Impact of High Fiber Snacks on Adiposity, Glucose Regulation and Appetite

The primary objective of the proposed research is to determine the influence of 8 weeks of
twice daily consumption of 120 kcal servings of dried apples or a commonly consumed lowfat
120kcal muffin on components of obesity (waist circumference [waist measurement], serum
glucose [blood sugar], triglycerides [fats in the blood] and HDL-cholesterol, and blood
pressure) as well as antioxidant status, inflammatory markers, nutrient intake in overweight
and obese individuals. A total of 48 children aged 12-15 years will be randomly assigned to
groups and provided with twice daily 120 kcal servings of either dried apples or muffins for
8 weeks of feeding. Prior to initiating the feeding trial and again after 8 weeks, blood
samples will be collected and analyzed. During each visit to the lab, subjects will be
weighed in minimal clothing, tested for body composition using dual energy X-ray
absorptiometry (DXA), bioelectrical impedance (BIA) and air displacement plethysmography
(Bod Pod) and blood pressure, and measured for waist circumference. One 24-hour recall will
be performed prior to initiation of the study; one recall will be performed throughout the
feeding period, and one at the end of the 8 weeks. Dietary intake of energy, macronutrients,
vitamins and minerals will be assessed to determine diet quality. All food records will be
analyzed using the Nutritionist Pro (First DataBank) software. The potential benefits of the
study include determining the effects of consistent snacking and particular snack foods on
metabolism and weight management. There are no major risks to subjects in this study. There
are minimal risks when performing venipuncture (blood draws) including bruising, perforation
of the vein leading to hematoma under skin, light-headedness or dizziness due to fear of
needles, and infection. This study will hopefully allow more understanding and insight into
the diet of children and the effect of it on body makeup and blood sugar. It is hypothesized
that the twice a day apple snack group will have decreased waist circumference, body
adiposity, triglycerides and total cholesterol as well as, increased blood glucose uptake at
the end of 8 weeks.