Beetroot juice to boost immunity against colds
Beetroot Juice Supplement for Boosting Mucosal Immunity - The NO Cold Study
PHASE2 · Southern Methodist University · NCT06416228
This study is testing if drinking beetroot juice can help young adults boost their immunity and reduce cold symptoms.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Southern Methodist University (other) |
| Locations | 2 sites (Dallas, Texas and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06416228 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effects of beetroot juice supplementation on airway nitric oxide levels and its potential to reduce respiratory infections and cold symptoms in young adults. Participants will consume either beetroot juice or a placebo for one week, with adherence monitored through recorded video. The study aims to assess the feasibility of this intervention during stressful periods and to evaluate the relationship between nitric oxide levels and infection reduction. Additionally, it will explore whether higher doses of beetroot juice are more effective than lower doses.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy young adults aged 18-30 who are students at Southern Methodist University or Baylor University.
Not a fit: Patients with significant respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, or those with high levels of exhaled nitric oxide may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel dietary approach to enhance mucosal immunity and reduce the incidence of respiratory infections in young adults.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using beetroot juice for this purpose is novel, previous studies have shown that dietary nitrates can positively influence nitric oxide levels and respiratory health.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Individuals will be included: * SMU or Baylor University students * Ages of 18-30 years old. