Human skin is continually changing. The condition of the skin largely depends on the individual’s overall state of health. A balanced diet plays an important role in the proper functioning of the human body, including the skin. The present study draws attention to bioactive substances, i.e., vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, polyphenols, and carotenoids, with a particular focus on their effects on the condition of the skin. The aim of the study was to review the literature on the effects of bioactive substances on skin parameters such as elasticity, firmness, wrinkles, senile dryness, hydration and color, and to define their role in the process of skin ageing.

Total reflection X-ray fluorescence analysis (TXRF) was used to determine chromium, selenium and bromine concentrations in blood serum samples of 50 patients with parenteral nutrition treatment. The concentrations were measured two times, namely in the first day (I measurement) of the treatment and the seventh day (II measurement) after the chromium and selenium supplementation. For comparison purposes also serum samples of 50 patients without nutritional disorders, admitted to a planned surgical procedure to remove the gall bladder (cholecystectomy), were analyzed and treated as the control group. Descriptive statistics of measured concentrations of Cr, Se and Br both for the studied and control groups was determined. In order to check the effectiveness of Cr and Se supplementation, the results of the first and seventh day measurements for studied group were statistically compared with each other, with literature reference values and with the results of the control group (two-group comparison). These comparisons indicate the effectiveness of selenium supplementation in the applied treatment procedure. In the case of Cr and Br concentrations no statistically significant differences were observed. We conclude that monitoring of the concentration of the important trace elements in human serum should be standard procedure in parenteral nutrition treatment. In this monitoring the TXRF technique can be successfully used.

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as "abnormal or excessive accumulation of adipose tissue that poses a health risk". It results from the interdependencies between genetic, cultural, and socio-economic factors. The choice of therapy in the treatment of overweight and obesity depends on body mass index (BMI), individual predispositions, comorbidities and weight history. Among the treatment methods stand out, dietary modification, lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery. Each of these treatments can be used individually or as a combination treatment using knowledge of physiology. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of overweight and obesity treatment using pharmacotherapy and lifestyle modification. Material and Methods: The research material was collected by searching databases with scientific articles about obesity, pharmacotherapy in obesity, the impact of lifestyle modifications, behavioral behavior, and physical activity on the reduction of body fat. The scientific database Pubmed and Web of Science were used. Research articles, systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included. Summary Obesity is an epidemic of the 21st century, bringing with it several negative consequences. Prevention of the disease, quick diagnosis, and implementation of appropriate treatment to reduce unnecessary fat and excess weight are extremely important. Lifestyle change including dietary modification, physical activity and pharmacotherapy are promising treatments for overweight and obesity.

Introduction and objective: Obesity is a serious, complex and multifactorial disease affecting people worldwide. In just a few decades, it has become a huge public health problem for societies in different regions of the world. Bariatric surgery is the most effective method of treatment that...