Effect of an Intermittent Meat Protein Diet on Colon Homeostasis

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The level of dietary protein is a major factor determining gut health. The level of dietary protein is fluctuated in real life, which may affect colon homeostasis. However, it is still less known about it. Here, we investigated how an intermittent protein diet affected inflammatory, gut barrier and microbiota. Methods Six-week-old male C57BL/6J mice received either a casein or pork protein with (i) 20% protein (C), (ii) 5% protein, (iii) 40% protein, or intermittent diet, a diet alternating weekly between 5% protein and 40% protein ((iv) ending on 40% protein or (v) ending on 5% protein)) for up to 16 weeks. The gene expression of inflammatory cytokines, tight junction protein and gut microbiota composition were measured. Results The intermittent intake of casein decreased body weight, but intermittent pork protein diet didn't affect body weight. In casein group, the proinflammatory factors were highly upregulated in intermittent group ending on 5% protein, but the proinflammatory cytokines of intermittent group ending on 40% protein were not significantly affected. However, the two intermittent pork protein groups reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, intermittent diet altered gut microbiota composition. Intermittent casein group ending on 40% protein increased richness of gut microbiota, but intermittent pork protein group ending on 5% protein decreased richness and microbial diversity. Conclusions Intermittent diet indeed altered microbiota structure and colon health. In addition to protein level and source, dietary pattern is also an important parameter for host health. Funding Sources This work was funded by Ministry of Science and Technology (10000 Talent Project).