Ultra-processed food intake, gut microbiome, and glucose homeostasis in mid-life adults: Background, design, and methods of a controlled feeding trial.

Background: Aging is associated with gut dysbiosis, low-grade inflammation, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Prediabetes, which increases T2D and cardiovascular disease risk, is present in 45-50% of mid-life adults. The gut microbiota may link ultra-processed food (UPF) with inflammation and T2D risk.

Methods: Following a 2-week standardized lead-in diet (59% UPF), adults aged 40-65 years will be randomly assigned to a 6-week diet emphasizing either UPF (81% total energy) or non-UPF (0% total energy). Measurements of insulin sensitivity, 24-h and postprandial glycemic control, gut microbiota composition/function, fecal short chain fatty acids, intestinal inflammation, inflammatory cytokines, and vascular function will be made before and following the 6-week intervention period. Prior to recruitment, menus were developed in order to match UPF and non-UPF conditions based upon relevant dietary factors. Menus were evaluated for palatability and costs, and the commercial additive content of study diets was quantified to explore potential links with outcomes.

Results: Overall diet palatability ratings were similar (UPF = 7.6 ± 1.0; Non-UPF = 6.8 ± 1.5; Like Moderately = 7, Like Very Much = 8). Cost analysis (food + labor) of the 2000 kcal menu (7-d average) revealed lower costs for UPF compared to non-UPF diets ($20.97/d and $40.23/d, respectively). Additive exposure assessment of the 2000 kcal UPF diet indicated that soy lecithin (16×/week), citric acid (13×/week), sorbic acid (13×/week), and sodium citrate (12×/week) were the most frequently consumed additives.

Conclusions: Whether UPF consumption impairs glucose homeostasis in mid-life adults is unknown. Findings will address this research gap and contribute information on how UPF consumption may influence T2D development.