Understanding how different diets affect gut bacteria in adults
Determining the structural- and functional-level effects of diet-specific interventions on the gut microbiota of a diverse sample of Southern United States adults
This project explores how specific diets, like the DASH diet, change the gut bacteria in Black and White adults to better understand colorectal cancer risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078716 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Colorectal cancer rates differ between Black and White individuals, and our gut bacteria, which are influenced by what we eat, might play a role in this risk. We believe that the DASH diet, known for its heart health benefits, could also improve gut bacteria. To explore this, we are inviting healthy Black and White adults, 21 years or older, in Birmingham, AL, to participate in a 28-day feeding program. Participants will follow either the DASH diet or a typical American diet so we can observe how their gut bacteria change.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Generally healthy Black and White adults, 21 years or older, living in Birmingham, AL, would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients who are not interested in dietary interventions or do not meet the age and location criteria may not receive direct benefit from participating in this specific study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help us understand how diet changes gut bacteria to reduce colorectal cancer risk, especially in different racial groups.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that gut bacteria can be rapidly altered by diet, and high-fiber diets have been linked to reduced cancer risk, but the specific effect of the DASH diet on gut microbiota is novel.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carson, Tiffany Lashaun — H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Ctr & Res Inst
- Study coordinator: Carson, Tiffany Lashaun
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 below.