Effects of pinto beans on health in women with low estrogen levels

Prebiotic Activity of Pinto Beans and Metabolic Outcomes in Estrogen Deficiency

NIH-funded research Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-10439276

This study is looking at how eating pinto beans might help improve gut health and overall well-being for women going through menopause, especially those dealing with low estrogen levels.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stillwater, United States)
Project IDNIH-10439276 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how pinto beans, which are high in dietary fiber and polyphenols, can improve gut health and metabolic outcomes in women experiencing estrogen deficiency, particularly during menopause. The study focuses on the role of gut microbes and their enzymes in metabolizing estrogen and how pinto beans can help restore gut balance and enhance the bioavailability of beneficial compounds. By examining the prebiotic effects of pinto beans, the research aims to identify potential dietary interventions that could mitigate the risks of cardiovascular diseases associated with menopause.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women or those experiencing estrogen deficiency who are at risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing estrogen deficiency or who have other underlying health conditions unrelated to gut health or cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide dietary strategies to improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being in women with estrogen deficiency.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the health benefits of dietary fibers and polyphenols, but the specific combination of pinto beans and their effects on estrogen deficiency is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Stillwater, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.