Improving fatigue and muscle function in older adults recovering from COVID-19 through diet.
Official title: A Diet Intervention Study To Mitigate Fatigue Symptoms And To Improve Muscle And Physical Function In Older Adults With Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10898793 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a healthy diet full of anti-inflammatory foods can help older adults who are dealing with lingering symptoms after COVID-19, like tiredness and muscle weakness, to feel better and regain their strength over 16 weeks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $124,227 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AG078545-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898793 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are men and women aged 50 years or older who are experiencing post-acute COVID-19 syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 50 years or do not have post-acute COVID-19 syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a specific dietary intervention can help older adults suffering from post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS), which often includes debilitating fatigue and muscle weakness. Participants will follow a 'Whole-Diet Approach' that emphasizes anti-inflammatory foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids over a 16-week period. The study aims to assess the impact of this dietary change on their symptoms and physical function, while also examining biological markers to understand the underlying mechanisms. By focusing on nutrition, the research seeks to enhance recovery and improve quality of life for older adults affected by PACS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce fatigue and improve physical function in older adults recovering from COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Previous nutritional studies have shown promising results in improving health outcomes through dietary interventions, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bigman, Galya — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Bigman, Galya
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.