Inflammation, Polyphenols, and Genetics

Inflammation, Polyphenols, and Genetics: A Pilot Study in Overweight and Obese Adult Males to Determine Whether Black-Raspberry Consumption Affects Markers of Inflammation in Study Participants Fed a High-Fat, High-Calorie Challenge Meal

Pilot study to determine whether daily consumption of blackraspberry powder (high in polyphenols) can reduce markers of inflammation and to determine whether genetics influence baseline levels of inflammatory markers as well as individual's response to polyphenols. A total of 10 males participated in this cross-over study.

A high-fat, high-calorie challenge meal is administered to induce an inflammatory response in overweight and obese adult males. Serum levels of CRP, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 are measured prior to the challenge meal and at various times (1,2,4,8, and 12 hours) after the challenge meal. The challenge meal is given once without intervention and once after 5 daily doses of concentrated black-raspberry powder mixed in water.

Inclusion Criteria:

• adult males over 55 years of age
• overweight or obese

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of adverse reaction to berries or berry products
• history of adverse reaction to high-fat, high-calorie challenge meal
• significant liver or renal insufficiency
• significant cognitive impairment