Acute Changes in Fatty Acid Binding Protein 2 (FABP2) and Cluster of Differentiation 14 (CD14) Post-Supplementation with Freeze-Dried Kale versus Peas in Women with Obesity
Background: Evidence on the metabolic effects of functional foods such as kale and peas are limited in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia where obesity rates are high. We hypothesize that short term freeze-dried kale supplementation is superior to freeze-dried peas in improving indices of fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2) and cluster of differentiation (CD14) post-supplementation in Arab women with obesity. The present study aims to determine the acute impact of a two-week supplementation of freeze-dried kale versus freeze-dried peas in improving metabolic indices and gut-barrier function among obese Arab women.
Methods: A total of 124 Saudi women with obesity were allocated to receive either freeze-dried kale (n = 62) or freeze-dried peas (n = 62) given in the form of 3-gram sachets three times daily for two weeks. Anthropometric measurements, 24-hr dietary recall, glucose, lipids and markers of gut barrier function were assessed at baseline and post-intervention.
Results: A significant reduction in total caloric intake was observed in the kale group and not in the pea group overtime (p-values 0.02 and 0.38, respectively). This decrease in caloric intake in the kale group potentially explains the favorable weight loss observed (p = 0.01). Beneficial metabolic changes in terms of decreased triglycerides (p < 0.01) and glucose (p = 0.02) were also observed independent of weight loss in the kale group. These benefits were also noted in participants in the pea group [decreased total cholesterol (p < 0.01) and glucose (p = 0.02)], but without weight loss. Both groups achieved a decrease in their waist-hip ratio overtime with increased levels of FABP2 and CD14 post-supplementation, suggesting an enhanced gut barrier function.
Conclusion: Both freeze-dried kale and pea supplementation appeared to improve gut health by increasing levels of FABP2 and CD14, however kale's additional health benefits in this study may arise due to its apparent natural appetite-suppressing effects, potentially leading to a reduction in daily caloric intake and weight loss.
Historically, osteoporosis has been viewed as a disease of women, with research, trials of interventions and guidelines predominantly focused as such. It is apparent, however, that this condition…
Background: Evidence on the metabolic effects of functional foods such as kale and peas are limited in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia where obesity rates are high.
Interleukins (ILs) are a group of cytokines known to have immunomodulatory effects; they include ILs-33 and -37 whose emerging roles in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) remain under…