The association between dietary patterns and the novel inflammatory markers platelet-activating factor and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2: a systematic review.

Abstract

CONTEXT\nAtherosclerosis is a disease of chronic inflammation. Recent research has identified 2 novel inflammatory biomarkers: platelet-activating factor (PAF) and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2). Diet has been proposed as a mediator of inflammation, but to date, the focus for these novel biomarkers has been on individual foods and nutrients rather than overall dietary patterns.\n\n\nOBJECTIVE\nTo systematically review the literature on the association between dietary patterns and PAF and Lp-PLA2.\n\n\nDATA SOURCES\nThe PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane CENTRAL literature databases were searched.\n\n\nDATA ANALYSIS\nStudy quality was evaluated using the Quality Criteria Checklist. Sixteen studies (n\u2009=\u20094 observational and n\u2009=\u200912 interventional) were included and assessed for associations between dietary patterns and PAF and Lp-PLA2.\n\n\nCONCLUSION\nStudy quality varied from neutral (n\u2009=\u200910) to positive (n\u2009=\u20096). Mediterranean, heart healthy, and vegetarian dietary patterns were associated with improved levels of PAF and Lp-PLA2. Conversely, Western dietary patterns were less favorable. A range of well-established, healthier dietary patterns may lower inflammation and the risk of atherosclerosis. More well-designed studies are needed to confirm these findings and identify other dietary patterns that improve inflammation.