The Bioavailability of Polyacetylenes From Carrots Study

Absorption of Naturally Present Compounds in Carrots and Their Appearance in Blood and Other Biofluids After Consumption (The Carrot Study)

Polyacetylenes, compounds found naturally in carrots, have shown promising anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory actions in vitro but have not been tested in vivo. To determine whether the polyacetylenes could have an effect in vivo, this study aims to determine whether they are detectible in human biofluids after the consumption of a portion of carrots and whether a difference is seen between a large and small portion.

Volunteers will collect urine samples 24 hours prior to the 'test' day and a stool sample either the night before or the morning of the test session. They will have fasted blood taken before eating a portion of carrots with bread and butter. Further blood samples will be taken at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 and 24 hours. All urine and all stool samples (after 4 hours) will be collected up to 48 hours after the carrot dose. They volunteers will attend two test sessions and will be randomised to receive high and low doses of carrot. At least a week will separate testing sessions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy adults, BMI between 18.5 and 30

Exclusion Criteria:

• Metabolic or gastrointestinal conditions, allergies to carrot or bread, taking any medication that affects metabolism or digestion, smokers