Plant-based Meals Research Articles

A Plant-Based Meal Affects Thalamus Perfusion Differently than an Energy- and Macronutrient-Matched Conventional Meal in Men with Type 2 Diabetes, Overweight/Obese, and Healthy Men: A Three-Group Randomized Crossover Study

Background: Reward circuitry in the brain plays a key role in weight regulation. We tested the effects of a plant-based meal on these brain regions. Methods: A randomized crossover design was used to test the effects of two energy- and macronutrient-matched meals: a vegan (V-meal) and a conventional meat (M-meal) on brain activity, gastrointestinal hormones, and satiety in participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D; n=20), overweight/obese participants (O; n=20), and healthy controls (H; n=20). Brain perfusion was measured, using arterial spin labeling functional brain imaging; satiety was assessed using a visual analogue scale; and plasma concentrations of gut hormones were determined at 0 and 180 min. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons was applied. The Hedge's g statistic was used to measure the effect size for means of paired difference between the times (180-0 min) and meal types (M-V meal) for each group. Findings: Thalamus perfusion was the highest in patients with T2Dand the lowest in overweight/obese individuals (p=0.001). Thalamus perfusion decreased significantly after ingestion of the M-meal in men with T2D (p=0.04) and overweight/obese men (p=0.004), and it decreased significantly after ingestion of the V-meal in healthy controls (p<0.001). The effect size was -0.41 (95% CI, -1.14 to 0.31; p=0.26) for men with diabetes; -0.72 (95% CI, -1.48 to 0.01; p=0.05) for overweight/obese men; and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.09 to 1.59; p=0.03) for men with T2D. Changes in thalamus perfusion after ingestion of both test meals correlated with changes in satiety (r= +0.68; p<0.01), fasting plasma insulin (r= +0.40; p<0.01), C-peptide (r= +0.48; p<0.01) and amylin (r= +0.55; p<0.01), and insulin secretion at 5 mmol/l (r= +0.77; p<0.05). Interpretation: Thalamus perfusion decreased after the M-meal in men with T2D and overweight/obese men, and it decreased after the V-meal in healthy controls. The changes in thalamus perfusion were associated with changes in satiety and insulin secretion. Trial Registration: The trial is prospectively registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT02474147). Funding Statement: This work was supported by the project grant AZV15-27338A from Ministry of Health, Prague, Czech Republic and by the conceptual development of research organization („Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine – IKEM, IN 00023001“) from Ministry of Health, Czech Republic. Declaration of Interests: The authors stated: None declared Ethics Approval Statement: This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Thomayer Hospital and Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine in Prague, Czech Republic on August 13, 2014. The protocol identification number is G14-08-42.

Analysis and inorganic composition of microplastics in commercial Malaysian fish meals.

Presence of microplastics (MPs) in a broad range of wild and cultured marine organisms is well-documented, but transfer mechanisms by which cultured organisms are contaminated with MPs is poorly understood. MP loads in three Malaysian commercial brands of fish meal were investigated. Chemical composition of extracted MP-like particles was confirmed using micro-Raman spectroscopy. Inorganic composition of MPs and pigment particles were assessed through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Out of 336 extracted particles, 64.3% were plastic polymers, 25% pigment particles, 4.2% non-plastic items, and 6.5% were unidentified. Fragments were the dominant form of MPs (78.2%) followed by filaments (13.4%) and films (8.4%). This study demonstrates that cultured organisms could be exposed to high levels of MPs via MP contaminated fish/shellfish used in fish meal production. Fish meal replacement with other sources of protein including meat meals and plant-based meals may mitigate MP exposure to cultured or farmed organisms.

Effects of a School Based Intervention on Children's Physical Activity and Healthy Eating: A Mixed-Methods Study.

Combined diet and physical activity school-based interventions (rather than only diet or physical activity interventions) are more likely to help prevent children from becoming overweight in the long term. However, such interventions are less prevalent, and therefore, this pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility of a gardening intervention coupled with awareness about plant-based meals among 9−10 year old children in a London primary school. We recruited 60 children from two Year 5 classes, one class participated as an intervention group, and results were compared against another class who acted as the control group. Children’s physical activity (PA) was measured using GENEActiv wrist-worn accelerometers. Their fruit and vegetable intake and attitudes to and preferences in eating fruits and vegetables were measured using a self-report questionnaire. Furthermore, three focus groups were held with children in the intervention group to understand the reasons behind any change as a result of the intervention. Results are inconclusive; however, they indicate some impact on reduction of sedentary behaviour, increase of moderate to vigorous PA, knowledge of nutrition and some level of acceptance in trying new vegetables. School-based interventions involving gardening show some promise to increase children’s PA and improve their attitudes to eating fruits and vegetables.

