Do different protein intakes influence body composition and muscle function in obese rats ?

T1: Basic and Experimental SciencePoster Session May 18, 2017IntroductionDuring obesity, impairments in oxidative capacities, lipid infiltration and insulin resistance within skeletal muscle may act in concert to lead to loss of muscle mass and function. Considering the role of dietary proteins in preserving mass and improving muscle function, the aim of the study was to determine the potential preventive effects of increased protein intake on changes in metabolism and function muscle induced by obesity.MethodsMale Wistar rats, aged 9 months, were randomized in 4 groups (n=15) and were fed during 10 weeks either with a standard diet (STD) with normal lipid intake (13.8% of total energy intake (TEI)), or with a high fat diet (HFD) (45% of TEI). For each diet, two levels of protein intakes were tested: 12% of TEI (STD12 and HFD12) and 25% of TEI (STD25 and HFD25). For each animal, body weights and food consumption were quantified weekly. Measurements of body composition and muscle function ality were performed. The data are presented as mean ± standard error and analyzed by two-way ANOVA (diet and protein intake) and a Duncan´s Multiple-Comparison Post-hoc Test. ResultsTotal calories intakes were not different between the groups. The increases in weight and fat mass were significantly greater in the HFD12 group (respectively: +176.2±13.9g and +121.5±7.8g) than in STD groups (STD12: +95.3±20.2g and +62.5±4.3g; STD25: +65.6±15.3g and +53.4±3.6g, P