexed formulation (G3) yielded the highest LZ exposure (mean C_max 69.63 ± 0.78 ng/mL; AUC_0-t 620.23 ± 16.41 ng·h/mL), significantly exceeding the MCT oil control (G1: 52.54 ± 0.70 ng/mL; 494.51 ± 13.70 ng·h/mL; p < 0.001). The PC-enriched oil (G2) and liposomal powder (G4) also produced higher C_max and AUC than G1 (p < 0.01). No differences in elimination half-life (t1/2 ≈ 8 h) were observed between formulations. Conclusions: Phospholipids, especially with PS, substantially improve lutein and zeaxanthin systemic availability versus MCT oil alone. PS-based lipid complexes appear particularly effective, supporting their use in ocular-health formulations to maximise xanthophyll bioavailability.

Abstract:

Background: A healthy 31-year-old male, with a history of veganism followed by a carnivorous diet, sought to adopt a Maasai-inspired diet consisting exclusively of cow’s blood and milk for 30 days. The subject, a physically active forest worker, aimed to address health issues experienced during his vegan period, which included depression, being underweight, tooth decay, and loss of libido. Methods: The subject collected (from the butcher) and prepared 2 liters of cow’s blood weekly, ensuring it remained non-coagulant through stirring, and refrigerated for up to 7 days. Forty liters of raw milk were procured, from which cream was separated and consumed to minimize casein intake. Biochemical parameters were monitored, including CRP levels, lipid profile, liver enzymes, renal function, electrolytes, and others. Results: Over the 30-day period, the subject’s blood and cream consumption varied, with an intake of cow’s blood on 21 days (30mL to 400mL) and cow’s cream on all days (200mL to 2100mL). Raw milk was introduced on Day 7 and consumed on 24 days (100mL to 1750mL). Notable biochemical changes included an increase in blood glucose (+5.4%), LDL/HDL ratio improvement (+9.6%), free testosterone (+24.9%), and a significant decrease in total bilirubin (-32.3%) and MDA-LDL (-67.9%). Other parameters showed mixed results, with decreases in various liver enzymes and cholesterol levels, and increases in creatinine clearance and certain minerals. Conclusion: The exclusive consumption of cow’s blood and milk resulted in numerous changes in biochemical markers, some of which may be beneficial, while others require cautious interpretation. The diet led to significant alterations in lipid metabolism, liver function, renal function, and mineral status, warranting further study on the long-term implications of such dietary practices.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the bioaccessibility (BA) of lutein and other carotenoids in selected fruits (avocado, kiwi, orange) and a leafy green vegetable (lamb's lettuce) using a modified INFOGEST in vitro digestion protocol. The modifications were specifically designed to enhance the release, micellarization, and subsequent quantification of carotenoids. Methods: The standardized static in vitro digestion model proposed by the COST Action INFOGEST was adapted. Key modifications included using a larger sample size (20 g) and optimizing centrifugation conditions (20,000 G for 5 minutes) to efficiently transfer carotenoids to the aqueous-micellar phase. Quantification was done by HPLC. Results: Lamb's lettuce was rich in lutein (4615.03 µg/100g) and β-carotene (2156.42 µg/100g); avocado was a notable source for lutein (171.67 µg/100g); kiwi contained lutein (64.55 µg/100g); and orange was a source of β-cryptoxanthin (73.39 µg/100g) and zeaxanthin (12.85 µg/100g) in the Spanish population. Regarding stability and BA, lutein in avocado showed high recovery (95.84%) and a BA of 55.32%. Kiwi exhibited excellent lutein stability (73-80% recovery) and the highest BA for lutein (71.01%), with β-carotene at 36.39%. Orange had low violaxanthin BA (1.02%) but intermediate values for zeaxanthin (29.96%) and β-cryptoxanthin (18.03%). In contrast, lamb's lettuce showed low recoveries and significant losses, with very low β-carotene BA (5.08%). Conclusions: sample weight and centrifugation speed are crucial modifications for accurate carotenoid BA assessment. Carotenoid BA varies depending on the specific carotenoid and the food matrix. This highlights the importance of adapting in vitro digestion protocols to the characteristics of lipophilic compounds and food matrices.