Group Medical Visits 2.0: The Open Source Wellness Behavioral Pharmacy Model.

Objectives: The Open Source Wellness (OSW) model was designed to function as a behavioral pharmacy; an affordable, accessible delivery system for a universal experiential prescription: MOVE (physical activity), NOURISH (healthy meals), CONNECT (social support), and BE (stress reduction). This study evaluates the OSW model in a billable group medical visit (GMV) format in a federally qualified health center (FQHC). Intervention: Patients with behaviorally mediated conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression, as well as poor social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, were prescribed participation in the OSW program by their medical team. Groups met for 2 h each week for 16 weeks to complete 30 min of socially engaging physical activity, 5 min of mindfulness meditation, a 10-min interactive, didactic health lesson, a 5-min nutrition lesson, and 60 min of small-group coaching over a plant-based meal. Paraprofessional health coaches worked with participants in small groups to provide support and create accountability to goals. In addition, participants received a $10 voucher to Food Farmacy, which provided free produce. Subjects: The sample consisted of 49 patients from the Hayward Wellness Center, an FQHC in Hayward, California. They were mostly women, 59.6%, and racially and ethnically diverse: 23.1% African American, 5.8% Asian, 26.9% Hispanic/Latino, 11.5% Pacific Islander, and 32.7% Caucasian. Participants averaged 59.1 years of age (SD = 10.6). Outcome measures: Blood pressure and weight were recorded weekly. Demographic and acute care utilization data were drawn from the electronic medical record. Self-report questionnaires assessed diet, exercise, and mood on a monthly basis. Methods and results: Longitudinal data were analyzed with linear mixed models. Participants (n = 49) demonstrated significant increases in daily servings of fruits and vegetables, b = 0.31, p < 0.01, and exercise, b = 11.50, p < 0.01, as well as significant reductions in body mass index, b = -0.10, p = 0.05. Acute care utilization decrease was not statistically significant, b = -0.07, p = 0.14. Depressed patients (n = 11) saw reductions in depression, b = -1.72, p < 0.01, and hypertensive patients (n = 24) saw reductions in systolic blood pressure, b = -4.04, p < 0.01, but not diastolic blood pressure, b = 0.04, p = 0.95. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the OSW behavioral pharmacy model within a GMV context; pathways for adaptation, spread/scale, and incorporation of this work as a component of the broader health ecosystem and national commitment to health equity are discussed.

Fresh and Savory: Integrating Teaching Kitchens with Shared Medical Appointments.

Objectives: In the fall of 2017, Fresh and Savory, a Culinary and Lifestyle Medicine Teaching Kitchen (TK) program proved systematically feasible as a Shared Medical Appointment (SMA). A portable TK complemented physician consultations, interactive didactic presentations, nutritious cooking, and mind-body exercises. A series of SMAs were launched to develop a system for physicians to address patients' nutritional and lifestyle needs. Interventions: MedStar Health implemented three TK SMA programs to improve patients culinary and lifestyle skills and improve relevant habits. Two cohorts were recruited from Internal Medicine and Cardiology (Internal Medicine/Cardiology I and II) and completed an 8-week program leveraging a culinary and lifestyle medicine curriculum. One cohort (Sports Performance) was held with young, elite athletes completing a 4-week program regarding athlete's nutrition and lifestyle. Feasibility was assessed through patient surveys, staff program operation assessments, and reimbursement. Results: Fifty-three unique patients attended SMA programs, 4-18 patients per weekly session; 223 appointments billed in 2018. E&M code 99213 was billed at $157 and reimbursed, on average, at $116 per patient encounter. During a 4- to 8-week SMA program, changes in patient vitals were statistically insignificant, yet habit changes showed clinical significance. Patients noted increased knowledge of plant-based meals, importance of sleep, and adding mindfulness and exercise to their weekly routine. Conclusions: This exploration investigated the feasibility to implement TK SMA programs at MedStar Health. Developing financial and operational infrastructure for TK SMAs requires financial, staffing, location, and population considerations. TK SMAs proved patient demand for opportunities to develop healthy behaviors. However, sufficient time is required to recruit patients. Vital signs may not acutely improve over an 8-week period, however, small habit changes may improve health outcomes longitudinally and additional exploration is required to assess longitudinal patient outcomes. Financially, SMAs suggest a sustainable and effective approach to integrative medicine in health care.

