Journal of Nutritional Epidemiology

Dietary Polyphenols Intake and the Risk and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

2024-11-25T13:45:51+00:00

Background: colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health concern, responsible for nearly 700,000 deaths annually, with risk factors including specific gene mutations and lifestyle. Emerging research highlights dietary polyphenols, found in plant-based foods, for their potential protective effects against CRC through mechanisms like anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Scopus to identify studies from 2000 to July 2023 on polyphenols and colorectal cancer, employing specific keywords and screening reference lists. Inclusion criteria focused on English-language articles detailing polyphenol effects on CRC incidence and mechanisms of action, while data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Statistical analysis involved qualitative and quantitative synthesis due to study heterogeneity, with a focus on antioxidant activity, inflammatory modulation, and other biological mechanisms of polyphenols.

Results: Polyphenols demonstrate significant potential in colorectal cancer prevention and treatment through mechanisms such as antioxidant activity, modulation of inflammatory pathways, and regulation of apoptosis. However, variability in research findings highlights the need for further studies to elucidate their effectiveness and interactions in clinical settings.

Conclusion: This research underscores the potential of polyphenols as effective agents in preventing and treating colorectal cancer through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and epigenetic modulation properties. Further clinical studies are essential to fully understand their mechanisms and establish their efficacy in diverse populations.

Keywords: “polyphenols,” “colorectal cancer,” “flavonoids,” “antioxidant properties,” and “gut microbiota.”

Sustainable Diets and The Risk of Breast Cancer: A Literature Review

2024-10-26T07:10:15+00:00

Background: Sustainable diets, such as plant-based and Mediterranean diets, have gained attention for their potential role in reducing breast cancer risk. This review aims to explore the relationship between sustainable dietary patterns and breast cancer risk, prognosis, and outcomes, summarizing current evidence from relevant studies.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, focusing on studies published between 2020- 2024. Observational and interventional studies investigating sustainable diets and breast cancer risk in human populations were included.

Results: The review identified evidence suggesting that sustainable diets, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins, are associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. However, the evidence for the impact of these diets on prognosis and survivorship is less conclusive, requiring further research.

Conclusion: Sustainable diets show promise in breast cancer prevention, though more randomized trials are needed to establish stronger clinical guidelines.

The Role of Glucosamine in the Treatment of Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review

2024-11-17T14:40:44+00:00

Background: Breast cancer is a prevalent and multifactorial disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Recent studies suggest that N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (D-GlcNAc) may have anti-tumor effects, particularly through its binding to HER2 receptors in breast cancer cells. Further research is needed to explore the potential of D-GlcNAc as a therapeutic agent in breast cancer treatment.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search from 2000 to July 2023 was conducted across multiple databases to examine the association between glucosamine intake and breast cancer risk. Studies were screened, and relevant data were extracted by two independent reviewers, with discrepancies resolved through consensus. Due to heterogeneity among studies, a qualitative and quantitative synthesis was performed.

Result: The literature review revealed mixed findings on the relationship between glucosamine intake and cancer risk, with some studies indicating a potential protective effect, particularly against breast cancer, through mechanisms like apoptosis, glycosylation, and inflammation modulation. However, inconsistencies in study designs and results precluded definitive conclusions. Further research is required to confirm glucosamine's role in breast cancer prevention and treatment.

conclusion: This review suggests that glucosamine may have protective effects against breast cancer through anti-inflammatory and cellular mechanisms. However, inconsistencies in study designs highlight the need for further large-scale research. Understanding glucosamine's role in cancer prevention could lead to new therapeutic approaches.

L-arginine Supplementation in Breast Cancer Patients

2024-10-26T07:07:36+00:00

Background: Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers globally, and there is increasing interest in understanding the role of nutritional interventions in its management. L-arginine, a semi-essential amino acid, plays a critical role in immune modulation and tumor metabolism through its involvement in nitric oxide (NO) production and immune cell activation. This literature review aimed to evaluate the impact of L-arginine supplementation on breast cancer progression and treatment outcomes, focusing on its effects within the tumor microenvironment (TME) and its potential as an adjunctive therapeutic strategy.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, to identify studies on L-arginine and breast cancer. The search terms included “L-arginine,” “breast cancer,” “immune modulation,” and “tumor progression.” Peer-reviewed articles published between 1990 and 2024 were considered.

Results: The literature review identified that L-arginine supplementation can positively impact breast cancer treatment by modulating immune responses and altering the tumor microenvironment (TME). Studies showed that L-arginine reduces tumor growth by enhancing immune cell functions, suppressing MDSCs, and synergizing with therapies like chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Preclinical and clinical data suggested that L-arginine boosts the efficacy of both immunotherapy and conventional cancer treatments, particularly by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting tumor progression.

Conclusion: L-arginine demonstrates potential as an adjunctive therapy in breast cancer, particularly through its effects on immune modulation and tumor suppression. Further clinical studies are required to explore its therapeutic application, optimal dosing, and long-term outcomes.

