The Lean Meats Mediterranean Diet Study

Effects of Incorporating Red Meat Into a Mediterranean-style Dietary Pattern on Cardiometabolic and Emotional Well-being

The purpose of the proposed research study is to assess the effects of including greater amounts of minimally processed red meat (lean pork and beef) into a Mediterranean Diet on cardiometabolic and emotional well-being.

All subjects will complete an 18-wk randomized crossover study. Following a 2-wk baseline testing period to assess cardiometabolic and emotional well-being and habitual diet, subjects will consume a Mediterranean-style, weight-maintenance diet that is either restricted or rich in lean, minimally processed red meat for 5 weeks. Following a 4-wk washout period and second 2-wk baseline testing, subjects will consume the Mediterranean Diet with the alternate predominant animal protein sources for 5 weeks. Cardiometabolic and emotional well-being will be assessed during baseline and post periods.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female 30-69 years old
• BMI 25-37 kg/m2
• Total cholesterol <240 mg/dL
• Low-density lipoprotein <160 mg/dL
• Triglycerides <400 mg/dL
• Fasting glucose <110 mg/dL
• Systolic blood pressure <160 mmHg
• Diastolic blood pressure <100 mmHg
• Body weight <300 lb
• Weight stable for 3 months prior (±10 lb)
• Stable physical activity regimen 3 months prior ≤3 h/wk of moderate or high intensity exercise resistance or aerobic training
• Medication use stable for 6 months prior.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Diabetic
• Smoker