1914-P: A Plant-Based Meal Increases Gastrointestinal Hormones and Satiety More Than an Energy- and Macronutrient-Matched Standard Meal in T2D, Obese, and Healthy Participants: A Three-Group Randomized Crossover Study

Objective: Gastrointestinal hormones play a key role in glucose metabolism and satiety. We examined the acute effect of meal composition on these hormones in three population groups. Research Design and Methods: A randomized crossover design was used to test the effects of two energy- and macronutrient-matched meals: a processed-meat (M-meal) and a vegan (V-meal) on gastrointestinal hormones, and satiety in participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D, n=20), obese participants (O, n=20), and healthy controls (H, n=20). Plasma concentrations of glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1), amylin, and peptide YY (PYY) were determined at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 minutes. Satiety was assessed using a visual analogue scale. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results: An increase in postprandial secretion of GLP-1 was observed after the V-meal in T2D (by 30.5%; 95% CI 21.2 to 40.7%; p&amp;lt;0.001) and H (by 15.8%; 95% CI 8.6 to 23.5%; p=0.01). An increase in postprandial plasma concentrations of amylin was observed in all groups after the V-meal: by 15.7% in T2D (95% CI 11.8 to 19.6%; p&amp;lt;0.001); by 11.5% in O (95% CI 7.8 to 15.3%; p=0.03); and by 13.8% in H (95% CI 8.4 to 19.5%; p&amp;lt;0.001). An increase in postprandial values of PYY after the V-meal was significant only in H (by 18.9%; 95% CI 7.5 to 31.3%; p=0.03). The participants in all groups reported greater satiety after the V-meal: by 9.0% in T2D (95% CI 4.4 to 13.6%; p=0.004); by 18.7% in O (95% CI 12.8 to 24.6%; p&amp;lt;0.001); and by 25.0% in H (95% CI 18.2 to 31.7%; p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions: Our results indicate there is an increase in gut hormones and satiety, following consumption of a single plant-based meal when compared with an energy- and macronutrient-matched standard meat meal. Disclosure J. Veleba: None. M. Klementova: None. L. Belinova: None. M. Haluzik: None. R. Pavlovicova: None. M. Hill: None. T. Pelikanova: None. H. Kahleova: None. Funding Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic (AZV15-27338A); Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine (MZCR00023001)

755-P: A Plant-Based Meal Stimulates Incretin and Insulin Secretion More than an Energy- and Macronutrient-Matched Standard Meal in Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Study

Objective: We tested the effects of two energy- and macronutrient-matched meals: a standard meat (M-meal) and a vegan (V-meal) on postprandial incretin and insulin secretion in participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Research Design and Methods: A randomized crossover design was used in 20 participants with T2D. Plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1), amylin, and gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) were determined at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 minutes. Beta-cell function was assessed with a mathematical model, using C-peptide deconvolution. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results: Postprandial plasma glucose responses were similar after both test meals (p=0.64). An increase in the stimulated secretion of insulin (by 30.5%; 95% CI 21.2 to 40.7%; p&amp;lt;0.001), C-peptide (by 7.1%; 95% CI 4.1 to 9.9%; p&amp;lt;0.001), and amylin (by 15.7%; 95% CI 11.8 to 19.7%; p&amp;lt;0.001) was observed following consumption of the V-meal. An increase in stimulated secretion of GLP-1 (by 19.2%; 95% CI 12.4 to 26.7%; p&amp;lt;0.001) and a decrease in GIP (by -9.4%; 95% CI -17.3 to -0.7%; p=0.02) were observed after the V-meal. Several parameters of beta-cell function increased after the V-meal, particularly insulin secretion at a fixed glucose value 5 mmol/L, rate sensitivity, and the potentiation factor. Conclusions: Our results indicate an increase in postprandial incretin and insulin secretion, following consumption of a single vegan meal, suggesting a therapeutic potential of plant-based meals for improving beta-cell function in T2D. Disclosure H. Kahleova: None. A. Tura: None. M. Klementova: None. L. Belinova: None. M. Haluzik: None. R. Pavlovicova: None. M. Hill: None. T. Pelikanova: None. Funding Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic (AZV15-27338A); Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine (MZCR00023001)

