(P17-076-25) Seasonal and Dietary Influences of Red Meat on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Insulin Resistance: Findings From the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the joint influence of season and red meat intake on biomarkers of inflammation and insulin resistance in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL). We will also examine whether these influences vary based on individuals’ characteristics such as smoking status, age, diabetic status, and geographic locations.

Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using baseline data from 15,828 participants. C-reactive protein (CRP) and red cell distribution width (RDW), insulin and glucose were measured from serum samples, and dietary intake was assessed through two 24-hour dietary recalls. The primary exposures of interest were seasonal blood draw and intake of red meat. In general, 24-recall were collected at the same season with blood collection. Multivariable linear regression models were used to assess the relationships between season, red meat, and biomarkers, adjusting for general confounders and dietary confounders such as total energy intake, and processed and white meat intakes. Stratified analyses were conducted based on smoking intensity, age, diabetes status, cancer history, and geographic location.

Results: In general, compared to lower red meat intake ( < 1 serving/day) in summer, moderate (1–2 servings/day) and/or higher red meat intake ( >2 servings/day) was associated with reduced CRP levels in winter but increased CRP levels in other seasons (summer, fall, or spring), depending on the subgroups studied (p < 0.05 for these associations). Similar trends were observed for RDW, with reductions not only in winter but also in other seasons except summer. Greater reductions were observed in locations with colder climates, such as Chicago and the Bronx, as well as among individuals who were never smokers, non-diabetic, cancer survivors, and those over 40 years of age. The reduction ranged from 5% to 35%. Similar trends were observed for Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), as with CRP and RDW.

Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for personalized dietary guidelines that account for seasonal effects, geographic locations, and individual characteristics.

Funding Sources: SDSU internal funds