Effect of Increased Beef Consumption on Brain Function and Cognition in Young Adults Aged 19 to 24

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether eating more beef can improve cognitive function and brain health in healthy younger adults aged 19 to 24. The study aims to see if higher beef consumption leads to better scores on cognitive tests, improved quality of life, and better brain function using brain imaging. It also looks at effects on memory, executive function, psychological well-being, and sleep quality. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups for a 12-week dietary intervention. The experimental group will consume five 5-ounce portions of ready-to-eat lean beef weekly, while the control group will consume five 1-ounce portions weekly. Both groups receive frozen beef meals to prepare and consume alongside their regular diet, and compliance is monitored with weekly surveys. Participants will visit the study site weekly to pick up their frozen beef meals and complete brief consumption surveys. Before and after the 12-week intervention, they will undergo brain MRI scans, complete cognitive and psychological questionnaires, perform neuropsychological tasks, and have blood drawn. The researchers will measure various cognitive and health outcomes to assess the impact of increased beef consumption on brain health and cognitive abilities.

Investigating the Effects of Beef Consumption on Cognitive and Brain Health