Consumption orientations may support (or hinder) transitions to more plant-based diets

There have been increasing calls for triggering and sustaining a large-scale transition toward healthier and more sustainable food systems. To help materialize this transition, the present work aims to inform efforts for developing, marketing and promoting plant-based meals and plant-forward lifestyles, following a consumption-focused approach. The findings (Nparticipants = 1600, Portugal; 52.6% female, Mage = 48.30) allowed to identify trends and differences on three sets of variables – (a) current eating habits (i.e., meat, fish, and plant-based meals), (b) consumer willingness to change (i.e., reduce meat consumption, follow a plant-based diet, maintain the status quo), and (c) enablers for eating plant-based meals more often (i.e., capability, opportunity, motivation) –, considering consumer orientations toward consumption in general, and food consumption in particular. Taken together, the results suggested that some consumption orientations were aligned with the transition to more plant-based diets (e.g., food orientation toward naturalness), others were open to – but not yet materialized in – the transition (e.g., general orientation toward consumption as exploration), and still others were in tension with the transition (e.g., food orientation toward pleasure). The discussion calls for developing and testing pathways to reduce meat consumption and increase plant-based eating which capture and build upon a range of consumption orientations, rather than against them.

Celebrity Chefs and New Meat Consumption Norms: Seeking Questions, Not Answers

Celebrity Chefs and New Meat Consumption Norms: Seeking Questions, Not Answers

A Plant-Based Meal Stimulates Incretin and Insulin Secretion More Than an Energy- and Macronutrient-Matched Standard Meal in Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Crossover Study.

Diminished postprandial secretion of incretins and insulin represents one of the key pathophysiological mechanisms behind type 2 diabetes (T2D). We tested the effects of two energy- and macronutrient-matched meals: A standard meat (M-meal) and a vegan (V-meal) on postprandial incretin and insulin secretion in participants with T2D. A randomized crossover design was used in 20 participants with T2D. Plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), amylin, and gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) were determined at 0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 min. Beta-cell function was assessed with a mathematical model, using C-peptide deconvolution. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Postprandial plasma glucose responses were similar after both test meals (p = 0.64). An increase in the stimulated secretion of insulin (by 30.5%; 95% CI 21.2 to 40.7%; p < 0.001), C-peptide (by 7.1%; 95% CI 4.1 to 9.9%; p < 0.001), and amylin (by 15.7%; 95% CI 11.8 to 19.7%; p < 0.001) was observed following consumption of the V-meal. An increase in stimulated secretion of GLP-1 (by 19.2%; 95% CI 12.4 to 26.7%; p < 0.001) and a decrease in GIP (by −9.4%; 95% CI −17.3 to −0.7%; p = 0.02) were observed after the V-meal. Several parameters of beta-cell function increased after the V-meal, particularly insulin secretion at a fixed glucose value 5 mmol/L, rate sensitivity, and the potentiation factor. Our results showed an increase in postprandial incretin and insulin secretion, after consumption of a V-meal, suggesting a therapeutic potential of plant-based meals for improving beta-cell function in T2D.

