Nutritional modulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory balance in egyptian women with obesity: the impact of fatty acids and amino acid consumption profiles

Abstract Obesity is a complex condition associated with increased levels of inflammatory markers, leading to chronic low-grade inflammation. To investigate the association between the intake of selected amino acids and fatty acids and immune dysregulation, as reflected by IL-10, IL-17, and TH17 responses, in Egyptian women with obesity. This observational cross-sectional study included 60 obese and 30 normal-weight women aged 25–60 years. Anthropometric measurements, dietary intake (3-day 24-hour recall), lipid profile, and cytokine levels (IL-10, IL-17, TH17) were assessed. Obese participants exhibited significantly higher BMI, waist circumference, and pro-inflammatory markers. BMI correlated positively with IL-17 ( r = 0.323, p ≤ 0.05) and negatively with IL-10 ( r = − 0.265, p ≤ 0.05). Branched-chain amino acids were positively associated with IL-17, while glutamine correlated positively with IL-10 ( r = 0.325, p ≤ 0.001). Total fat intake showed a positive correlation with IL-17 ( r = 0.335, p ≤ 0.001) and a negative correlation with IL-10 ( r = − 0.416, p ≤ 0.001). Saturated fatty acids exhibited pro-inflammatory associations, while unsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 (EPA, DPA), showed anti-inflammatory effects. Dietary composition plays an important role in immune dysregulation in obesity. Diets rich in BCAAs and saturated fats may exacerbate inflammation in obesity, whereas higher consumption of omega-3 fatty acids appears to have a protective, anti-inflammatory effect. These findings suggest that dietary fatty acid and amino acid profiles are associated with inflammatory marker.