Dietary Lipids as Primary Modulators of Carotenoid Absorption in Vegetables

Dietary Lipids as Primary Modulators of Carotenoid Absorption in Vegetables

The purpose of this research study is to determine how dietary fats and oils influence the absorption of beneficial plant pigments (carotenoids) from vegetables. The study will examine changes in blood carotenoids in response to eating a salad with different fats/oils.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age range: 18-50 years.
• Body mass index (BMI: weight (kg)/height (m2)) ranging from 20-29 kg/m²
• Weight stable (<4.5 kg change within the last 3 months),
• Constant habitual activity pattern, not to exceed activities of a recreational level over the past 3 months.
• Must be pre-menopausal
• Have clinically normal blood profiles (specifically normal liver and kidney functions and fasting blood glucose of ≤110 mg/dl)
• Non-smoking
• Non-diabetic
• No current or planned pregnancy
• Not using any hormone-based contraceptive, e.g., pill, patch, injection, implants, etc.
• No current use of medication affecting lipid profile
• No intestinal disorders including lipid malabsorption, lactose intolerance
• No heavy consumption of alcohol (>2 drinks per day)
• No current use of dietary supplements that affect cholesterol, (e.g. Benocol or fiber supplements) or a willingness to discontinue their use during the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Menopausal
• Diabetic
• Currently pregnant
• Currently using any type of hormone-based contraceptives, (e.g., pill, patch, injection, implants, etc.)
• Use of lipid altering medications