Alles over supplementen, biohacking en gezondheid — evidence-based en geoptimaliseerd voor jouw doelen.
Aanbevelingen in jouw plan zijn nooit toevallig. We combineren drie informatiebronnen — en je kunt elk daarvan zelf controleren.
Geen medisch advies
SuppleMind is geen vervanging voor je arts, apotheker of diëtist. Raadpleeg een zorgverlener voordat je supplementen aanpast, vooral bij zwangerschap, borstvoeding, medicijngebruik of een medische aandoening.
Nieuwe meta-analyses, RCTs en systematic reviews die wij dagelijks monitoren in PubMed. Onafhankelijk geïndexeerd, niet redactioneel bewerkt.
Free radical biology & medicine · 2026
Personalized antioxidant supplementation is promoted to optimize redox balance and inflammation profile. To quantify the short-term effects of vitamin C supplementation on redox and inflammatory outcome measures and explore the potential for supplement response heterogeneity in participants with vitamin C inadequacy through aggregated sets of multi-cycle n-of-1 trials. Eight healthy young males (age 25.56 ± 3.15 years, body mass 68.24 ± 9.70 kg) completed four supplementation (vitamin C 1g) and four placebo trials administered on repeated occasions in randomized sequences following a 1-month run-in period. Vitamin C, F2-isoprostanes, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α were assessed as primary outcomes. Separate within-participant linear mixed-effects modelling and meta-analytic models estimated replicate-averaged treatment effects and person-by-treatment response variation to vitamin C supplementation. Supplementation resulted in a statistically significant increase in plasma vitamin C of 20.6 μmol/L (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.8 to 24.5). This mean treatment effect was lower than our selected clinically important threshold of 23 μmol/L. Vitamin C supplementation reduced F2-isoprostanes by 25.9 pg/mL (CI: 22.2 to 29.6 pg/mL), interleukin-6 by 1.2 pg/mL (CI: 0.7 to 1.7 pg/mL), and tumor necrosis factor-α by 0.5 pg/mL (CI: 0.2 to 0.9 pg/mL). The participant-by-treatment variance component from linear mixed-effects modelling was not statistically significant for all outcomes (P > 0.05), agreeing with the small τ-statistics for all outcomes. Shrinkage-adjusted estimates also showed strong shrinkage toward the mean, indicating that the observed response variation mainly reflected random within-person cycle-to-cycle variability rather than true inter-individual variability. Replicate-averaged treatment effects of vitamin C supplementation on our study outcomes were statistically significant, but heterogenous treatment effects were not detected between participants with baseline inadequacy. Cycle-to-cycle within-participant variation was larger than the observed inter-individual variability for each primary outcome response, suggesting that, if clinically relevant, "average treatment" may suffice for people prone to vitamin C inadequacy. Open Science Framework (osf.io/e567r). ERC-009/2024; #83059/2024.
Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience · 2026
In swine and poultry, early-life stressors such as weaning and heat stress can impair gut health and growth performance. While additives are commonly added to feed, reduced feed intake under stress may limit their effectiveness. In contrast, water intake remains relatively constant, making drinking water a promising alternative delivery route. This systematic review assessed the impact of water-delivered additives-including probiotics, plant extracts and essential oils, amino acids, and vitamins-on gut health and performance in piglets and broilers. A structured search was performed from February 2023 to April 2025 using Google Scholar, with the keywords: "probiotics OR prebiotics OR plant extract OR essential oil OR amino acids OR vitamins" AND "drinking water" AND "piglets OR broilers" AND "gut health OR intestinal morphology OR immune response OR microbiota OR oxidative stress". From 309 articles identified, 59 were retained. Results were interpreted across the four pillars of gut health: epithelial integrity and digestion, immune fitness, oxidative status, and microbiota balance. Water-supplemented probiotics improved intestinal morphology, reduced diarrhoea, modulated immune responses, and enhanced microbial balance. Plant extracts and essential oils exhibited anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects, contributing to improved gut integrity and resilience. Amino acids such as methionine and cysteine enhanced villus structure and oxidative balance, while vitamin C improved immune function and microbiota composition under heat stress. Overall, water-based supplementation appears to be a promising strategy to support gut health and performance during challenging phases. However, direct comparisons with feed-based supplementation are scarce, and further well-designed studies are needed.
