Study of How Butter, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, or Sunflower Oil Affect Gut Bacteria and Metabolism in Healthy Adults Aged 20 to 50

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how different types of dietary fats affect the gut bacteria and their activity in healthy adults aged 20 to 50 years. This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to understand whether fats with different structures and saturation levels influence gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity. The study also assesses related changes in blood lipids and inflammation markers to explore potential effects on cardiometabolic health. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups to consume butter, coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, or sunflower oil as their main dietary fat for two weeks, following a one-week period of their usual diet. Each participant will replace most of their habitual dietary fat intake with their assigned fat while maintaining their normal lifestyle. The study involves three visits over three weeks, with fat consumption beginning after the initial visit. During the study visits on Days 1, 7, and 22, participants will provide stool and blood samples after fasting overnight. These samples will be analyzed to measure changes in short-chain fatty acid concentrations, gut bacteria types, blood lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, fasting glucose, fecal pH, and fecal fat content. Participants will also complete food diaries, symptom questionnaires, and adherence logs to monitor dietary intake and compliance. Anthropometric measurements will be taken to track body changes throughout the trial.

Effects Of Dietary Fats on Gut Microbiota Composition and Metabolic Activity in Healthy Adults