The meeting point between nutrition and the immune system has been the epicentre of an emerging and promising discipline: Immunonutrition. This field delves into the fundamental connections between nutrition, immunity, infection, inflammation and tissue damage, exploring how nutrients can be harnessed to modulate the immune system and improve the response to various clinical situations. The…
Bariatric surgery is a significant step on the road to weight loss and a healthier life for many people. There are several types of bariatric surgery: Gastric bypass: In this procedure, a small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and connected directly to the small intestine. This limits the amount of food…
Disease-associated malnutrition ranges from sarcopenic obesity to tumour cachexia, and is a complex phenomenon that impacts the health and quality of life of patients. Related to chronic or acute diseases, as well as to the presence of tumours, it represents a relevant clinical challenge due to its influence on the course of diseases and response…
14 November marks World Diabetes Day, established by the United Nations. Between 1980 and 2017, the estimated number of people worldwide affected by the disease has almost quadrupled to 425 million adults. Diabetes is diagnosed using several criteria: Plasma glucose levels ≥ 200 mg/dL at any time of the day, regardless of food intake. Basal…
The struggle with infertility can be an emotional rollercoaster, and for many couples, understanding the underlying causes is the first step towards treatment and successful conception. The most common causes of infertility: Female Infertility – Ovulation Problems: Irregularities in the menstrual cycle or the absence of ovulation are common causes of female infertility. Polycystic ovary…
Anti-nutrients are substances that are part of the defence mechanism of plants against possible external attacks. These natural compounds can block the absorption or activity of vitamins and minerals. The most important ones are: 1. LECTINS Lectins are glycoproteins found in the seed, legume and grain families, such as rice, wheat, barley and maize, as…
Adapting the diet of oncology patients according to the stage of their illness and treatment ensures a good nutritional state. If the patient is well nourished, there will be less risk of malnutrition, their immune system will be stronger and treatments will be more effective. The most important aspects to take into account in order…
While healthcare is becoming more patient-centred, evidence-based nutrition interventions are still not accessible to all patients with cancer. As nutrition interventions directly improve clinical and socioeconomic outcomes, patient-centred care is not complete without nutrition care. While awareness of the negative impact of malnutrition on clinical outcomes, quality of life, and functional and emotional wellbeing in…
Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are chemical compounds that interfere with the function of hormones and can have adverse effects on both human health and wildlife. These compounds are found in everyday products such as plastics, condoms, baby products, cosmetics and/or pesticides among others. Exposure to these substances can have long-term effects, such as increased incidence of…
In 2019, the EAT-Lancet commission published the characteristics of the planetary diet, the basis of the plant-based diet. Its impact was so great that in 2022, the various European food safety agencies published new sustainable dietary and physical activity recommendations based on the planetary diet. The concept of a ‘plant-based diet’ varies greatly in its…
