Effects of Daily Beef Intake, as a Component of a Heart-Healthy Diet, on Cellular Zinc Status and Vascular Function in Older Adults
University of California, Davis
Summary
The objective of the current study is to test the overarching hypothesis that the beef nutritive matrix is uniquely suited to direct dietary zinc to cellular compartments for improved metabolic function, leading to a greater effect on health outcomes. Specifically, whether beef, as a component of a healthy meal, will promote the absorption of zinc into cells, where the zinc will have greater effects on zinc-dependent metabolic processes supporting cardiovascular health. To maximize the observability of these beef-related effects, individuals who are 55- to 70-year-old who generally have a higher risk of zinc deficiency and cardiovascular disease will be enrolled.
Description
This study will examine whether daily beef intake will promote the absorption of dietary zinc into cells, leading to improved cellular zinc status and microvascular function. The study design will be a crossover comparison of a mixed diet including green leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seeds, and nuts; with beef versus non-meat sources of additional protein and zinc, over two 4-week metabolic study periods. Outcomes will include cellular zinc status determined by erythrocyte zinc tracer exchange (primary), and microvascular function expressed as reactive hyperemia index (RHI). Previou…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 55–70 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Male or postmenopausal female 55-70 years of age * Women: lack of menses for at least two years. * Subject is willing and able to comply with the study protocols. * Subject is willing to participate in all study procedures * Self-reported stable dose of prescribed medications for a minimum of 6 months * BMI 18.5 - 29.9 kg/m2 Exclusion Criteria: * Self-reported use of daily anticoagulation agents including aspirin, NSAIDs * Prescribed metaformin, statins or medications known to interfere with zinc, protein, or lipid metabolism * Vegan, Vegetarians, food faddists or thos…
Interventions
- OtherBeef protein
Animal protein source
Location
- University of California, Davis; Department of NutritionDavis, California