Effect of Supplement on Appetite and GLP-1

Study Title: Acute Effect of Supplement Containing L-Arginine on Appetite Suppression and GLP-1 Induction Research Objectives: The study aims to evaluate the effects of a dietary supplement containing L-arginine, resveratrol, tart cherry, and vitamin C on appetite suppression, GLP-1 hormone release, and associated metabolic outcomes in individuals with overweight or obesity. Background: GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide 1) plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and glucose homeostasis. Condensed Background Information: The combination of the following ingredients is hypothesized to have a synergistic effect, promoting satiety and improving metabolic health: * L-arginine enhances GLP-1 secretion, improving glucose tolerance and reducing appetite. * Resveratrol inhibits DPP-IV, extending the activity of GLP-1. * Tart cherry supports metabolic regulation by enhancing nitric oxide availability and preventing arginine catabolism. * Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, supporting the efficacy of other components. Participant Details: * Number of Participants: 25 * Eligibility Criteria: * Adults aged 18-60 years. * BMI between 25 and 40 kg/m². * Must maintain current diet and physical activity levels. Exclusion Criteria: * Significant weight change (\>5%) in the last three months. * Medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases. * Current use of medications or supplements affecting weight or GLP-1 levels. * Pregnancy or lactation. Study Design: This is a randomized, triple-blinded, placebo-controlled study with three conditions: * High-Dose Supplement (\~10 g) * Low-Dose Supplement (\~5 g) * Placebo (\~5 g) Each participant will experience all three conditions in random order. The timeline for the study involves: * Pre-Session: 8-hour fasting before each visit. * Arrival at the lab (Rickel Building, Rooms 256/259). * Baseline blood sample collection. * Administration of assigned supplement/placebo. * 60-minute rest period. * Consumption of a standardized meal (Bertolli Chicken Alfredo pasta bake) in isolation within a 30-minute window. * Collection of additional blood samples at eight-time points * Measurement of hunger using a 7-point scale. Study Procedures Blood Sampling: * 7 mL samples collected at each time point for metabolic analysis (e.g., glucose, insulin, GLP-1). * Total blood volume: 168 mL per participant across all sessions. * Samples will be analyzed for metabolic markers in Dr. Ryan Porter's lab. Satiety Measurement: Participants will rate hunger levels at each blood draw using a scale from "Extremely Hungry" to "Extremely Full." Meal Intake: An ad libitum meal is provided to assess the impact of supplementation on food consumption. Risks and Mitigation * Blood Draw Risks: Bruising, pain, infection, or dizziness. Managed by using trained personnel and aseptic techniques. * Supplement Risks: Gastrointestinal discomfort and allergic reactions. Addressed by pre-screening participants for allergies. Emergency supplies will be available. * Data Privacy Risks: All data will be anonymized and stored securely to prevent breaches. Expected Outcomes The study aims to determine: * If the supplement reduces hunger compared to a placebo. * If it enhances GLP-1 release post-meal. * If it improves other metabolic parameters (e.g., glucose, lipid profiles). Data Handling: All data will be anonymized and securely stored. Samples may be retained for up to 24 months for further research. Statistical Analysis: Data analysis will use ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests in SPSS, with significance set at p\<0.05. Study Impact: This research could contribute to developing effective nutritional interventions to support appetite regulation and weight management, benefiting individuals with obesity and/or metabolic disorders.