Mice that ate a moderate amount of lard had more of a substance called taurocholic acid in their blood than mice that ate other oils.
Scientific Claim
In mice, moderate lard intake is associated with increased levels of serum taurocholic acid (TCA).
Original Statement
“moderate lard intake elevated the level of serum taurocholic acid (TCA)”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
overstated
Study Design Support
Design cannot support claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
Based on abstract only - full methodology not available to verify. 'Elevated' implies causation, but design lacks confirmation of controls or randomization.
More Accurate Statement
“In mice, moderate lard intake is associated with higher levels of serum taurocholic acid (TCA).”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
The study found that when mice ate a moderate amount of lard, their bodies made more of a substance called taurocholic acid, which helps burn fat — so yes, lard increased this acid, just like the claim says.