The purpose of this research study is to determine how different meal patterns influence the absorption of beneficial plant pigments (carotenoids) from vegetables. The hypothesis is that carotenoid absorption will be lower when daily vegetables are consumed in one meal compared two smaller meals throughout the day.

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
• 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 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:

• Diabetic
• Use of lipid altering medications