Potato Consumption and Energy Balance

Potato Consumption and Energy Balance: a Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial

A randomized, clinical trial will be performed to assess changes in body weight and fat mass with daily potato consumption versus a calorie-matched snack of almonds.

This is a 30-day randomized, controlled trial with 3 arms: 1) non-potato food (almonds), 2) standard white potato French fry, 3) standard white potato French fry with potential glycemia-modulating spice/seasoning mix added.

Free-living study participants will be assigned to consume one of the 3 foods (calorie matched) each day for a 30-day period. Body composition (via dual energy x-ray absorptiometry; DXA), and blood chemistry will be assayed at baseline and study completion, along with a sub-sample of subjects participating in a meal-based tolerance tests at study completion.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18- 50 years old
• Body mass index (BMI) 20- 35
• No dietary restrictions or allergies
• Weight stable
• Access to camera through smartphone, computer or tablet

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or anticipating pregnancy or lactation
• Nut or food allergy
• Diagnosed diabetes (Type 1 or 2)
• History of weight control surgery (bariatric or liposuction)
• Consumes >1 serving of potatoes daily before enrollment
• Weight loss or gain >5% within past 6 months
• Medical conditions or medications that would prevent the ability to comply with treatment assignment and/or affect energy balance
• Dependence on others for food procurement or preparation