Recent investigations have revealed that substituting traditional protein sources with mealworms in high-fat dietary regimens for mice might yield a multitude of health advantages. These include a deceleration in weight gain and positive changes in cholesterol levels. Despite some resistance to the consumption of insects in Western cultures, this form of protein is an ecologically sustainable alternative.
Given the escalating global population and the exacerbating effects of climate change, the demand for sustainable protein substitutes is growing. While plant-derived “meats” and “dairies” have seen increased adoption, they are not the only viable eco-friendly options for replacing traditional meat products.
The study, conducted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, specifically examined the effects of replacing traditional proteins with mealworms in mice on a high-fat diet. The findings revealed that such a substitution could decelerate weight gain, bolster the immune system, diminish inflammation, augment energy metabolism, and positively modify the ratio between good and bad cholesterol.
Kelly Swanson, the lead author of the study and a professor in the Department of Animal Sciences as well as the interim director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois, commented, “Previous research with roosters indicated that mealworms are not only a high-quality and easily digestible protein source but also one that is environmentally sustainable.”
In the experiment, Swanson’s research team initially fed mice a high-fat diet consisting of 46% calories from fat, along with casein—a dairy protein—for 12 weeks. Subsequently, they switched to alternative protein sources. A control group was maintained on a lean diet with casein throughout the study. By the time the experimental group transitioned to mealworms, they were already obese and exhibited symptoms of metabolic syndrome—a collection of conditions that elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases and other health issues.
The mice were then given two types of mealworms in a dried, powdered form, replacing either 50% or 100% of the casein in their diets. Over the course of 8 weeks, metrics such as body weight, body composition, blood metabolites, and liver and adipose tissue gene expression were monitored. The mice did not lose weight, but their rate of weight gain decelerated when compared to those fed high-fat diets with casein. Moreover, there were additional health benefits.
Swanson elaborated, “The real breakthrough was the enhancement in blood lipid profiles. Levels of LDL, commonly known as ‘bad cholesterol,’ decreased, while HDL, or ‘good cholesterol,’ increased. Additionally, gene expression related to inflammation was reduced, and lipid and glucose metabolism genes were altered in a favorable manner.”
Swanson postulated that some of the observed benefits could be linked to chitin, a fibrous substance that forms the exoskeleton of insects. While the role of chitin has not been extensively researched, it appears to function like dietary fiber, promoting beneficial gut microbial activity.
Prior research on alternative proteins and obesity management mostly utilized genetically modified mice that remained obese regardless of dietary changes. In contrast, Swanson’s team employed “wild type” mice that gained weight through dietary intake, similar to many humans.
Although insect-based proteins like mealworms have yet to receive approval from the Food and Drug Administration, cricket flour is available for consumption under the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Swanson concluded by noting the potential of insect proteins, despite the existing cultural hesitations, particularly in Western societies.
The study was financed by Ynsect and is published under the title “Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) and Lesser Mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) Proteins Slowed Weight Gain and Improved Metabolism of Diet-Induced Obesity Mice” in The Journal of Nutrition with the DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.06.014.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Insect Protein
What is the main focus of the recent research from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?
The primary focus of the research is to investigate the health benefits of substituting traditional protein sources, like casein, with mealworms in high-fat diets for mice. The study found that such substitution can slow weight gain and improve cholesterol levels.
Who is the lead author of this study and what are his credentials?
The lead author is Kelly Swanson, a professor in the Department of Animal Sciences and the interim director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
What are the observed health benefits of replacing traditional protein with mealworm protein?
The observed health benefits include decelerated weight gain, improved immune response, reduced inflammation, enhanced energy metabolism, and a positive shift in the ratio of good to bad cholesterol levels.
Was weight loss observed in the mice?
No, weight loss was not observed. The rate of weight gain in the mice slowed when mealworms were introduced into their high-fat diets, but the mice did not lose weight.
Is mealworm protein approved for human consumption?
As of now, mealworm protein has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. However, cricket flour is available and can be used in food preparation according to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Are there any other studies that have evaluated alternative proteins for weight management?
Yes, other studies have been conducted but have primarily used genetically modified mice. This study is unique in that it used “wild type” mice, which gain weight through diet, similar to how many humans do.
What potential mechanisms contribute to the health benefits of mealworm protein?
While not yet fully understood, some of the observed benefits may be linked to chitin—a fibrous substance that makes up the exoskeleton of insects. Chitin seems to function similarly to dietary fiber, promoting beneficial gut microbial activity.
Is insect protein considered an environmentally sustainable option?
Yes, insect protein, including mealworms, is considered an ecologically sustainable protein source, presenting a viable alternative to traditional meat and dairy products.
What is the “yuck factor” mentioned in the study?
The “yuck factor” refers to the resistance or hesitation experienced by many individuals, particularly in Western societies, toward the consumption of insects as a form of protein.
Who funded this study?
The study was funded by Ynsect and is published in The Journal of Nutrition.
More about Insect Protein
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Official Website
- The Journal of Nutrition
- Food and Drug Administration
- Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
- Ynsect Official Website
- Sustainable Protein Sources
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Chitin Research
7 comments
Wow, never thought I’d see the day where mealworms are part of the diet convo! kinda crazy but if it’s good for health and the planet, why not?
Kudos to Kelly Swanson and the team. The approach using “wild type” mice seems more relatable to human weight gain, makes the study more credible imo.
I’ll stick to my traditional proteins for now. Let’s see if this catches on. but hey, cricket flour’s already out there, so who knows?
Finally someone’s talking about sustainable protein sources that aren’t just plant-based. It’s about time we get over the ‘yuck factor’ ppl.
Mealworms, huh? Sounds strange but if it helps farmers and reduces carbon footprint, I’m all in.
Interesting study but FDA approval is a must before i’d even consider. Health benefits sound promising tho.
So you’re telling me mealworms could be the new superfood? Haha, i’m all ears for anythng that balances my cholesterol.