The immunomodulatory potential of carotenoids has been investigated thoroughly only for beta-carotene. Data on the immunomodulatory activity of other carotenoids such as lycopene are scarce. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of prolonged tomato juice consumption on cell-mediated immunity of well-nourished healthy elderly persons. In an intervention study, 33 female and 20 male subjects (aged 63-86 y) consumed 330 mL/d tomato juice (47.1 mg/d lycopene) or mineral water for 8 wk. Immune status was assessed by measuring number and lytic activity of natural killer (NK) cells, secretion of cytokines [interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)] by activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), lymphocyte proliferation, and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin responses. Tomato juice consumption resulted in significantly increased plasma lycopene and beta-carotene concentrations over time. In both treatment groups, TNF-alpha and IL-4 secretion were increased at the end of the intervention period, whereas IL-2 secretion was decreased. Tomato juice consumption had no effect on lymphocyte proliferation, DTH or the number of NK cells. Lytic activity of NK cells was increased in both groups at the end of the intervention period. In conclusion, these results show that prolonged tomato juice consumption increased plasma lycopene concentrations without significantly affecting cell-mediated immunity in well-nourished elderly subjects.
The changes in antioxidant status after tomato juice consumption seem to depend on the PON1-192 genotype. Healthy elderly, carrying the R-allele, could specifically reduce their higher cardiovascular risk by changing dietary habits.
On the basis of the data determined in a large group of older individuals, we offer a new equation for calculating RMR in the elderly that is both easy and accurate for use in practice.
Objective: Evaluation of the implementation process of a kindergarten-based intervention ('TigerKids') to promote a healthy lifestyle. Design: Questionnaire survey among kindergarten teachers about programme implementation and acceptance. Setting: Kindergartens in Bavaria, Germany. Methods: Two hundred and fifteen kindergartens were included; 96.3 % returned informative questionnaires. 'TigerKids' is a multi-approach behavioural intervention programme to increase physical activity level and to promote healthy eating in preschool children. Project elements and materials are designed for kindergarten teachers, children, and their parents. The main outcome measures of the study are implementation, acceptance, and estimated effectiveness of the intervention programme. Results: The elements for promoting healthy lifestyle were implemented regularly in the participating kindergartens: 94.2 % used the drinking station daily, 75.8 % prepared the magic fruit plate daily, and 63.3 % carried out the activity programme at least two times per week. The educators reported that the children ate more fruits and vegetables, drank more non-sugared beverages, and were more active. The designed materials and elements for the children, the educators, and the parents were also evaluated positively by the kindergarten teachers. Conclusion: The 'TigerKids' programme is a suitable instrument for health promotion in the kindergarten setting.
Within the longitudinal study on nutrition and health status in an aging population of Giessen, Germany, baseline measurements with regard to antioxidant status were obtained in 85 free living elderly persons. The subjects were at least 60 years old, non-smoking, feeding themselves, and not supplementing any vitamins or minerals. Dietary intake of nutrients was assessed by means of a 3-day estimated food record, which was especially developed and validated for this study. Antioxidant status was evaluated by fasting plasma concentrations of vitamin C, E, beta-carotene, and selenium. The results show that in this study group self-determined nutrition provides enough nutrients to yield a good antioxidant status in the advanced age. Although no differences could be detected in dietary intake of vitamin C, E, and beta-carotene between males and females, significantly higher plasma concentrations of all substances investigated were found in females when compared to males.
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