Beef Protein for Vascular Disease
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you have been on a stable dose of your prescribed medications for at least 6 months. However, if you are taking anticoagulants, metformin, statins, or medications that interfere with zinc, protein, or lipid metabolism, you would not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of beef protein as a treatment for vascular disease?
Is beef protein safe for human consumption?
How does beef protein treatment differ from other treatments for vascular disease?
Beef protein treatment for vascular disease is unique because it involves dietary intervention with beef, which has been shown to improve vascular function and lower blood pressure in some studies. Unlike traditional medications, this approach focuses on the nutritional content and specific fatty acid profiles of beef, which may positively impact cardiovascular health.58101112
What is the purpose of this trial?
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.
Research Team
Carl L Keen, PhD
Principal Investigator
Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Nutrition
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for men and postmenopausal women aged 55-70 with a BMI of 18.5-29.9, not on daily anticoagulants or intense exercise routines, without heart disease, diabetes, cancer in the past 5 years, or malabsorption issues. Participants should be non-smokers and not on diets like Keto or Paleo.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment Period 1
Participants consume a mixed diet including beef for 4 weeks to assess zinc absorption and vascular function
Washout
Participants undergo a washout period between treatment phases
Treatment Period 2
Participants consume a mixed diet including non-meat protein sources for 4 weeks to assess zinc absorption and vascular function
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Beef protein
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Davis
Lead Sponsor
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
Collaborator