Dr. Candida Rebello of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center wants to learn more about the connection between blood sugar levels and a diet high in soy. This connection is the main focus of her new study, “Lifestyle Interventions for Metabolism and Motivation Improvement,” or MOTIVATE for short, which looks at how certain diets affect blood sugar levels and how they can improve mood and energy levels.
When soybean seeds are chopped, they produce an antibacterial compound called glyceollin, which has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and cognition. The chopped soybean seeds are ground into a flour and included in some of the participants’ diets. The MOTIVATE study targets adults aged 50-75 who have low energy levels, lack of motivation, and a BMI of 30 or greater. The study will last approximately 12 weeks and participants will be provided with free meals.
Soy is widely known for its health benefits, but my research focuses on studying the effects of activated soybeans that produce compounds that plants use to protect themselves.”
Candida Rebello, PhD, Director of the Nutrition and Chronic Disease Program at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center
“I’m particularly interested in understanding how this form of soy, when incorporated into a healthy diet, affects blood sugar levels. The MOTIVATE study will look at the impact of a healthy eating plan and exercise on blood sugar levels, mood and energy levels,” added Dr. Rebello.
Eligible participants will be screened before joining the study. Once in the study, participants will be given a diet and exercise plan and will be required to attend a center three days a week for the duration of the study to exercise and receive their meals. Study participants will be split into groups, with some participants receiving meals that contain soy and others receiving meals that are soy-free.
During these visits, participants will provide study administrators with their medical history, height and weight measurements, and vital signs. The study will also include a physical exam, insulin sensitivity testing, an electrocardiogram, and a DXA scan to measure bone density, muscle, and body fat.
“At Pennington Biomedical, we are using science to make Louisiana healthier, and as we age, being healthier means being more alert, energized and motivated,” said Dr. John Kirwan, Executive Director of Pennington Biomedical. “Dr. Rebello’s MOTIVATE study will explore the hidden benefits of soy on mood and energy levels, and we look forward to Louisiana residents participating in the study and helping us discover new insights.”
Participants in the MOTIVATE study will have all their meals provided and will be compensated up to $660 for their work in the study.
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Pennington Biomedical Research Center