F1000Research · 2025
Phacoemulsification is one of the most frequent surgeries in the world. However, prolonged use of phacoemulsification machines produces reactive oxygen species which will damage corneal endothelial cells. Ascorbic acid has an antioxidant capacity to neutralize oxidative stress in the anterior chamber. This study will investigate the protective effect of ascorbic acid on corneal endothelial cells in patients with hard nuclear cataracts. This study is a double-blinded randomized controlled trial. Samples will be divided into three groups, and 500 mg vitamin C three times daily (1500 mg/day), or placebo will be received for seven weeks. Clinical characteristics, ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde, and total antioxidant capacity of patients in serum and aqueous humor will be measured before and after intervention and phacoemulsification. Data from this study will reveal the protective effect of oral vitamin C supplementation on the corneal endothelial cells in patients with hard nucleus cataracts.This trial has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT06781970; registered on 17 January 2025). The trial record is available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06781970.
The journal of contemporary dental practice · 2026
To compare the clinical efficacy of injectable vitamin C and injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF), each combined with microneedling (MN), in enhancing gingival thickness (GT) among individuals with a thin gingival phenotype. This randomized, controlled, split-mouth clinical trial included 16 systemically healthy participants (14 females, 2 males; 18-40 years) presenting with a thin gingival phenotype. In each patient, one side received MN + vitamin C (intervention), and the contralateral side received MN + i-PRF (control). Interventions were performed in three sessions at 7-day intervals. Clinical parameters-GT, keratinized tissue width (KTW), pocket depth (PD), gingival index (GI), and plaque index (PI)-were recorded at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA and mixed cumulative linked models (CLMs), with p < 0.05 considered significant. Both groups showed a statistically significant increase in GT over time (p < 0.001). The vitamin C group achieved significantly greater GT at 1 month (1.71 ± 0.29 vs 1.55 ± 0.35 mm; p = 0.007) and 3 months (1.39 ± 0.33 vs 1.26 ± 0.33 mm; p = 0.034), while differences were not significant at 6 months. Keratinized tissue width changes were minimal and comparable between groups. Pocket depth decreased slightly in both groups, with i-PRF showing a significantly lower PD at 6 months (p = 0.040). Both GI and PI improved significantly over time, with vitamin C showing a trend toward greater GI reduction (p = 0.053). No adverse effects were observed, and 92.3% of participants reported high satisfaction. Injectable vitamin C combined with MN is a safe, minimally invasive, and effective approach for improving GT and esthetics in thin periodontal phenotypes, showing comparable long-term outcomes to i-PRF. Development of newer, less invasive therapeutic approaches that help in the prevention of gingival recession. A thin gingival biotype is more prone to gingival recession and to achieve satisfactory therapeutic results with minimum trauma to tissues of any interventional process. How to cite this article: Abdelhay NM, Elzanaty MT, Ibrahim RO. Comparative Evaluation of Vitamin C and Injectable Platelet-rich Fibrin in the Management of Thin Gingival Phenotype: A Split-mouth Randomized Clinical Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2026;27(2):170-178.
Clinical neurophysiology : official journal of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology · 2026
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) tests of Short-latency Afferent Inhibition (SAI) by conventional amplitude (A-SAI) and threshold-tracking (T-SAI) are important methods to investigate cortical excitability and, more specifically, sensory motor-integration. Since beverages containing caffeine are widely consumed, and caffeine has been reported to affect cortical excitability, it is of interest to explore if SAI is modulated by caffeine. Twenty healthy subjects (11 females, 9 males; mean age: 27.0 ± 5.53) were studied in a single fixed-dose randomized double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over trial of 200 mg caffeine or placebo administered as chewing gum. Changes in A-SAI and T-SAI at 12 interstimulus intervals between 18 ms and 30 ms were assessed by conventional fixed stimulus and threshold-tracking techniques. There was no effect of caffeine on SAI across the full range of ISIs with either of the methods. However, caffeine significantly enhanced peak A-SAI (ISIs 19-21 ms) when compared to placebo (p = 0.011), while no effect on peak T-SAI was found. Caffeine enhances SAI as evaluated with the conventional A-SAI protocol, but not with the threshold-tracking method. Caffeinés effect may result from its modulation of the cholinergic system, providing insights into both its physiological action and brain disorder pathophysiology.
Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland) · 2026
Micronutrient abnormalities are common in children and young people (CYP) with cancer, yet their clinical implications remain unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the prevalence of micronutrient abnormalities and their associations with treatment complications and prognostic indicator outcomes in CYP undergoing cancer therapy. We searched PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library (inception-April 2025) for studies evaluating blood micronutrient status in CYP (0-21 years) with cancer. Primary outcomes were treatment-related toxicities; secondary outcomes were prognostic indicators outcomes including overall survival (OS) and event free survival (EFS). Two reviewers screened, extracted data and assessed risk of bias (JBI). Where ≥2 studies reported similar outcomes, random-effects meta-analyses pooled RRs, ORs or HRs with 95% CIs. Ten studies involving 1,229 CYP were included. Micronutrient abnormalities were frequent: folate deficiency ranged from 10 to 56%, selenium 20-58%, and zinc 30-70%, with several micronutrients declining during treatment. Lower folate showed the strongest association with toxicity, with significantly increased risks of febrile neutropenia (RR 2.22), neutropenia (RR 2.30), and thrombocytopenia (RR 2.80). Lower selenium was linked to poorer survival in individual studies and consistently associated with more treatment complications, although pooled EFS estimates were non statistically significant. Zinc, vitamin B12, and copper showed no significant pooled associations with EFS, and evidence for vitamins A, C, E, and magnesium was limited or inconsistent. Micronutrient abnormalities, particularly low folate, selenium, and zinc, are prevalent in CYP undergoing cancer treatment, with folate showing the most consistent associations with treatment complications. This supports the need for routine monitoring; however, large international multicentre population-based and international mechanistic studies are warranted. PROSPERO Registration: Registration ID: CRD42025646467. Link: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/recorddashboard.
PloS one · 2026
Although several effective therapies exist for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), current pharmaceutical treatment carries a high risk of misuse and high levels of discontinuation, evidencing a need for alternatives. One possible avenue is serotonergic intervention, particularly within the serotonin synthesis pathway, where there are several potential loci of dysfunction in ADHD. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of acute 5-hydroxytryptophan, a serotonin precursor, in reducing distractibility in adults with high levels of ADHD traits. The study consisted of a randomised, controlled trial to assess the effects of acute 5-hydroxytryptophan administration compared to placebo. Participants consisted of individuals with high (N = 56) and low (N = 56) levels of ADHD traits, determined using the Adult ADHD self-report scale screener (ASRS v1.1), with randomised allocation to intervention or placebo in a 1:1 ratio. Both participants and investigators delivering the trial were blind to the allocation. Baseline testing of distractibility using a task-relevant (Eriksen flanker) and novel task-irrelevant (N-back coupled with an auditory stimulus) paradigm was completed, participants were given the intervention or placebo, and tasks were repeated 90 min post-administration. The flanker and N-back task found few differences between individuals with high and low levels of ADHD traits, and the N-back task did not produce a distractor effect as initially predicted. 5-hydroxytryptophan produced no significant positive effect in any measure of distractibility that differed between individuals with high or low ADHD traits. Only accuracy on silent trials in the N-back task was affected by 5-hydroxytryptophan administration: placebo participants showed an improvement in performance and 5-hydroxytryptophan-administered participants did not. 19.6% of participants in the 5-hydroxytryptophan group experienced adverse events of fatigue, nausea or vomiting. Although 5-hydroxytryptophan did not elicit a positive effect on ADHD traits,further work should be conducted with measures more sensitive to ADHD traits to fully understand the impact of 5-hydroxytryptophan supplementation on the condition.
Journal of animal science · 2026
Although several nutritional tables report Zn requirements for pigs, dietary Zn levels that exceed recommendations are commonly used to improve performance in nursery pigs. However, excessive Zn supplementation is a practice that has been recently regulated in different countries. Understanding the factors influencing Zn excretion is important for optimizing Zn utilization in swine production and mitigating regulations of its use. This review compiled data from 51 published studies to identify factors associated with Zn excretion using a principal component analysis and developed predictive models for fecal Zn excretion utilizing a meta-regression analysis. Because urine Zn excretion was negligible (around 2% of the total Zn excretion), fecal and total Zn excretion did not differ. The first two principal components (PC) accounted for 35.9% and 19.3% of the total database variance, respectively. PC 1 was primarily influenced by nutrient intake variables, including fiber, NE, nitrogen, and minerals, such as P, Ca, and Fe, as well as body weight and feed intake. PC 2 was dominated by Zn-related variables, including Zn intake, fecal Zn excretion, the difference between Zn intake and Zn requirements estimates from NRC, and added dietary Zn. Variables such as Mn, Cu, and lactose intake moderately contributed to both components, whereas the use of antibiotics, exogenous enzymes other than phytase, and acidifiers had a low impact on the variation explained by both components. Stepwise selection indicated that when pigs were fed at or below their Zn requirement estimate, Zn, P, and Fe intake significantly influenced fecal Zn excretion. However, when Zn intake exceeds the requirement estimate, Zn sources and Zn intake were the most influential variables. Regardless of the scenario, Zn intake was the primary determinant of fecal Zn excretion. The meta-regression analysis indicated that when pigs are fed at or below their Zn requirement, 61% of Zn intake is excreted in feces, increasing to 82% when Zn intake exceeds requirements. In conclusion, while Zn excretion is affected by multiple dietary factors, their contribution under practical conditions is relatively low, and Zn intake remains the primary determinant of fecal Zn excretion. Zinc is an essential micromineral for pigs, playing a critical role in various physiological reactions. Although multiple nutritional guides provide recommendations for dietary zinc, the swine industry commonly uses higher dietary zinc levels to improve growth performance in post-weaning diets, a practice that has been increasingly questioned in multiple countries. Developing nutritional and management strategies to reduce zinc use requires a deep understanding of the factors influencing zinc excretion and user-friendly tools to quantify the excretion. This meta-analysis analyzed data from 51 published studies using two statistical approaches to identify nutritional factors associated with zinc excretion and develop predictive models for fecal zinc excretion. Whereas factors such as high concentrations of certain minerals, nitrogen, fiber, lactose, the use of dietary enzymes, and zinc sources can influence zinc excretion, zinc intake is the major determinant of excretion. Models derived from the review of the literature indicate that when pigs are fed at or below their zinc requirement estimate, 61% of the zinc is excreted in feces. However, when pigs are fed above their requirement estimates, zinc excretion increases to 82% of intake.
BMC oral health · 2026
Pulpotomy is a commonly used approach for treating deep caries in primary teeth. In recent years, diode lasers have been explored the use in pulpotomy. This study systematically reviewed the clinical and radiographic efficacy of diode lasers in pulpotomy and evaluated their feasibility and safety as an alternative treatment modality. This systematic review searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library for all published articles in the English language from inception to August 31, 2025. The medical subject headings (MeSH) terms and free-text keywords were used. The Cochrane collaboration risk assessment tool was used to evaluate the quality of the literature. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochran's Q test and the I2 statistic. The results of this study showed that comparing with other treatments, no significant differences in clinical or radiographic success rates at every follow-up period (P > 0.05). However, diode lasers significantly decreased the occurrence of pathologic widening of the periodontal space (P < 0.05). Laser wavelength did not significantly influence the outcome (P > 0.05). When using zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) as the pulp capping material, diode lasers lowered the incidence of pathological widening of the periodontal ligament space (P < 0.05). Sensitivity analyses confirmed that most results were consistent, although some subgroup outcomes were affected when individual studies were excluded. Funnel plot examination indicated no evidence of publication bias. Compared with other methods, diode laser treatment demonstrated similar clinical and radiographic success rates and showed potential benefits in reducing the incidence of pathologic widening of periodontal space. Therefore, diode laser-assisted pulpotomy may be considered a viable alternative therapy. The study was submitted to the Open Science Framework platform [https://osf.io/rweuq/overview?view_only=fa297ad91199454581a03dedc1b3d4e0].
Breast cancer research and treatment · 2026
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of various interventions for preventing and alleviating oral mucositis (OM), a dose-limiting toxicity induced by cancer treatment. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched from their inception to March 19, 2026. The quality of included studies was assessed using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (ROB 2). A Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted utilizing R 4.5.1 and the JAGS package (version 4.3.1). The interventions were compared using league tables, surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA), and heterogeneity testing. A total of 7,790 articles were retrieved. Ultimately, 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 869 patients were included. According to the NMA, zinc most effectively reduced overall OM (RR = 0.53, 95%CrI: 0.27 to 0.95), while propolis dry extract was optimal for grade ≥ 2 OM (RR = 0.15, 95%CrI: 0.01 to 0.99). bifico significantly decreased overall OM (RR = 0.58, 95%CrI: 0.44 to 0.73) and ranked second for grade ≥ 2 OM. Subgroup analyses showed that professional oral health care and zinc were superior in chemotherapy patients, while MuGard and professional oral health care performed best in targeted therapy patients. Professional oral health care was most effective against grade ≥ 2 OM in the targeted therapy subgroup (SUCRA = 96.17%). Zinc and propolis dry extract are the most optimal strategies for overall and grade ≥ 2 OM in BC patients, respectively. bifico shows promising clinical potential. Professional oral health care is effective in both chemotherapy and targeted therapy subgroups. Further large-scale RCTs are needed to validate these findings. Not applicable.
BMC infectious diseases · 2026
Zinc is essential for epithelial integrity and antifungal immunity and may influence host-pathogen interactions in vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). However, the relationship between zinc status, zinc-based interventions, and VVC pathogenisis remains unclear. We aimed to assess the clinical efficacy of zinc-based interventions for recurrence prevention and to examine their effects on Candida virulence and inflammatory pathways. We systematically searched the MEDLINE, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register, and trial registries from inception to September 2025. We included observational, interventional, and experimental studies that evaluated zinc status or zinc-based therapies in VVC. Random-effects meta-analyses were used to estimate the pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) for zinc concentrations with subgroup analyses by sample type and pregnancy status. Risk ratio and risk difference for recurrence outcomes were calculated using Fisher's exact test. Our search identified 45 records and eleven studies (six observational, two randomised controlled trials (RCTs), and three quasi-experimental) met the inclusion criteria. Six plasma/serum comparisons from observational studies were meta-analyzed. Women with VVC had significantly lower systemic zinc levels than controls (pooled SMD = - 0.72, 95% CI: -1.15 to - 0.28, p = 0.001; I²=73.5%). Pregnancy status was a significant moderator (X2 = 9.14, df = 1, p = 0.003), with a much larger effect in pregnant women (SMD - 2.19, 95% CI -3.19 to - 1.18) than in non-pregnant women (SMD - 0.55, 95% CI -0.89 to - 0.21). One RCT (n = 68) showed that zinc supplementation produced a numerically lower 90-day reinfection rate that did not reach statistical significance (28.6% vs. 48.5%, RR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.31-1.11, p = 0.134). One RCT (n = 192) reported improved pruritus with adjunctive zinc-containing therapy (P < 0.005). Experimental studies demonstrated that zinc restriction upregulates PRA1 expression, enhancing neutrophil-mediated inflammation, while zinc supplementation or zinc oxide nanoparticles downregulate virulence factors (SAP1-3) and attenuate inflammation without reducing fungal burden. Zinc deficiency is associated with VVC, with a larger effect in pregnant women likely reflecting altered zinc physiology in pregnancy. Lower zinc levels in VVC may reflect a host nutritional immunity rather than a pre-existing deficiency, and causality cannot be established from the available cross-sectional evidence. Clinical trials remain insufficient to support zinc-based therapies for routine use in VVC. Not applicable. The protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251152091).
Nutrients · 2026
Introduction: Previous research has shown that L-carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) can reduce cognitive decline and improve mental health outcomes, but an updated systematic review of the effects of carnosine alone or in combination with other supplemental nutrients or bioactive compounds on these interconnected outcomes is lacking. Methods: We searched multiple databases from 1 January 2006 to 30 June 2025 for clinical trials evaluating the effects of all forms of carnosine (e.g., L-carnosine, zinc-L-carnosine) alone or in combination with other supplements on cognition, brain structure and function, mood, depression, or quality of life (QOL) outcomes. The Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB) 2.0 tool was used to assess the ROB in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). When data were sufficient, random-effects meta-analyses were conducted. Strength of evidence (SoE) across studies was rated using the GRADE approach. Results: A total of 13 distinct studies (12 RCTs; 1 single-arm trial) involving healthy adults and patients with psychiatric or neurocognitive disorders were included. Studies were also heterogeneous in carnosine supplement dosage and duration. Overall 58% of included RCTs were rated 'some concerns' for ROB. Ten RCTs evaluated cognitive function, seven RCTs and one single-arm trial assessed mood and depression, four RCTs measured QOL, and three RCTs examined brain structure and function. Results from five RCTs found no significant differences in the majority of the cognitive function measures between L-carnosine supplement and placebo, but random-effects meta-analysis of three RCTs from a single research team found that anserine/L-carnosine supplementation significantly improved WMS-LM2 scores (pooled net change = 1.70; 95% CI 0.19, 3.2; I2 = 58.3%) but not WMS-Local Memory Immediate Recall (LM1) scores (pooled net change = 0.76; 95% CI -0.18, 1.71; I2 = 8.5%). Additionally, meta-analysis results showed that L-carnosine combined with anserine or antioxidant supplementation significantly improved the MMSE score compared to placebo (pooled net change = 0.62; 95% CI 0.23, 1.01), with small statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 21.3%). Most of the studies did not show significant effects in a wide range of mood and depression outcome measures or health-related QOL (data cannot be meta-analyzed). Conclusions: A low strength of evidence suggests that L-carnosine supplement combined with anserine or antioxidants can slow cognitive function decline among healthy elderly or patients with probable Alzheimer's Disease or mild neurocognitive disorder. More high-quality RCTs are needed to verify these findings and to improve the certainty level of this body of evidence.
EBioMedicine · 2026
Serum creatine kinase (CK) is a routinely measured biomarker of muscle damage, yet the genetic factors underlying inter-individual variation in CK levels remain poorly defined. Here we present a large multi-ancestry genome-wide association meta-analysis of serum CK, comprising 237,255 participants spanning Admixed American, African American, East Asian, European and Middle Eastern populations. We identify 107 independent loci at genome-wide significance (P< 5 × 10-8), 98 of which are previously unreported, with pronounced enrichment for genes expressed in skeletal and cardiac muscle and overlap with pathways related to muscle structure and function. Notably, eight loci map to genes implicated in Mendelian myopathies, underscoring a continuum from common regulatory variation to rare pathogenic mutations. Integrative quantitative trait locus (QTL)-based Mendelian randomisation and colocalisation implicate several genes in CK regulation, most prominently SMAD3, KLF5 and STAT3 within the transforming growth factor beta signalling pathway. CK levels show positive genetic correlations with traits reflecting tissue damage as well as muscle mass and strength, and negative correlations with C-reactive protein, indicating pleiotropic effects from muscle biology and enzyme clearance. These findings delineate the genetic architecture of serum CK across diverse populations and highlight muscle-related pathways contributing to CK variation. No funding was received for this study.
Nutrients · 2026
Hypoxic environments significantly impair exercise performance, whilst existing interventions are often limited by adverse effects or insufficient efficacy. This study employed network meta-analysis to screen plant bioactive compounds that effectively enhance exercise performance under hypoxic conditions, with subsequent validation of the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of their combined formulations through animal experiments. Results from hypoxic mouse experiments demonstrated that supplementation with the plant bioactive compound combination significantly improved exercise performance, as evidenced by increased weight-loaded swimming time and limb grip strength. Differential metabolite analysis revealed that the intervention altered key metabolic pathways, including the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids and the metabolism of arginine and proline. Supplementation with the plant bioactive compound combination modulated short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production by gut microbiota, decreased levels of lactic acid (LA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine kinase (CK), maintained blood glucose levels before and after exercise, and increased muscle and hepatic glycogen reserves. These effects collectively improved exercise endurance and performance in mice under hypoxic conditions. The findings provide novel insights into developing functional interventions to enhance exercise performance in hypoxic environments.
Cephalalgia : an international journal of headache · 2026
BackgroundThe neurobiological basis of migraine remains incompletely understood. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) allows non-invasive quantification of neurochemical and metabolic patterns in the brain, offering unique insights into biochemical processes during distinct migraine phases. This systematic review provides a critical appraisal of existing evidence describing MRS-derived neurochemical and metabolic alterations during spontaneous and experimentally provoked migraine attacks.MethodsA systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement and prospectively registered in PROSPERO. Comprehensive searches of PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were performed from database inception through August 1, 2025. Eligible studies included observational or interventional investigations acquiring 1H-MRS or 31P-MRS data during the ictal phase in adults with migraine, incorporating either non-ictal comparisons or healthy controls. Considerable variability in study design, brain regions, and metabolite outcomes precluded quantitative synthesis, necessitating a structured qualitative analysis organized by MRS technique and anatomical region.ResultsEight studies published between 1988 and 2022 met inclusion criteria, comprising five 1H-MRS investigations and three 31P-MRS studies, some of which derived from overlapping participant cohorts. Brain regions examined included occipital cortex, pons, frontal cortex, basal ganglia, and parieto-occipital areas. In individual 1H-MRS studies, occipital cortex analyses demonstrated ictal elevations in total choline and total N-acetyl aspartate, while lower glutathione concentrations were observed. A single 1H-MRS study targeting the pons identified ictal increases in total creatine and total N-acetyl aspartate. Findings from 31P-MRS studies indicated altered cerebral energy metabolism during migraine attacks.ConclusionsAvailable MRS evidence suggests that migraine attacks are associated with altered cerebral energy metabolism, particularly within visual cortical and brainstem regions. However, existing studies differ substantially in design, acquisition parameters, regions of interest, and analytical approaches, such that few directly address comparable questions. Thus, the reproducibility of reported findings remains uncertain. Establishing reliable attack-related metabolic signatures will require well-designed longitudinal MRS investigations capable of directly probing ictal dynamics.
Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition · 2026
Menopause is accompanied by accelerated losses in muscle mass and strength and declining bone density. Whether creatine monohydrate benefits postmenopausal women are uncertain. We systematically reviewed randomized, placebo-controlled trials examining creatine supplementation, with or without resistance training (RT), in postmenopausal women. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from 2000 to August 2025, supplemented by trial registries and reference-list screening. Eligible studies included postmenopausal women aged ≥40-45 years, intervention durations ≥6 weeks for primary analyses, and outcomes including DXA-derived lean mass, one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength, bone mineral density, physical function, and safety. Dual screening, duplicate extraction, and Cochrane RoB 2 assessment were performed. Random-effects meta-analysis used the Paule-Mandel estimator for τ² with Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman adjustment. Heterogeneity (τ², I²), 95% prediction intervals, subgroup analyses by RT status, exploratory dose/duration meta-regression, small-study effects, and GRADE certainty were assessed. Seven RCTs (n = 608 randomized; duration 12-104 weeks, median 38 weeks) enrolled postmenopausal women (mean age ≈ 62 y). Lean mass (k = 5; n = 338) favored creatine: mean difference (MD) + 0.37 kg (95% CI + 0.05 to + 0.69; I² = 25%; τ² = 0.01; 95% PI -0.10 to + 0.84). Leg-press 1RM (k = 3; n = 111) improved with creatine: MD + 7.5 kg (95% CI + 2.2 to + 12.8; I² = 0%). Benefits were evident when creatine ≥ 5 g·day⁻¹ was combined with RT; trials using ≤ 3 g·day⁻¹ without RT showed no measurable effect. Bone density was unchanged overall. Adverse events were mild and similar to placebo; renal indices were unchanged. Risk of bias was mostly "some concerns;" one large, preregistered, double-blind RCT was at low risk. In postmenopausal women, creatine, particularly ≥ 5 g·day⁻¹ with RT, yields small but meaningful gains in lean mass and strength without evidence of harm. Effects on bone density remain unclear.Registration: This review was not prospectively registered. De-identified data and supplementary materials were deposited on OSF after completion of the analysis (DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/BVTRZ).
International journal of medical sciences · 2026
Women experience progressive musculoskeletal deterioration across reproductive stages, with accelerated changes during the menopausal transition. Exercise provides established benefits, but the additive effects of nutritional supplementation strategies, including proteins, amino acids, and related compounds such as creatine, remain uncertain. Previous systematic reviews focused on older adults aged 65 years and above, leaving a knowledge gap regarding women facing unique metabolic challenges related to reproductive hormones. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate whether nutritional supplementation combined with exercise enhances muscle mass, strength, and bone health outcomes in women across reproductive stages, with particular attention to the menopausal transition. Eight databases were searched from inception to July 2025: CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, PsycINFO, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. We included randomized controlled trials examining nutritional supplementation combined with exercise in women across reproductive stages. Interventions comprised whole proteins, amino acids, amino acid derivatives, or protein-derived peptides administered with structured exercise programs. Comparators included exercise alone or a placebo plus exercise. Primary outcomes were muscle mass measures. Secondary outcomes included muscle strength, bone health parameters, body composition, and adverse events. Random-effects meta-analyses calculated Hedges' g with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Fourteen trials including 763 women across reproductive stages met the inclusion criteria, which evaluated whole-protein supplements (five studies), amino acids and derivatives (six studies), and creatine monohydrate (three studies). The combined intervention showed no significant effects on muscle mass measures: skeletal muscle mass (g=0.065, 95% CI: -0.353 to 0.482, p=0.762), appendicular lean mass (g=0.197, 95% CI: -0.177 to 0.571, p=0.302), or fat-free mass (g=0.069, 95% CI: -0.110 to 0.249, p=0.447). Significant improvements occurred in bench press (g=0.279, 95% CI: 0.008 to 0.550, p=0.043) and handgrip strength (g=0.412, 95% CI: 0.039 to 0.786, p=0.031). No significant effects emerged for bone mineral content (g=0.195, 95% CI: -0.281 to 0.671, p=0.421) or bone mineral density (g=0.087, 95% CI: -0.129 to 0.303, p=0.430). No increase in adverse events was observed. Current evidence does not support robust additive effects of nutritional supplementation on muscle mass or bone health when combined with exercise in women across reproductive stages. Selective upper-body strength improvements were observed, particularly in studies using creatine supplementation. Exercise alone provides reliable musculoskeletal health benefits. Given the heterogeneity of supplement types examined, future research should employ longer intervention durations (≥12 months) with site-specific bone measurements and conduct head-to-head comparisons of specific supplement types.
Stress (Amsterdam, Netherlands) · 2026
Stress and anxiety are prevalent mental health conditions that often coexist with cardiovascular comorbidities, resulting in a complex interplay between psychological and physiological processes, partly mediated through activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Ashwagen®, a standardized extract of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), has demonstrated adaptogenic and anxiolytic properties in preclinical and clinical studies. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Ashwagen® in managing stress and anxiety in patients with pre-existing hypertension and associated cardiometabolic risk factors. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical trial was conducted over 60 days in 60 patients diagnosed with stress, anxiety, and pre-existing hypertension with cardiometabolic risk profiles. Participants received either Ashwagen® (300 mg capsule) or placebo twice daily. Efficacy assessments included validated psychological scales-Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS)-along with serum cortisol, triglycerides, LDL, and blood pressure measurements. Ashwagen® significantly reduced anxiety and stress markers compared with placebo. HAM-A, GAD-7, and PSS scores decreased by 26.94%, 50.77%, and 30.47%, respectively, in the Ashwagen® group. Cortisol levels declined by 28.99% and triglycerides by 13.00%, with favorable trends in LDL and blood pressure. No serious adverse events were reported. Ashwagen® was found to be a safe and effective adjunctive integrative intervention for stress and anxiety management in patients with pre-existing hypertension.
Gates open research · 2026
Menstrual cups are increasingly promoted in low-resource settings as long-lasting and cost-effective menstrual hygiene solutions. However, no studies have been done among cup users to characterize the bacterial communities found on cups with long-term use when stored. This study sought to comprehensively characterize the bacterial surface profile of the menstrual cup, identify factors associated with putative pathogens, and quantify the vaginal microbiome as potential source for menstrual cup bacterial communities. Over 30 months of follow-up, 369 menstrual cup samples were collected from 172 secondary schoolgirls participating in a randomized controlled trial in western Kenya. Samples were obtained from cups brought to school by girls during study visits. Menstrual cup and vaginal microbiomes were assessed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Mixed effects models were applied to identify factors associated with putative pathogens ( Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, coliform bacteria), and factors associated with vaginal microbiome as potential source environment to bacterial surface profile of the menstrual cup, estimated via fast expectation-maximization for microbial source tracking (FEAST). Menstrual cup bacterial surface profile composition was primarily comprised of soil and water bacteria. However, taxa specific to the vaginal microbiome (e.g., Lactobacillus crispatus, L. iners, and Gardnerella vaginalis) were also recovered from cups. The mean relative abundance (presence) of E. coli and S. aureus was 0.09% (36%) and 0.36% (24%), respectively, with higher relative abundance among participants with HSV-2 or non-optimal vaginal community state type 4. Damaged cups were also associated with higher relative abundance of putative pathogens, while antibiotic use was inversely associated with E. coli. On average, 25.1% of cup microbiota originated from the vagina, with lower contributions among older participants and those with damaged cups. No serious adverse events related to the menstrual cup were observed in the cohort. Interventions focused on improved cleaning and storage tools and methods, and access to clean water and sanitation infrastructure are required to maximize safety of menstrual cup use in low-resource settings.
Frontiers in immunology · 2026
Traditional Chinese medicine polysaccharides (TCMPs) are promising therapeutic candidates for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), known for their efficacy and low toxicity. Acting as potent gut microbiota modulators, TCMPs may alleviate RA by reshaping microbial communities and their metabolic outputs. This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase up to April 7, 2025, for relevant animal studies. From an initial pool of 282 records, nine studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed, involving polysaccharides from six single herbs and one compound formula. The results demonstrated that TCMPs significantly alleviated RA symptoms, including paw swelling and arthritis scores, and improved bone quality metrics. Regarding gut microbiota modulation, TCMPs induced changes in nine phyla (e.g., Patescibacteria, Desulfobacterota, Firmicutes) and 65 genera. At the genus level, 37 taxa (including Dubosiella, Faecalibaculum, Bifidobacterium) increased in abundance post-treatment, while 20 decreased. The results for 8 genera were inconsistent across studies. Notably, the abundance of Lactobacillus was reported to increase in four of the included studies. These microbial shifts correlated with reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, TNF-α), improved RA clinical and bone parameters, and elevated levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), particularly butyrate and propionate. Correlation analyses identified Romboutsia and Lactobacillus as negatively associated with RA severity. Mechanistically, TCMPs enriched beneficial genera, enhanced SCFA production, suppressed NF-κB and JAK/STAT3 pathways, upregulated tight junction-related genes, and inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation via microbiota-derived metabolites, collectively forming a "microbiota-metabolite-host" regulatory network. This review demonstrates that TCMPs alleviate RA in animal models by modulating gut microbiota to enrich beneficial bacteria, suppress pathogens, enhance intestinal barrier function, and regulate immune homeostasis via the gut-joint axis, with SCFAs playing a pivotal role. Given the low methodological quality and high heterogeneity of included studies, future research should prioritize rigorous design, multi-omics integration, and clinical translation. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420251053482.