USDA Behavior, Motivation & Nutrition Study

Examination of Metabolic Determinants of Behavior and Motivation in Obesity: Implication to the Development of New Strategies for Achieving Body Weight Health

This study will be a cross-sectional study. The primary aim of this study is to compare the relationship between neurological function, metabolic measures and health-related behaviors between normal weight and overweight/obese perimenopausal women.

To examine physiological and behavioral factors that may help determine health in perimenopausal middle age women. Neuroendocrine function will be measured by broad assessment of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) activity. We will also assess metabolic profiles and behavioral and emotional function. We plan to determine correlations between these measures and nutritional state. Other measures may include insulin, glucose, leptin, IGF-1, triglycerides, free fatty acids, and ghrelin and eating attitudes and physical reactivity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Body Mass index 18-39.9 kg/m2
• Peri-menopausal status by self-report

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant
• Plan to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding in the last 6 months
• Multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease
• Menopause confirmed
• Unable to refrain from smoking for five hours (self-report)
• Unable to refrain from consuming alcohol for two days (self-report)
• Weight change > 10 lbs in the preceding 6 months
• Chronic corticosteroid use
• Oral corticosteroids used more than twice in the last 12 months
• Hormonal contraceptives
• Antipsychotic, anti-anxiety and anti-depressant medications
• Beta adrenergic blockers
• Sibutramine, orlistat, phentermine, phendimetrazine, topiramate, zonisamide
• Immunosuppressants
• Amphetamines and other stimulants
• Severe food allergies or intolerances to foods
• Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus