Mice that ate lard had their bodies activate more genes and proteins that break down fat and turn off genes that make new fat, compared to mice eating plant oils.

Scientific Claim

In mice fed a 25% fat diet, lard consumption was associated with increased expression of lipolysis-related genes (Atgl, Hsl, Cpt1) and proteins (ATGL, P-ATGL, HSL, P-HSL) in adipose tissue, alongside decreased expression of lipogenesis genes (Fasn, Dgat2, Srebp1c), indicating a shift toward fat breakdown rather than fat storage.

Original Statement

“The expression of lipolysis-related genes Atgl, Hsl, Cat, and Acs in the Lar group was significantly higher than that in the Cam and Pea groups... Western blotting results confirmed that compared with the Cam group, the Lar group downregulated the expression of lipogenesis-related proteins (FASN and DGAT2); compared with the Pea and Cam groups, the Lar group upregulated the expression of lipolysis-related proteins (ATGL, P-ATGL, HSL, and P-HSL) (Fig. 3H-I) (P <0.05).”

From study:A moderate lard-included diet reduces fat deposition and inflammation in the adipose tissue

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

definitive

Can make definitive causal claims

Assessment Explanation

The study directly quantified gene and protein expression differences in adipose tissue across dietary groups using qPCR and Western blot. The findings are descriptive of molecular changes observed in mice and do not overstate causality.

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

A moderate lard-included diet reduces fat deposition and inflammation in the adipose tissue

Cohort Study

Animal

2025 Dec 12

This study found that when mice ate a moderate amount of lard, their bodies broke down fat more and stored less, which is exactly what the claim says.

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

A moderate lard-included diet reduces fat deposition and inflammation in the adipose tissue

Score: 6

DOI: 10.1038/s41538-025-00657-8

Similar Assertions

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