Grains Reduce Adiposity and Improve Nutrition Study

Including whole grains as part of a heart-healthy diet has been shown to be beneficial in decreasing body weight and body fat. The beneficial effects of whole grains on body weight may be explained by the larger volume and relatively low energy density of whole grain food thus leading to increased satiation. Reducing visceral fat is of particular importance as visceral adiposity has been associated with increased risk for metabolic diseases and cardiovascular disease.

The proposed study is a randomized, 2-parallel arm controlled feeding study. Subjects will be fed one of two weight maintenance diets (refined grain and whole grain) for 6 weeks, followed by a 6 week controlled weight loss period where subjects are fed the same diets, but at a reduced calorie level, designed to elicit weight loss (~2 lbs per week). Diets for both groups will have the same nutrient profile (percent of calories from fat, protein, carbohydrates, etc.); however, the whole grain (WG) group will substitute whole grains for refined grains in their grain intake (breads, tortillas, cereals, etc.). The WG group will be expected to take in 6-9 servings of whole grains per day on both diets. Plasma endpoints will be measured at baseline and at the end of the 6-week diet periods. Blood samples also will be taken at the mid-point of each period and held for analysis if deemed appropriate after initial data is reviewed. Endo-PAT will be conducted at baseline and at the end of each diet period as well as DEXA and MRI testing.

Inclusion criteria

• BMI > 25 to < 42
• Waist circumference of > 40 inches for males and > 35 inches for females and having one other of the criteria for metabolic syndrome will be recruited
• In this population, we will also accept the following:

• LDL-C < 175 mg/dL
• HDL-C > 25 mg/dL
• Triglycerides < 400 mg/dL
• All subjects will be required to meet one specific criteria for metabolic syndrome beyond increased waist circumference

Exclusion criteria

• Smokers
• Have insulin-dependent diabetes
• Are pregnant or expecting to be pregnant, lactating in the last 6 months
• Are taking NSAIDS or other medications known to affect inflammatory markers or drugs affecting glucose metabolism

Blood pressure lowering medications are acceptable if the person has controlled BP at screening, <140/90 mmHg.