Skidmore College

Participants following an intermittent fasting and protein-pacing regimen, which involves evenly spaced protein intake throughout the day, saw better gut health, weight loss and metabolic responses. These benefits were notably greater than those seen with simple calorie restriction. The findings could advance our understanding of the relationship between the gut microbiome and metabolism and improve strategies for managing obesity. A new study by researchers from Arizona State University and their colleagues highlights a dietary strategy for significant health improvement and weight management. Participants following an intermittent fasting and protein-pacing regimen, which involves evenly spaced protein intake throughout the day, saw better gut health, weight loss and metabolic responses. These benefits were notably greater than those seen with simple calorie restriction. The findings, reported today in the journal Nature Communications, could advance our understanding of the relationship between the gut microbiome and metabolism and improve strategies for managing obesity. The researchers compared the effects of two low-calorie dietary interventions: a heart-healthy continuous calorie-restricted diet (based on USDA dietary recommendations), and a calorie-restricted regimen incorporating intermittent fasting and protein pacing. The trial was conducted with 41 individuals who were overweight or obese over a period of eight weeks. Individuals in the intermittent fasting and protein-pacing group showed a decrease in symptoms of gastrointestinal problems and an increase in diversity of the gut microbiota compared with those in the calorie-restriction group. The intermittent fasting protocol increased beneficial microbes in the gut that have been linked to a lean body type and improved overall health. Additionally, it increased the levels of certain proteins (cytokines) in the blood associated with weight loss, as well as amino acid byproducts that promote fat burning. Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating. The method has recently gained popularity for its potential health benefits, including weight loss, improved metabolic health and enhanced brain function. "Given the gut microbiota's location and its constant interaction with the GI tract, we have been gaining a deeper understanding of its pivotal role in dietary responses these last several years," says Alex Mohr, lead author of the new study. "While limited in duration and sample size, this comprehensive investigation -- which included the analysis of the gut microbiome, cytokines, fecal short-chain fatty acids and blood metabolites -- underscores the intricate interplay between diet, host metabolism and microbial communities." Mohr led the microbiome and molecular investigations, evaluating gut microbial composition, inflammatory molecules called cytokines, SCFAs (metabolites derived from dietary fiber, important for regulating energy balance) and the metabolome. Mohr is a researcher with the Biodesign Center for Health Through Microbiomes at ASU. Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown, the center director, and researchers Devin Bowes, Karen Sweazea and Corrie Whisner are also contributors to the study. Corresponding author Paul Anciero of the Department of Health and Human Physiological Sciences at Skidmore College led the clinical trial, which tracked weight loss and body composition. The study also included contributions from ASU researchers Paniz Jasbi and Judith Klein-Seetharaman, with the School of Molecular Sciences, and Dorothy Sears and Haiwei Gu, with the College of Health Solutions. Diet, microbiome and weight loss The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes. Numbering in the many trillions of organisms, this complex ecosystem plays a crucial role in essential bodily functions and overall health. The gut microbiome helps break down food, produce vitamins and promote the absorption of nutrients. It plays a role in the development and function of the immune system by protecting the body against harmful pathogens. Finally, the gut microbiome keenly regulates metabolism, impacting body weight, fat storage and insulin sensitivity. Caloric restriction, intermittent fasting (limiting food consumption to certain windows on some days) and protein pacing (controlled protein intake at specific meals) have been shown to affect body weight and composition, but the effect of these dietary modifications on the gut microbiome has been unclear until now. "A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health, particularly in managing obesity and metabolic diseases," says Sweazea, the ASU principal investigator of this Isagenix-funded study. "The gut bacteria influence how we store fat, balance glucose levels and respond to hormones that make us feel hungry or full. Disruptions in the gut microbiota can lead to increased inflammation, insulin resistance and weight gain, underscoring the critical role of gut health in preventing and managing metabolic disorders." Study and findings The clinical trial involved 27 female and 14 male participants who were overweight or obese. Participants were divided into two groups: one following the intermittent fasting and protein pacing regimen, and the other adhering to a heart-healthy, calorie-restricted diet. Both groups were monitored over eight weeks for changes in weight, body composition, gut microbiome composition and plasma metabolomic signatures. Participants following the intermittent fasting and protein pacing regimen experienced a significant reduction in gut symptoms and an increase in beneficial gut bacteria, particularly from the Christensenellaceae family. The study also found these microbes are associated with improved fat oxidation and metabolic health. In contrast, the calorie-restricted group showed an increase in metabolites linked to longevity-related pathways. Despite both groups having similar average weekly energy intake, the intermittent fasting and protein pacing group achieved greater weight loss and fat reduction with an average loss of 8.81% of their initial body weights during the study. In comparison, those on a calorie-restricted diet lost an average of 5.4% body weight. Participants who followed the intermittent fasting and protein-pacing diet experienced reductions in overall body fat, including belly fat and deep abdominal fat, and saw an increase in the percentage of lean body mass. The study underscores the potential of intermittent fasting and protein-pacing diets in improving gut health and weight management. While further research is necessary, these findings offer a promising avenue for creating effective dietary interventions for obesity and related metabolic disorders. "By identifying shifts in specific microbes, functional pathways and associated metabolites, this line of work holds promise for personalized health strategies as we can better tailor nutritional regimens to enhance gut function and metabolic outcomes," Mohr says. Additional institutions contributing to the study: Systems Precision Engineering and Advanced Research (SPEAR); Center of Translational Science, Florida International University; Isagenix International LLC; and the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh.

