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

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 ng/mL plus LPS ≥ 1.35 EU/mL (β = 1.1, p = 0.006), and LPS ≥1.35 EU/mL plus hs-CRP ≥ 4.3 mg/L (β = 1.2, p = 0.007). In addition, triglyceride levels increased in the presence of LPS ≥ 1.35 EU/mL and hs-CRP ≥ 4.3 mg/L (β = 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 (β = -9.6, p = 0.03), total cholesterol (β = -5.1, p = 0.01), and LDL-C levels (β = -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.