Harokopio University of Athens

In an era where malnutrition and unhealthy eating patterns are salient contributors to global health deterioration, the urge for better access to nutritious alimentation is striking. Native to the Mediterranean region, the carob tree holds significant promise in this regard. With its rich nutritional profile, containing high levels of dietary fiber, polyphenols, and essential minerals, carob has been increasingly exploited by the food industry. Carob flour, derived from the pod after seed removal, is widely used as a cocoa substitute. The carob tree's fruit comprises 10% seeds and 90% pulp, containing numerous bioactive components such as dietary fiber, cyclitols, phenolic compounds, amino acids, and minerals. These components have been associated with beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal system and glucose absorption, with small-scale clinical studies indicating a hypolipidemic effect in patients with hypolipidemia. Nevertheless, comprehensive data from randomized controlled trials on the biological actions of carob remain restricted. This study explores the postprandial effects of incorporating carob into a Western-style meal, focusing on regulating glucose, insulin, and appetite hormones. The hypothesis is that a carob-enriched breakfast meal could positively influence satiety and appetite regulation, potentially offering a nutritious and sustainable dietary option for improving metabolic health. The high fiber and polyphenol content in carob are expected to modulate these postprandial responses, contributing to a better understanding of carob's role in dietary interventions. This study supports international initiatives to combat malnutrition and encourage a healthy diet, especially in light of the growing world population and the requirement for sustainable food supplies. By investigating the impact of carob on postprandial metabolic responses, this study seeks to contribute valuable insights into its potential benefits as part of a healthy diet.

The LifeEVA project aims to tackle the significant public health challenge of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by addressing early vascular ageing (EVA), characterized by increased arterial stiffness and reduced vascular compliance, particularly in young adults. The project seeks to develop and implement innovative, personalized lifestyle interventions targeting Cypriots aged 18-40 who are overweight or obese. Utilizing genetic data from biobank.cy, LifeEVA aims to understand the progression of EVA and reduce CVD risk through tailored dietary and physical activity counseling.
The methodology involves a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded endpoint trial over one year. Participants will be recruited from biobank.cy's database, ensuring a robust sample. They will receive personalized interventions based on their genetic profile, including a hypocaloric diet, physical activity plan and taking into account other factors (i.e. sleep, anxiety etc). The project's work is divided into five work packages: project management, dissemination and exploitation activities, baseline assessment and recruitment, intervention implementation and data collection, and data analysis and manuscript preparation.
Anticipated results include significant reductions in vascular stiffness, improved cardiovascular health markers, and enhanced understanding of the interplay between genetics and lifestyle in EVA. The project's impact extends to the establishment of a vascular health assessment clinic, contributions to public health by reducing CVD prevalence, and advancing the field of personalized preventive healthcare. LifeEVA is positioned to make significant contributions to cardiovascular research, promote innovation, and enhance the scientific and public health landscape in Cyprus.

Mastiha Oil is a 100% natural product of the Mediterranean, extracted from the resin of Mastiha. Its composition is high in bioactive ingredients (such as terpenic acids and polyphenols) which have proven anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective, chemoprotective and antimicrobial properties. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of Mastiha oil in adults with Hypetriglyceridemia. 100 participants will be allocated to two groups, (50 in intervention group and 50 in control group). Mastiha oil will be provided in the form of soft gel capsules to the intervention group, whereas the control group will not consume the capsules. Both groups will receive standard nutritional counselling. The intervention will last 3 months.
The effects of the intervention will be evaluated via clinical and laboratory markers.