Abstract: Estrogen deficiency is associated with endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, increased lipoprotein oxidation, accumulation of lipid-rich material, and platelet activation. The absence of estrogen causes physiological, metabolic, and biochemical changes that increase the risk of cardiometabolic disease development caused by a deregulation in metabolic processes such as lipid metabolism and plasma lipoproteins levels. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) has cardioprotective properties related to the quality and the quantity of its components that can be modified by some nutritional factors. Guava (Psidium guajava L.), a widely cultivated fruit in Mexico, is notable for its high polyunsaturated fatty acid and dietary fiber content in its seeds, but its effect on health is understudied. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of guava seed supplementation on body weight, blood pressure, lipid profile, HDL composition, and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity in an ovariectomized rat model (OVX). Four groups with 6 adults female Wistar rats each were classified as SHAM group: rats with simulated ovariectomy; OVX group: rats with ovariectomy; OVX+DGS group: rats supplemented with 6 g of defatted guava seeds; OVX+GS group: rats supplemented with 6 g of guava seeds. Biochemical parameters, size, and lipid concentration of HDL subclasses, apolipoproteins, and PON1 activity were determined. A decrease in body weight gain, systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and triglycerides in plasma was observed at the end of the experiment in the supplemented groups. The supplementation of 6 g of guava seeds for 30 days decreased biochemical parameters in ovariectomized rats; these results could be attributed to the seed composition, suggesting a protective effect against the risk of developing diseases in menopausal states.

Abstract: Nutritional supplementation is widely used in resistance training, yet assessment of “hypertrophy” is often confounded by body-composition surrogates. This narrative review, anchored in mechanistic plausibility, integrates trials reporting morphology-direct outcomes (ultrasound/MRI). Across 46 eligible trials, protein/essential amino acids (EAA) showed consistent benefits when daily intake was <1.6 g·kg⁻¹·day⁻¹ or when per-meal leucine provision was <2–3 g; effects plateaued once intakes exceeded ~2.0 g·kg⁻¹·day⁻¹. Creatine monohydrate (3–5 g·day⁻¹, with or without loading) produced measurable increases in muscle thickness or cross-sectional area in interventions lasting ≥8–12 weeks, mediated by enhanced training volume and quality. β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB, 3 g·day⁻¹) demonstrated conditional utility during high training stress or caloric deficit, but was largely neutral in well-fed, resistance-trained cohorts. Adjuncts such as omega-3 fatty acids (1–2 g·day⁻¹), citrulline (6–8 g pre-exercise), and collagen (10–15 g·day⁻¹ plus vitamin C) primarily facilitated training tolerance, recovery, or connective-tissue adaptation, rather than driving hypertrophy directly. A tiered model is proposed: protein/EAA as the foundation, creatine as amplifier, HMB as conditional agent, and adjuncts as facilitators. Methodological heterogeneity, short intervention length, and inconsistent imaging protocols remain limiting factors, underscoring the need for standardized ultrasound/MRI and adequately powered, preregistered trials.

Abstract:

Background/Objective: Aging is associated with a decline in metabolic health, including impaired glucose regulation. Both diet and biological sex impact metabolic health, yet sexual heterogeneity in diet response is understudied. We report on sex-specific associations between diet and insulin sensitivity, insulin resistance, and android and intermuscular fat composition in older adults. Methods: This secondary analysis uses baseline data from a previously completed clinical trial (n=96), MASTERS study. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was used to calculate insulin resistance and insulin sensitivity as measures of metabolic function, while dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and computed tomography were used to assess body composition. Univariate analyses were used to identify sex-specific associations between metabolic health and single nutrients and other dietary components. Multiple regression modeling was employed to identify dietary patterns that best predicted metabolic health. Results: In men, greater intake of vegetable protein (p<0.0001) and whole grains (p=0.001) were associated with higher insulin sensitivity, while refined grains (p=0.003) and conjugated linoleic acids (p<0.001) were negatively associated. In women, insulin sensitivity was positively associated with alcohol (p<0.001) and xylitol (p=0.007). In multiple regression models, diets rich in whole grains, nuts, and seeds predicted higher insulin sensitivity in men, while alcohol remained the strongest predictor in women. Conclusions: Men showed better metabolic health with plant-based diets, while alcohol intake was the strongest dietary factor linked to insulin sensitivity in women. These findings support the need for sex-specific clinical trials and dietary guidance for aging populations.

