Associations of Dietary Intake on Biological Markers of Inflammation in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bujtor, Melissa; Turner, Anne I; Torres, Susan J; Esteban-Gonzalo, Laura; Pariante, Carmine M.; Borsini, Alessandra
• Is Part Of: Psychoneuroendocrinology. Volume 131(2021)Supplement
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Psychoneuroendocrinology -- Periodicals; Endocrinology -- Periodicals; Neurology -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Neuropsychoendocrinologie -- Périodiques; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105459
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4530

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Chronic low-grade inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of co- and multi-morbid conditions to mental health disorders. Diet quality is a potential mechanism of action that can exacerbate or ameliorate low-grade inflammation. Methods: After searching multiple databases adhering to PRISMA guidelines, 53 articles were included that measured dietary intake and inflammatory biomarkers in children and adolescents (2-19 yrs). Results: Adequate adherence to healthful dietary patterns, vegetables and fruit, or macro/micro nutrients (fibre or vitamin C, E) are associated with decreased levels of pro-inflammatory biomarkers, mainly c-reactive protein, interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha. Adherence to a Western dietary pattern and intake of added sugars, saturated fatty acids or ultra-processed foods, is associated with higher levels of the same pro-inflammatory biomarkers. Conclusions: This is the first systematic review examining dietary intake and biological markers of inflammation in children and adolescents. A good quality diet (high in vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, fibre and healthy fats) ameliorates low-grade inflammation, and therefore represents a promising therapeutic approach, as well as an important element for disease prevention in both children and adolescents.