Influence of Diet and Levels of Zonulin, Lipopolysaccharide and C-Reactive Protein on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Young Subjects

Abstract

Abstract A western diet and increased intestinal permeability may contribute to systemic inflammation and the development of cardio-metabolic alterations. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between diet, biomarkers of intestinal permeability, and chronic low-grade inflammation on the cardiometabolic profile. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 238 young subjects aged 18-29 years, divided into two groups: with 3 cardiometabolic risk factors (CRF) and 3 risk factors. Anthropometric parameters, biochemical profile, and serum levels of zonulin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured, and the macronutrient intake was evaluated. Interaction models showed elevated glucose levels in the presence of high biomarker levels: zonulin 51.6 ngmL plus LPS 1.35 EUmL ( 1.1, p 0.006), and LPS 1.35 EUmL plus hs-CRP 4.3 mgL ( 1.2, p 0.007). In addition, triglyceride levels increased in the presence of LPS 1.35 EUmL and hs-CRP 4.3 mgL ( 3.9, p 0.01). Despite having increased biomarker levels, a higher consumption of water (2100 mL), polyunsaturated fatty acids (6.0 g), or fiber (30 g) decreased triglyceride ( -9.6, p 0.03), total cholesterol ( -5.1, p 0.01), and LDL-C levels ( -7.7, p 0.01). These findings suggest that the increased consumption of water, PUFA and fiber may improve lipid profile in subjects with intestinal permeability dysfunction or low-grade systemic inflammation.