Abstract: The FTO gene rs9939609 has been positively associated with obesity in humans, but its role in dietary intake is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between nutritional status and dietary intake in adults and the role of the FTO gene polymorphism in this context. In a group of 112 adults (74% women, mean age 40.1 ± 13.24 years), body composition was analysed using the bioimpedance method and body weight status was assessed using BMI criteria. Diet was assessed by three-day food records and a food frequency questionnaire. The polymorphisms of the FTO rs9939609: AA, AT, and TT were analysed by fast real-time PCR in DNA isolated from buccal swabs. The data were statistically analyzed by using analysis of variance, non-parametric tests, and multivariate analyses (principal component analysis, correspondence analysis). The frequency of the mutant A allele in the study group was 0.46. The frequency analysis of individual genotypes (TT=0.26; AT=0.56; AA=0.18) revealed that the genotype distribution in the study group was consistent with the Hardy-Weinberg law. The rs9939609 FTO gene polymorphism was associated with frequency of excessive body weight. There was no difference in the values obtained from anthropometric measurements and body composition analysis in the group. The results showed that the studied polymorphism FTO gene explained only 7.82% of the variability in features characterising the nutritional status. The analysis of obesity prevalence within families revealed a significant impact from relatives on the female line.

Abstract: Liver fibrosis, a progressive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, is a common pathological outcome of chronic liver diseases and a significant long-term complication of radiation-induced liver disease (RILD) following oncological radiotherapy. This case report details the notable improvement in an 83-year-old male patient with established liver fibrosis, objectively measured by elastography (FibroScan), who received daily supplementation with a high-biodiversity probiotic (Freeze Dried Bravo probiotic). After approximately six months, the patient's liver stiffness score significantly decreased from 7.6 kPa (moderate fibrosis, F2) to 3.6 kPa (absence of fibrosis, F0). This improvement was not confined to the liver alone. Concurrently, a remarkable trend toward normalization was observed in several key blood parameters, including Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH), mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), glycemia, serum creatine, and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN). A significant decrease in the White Blood Cell (WBC) count also suggests a reduction in systemic inflammation. The hepatic improvement is consistent with a prior observation presented in 2013 by one of the authors, involving a severe fibrosis case that regressed with probiotic use. We hypothesize that the unique biodiversity and postbiotic richness of Bravo probiotic, possessing immunomodulatory and detoxifying properties, contributed to these systemic and anti-fibrotic effects by improving gut barrier integrity and reducing inflammation. While acknowledging the limitations of a single case report, these findings suggest a promising non-pharmacological strategy for managing liver fibrosis across various etiologies, including potential applications in mitigating RILD. Further rigorous clinical trials are warranted to validate these observations and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a tick-borne allergic condition increasingly prevalent in the Southern, Eastern and mid-western regions of the United States. This study aims to assess the awareness and understanding of AGS among Kansas residents, focusing on its symptoms, impacts, and available management resources. Methods: Two anonymous surveys were administered using Qualtrics software, one targeting Kansas Extension professionals and the other directed at Kansas community residents. Results: Participants from both groups demonstrated general awareness of AGS. Beyond the dietary restrictions associated with the condition, individuals with AGS also faced a range of social, financial and health-related challenges. The study revealed critical gaps in healthcare preparedness and support infrastructure for managing AGS in rural Kansas communities. Conclusions: While awareness of AGS is increasing in Kansas, individuals affected by this condition continue to encounter significant challenges. These are not limited to personal and emotional hardships but also systemic challenges in healthcare and community support. Study findings highlight a critical gap between growing awareness and implementation of effective action.

Abstract: Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health concern associated with hyperglycemia and cardiovascular risk. Despite pharmacological therapies, side effects and non-compliance remain challenges. Moringa oleifera (MO), rich in bioactive phytochemicals, shows promise as a complementary approach. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf juice supplementation, in addition to standard therapy, on random blood glucose (RBS) and cardiovascular parameters in patients with T2DM. Methods: A prospective, randomised controlled trial was conducted among 107 T2DM patients. Group 1 (n=53) received fresh MO leaf juice plus standard therapy, while Group 2 (n=54) received standard therapy alone. RBS, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were measured at baseline, 30 min, and 60 min. Non-parametric statistical tests were applied. Results: The intervention group showed significant reductions in RBS from baseline to 30 and 60 minutes compared to the control group (p = 0.035 and p < 0.001). SBP and MAP also improved significantly, while DBP changes were modest. Conclusions: Moringa oleifera juice supplementation alongside conventional therapy significantly improved glycemic control and cardiovascular parameters. Its phytochemical profile and safety suggest potential as a dietary adjunct for T2DM management.