Sustainable use of Hermetia illucens insect biomass for feed and food: Attributional and consequential life cycle assessment

The lack of protein sources in several parts of the world is triggering the search for locally produced and sustainable alternatives. Insect production is recognized as a potential solution. This study is a life cycle assessment (LCA) of food industry side streams transformation via Hermetia illucens into intermediate products applicable for feed and food purposes. It relies on attributional modelling for the estimation of the most impacting stages of insect production and on consequential modelling for the estimation of potential benefits or risks for the agri-food system. The consequential LCA included effects on the market, associated with upstream increase in feed (increase in commercial feed production) or downstream availability of insect product (substitution of fertilizer, protein concentrate for feed or chicken meat). Attributional and consequential LCAs are followed by sensitivity analyses, which identify the most promising directions towards sustainable insect production and estimate the magnitude of impact reductions if those directions are pursued by the industry. Analyses of the existing pilot process largely correspond with other findings in the literature, indicating fresh insect biomass is almost twice more sustainable than fresh chicken meat. Produced at pilot scale, protein concentrate (insect meal) while being competitive against animal-derived (whey, egg protein, fishmeal) and microalgae, has higher environmental impacts than plant-based meals. Further scenarios illustrate strategies for more sustainable use of environmental resources providing guidance for producers and funding agencies to direct the industry to an impact profile that is lower, than many existing protein sources.

A Plant-Based Meal Increases Gastrointestinal Hormones and Satiety More Than an Energy- and Macronutrient-Matched Processed-Meat Meal in T2D, Obese, and Healthy Men: A Three-Group Randomized Crossover Study.

Gastrointestinal hormones are involved in regulation of glucose metabolism and satiety. We tested the acute effect of meal composition on these hormones in three population groups. A randomized crossover design was used to examine the effects of two energy- and macronutrient-matched meals: a processed-meat and cheese (M-meal) and a vegan meal with tofu (V-meal) on gastrointestinal hormones, and satiety in men with type 2 diabetes (T2D, n = 20), obese men (O, n = 20), and healthy men (H, n = 20). Plasma concentrations of glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1), amylin, and peptide YY (PYY) were determined at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 min. Visual analogue scale was used to assess satiety. We used repeated-measures Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for statistical analysis. Postprandial secretion of GLP-1 increased after the V-meal in T2D (by 30.5%; 95%CI 21.2 to 40.7%; p < 0.001) and H (by 15.8%; 95%CI 8.6 to 23.5%; p = 0.01). Postprandial plasma concentrations of amylin increased in in all groups after the V-meal: by 15.7% in T2D (95%CI 11.8 to 19.6%; p < 0.001); by 11.5% in O (95%CI 7.8 to 15.3%; p = 0.03); and by 13.8% in H (95%CI 8.4 to 19.5%; p < 0.001). An increase in postprandial values of PYY after the V-meal was significant only in H (by 18.9%; 95%CI 7.5 to 31.3%; p = 0.03). Satiety was greater in all participants after the V-meal: by 9% in T2D (95%CI 4.4 to 13.6%; p = 0.004); by 18.7% in O (95%CI 12.8 to 24.6%; p < 0.001); and by 25% in H (95%CI 18.2 to 31.7%; p < 0.001). Our results indicate there is an increase in gut hormones and satiety, following consumption of a single plant-based meal with tofu when compared with an energy- and macronutrient-matched processed-meat meat and cheese meal, in healthy, obese and diabetic men.

Eating To Save The Planet: Evidence from a Randomized Controlled Trial Using Individual-Level Food Purchase Data

Meat consumption is a major driver of climate change. Interventions that reduce meat consumption may improve public health and promote environmental sustainability. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to examine the effects of an awareness-raising intervention on meat consumption using individual-level food purchase data. We randomized undergraduate classes into treatment and control groups. Treatment groups received a 50-minute lecture on how food choices affect climate change, along with information about the health benefits of reduced meat consumption. Control classrooms received a lecture on a placebo topic. We analyzed 49,301 students’ meal purchases in the college dining halls before and after the intervention. We merged food purchase data with survey data collected during the intervention to study effects by gender and race and to disentangle the mechanisms behind the treatment effects. Participants in the treatment group reduced their purchases of meat and increased their purchases of plant-based alternatives after the intervention. The probability of purchasing a meat-based meal fell by 4.6 percentage points (p<0.01), whereas the probability of purchasing a plant-based meal increased by 4.2 percentage points (p=0.04). While the effects were stronger during the semester of the intervention, dietary shifts persisted and remained statistically significant through the full academic year. Our study provides evidence that an intervention based on informing consumers and encouraging voluntary shifts can effectively reduce the demand for meat. Our findings help to inform the international food policy debate on how to counter rising global levels of meat consumption to achieve climate change goals. To our knowledge, our study is the first to assess the effectiveness of an intervention designed to reduce meat consumption using such high-quality data.

