Carotenoid Response to the Intake of Vegetables and Fruits

Skin Carotenoid Response to Intake of Vegetables and Fruits Recommended by the Dietary Guidelines

The purpose of this study is to validate the non-invasive tool, resonance Raman spectroscopy for assessing vegetable and fruit consumption.

This study will validate the use of resonance Raman spectroscopy to assess vegetable and fruit intake by performing a controlled feeding study during which volunteers will consume a provided diet with known amounts of carotenoids in the form of fruits and vegetables.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women aged 18 - 65 years
• Weight stable (±5 lbs) for at least 2 months prior to the start of the study
• Body mass index (BMI) between 19-30 kg/m2
• Willing to refrain from the use of nicotine and dietary supplements for the duration of the study
• Willing to maintain baseline weight and physical activity levels

Exclusion Criteria:

1. BMI greater than 30.
2. Gastrointestinal disorders, disease, or medication that affects carotenoid absorption or storage
3. Current smoker
4. Allergies or intolerances to foods to be utilized in the study
5. Consumption of greater than an average of 1 alcoholic drink/day for women and 2/day for men, use of nutritional/sports supplements (if unwilling to discontinue during the study)
6. Pregnancy or lactating