Nutrient intake and serum level of gamma-glutamyltransferase, MCP-1 and homocysteine in early stages of heart failure

Background & aims: Dietary quality probably may impact heart failure outcomes. The aim of the study was to determine the potential effects of nutrient intake on homocysteine, MCP-1 and GGT levels in patients with heart failure. Methods: The study group comprised 55 patients with diagnosed HF with coronary artery disease origin, below 65y, with NYHA class I/II. The patients had received standard treatment. The control comprised 55 patients with mild hyperlipidemia, not treated. Diet was evaluated on the basis of a dietary questionnaire and a 24-h dietary recall. The serum lipid profile, folic acid, homocysteine, GGT and MCP-1 were determined. Results: In the HF group significantly higher concentration of homocysteine (32%), MCP-1 (58%) and GGT (100%) are found as compared to the control group (p < 0.00001). Patients with HF had greater cholesterol consumption, with less folates, vitamin C and dietary fiber as compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: High consumption of total fat and dietary cholesterol accompanied by a low folate, antioxidant vitamin, a special vitamin C and dietary fiber intake, contributes to elevated Hcy, GGT and MCP-1 levels and in consequence, could lead to intense inflammatory process and atherosclerosis in HF patients. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. All rights reserved.