The Effect of Two Isocaloric and Energy-Matched Plant-Based and Processed-Meat Meals on Glucose Metabolism, Gastrointestinal Hormones, and Satiety in Subjects with T2D, Obese Subjects, and Healthy Controls—A Randomized Crossover Study

Objective: Gastrointestinal hormones play a key role in glucose metabolism and energy homeostasis. Methods: A randomized cross-over study was used to test the effects of two energy- (600 kcal) and macronutrient-matched plant-based and processed-meat meals (41% carbohydrates, 19% protein, and 40% lipids) on glucose metabolism, plasma concentrations of gastrointestinal hormones, and satiety in subjects with T2D (n=20), obese subjects (n=20) and healthy controls (n=20). Plasma concentrations of glucose, immunoreactive insulin, C-peptide, GLP-1, GIP, amylin and PYY, along with satiety, were determined at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 min. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Results: An increase in stimulated secretion of immunoreactive insulin was observed in T2D and obese subjects (p=0.005, and p=0.045, respectively) after the plant-based meal. We observed an increase in stimulated secretion of C-peptide in all groups after the plant-based meal (p&amp;lt;0.001 for T2D, p=0.014 for obese subjects, and p=0.001 for healthy controls). An increase in postprandial concentrations of amylin was observed in T2D and healthy controls after the plant-based meal (p&amp;lt;0.001 for both groups). An increase in stimulated secretion of GLP-1 was observed in T2D obese subjects and healthy controls (p&amp;lt;0.001, and p=0.01, respectively) after the plant-based meal. A decrease in peak concentrations of GIP (at 60 min.), and an increase in peak concentrations of PYY, were observed in all groups after the plant-based meal. The participants in all groups reported greater satiety after the plant-based meal (p=0.004 for T2D, p&amp;lt;0.001 for obese subjects, and p&amp;lt;0.001 for healthy controls). Conclusions: Our study suggests that plant-based meals may be effective in increasing stimulated secretion of GLP-1, insulin, amylin and PYY, as well as in promoting satiety. Disclosure M. Klementova: None. L. Belinova: None. M. Haluzik: None. R. Pavlovicova: None. M. Hill: None. T. Pelikanova: None. H. Kahleova: None.

Mycotoxins in Southeast Asian aquaculture: plant-based meals and finished feeds

The awareness of mycotoxin-related issues in aquaculture industry has grown as manufacturers and producers realise the importance of mycotoxins, beyond aflatoxin, and their potential to impact production. During a period of one year (January 2016 – December 2016), 175 samples of different plant proteins, aquaculture/fishery by-products and finished aquaculture feeds, were analysed. Samples were tested for aflatoxins (aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2); zearalenone; type B trichothecenes (deoxynivalenol (DON); nivalenol; 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol; 15-acetyldeoxynivalenol and fusarenon X-glucoside); fumonisins (fumonisin B1, B2 and B3); type A trichothecenes (T-2 and HT-2 toxin; diacetoxyscirpenol and neosolaniol); and ochratoxin A. All samples were sourced in Southeast Asia. Within the analysed samples, 4% were free of detectable mycotoxins. 8% of the samples had one mycotoxin and 88% of the samples were contaminated with more than one mycotoxin. The current work show similarity to previous studies, that mycotoxin occurrence in plant-meals, and consequently in finished feeds, is quite variable and confirms that aflatoxin is not the main mycotoxin in aquafeeds. Mycotoxin occurrence in fish and shrimp feeds in the present samples were higher than reported in previous studies for the same region. In samples of shrimp feed with DON detected, the mean average DON level was 882 μg/kg with a maximum level of 2,287 μg/kg. These values are within the reported sensitivity levels of white leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). Despite the limited number and short period of sampling, this inventory study helps address a knowledge gap of mycotoxin occurrence in feeds specifically destined for the aquaculture industry.