BOSTON--( BUSINESS WIRE )--Small Door Inc., a tech-enabled, membership-based veterinary care provider that operates under the brand Small Door Veterinary, today announced its expansion into Boston with the opening of a new state-of-the-art practice in Newton Centre on Beacon Street (718 Beacon), near Union Street. This mindfully designed vet practice is the first outside of its five New York City locations. Small Door’s model of care reimagines the veterinary experience. Membership costs $169 per pet per year and includes one free exam, same or next day appointments, 24/7 telemedicine, more time with trusted medical professionals, and thoughtful modern facilities equipped with the latest technology. Small Door was one of the first veterinary care companies to become a certified B Corp and the company also works to obtain AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) accreditation for all of its practices, which is a recognition of the quality of veterinary facilities that only 15% of all vet clinics in the United States have earned. Small Door’s mission also includes being a socially responsible employer and pet-care provider. The company was founded with a belief that it could make life better for veterinary care providers, ensuring: parental leave, no non-competes, competitive compensation and benefits, a mental health program designed to reduce vet stress and burnout, dedicated coaching and career mentorship, and many other benefits. “We’ve developed a fiercely loyal community of members in New York City and our team identified Boston as another market of pet lovers ready for a more modern, warmer approach to veterinary care,” said Josh Guttman, Co-Founder and CEO of Small Door. “We’re absolutely delighted to have Newton’s Mayor, Ruthanne Fuller, cut the ribbon at our brand new practice in Newton Centre, allowing local pets and pet owners to experience a new era of care.” “Let the woofs and meows of welcome ring out throughout our good City,” said Newton Mayor, Ruthanne Fuller. “I and so many fellow Newtonians and their pets are thrilled to have Small Door Veterinary open a clinic right in the center of Newton.” Small Door’s Newton Centre facility will have Dr. Sarah Gorman DVM CCRP as Managing Veterinarian and Dr. Jennifer Power DVM as Senior Veterinarian, both of whom are native to Massachusetts. Dr. Sarah Gorman received her bachelor degrees in Neuroscience and Biochemistry from Skidmore College and earned her veterinary degree from The University of Tennessee. Following her studies, Dr. Gorman worked at a number of veterinary practices, gaining extensive experience in general medicine, geriatric care, pain management, and soft tissue surgery. Dr. Jennifer Power completed her undergraduate studies in Animal Science and Pathobiology at the University of Connecticut and achieved her veterinary degree from St. George's University, with a clinical year at the University of Florida. Dr. Power has practiced everywhere from Florida to Germany and is particularly passionate about feline medicine, internal medicine, dentistry and fear-free veterinary care. Dr. Power is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP), specially trained in physical therapy and rehabilitation techniques for small animals. “Small Door ushers in a new opportunity for Boston area pets and their owners,” said Dr. Sarah Gorman, Managing Veterinarian at Small Door’s Newton Centre practice. “Local pet parents will quickly realize the benefits, especially when compared to more traditional vets they have likely experienced in the past. Our offerings, which include after-hours telemedicine support, no surprise bills, tech-enabled conveniences for booking appointments and storing medical records, and state-of-the-art facilities, truly are the next generation of animal care.” Small Door Veterinary will be opening a second Boston practice in Brookline in the spring. To be one of the first to experience the Small Door difference in the Boston area, visit smalldoorvet.com/locations/boston/newton-centre . About Small Door Small Door is a membership-based and technology-powered veterinary care platform designed with human standards that is better for pets, pet owners, and veterinarians. Small Door has evolved the relationship between pet owners and care providers through a reimagined experience that lowers barriers to care, provides greater convenience, and offers inviting spaces that make visits more enjoyable. Small Door is building the trusted brand in veterinary as a Certified B Corp with practices that are AAHA-accredited. Small Door currently operates five veterinary practices in New York City and has delivered tens of thousands of member consultations. To learn more about Small Door, visit www.smalldoorvet.com or visit Small Door on Instagram at @smalldoorvet.com .