Pitaraki Evaggelia
Harocopio University, Athens
Biography:
Pitaraki Evaggelia has earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, from Advanced Technological Institute in Thessaloniki and received, with Distinction, her first MSc Degree in Clinical Nutrition, from Harokopio University and her second MSc in Metabolic Bone Diseases, from Athens Medical School. Her professional experience includes all range of Nutritional Care, in different life stages, for many years, in various organizations in Thessaloniki and Athens and teaching in Educational Institutions. Particular emphasis is placed on prevention, treatment of chronic diseases, through the personalized Nutritional Care. Moreover, she is a Researcher in the ATTICA Epidemiological Study at University of Athens Medical School and Harokopio University and the main researcher in the study which analyzed “Correlation with socioeconomic factors somatometric indicators and nutrition in young people, aged 18-25 years”, at ATEI Thessaloniki. Her articles have been published in scientific journals and her summaries have been presented in many scientific conferences.
Abstract:
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative, irreversible, age-related joint disease. Τhe cartilage degradation and inflammation constitute disease’s main components, while the development of inflammation leads to severe immobility. On the other hand, Metabolic Syndrome (MS) consists of components (hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, insulin resistance, central obesity) that trigger the production of pro-inflammatory mediators (ROS, adipokine, cytokines) which affects joints. Obesity often accompanies the profile of people with MS overloading joints. OA and MS share risk factors and pathophysiological pathways. Managing the components of MS can limit the OA’s development, whereas the nutritional aspect plays a key role in the treatment of MS. Although the role of diet in OA pathogenesis has not been elucidated yet, data reveal poor dietary profile between OA patients. Moreover, several dietary components are associated with the inflammatory profile in OA. The purpose of this review is to explore the role of nutrition in improving the terms under which the MS and OA relate and identifying possible action mechanisms. Methodology and Theoretical Orientation: Pubmed research with keywords such as Osteoarthritis, Metabolic Syndrome, Nutrition, Inflammation. Findings: Body Weight control leads to prevention and suppression of both MS and OA, through optimization of insulin sensitivity, inflammation, oxidative stress. Dietary Ω-3 fats intake is considered important due to their anti-inflammatory effects, while the reduction of trans and saturated fats intake is essential to normalize blood cholesterol levels. Covering the micronutrients’ needs (e.g. vitamins, antioxidants) is crucial. The Mediterranean Diet is a promising dietary pattern due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Conclusion and Significance: Nutrition plays a critical role in managing MS and OA, possibly by sharing common action mechanisms (inflammation, oxidative stress). Recommendations: A balanced, adequate diet that promotes normal weight is a weapon in OA’s management armory. Further clinical study is needed to elucidate the action mechanisms in the OA-MS relationship.