Fasting‐Mimicking Diet and Risk Factors for Aging, Diabetes, Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease

BackgroundProlonged fasting in which only water is consumed for 2 days or more has been shown to reduce pro‐growth signaling, activate cellular protection mechanisms and promote protection against cancer, diabetes, heart disease and neurodegenerative diseases. Since prolonged fasting is difficult for most human subjects, we developed a Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) which is a low calorie, low protein, plant‐based meal plan for 5 continuous days. During periods of low calorie intake, the body enters a protected mode, removes damaged cells and tissues, and undergoes self‐repair.Methods100 participants without a diagnosed medical condition in the preceding six months were enrolled based on Inclusion criteria (generally healthy adult volunteers, 18–70 years of age, body mass index: 18.5 and up). This study is designed as a randomized cross‐over trial, includes two arms: Control and multi‐cycle special 5‐day dietary regimen (Diet, 3 cycles). We evaluated the effects of the FMD on risk factors and markers for aging, cancer, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases.ResultsFor all subjects who completed 3 FMD cycles (combining both FMD arms), body weight, BMI, total body fat, trunk fat, absolute lean body mass, waist circumference, IGF‐1, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and LDL were significantly reduced (P&lt;0.05) and relative lean body mass (p=0.0002) was increased.ConclusionsFMD cycles are effective in improving an array of metabolic markers/risk factors associated with poor health and aging and in contributing to the treatment and prevention of multiple age‐related diseases.Support or Funding InformationFunding was provided by the USC Edna Jones chair fund. Dr. Mack's contributions were provided through the Southern California Clinical and Translational Science Institute (SCCTSI) supported by NIH ULTR001855

Preliminary Evaluation of Moniliformin as a Potential Threat for Teleosts

Aquaculture feed manufacturers and producers increasingly recognize the importance of mycotoxins, which contaminate plant-based meals used in compound aquafeeds, and their potential to negatively impact production. Though data on the worldwide occurrence of legislated mycotoxins e.g., trichothecenes and zearalenone (ZEN) are well documented, relatively little information is available regarding other mycotoxins also produced by Fusarium, notably moniliformin (MON). Given that MON is known to affect the survival, growth, skeletal formation and bone mineralization in terrestrial species, its widespread occurrence on maize and maize by-products typically used in aquaculture makes it relevant to study these parameters in teleost fish. In the present work we have tested the effect of MON exposure on survival, bone development and mineralization using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a model species and fish derived osteo-chondroprogenitor cell line for in vitro studies. Moniliformin exposure did not decrease bone mineralization in zebrafish larvae or extracellular matrix mineralization in the mineralogenic cell line VSa13. Here, the minimal in vitro cytotoxicity concentration was found to be 1000 µg L−1 MON. Incidence of deformities was also not altered by MON at the concentration tested (450 µg L−1) although larval growth was affected, as shown by a decrease in the standard length of exposed specimens at 20 days post fertilization. Survival decreased significantly in larvae exposed to MON concentrations higher than 900 μg L−1. Influence of MON on survival and growth might be relevant for aquaculture industry. As MON is a water-soluble mycotoxin, its leaching from feed is highly probable, so MON assimilation into the surrounding aqueous environment should also be considered. Tested levels in fish larvae are within the reported occurrence levels of MON in commercial feed and plant meals.

Occurrence of mycotoxins in aquaculture: preliminary overview of Asian and European plant ingredients and finished feeds

Concern about mycotoxins in aquaculture has been growing, partly due to the gradual replacement of animal-derived proteins, such as fish meal, by plant sources. Over a period of one year, 2,176 samples of different plant protein sources and 25 samples of finished aquaculture feeds were analysed. Samples were tested for aflatoxins (AF; sum of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1 and G2), zearalenone (ZEA), deoxynivalenol (DON), fumonisins (FB; sum of fumonisin B1 and B2), T-2 toxin and ochratoxin A (full toxin screen). The following plant-based meals were analysed: soybean meal (SBM), wheat (WH), wheat bran (WB), maize (C), corn gluten meal (CGM), cottonseed meal (CSM), rapeseed/canola meal (R/CM) and rice bran (RB). The plant raw materials and aquaculture finished feeds were obtained from Asia and Europe. Finished feed samples from Asia were acquired from Vietnam, Indonesia and Myanmar, while from Europe they were sampled from Denmark, Austria, the Netherlands and Germany. Mycotoxins were found in most of the commodities and finished feeds analysed, showing that mycotoxins represent a risk for the development of the aquaculture sector. Generally, in Asian samples we observed that SBM, WH, WB, C, CGM, R/CM and RB were mostly contaminated withFusarium mycotoxins (ZEA, DON and FB). CSM was contaminated primarily by AF andFusarium toxins (ZEA and DON) at lower concentrations. European samples were contaminated mainly byFusarium mycotoxins. The co-occurrence of mycotoxins in all commodities was high, raising the probability of co-occurrence in finished feeds. An accumulation of mycotoxins on the processed plant-based ingredients (e.g. CGM and WB) was observed when compared to the respective whole grains (C and WH, respectively). Compared to results obtained in 2014, finished feeds presented lower contamination levels, but the co-occurrence risk increased.

