Pulses: Optimizing Pulse Consumption for Cardiometabolic Health

Study Summary

This randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of consuming two different doses of pulses (1.5 cups/week or 3 cups/week) in individuals with baseline intake below 1.5 cups/week, compared to a control group receiving standard nutrition education based on the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) My Plate guidelines. The main question the Pulses study aims to answer is: • What is the effect of increasing pulse consumption (in a dose-response manner) on specific cardiometabolic risk factors, including LDL-C, CRP, HBA1C, and blood pressure compared to standard nutrition education? For secondary outcomes, this study aims to answer the following: • Does increased pulse consumption improve the following: overall serum lipid profile (Total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, Triglycerides (TG), diet quality (measured by the Healthy Eating Index), and participants self-reported satisfaction with life (SWLS) and Satisfaction with Food-related Life (SWFoL). All participants will attend biweekly classes and food demonstrations. The pulses groups will learn to prepare various pulse-based recipes, while the control group will receive guidance on preparing healthy meals following the USDA MyPlate recommendations.

Primary Outcome

LDL cholesterol will be measured using a standard lipid panel. Blood samples will be collected after an overnight fast and analyzed using standardized laboratory methods. LDL cholesterol will be reported in mg/dL. Minimum Value: 0 mg/dL (theoretically, though not physiologically possible). Maximum value: No absolute upper limit, but values above 190 mg/dL are considered very high and associated with significant cardiovascular risk. Interpretation: \<100 mg/dL (Optimal, low risk). ≥190 mg/dL (Ver

Conditions Studied

Interventions

• BEHAVIORAL Pulses 1.5 cups Group
• BEHAVIORAL Pulses 3 cups Group
• BEHAVIORAL My Plate Group (Control)

Study Locations (2)