Editorial Nutrition in Epidemiology – A Critical Step Forward

2024-12-29T15:29:46+00:00

Introduction

The role of nutrition in health and disease prevention is at the core of global public health discussions. Yet, with all the research at hand, there are still gaps in translating evidence into actionable interventions and policies. The Journal of Nutritional Epidemiology (JNE) seeks to bridge these gaps by providing an open-access platform for high-quality research that illuminates the intersections of diet, health, and disease prevention.

In this inaugural issue, we aim to grab your attention with compelling, data-driven insights that underscore the critical need for nutritional epidemiology in tackling public health crises, including cancer, obesity, and chronic disease prevention.

Sparking Debate

The Power of Nutritional Epidemiology

Numbers don’t lie. Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths annually [1]. Among lifestyle factors, diet contributes significantly to both the risk and progression of cancer. The articles in this issue delve into dietary interventions and their implications for various cancers, showing how evidence-based nutrition can mitigate these statistics [2].

For instance, consider the research into polyphenols, vitamin E, and L-arginine, which not only explores their therapeutic potential but also raises critical questions about their broader applications. These studies are essential to framing dietary components as potential tools for disease prevention and treatment.

Highlights from the First Issue

This issue features six thought-provoking articles, each offering new perspectives on nutrition and cancer:

Sustainable Diets and the Risk of Breast Cancer: A Literature Review

This review integrates insights into how sustainable dietary patterns can lower breast cancer risk while aligning with environmental goals a dual benefit that merits urgent attention.

Role of Olive Oil Polyphenols on Fatty Acid Synthase Gene Expression in Human Cancer Cells: A Review

This article dives into the molecular effects of olive oil polyphenols, offering a fresh angle on their role in cancer biology.

L-arginine Supplementation in Breast Cancer Patients

A clinical examination of L-arginine’s effects, providing valuable insights into its potential therapeutic role for breast cancer patients.

Dietary Polyphenols Intake and the Risk and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

A comprehensive analysis of how polyphenols influence colorectal cancer risk and treatment efficacy, spotlighting their preventive and therapeutic potential.

The Link Between Glucosamine Intake and Breast Cancer

This paper investigates whether glucosamine, commonly used for joint health, may have implications for breast cancer risk a question with significant preventive and public health implications.

The Effect of Vitamin E Supplementation on Complications of Cancer Treatment in Patients with Colorectal Cancer

This study examines how vitamin E supplementation may alleviate treatment-related complications in colorectal cancer patients, aiming to enhance their quality of life.

Each article provokes reflection and debate about theevolving role of dietary components in cancer prevention and management.

A Call for Balance and Collaboration

While these articles provide promising insights, nutritional science is rarely black and white. For every claim, there are counterarguments and challenges. We encourage authors to consider alternative perspectives and readers to engage critically with the evidence. Achieving balance in our understanding is the essence of scientific progress.

At the JNE, we also emphasize the importance of collaboration. Addressing global health challenges requires partnerships across disciplines—epidemiology, molecular biology, public health, and beyond. Together, we can move the needle on health outcomes worldwide.

In conclusion, the Journal of Nutritional Epidemiology sets out with an ambitious mission: to elevate the discourse around nutrition and its role in public health. We invite you, as researchers, practitioners, and readers, to join us on this journey. Let the discussions sparked by this first issue inspire innovation, collaboration, and action.

Nutrition isn’t just a scientific endeavor; it’s a call to better understand ourselves and the systems that sustain life. As we explore this field, we hope the JNE will become your trusted companion in advancing knowledge and improving health globally.

References

Bray F, Laversanne M, Sung H, Ferlay J, Siegel RL, Soerjomataram I, et al. Global cancer statistics 2022: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries. 2024;74(3):229- 63.
Nagy S, Petrosky SN, Beckler MD, Kesselman MMJC. The Impact of Modern Dietary Practices on Cancer Risk and Progression: A Systematic Review. 2023;15(10).

Original Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of Pantomime to Improve Learning of Nutritional Diseases Symptoms

2025-01-06T13:00:33+00:00

Background: The use of pantomime in teaching may be one of the best ways to increase the attractiveness of teaching and improve the concentration of learners. The purpose the present study was to assess the effect of pantomime on the performance of the students on the exam of malnutrition diseases course.

Methods: The pantomime game was conducted for 5 different terms. The students were randomly divided into two equal groups in the class on malnutrition-related diseases. The average scores of the students on questions that covered topics taught using pantomime alongside lectures were compared with questions that were taught solely through lectures.

Results: About 84% of the students answered correctly to the questions that were used in the pantomime training. However, only 66% of the students were able to answer the questions that pantomime was not used in their teaching.

Conclusion: The use of pantomime in teaching the symptoms of malnutrition-related diseases may lead to a significant improvement in students' performance in the midterm and final exams.