An 18-day Residential Lifestyle Program Improves Fitness of Asthma Patients

Abstract Rationale Lifestyle interventions are known to improve many medical conditions. We are documenting the effect that a, 18-day residential medical lifestyle program has on the fitness of asthma patients using metabolic equivalent (MetS), which correlate to exercise capacity. Methods The program included 3 daily buffet-like whole food plant-based meals with no snacks, 2 to 3 times a day sessions of exercise (aerobic and anaerobic), massage, hydrotherapy, medical and spiritual interventions. The program is called NEWSTART program and takes place in Weimar, California. NEWSTART means: Nutrition, Exercise, Water, proper Sunlight exposure, fresh Air, Rest and Trust (relational, spiritual, and psychological aspects). Board certified physicians monitored patient progress. Nutritionist, exercise physiologist, psychological, and chaplaincy care is also provided. From 2282 patients that completed the 18-day NEWSTART program in 13 years we found 66 that had the starting diagnosis of asthma. From those 66, 39 had a pre and post stress test to determine MetS. These 39 patients had an average age of 59, SD 14.9. Results At baseline, asthmatics had on average a MetS of 8.38, SD 3.3, median 9, mode 10, min 2 and max 16. At the end of the program the stress test reported a MetS of 9.6, SD 3.8, median 10, mode 9, min 2 and max of 18. Asthmatic crises decreased during the program. Conclusions The lifestyle Program seems to improve fitness of asthma patients. The end MetS of 9.6 is important since a 10 to 11 MetS is considered good exercise capacity and may decrease mortality.

Abstract 118: Angina Patients Improve Physical Fitness in 18 Days

Background: Angina patients can have difficulty with physical activity. It is known that physical exercise could be beneficial for patients suffering from angina. We document the effect that lifestyle interventions have on metabolic equivalents (MetS). MetS is related to oxygen consumed at rest, higher MetS indicates better physical fitness. Methods: A medical residential program took place in the Sierra Mountains in Placer County in California. Patients were referred by their physician or came by themselves to the not for profit program. The program included plant-based meals, stress management, spiritual help, chaplaincy, psychological, physical and medical therapies. Every patient was evaluated by a board certified physician who also conducted a stress test on participants. The stress test was done before and after the program. The Bruce protocol was followed for the stress test, the test gave the initial and final MetS measurements. Patients were monitored daily and every patient did some level of physical exercise according their physical condition. For females 60+ years old a MetS of 5 or less are considered very poor fitness while a MetS of 9 is considered good. For males 60+ MetS of 6 are considered very poor while a MetS of 10 is considered good. Results: From 12 years of data 2030 patients participated of the program, from those, n=82 had the diagnosis of angina and they also had a before and after stress test results. Those 82, 50% were females, 47.5% were Caucasian, 20.7% Black and 19.5% Hispanic. Average age for males was 62.2, SD 10.4 and mean age for females was 65.6, SD 11.8. For the females baseline MetS were mean 6.1, SD 2.3, median 6, mode 6, min 2, max 11. End MetS were 7.2, SD 2.6, median 7, mode 5, min 3, max 13. T-test reported significant change t(40)=-6.4, p &lt;.001. For the males baseline MetS were mean 7.5, SD 2.6, median 7, mode 7, min 2.5, max 12. End MetS were mean 8.9, SD 2.7, median 9, mode 7, min 4.5, max 15.2. T-test indicates significant change t(40)=-4.9, p &lt;.001. Many patients reported less angina events during the program. Conclusion: The increase in MetS is a clear indication that the fitness level of these patients improved. The end MetS of this group is related to better prognosis since an increase of MetS means better exercise capacity and may decrease mortality.