Effects of Different Dietary Fat Types on Postprandial Appetite and Energy Expenditure

Objective: Observational studies suggest that monounsaturated (MUFA) and trans fatty acids (TRANS) are more fattening than polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the acute effect of intake of PUFA, MUFA, or TRANS on appetite and energy expenditure (EE). Research Methods and Procedures: Three test meals were randomly given in a cross‐over design to 19 overweight (BMI: 26.8 ± 0.4 kg/m²), young (25.2 ± 0.7 years) men. The fat‐rich breakfasts (0.8 g fat/kg body weight, 60% energy from fat) varied only in the source of C:18‐fat. EE was measured continuously in a respiration chamber, and appetite sensations were rated by visual analog scales before and every 30 minutes, for 5 hours, after the meal. After 5 hours, an ad libitum meal was served, and energy intake was registered. Sensory evaluations of all meals were given using visual analog scales. Data were analyzed by two‐way ANOVA. Results: There were no differences in basal or postprandial values of appetite ratings and EE, in subsequent ad libitum energy intake, or in the sensory evaluation of the test meals among the 3 test days. Discussion: Giving acutely large amounts of MUFA, PUFA, or TRANS did not impose any differences in appetite and EE in overweight humans. However, studies with extended protocols and other subject groups are warranted to investigate the long‐term effect of dietary fat quality on the regulation of energy balance and body weight.