Imunoquímica e Imunopatologia

Breast milk is often referred to as "liquid gold" due to its remarkable nutritional and immunological benefits for infants. It is well-established that breast milk provides essential nutrients, antibodies and other bioactive components that support optimal growth and development during the early stages of life. One such component that has gained significant attention in recent years is N-Acetylneuraminic Acid (Neu5Ac), a sialic acid derivative found abundantly in human breast milk. Emerging evidence suggests that Neu5Ac plays a crucial role in infant growth, particularly in a gut microbiota-dependent manner. Sialic acids are a family of nine-carbon sugars that are widely distributed in nature. Neu5Ac is the most prevalent sialic acid in mammalian cells and secretions, including human breast milk. It serves as a precursor for the biosynthesis of gangliosides, glycoproteins, and glycolipids, which are crucial for brain development, neuronal function, and immune modulation. Additionally, Neu5Ac acts as a receptor for certain pathogens, preventing their adherence to host cells and subsequent infection.

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has reached epidemic proportions worldwide, leading to various health complications and reduced quality of life. Weight loss interventions, including hypocaloric diets, are commonly prescribed to individuals with excess body weight. However, these interventions often result in a reduction in Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR), which can hinder weight loss efforts. Additionally, alterations in thyroid function, physical fitness, and functional capacity are frequently observed in overweight and obese individuals. This has led researchers to explore the potential benefits of co-supplementation with specific nutrients to mitigate these negative effects. One such combination is zinc and selenium, which have been implicated in regulating metabolic rate, thyroid function, and overall health. This article aims to discuss the impact of co-supplementation with zinc and selenium on RMR, thyroid function, physical fitness, and functional capacity in overweight and obese individuals on a hypocaloric diet based on a randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the health and well-being of people worldwide, particularly those living in urban areas. London, as a densely populated metropolis, has faced unique challenges in mitigating the spread of the virus and addressing the health needs of its residents. In this article, we will explore the effects of greenspace, walking and cycling on the health of London's urban dwellers during the pandemic. With limited access to traditional indoor recreational activities, many individuals turned to outdoor spaces for exercise, relaxation and mental well-being. Understanding the relationship between greenspace and physical activity can provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking to create healthier and more resilient cities.

The global prevalence of overweight and obesity has reached alarming levels, contributing to the burden of chronic diseases. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary interventions, play a crucial role in weight management. In recent years, research has focused on the potential benefits of mineral supplementation to enhance weight loss outcomes. This article will delve into a randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial that investigated the effects of zinc and selenium co-supplementation on resting metabolic rate, thyroid function, physical fitness and functional capacity in overweight and obese individuals following a hypocaloric diet. The intervention group receiving zinc and selenium co-supplementation and the control group receiving a placebo. Both groups followed a hypocaloric diet, which created a calorie deficit to promote weight loss. The intervention group received a daily supplement containing zinc (30 mg) and selenium (200 mcg), while the control group received a placebo. The trial lasted for a specified duration and various measurements were taken at the beginning and end of the study.