Endocrine Abstracts

The diet of patients exposed to stress had been shown to be low in fibre, low in fruit and vegetables, low in vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene, high in sugar, and high in saturated fat. The implications of these findings are two-fold: the diet associated with stress is similar to those in patients with features of the Metabolic syndrome (Met-S – visceral obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension).

Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of anti-stress dietary combination (ASDC) of omega-3 fatty acid (O-3FA), magnesium (Mg) and soybean isoflavones (SIF) on stress parameters, endocrine markers and cardiovascular risk factors.

Subjects and methods: From a group of 50 patients with the features of Met-S (IDF definition 2005) were selected 25 with highest stress exposure (The Hassles and Uplifts Scale) during the last week and dietary habits (DHQ) showing high fat consumption. They were randomized on ASDC containing 2000 mg. O-3FA, 500 mg. Mg-aspartate and 100 mg. SIF/daily for 3 months. Lipid status, cortisol, glycaemia, body weight and blood pressure were assessed monthly.

Results: After 3 months of ASDC supplementation there was significant reduction in lipid parameters – triglycerides reduced from 2.8±0.4 to 1.6±0.2 mmol/l; LDL cholesterol reduced from 4.1±0.7 to 3.9±0.9 mmol/l. No significant change was observed in body weight, fasting plasma glucose and cortisol levels. Despite that enrolled subject showed improved mood and better stress coping.

Conclusions: Overwhelming evidence has shown that magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and soy consumption reduces stress related major abnormalities associated with cardiovascular disease risk. They may also have other heart health benefits, including the ability to reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and promote vascular relaxation, physiological effects which are emerging as important risk factors for heart disease. Scientific researchers and health professionals should agree that the public should be encouraged to incorporate a variety of anti-stress supplementation products into a heart healthy diet and lifestyle plan.