Cardiovascular Pharmacology: Open Access

Abstract

Diet and Subclinical Inflammation amongst Ellisras Young Adults Aged 18 to 30 Years: Ellisras Longitudinal Study

Tshephang M.J. Mashiane, Kotsedi D. Monyeki*, Mbelege R. Nkwana, Andre P. Kengne and Solomon S.R. Choma

Purpose

High sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a strong independent predictor of future cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between diet and subclinical inflammation among young adults aged 18 to 30 years who are part of the Ellisras Longitudinal Study.

Method

A total of 348 males and 362 females aged 18 to 30 years participated in the study. Standard procedures were followed in collecting anthropometric measurements, blood pressure and blood sample from all the study participants. Serum CRP levels were measured using immunoturbidimetry on IMMAGE analyzer and 24h dietary method was used to assess dietary intake. Linear regression was used to assess the relation between dietary intake and CRP levels.

Results

Majority of the population showed abnormal intake of dietary fibre (98.3%), potassium(99.9%), calcium (98.9%), folate (98.9%) and low levels of serum CRP (83.3%). There was no significant difference in dietary intake between different CRP tertiles. Linear regression showed significant (P<0.05) association for BMI (body mass index) and SBP (systolic blood pressure) with serum CRP levels after unadjusted (P<0.001, CI=0.02-0.06) (P<0.001,CI=-0.02-0.00) and adjusted (P<0.014,CI=0.010.05) (P<0.038,CI=-0.01-0.00) for age and gender.

Conclusions

There was no difference in dietary intake between those with normal serum CRP levels and those with high serum CRP levels. Linear regression analysis showed no association between diet and serum CRP levels. Further studies are required to look at the diet and sub clinical inflammation over time in this population.

Published Date: 2021-09-13;