2.9. Statistics
Power calculations were conducted to estimate the required sample size based on HDL-C concentrations from our previous studies with normocholesterolemic men [Ground beef effects were analyzed using a repeated measures mixed model to assess the effects of diet (LF vs. HF), sequence (entry, first LF/HF intervention, washout, and second LF/HF intervention), and the diet-by-sequence interaction. Entry BMI and age were included as covariates in the initial model but were insignificant for all dependent variables and were dropped from the final model. The NORM.DIST model of Excel (Microsoft Excel of Mac version 16.16.27) was used to test for normality, and the data were normally distributed. Pairwise comparisons were assessed by Fisher’s Protected LSD method when there was a significant effect of diet or sequence. Associations among plasma lipids were assessed using Pearson’s correlations. Absolute change from baseline was calculated by subtracting measurements taken at entry from post-dietary intervention period values. Data are reported as means ± standard error of the mean (SEM) (