August Summary

This article appealed to me because it was such a unique study in the fact that data was collected over a seven year time frame. I know that there have been a few previous articles chosen for the blog on vegetarianism and thought this study comparing animal versus plant protein would be a good one to include. The study was done many years ago and may not be relevant today considering there are things that would be done differently if this study were repeated. I think that although this research is older it helps us remember that research in our field is always on going and things are always changing.

Question 1

Most of your opinions of the results of the study did not change due to the BMI at baseline, although the BMI was not significantly overweight or obese compared to what a study may show today. Many of you took into consideration the time frame and the fact that people were not as big as they now. Tiffany and Jamie would like to see a study like this repeated today possibly using a larger sample size. Brooke and Michela thought that having a larger range of BMIs would show a better representation of the results.

Question 2

All of you agreed that if this study was recreated today physical activity would have to be factor. Amanda brought up an interesting point that perhaps percent body fat should be consider. While some of you thought this was also a good idea, others thought it would add to the complexity and expenses of the study. Ali thought interesting to comparing those who consume animal protein and are physical active with participants that consume plant proteins who aren’t physically active and a few of you agreed.

Question 3

This study received different results from other clinical trials that are similar to it and many of you thought there were multiple reasons for this. Tiffany also brought up a factor that the study did not mention that was is normal effects of aging. Many of you agreed that the length of time was a factor for varied results. Kathy brought up a good point in stating that the time period may be a factor and a few of you agreed. Meg stated that the length coupled with the types of questions made this study stand out from others because the researchers showed the effect on body composition of protein in the diet.