Application of Manuka honey in treatment patients with GERD.

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease has systematically increase in Western countries over recent years. Health benefits of Manuka honey allows to use it for medical purposes, for example reduction of inflammation of gastrointestinal mucosa. Thus, the aim of research was the application of Manuka honey in treatment patients with Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). The study was conducted on a group of 30 patients, which consumed Manuka honey or placebo for a period of 4 weeks. The gastroscopy and histology has been made twice, that is before and after experiment. Furthermore, the symptoms reports and nutritional interviews have been collected. The endoscopical examination showed that in Manuka group the improvement was 73.3%. In the sub-groups of esophagitis-A and esophagitis-B the improvement rate was 81.8%, and 50%, respectively. However, in the placebo group, the general improvement rate was much lower. The results have been confirmed in the histopathological examination. Moreover, it is worth noticing, that in sub-group declaring non-medication, the improvement was only for patients consuming Manuka honey. Changes of symptoms in subjective assessment of patients were evaluated after 2 and 4 weeks. The improvement rate in Manuka group was 86.7% and 100%, while in Placebo group it was only 26.7% and 40%, respectively. Manuka honey seems to be effective in GERD, which have been confirmed by subjective feelings of patients and by endoscopic and histopathologic examination. Our research is a pilot study before administration of Manuka honey to larger population. The results are promising and may facilitate the quality of life of patients with GERD.

Averrhoa carambola L., Cyphomandra betacea, Myrciaria dubia as a Source of Bioactive Compounds of Antioxidant Properties.

Natural bioactive compounds play an important role in the prevention of various diseases. The exotic fruits Averrhoa carambola L. (star fruit), Cyphomandra betacea (tamarillo) and Myrciaria dubia (camu-camu) can be valuable sources of phytochemicals with antioxidant properties. The aim of this study has been to compare the antioxidant properties of these exotic fruits, the structure of polyphenolic compounds and the content of vitamin C and ß-carotene. All the juices were analyzed for their antioxidant capacity (DPPH and ABTS assays) and the composition of phenolic compounds (TP and FBBB assays, total flavonoid content, total anthocyanins). In addition, HPLC assays were performed to analyse the content of phenolic acids, flavonoids, vitamin C and ß-carotene. The results demonstrated that juice from the Myrciaria dubia fruit had the highest antioxidant capacity, which was 4.5-fold higher than that of juice from Averrhola carambola L., and nearly 7-fold higher than the antioxidant capacity of Cyphomandra betacea fruit juice. Additionally, juice from the camu-camu fruit had a 3- to 4-fold higher total polyphenol content (8290 ± 254 mg GAE L-1) and a high level of vitamin C (8410.8 ± 16.9 mg AA kg-1). In turn, tamarillo juice had a high content of total anthocyanins (5796 mg CGE L-1) and phenolic acids (mostly chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid). Juice produced from carambola had a high content of total flavonoids (1345 mg CAE L-1), and the composition of these compounds was dominated by flavanols (epicatechin). The research results justify the conclusion that fruits of Myrciaria dubia, Averrhoa carambola L., Cyphomandra betacea are rich sources of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties, and in the near future may serve as healthful food ingredients.

Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Selected Fruit Juices.

Fruit and fruit juices are a valuable source of bioactive compounds, which can protect our organisms from oxidative stress. The phenolic compounds and other phytochemicals may affect the antimicrobial properties of juices. The aim of this study has been to evaluate antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of selected berry juices and vitamin C-rich fruit juices. The research material was composed of seven juices, including three from berries (elderberry chokeberry, cranberry), three from vitamin C-rich fruit (sea buckthorn, wild rose, Japanese quince) and one exotic juice from noni fruit. Antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol, total flavonoid and total anthocyanin content were determined. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) as well as the minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) were evaluated. The research showed that fruit juices from wild rose, chokeberry and Japanese quince had the highest antioxidant capacity. These juices were characterised by the rich content of polyphenols. Elderberry and chokeberry juices had the highest total anthocyanins. The juices differed in the content of bioactive compounds and specific bactericidal properties against Gram-positive or Gram-negative bacteria. Fruit juices from cranberry, Japanese quince and sea buckthorn had the highest antimicrobial activity. Wild rose, chokeberry and elderberry juices, despite their high antioxidant properties, showed antimicrobial activity only against Gram-positive strains, except Enterococcus faecalis and Clostridium perfringens. Significant differences in the content of bioactive compounds in fruit juices affect the antimicrobial properties juices.

Multidimensional Comparative Analysis of Bioactive Phenolic Compounds of Honeys of Various Origin.

Honey is a natural product which owes its health benefits to its numerous bioactive compounds. The composition of honey is highly diverse and depends on the type of honey and its origin. Antioxidant capacity arises mainly from the total content of polyphenols and their composition. The aim of this study was to perform a multidimensional comparative analysis of phenolic compounds of honeys of various origins. Honeydew, buckwheat, manuka, Malaysian and goldenrod honeys had the highest antioxidant capacity (above 400 mg Trolox equivalents kg-1). These honeys were also characterized by the highest total polyphenol content (about 2500 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) kg-1) and the highest total flavonoid content (1400-1800 mg catechin equivalents (CAE) kg-1). Other honeys had much lower antioxidant properties. A multidimensional analysis of the profiles of phenolic compounds showed that honeys constitute a non-homogeneous data set and manuka honey was in contrast to other samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) (based on 18 phenolic compounds) distinguished honeys into five groups. Manuka, Malaysian and honeydew honeys created their own separate groups and the location of other honeys was variable. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) analysis demonstrated that profiles of polyphenols in honeys were highly varied. Caffeic acid, datiscetin and rhamnetin were characteristic compounds for manuka honey. Quercetin, kaempferol and apigenin were present in all honeys except Malaysian honey. The antioxidant properties and the profiles of bioactive phenolic compounds of honeys were miscellaneous. The richest sources of polyphenols were local buckwheat and honeydew honeys, alongside exotic manuka and Malaysian honeys. These honeys could provide valuable ingredients to the human diet, helping to prevent diseases.

Antioxidant Properties and Fatty Acid Profile of Cretan Extra Virgin Bioolive Oils: A Pilot Study.

Olive oil is considered a valuable ingredient of human diet. It is a good source of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as other bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols. The composition of olive oil depends mainly on the variety of plant, cultivation practices, and manufacturing conditions. Traditional processing methods may ensure better quality and health benefits. Therefore, the aim of the study was the evaluation of antioxidant properties and fatty acid profile of Cretan extra virgin bioolive oils. These ones were compared with commercial Spanish, Italian, and Greek extra virgin olive oils. Obtained results showed that sample Cretan 1 had about 15% higher antioxidant capacity and about 60% higher total polyphenol content than commercial counterparts. This one had also a favorable profile of fatty acids, especially 20% more linoleic acid. We concluded that traditional production methods, using millstones, cold pressing, and without centrifugation and filtration ensure better olive oil quality and related health benefits.

Antioxidant properties and antimicrobial activity of manuka honey versus Polish honeys.

Originating from New Zealand manuka honey distinguishes itself from other honeys. The purpose of this study was to compare the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of manuka honey and selected Polish honeys. Antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol and total flavonoid content were determined. Furthermore, the antimicrobial activity and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) were evaluated. Obtained results demonstrated that manuka honeys possessed relatively high antioxidant capacity compared to the other, Polish honeys. It was only honeydew honey that achieved comparable antioxidant properties to manuka honeys. The findings were supported by the results of microbial assays. Manuka MGO-250 and MGO-400, alongside honeydew honey, showed a stronger antimicrobial effect against Gram(+) than against Gram(-) bacteria. Moreover, the MIC-values, expressed as an inhibin number, proved the high antibiotic activity of manuka honey against the strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Research concerning the influence of manuka honey on human health should be continued.

Assessment of Antioxidant Properties of Classic Energy Drinks in Comparison with Fruit Energy Drinks.

Energy drinks (EDs) contain sugar, caffeine, and other bioactive compounds. Recently, new types of EDs, enriched with fruit juices, natural pigments, and plant extracts, have been launched in the market. The objective of this study was to investigate the composition and antioxidant properties of the most popular classic and fruit EDs. The study was carried out including 24 of the most popular energy drinks (classic and fruit EDs). The composition of EDs, especially caffeine and sugar, and antioxidant properties (antioxidant capacity, total polyphenols, total anthocyanins, vitamin C) were analyzed. Energy drinks with added fruit juice or natural pigments had a significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) antioxidant capacity compared to classic energy drinks. Fruit EDs had a higher concentration of polyphenols and vitamin C. In some fruit EDs, slight amounts of anthocyanins were found. Generally, EDs are not a rich source of polyphenols and are not distinguished by high antioxidant capacity. However, fruit energy drinks and/or ones with added natural pigments have much better antioxidant properties than classic EDs. Both classic and fruit EDs contain a large amount of caffeine and sugar, therefore, it would be advisable not to drink large amounts of EDs for possible related health issues.

Effects of Acute Consumption of Noni and Chokeberry Juices vs. Energy Drinks on Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, and Blood Glucose in Young Adults.

The purpose of this study has been to determine the effect of acute consumption of noni and chokeberry juices vs. energy drinks on blood pressure, heart rate, and blood glucose. The subjects divided into 4 groups, which consumed three portions of noni or chokeberry juices (30 mL or 200 mL, respectively) and energy drink (ED) or water (200 mL) at one-hour intervals. All participants had their blood pressure (BP), both systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP), as well as heart rate (HR) and blood glucose (BG), measured. Consumption of noni juice caused a significant decrease in SBP and DBP of 5.0% and 7.5%, respectively, while, the consumption of chokeberry juice slightly decreased only DBP by 3.6%. On the contrary, consumption of three portions of EDs caused a significant increase in DBP by 14.7%. The BG of participants consuming noni juice decreased by 7.3%, while the consumption of EDs increased BG by as much as 15.8%. Acute consumption of noni juice contributed to a significantly decreased SBP, DBP, and HR as well as a mild reduction of BG. Consumption of chokeberry juice caused only a slight reduction of DBP. Contrary to juices, EDs consumption resulted in an increase of blood pressure (especially DBP) and blood glucose. The results of the study showed that noni juice may be effective in lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels, but there is a need to continue research on the long-term effect of this juice.

Antioxidant Properties and Phenolic Compounds of Vitamin C-Rich Juices.

Many studies have shown that bioactive compounds, for example, polyphenols, and so on can play an important role in reducing oxidative stress and protect against various diseases. The sources of these compounds in the human diet include mainly fruit and good quality fruit juices, which may contain polyphenols but also other phytochemicals such as vitamin C. The purpose of the study was to analyze the antioxidant properties of vitamin C-rich juices, which underwent mild processing. The content of total polyphenols (TP, FBBB), total flavonoids (TF), total anthocyanins (TA), and vitamin C as well as the antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS) were evaluated in commercial fruit juices rich in vitamin C (acerola, gojiberry, sea buckthorn, wild rose, cranberry, Japanese quince). Moreover, phenolic acids and selected flavonoids were determined by HPLC methods. Among the examined fruit juices, acerola and wild rose juices contained the highest amounts of vitamin C and total polyphenols, and had the highest antioxidant capacity. Acerola owes its high antioxidant properties mainly to vitamin C, whereas the antioxidant capacity of wild rose is also attributed to its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids. Sea buckthorn juice and Japanese quince juice had a lower antioxidant capacity, yet higher than determined for gojiberry and cranberry juices. Total anthocyanins were the highest in cranberry juice. The results showed that the analyzed juices were a valuable source of natural antioxidants. Generally, vitamin C-rich juices are also good source of polyphenols. Vitamin C and polyphenols act synergistically and define the antioxidant properties of juices. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Bioactive compounds, for example, polyphenols play an important role in reducing oxidative stress and protect against various diseases. Sources of natural antioxidants in human diet include mainly fruit and good quality fruit juices. The study showed that the juices from acerola, gojiberry, sea buckthorn, wild rose, cranberry, Japanese quince were a valuable source of natural polyphenols and vitamin C. These compounds act synergistically and define the antioxidant properties of juices. Among all examined samples, acerola and wild rose juices seem to be the most valuable. Moreover, it's worth noticing that juices underwent mild processing (cold pressed and low pasteurization) retained more bioactive compounds, which affected their higher quality.

The Effect of Acute Consumption of Energy Drinks on Blood Pressure, Heart Rate and Blood Glucose in the Group of Young Adults.

BACKGROUND: Energy drinks (EDs) are very popular among young people, who consume them for various reasons. A standard ED typically contains 80 mg of caffeine, as well as glucose, taurine, vitamins and other ingredients. Excessive consumption of EDs and accumulation of the above ingredients, as well as their mutual interactions, can be hazardous to the health of young adults. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of acute consumption of energy drinks on blood pressure, heart rate and blood glucose. METHODS: The study involved 68 volunteers, healthy young adults (mean age 25 years), who were divided into two groups: the first consumed three EDs at one-hour intervals, and the second drank the same amount of water. All participants had their blood pressure (BP)-systolic and diastolic (SBP and DBP)-as well as heart rate (HR) and blood glucose (BG) measured. In addition, participants could report any health problems before and after consuming each portion of ED. RESULTS: In the above experiment, having consumed three portions of ED (240 mg of caffeine), the participants presented a significant increase in DBP (p = 0.003), by over 8%, which coincided with a lack of any significant impact on SBP (p = 0.809). No significant changes were noted in HR (p = 0.750). Consumption of EDs caused a significant increase (p < 0.001) in BG, by ca. 21%, on average. Some participants reported various discomforts, which escalated after 2 and 3 EDs. CONCLUSIONS: Acute consumption of EDs contributed to increased diastolic blood pressure, blood glucose and level of discomfort in healthy young people. Our results reinforce the need for further studies on a larger population to provide sufficient evidence.

Multidimensional comparative analysis of phenolic compounds in organic juices with high antioxidant capacity.

BACKGROUND: A diet rich in fruit, vegetables and juices is associated with health benefit and reduced risk of certain civilization diseases. Antioxidant properties depend mainly on the total content of polyphenols and their composition. The aim of this study was to perform a multidimensional comparative analysis of phenolic compounds of organic juices with high antioxidant capacity (chokeberry, elderberry, cranberry, pomegranate). RESULTS: All the analyzed juices were a rich source of phenolic compounds. Chokeberry juices had the highest total polyphenol content (up to 7900 mg GAE L-1 ). These juices as well as pomegranate juice were characterized by the highest antioxidant capacity (∼5000 mg Trolox equivalents L-1 ). Other samples had lower total polyphenols content and total antioxidant capacity. Multidimensional analysis of the profiles of phenolic compounds showed that chokeberry juices differ from the other juices. Cranberry and pomegranate juices were similar to each other, and elderberry juice was closer to these samples than to chokeberry. The predominant polyphenols of chokeberry juices were anthocyanins (especially cyanidin-3-galactoside and cyanidin-3-arabinoside) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid). Elderberry juice was an exception by having flavonols (quercetin derivatives) as the principal compounds. CONCLUSION: Chokeberry juices were characterized by the highest antioxidant properties, which predispose them to further clinical research concerning the supporting cardiovascular disease prophylaxis. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.