Mechanisms of Fasting Induced Reduction in Energy Expenditure

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

mixed meal test: mixed meal test after fasting

Study summary

Fasting reduces the energy consumption of the human body. The extent of this adaptation varies significantly between different individuals. The aim of this research project is to investigate how this adaptation of the metabolism is regulated by the body. For this purpose, we will first measure how the so-called basal metabolic rate of the body reacts to a short-term fasting of 24 h in a preliminary study. Those subjects with a particularly pronounced and those subjects with an only slightly pronounced reaction of the basal metabolic rate will be invited to the main study.

Here, in random order (24 h fasting vs. 8 h fasting), the following is compared

* how the basal metabolic rate of the body reacts to the reduced energy intake.
* how the energy metabolism increases after a test meal
* what role in particular the thyroid hormones play in this adaptation. In addition, a sample of the subcutaneous adipose tissue is taken in each case and it is examined how the regulation of metabolic processes at the cellular level.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• change of energy expenditure (EE) determined by indirect calorimetry (kcal per 24h) — 60 minutes after ingestion of test meal
  Difference of EE (determined by indirect calorimetry) between baseline and 60 minutes after ingestion of the liquid test meal. Both measurements will be performed after an overnight fasting period.

Trial sites (1)

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