Effects of Lean Beef Consumption on Cardiometabolic Health and Gut Microbiome

The study is a 6-wk randomized, controlled, and parallel arm clinical trial. Participants will be randomized to consume either lean grain-fed beef, lean grass-fed beef, or plant-based meat for 6 weeks. Outcomes assessed will include metabolic, inflammatory, and gut microbiome markers.

Inclusion criteria

• Age: 18-45 years of age
• BMI: 18-35 kg/m2
• Willingness to consume study foods.
• Willing to comply with study protocol.
• Consistent diet and activity patterns for 4 weeks
• Weight stable (≤5 kg change over the last 3 months)
• Non-smoker >1 year or more

Exclusion criteria

• Allergies to foods provided in the study
• Diabetes
• Gastrointestinal disease and/or bariatric surgery
• Uncontrolled hypertension and blood pressure ≥ 180/110
• Illicit drug use
• Recent consumption of antibiotics or probiotics
• Recent start of medications that affect metabolism or appetite.
• Recent blood donation
• Drug therapy for coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, congestive - heart failure, or dyslipidemia
• Pregnant or lactating individuals
• Taste or smell disorders
• High consumers of red meat or plant-based meat (≥ 4 times/week)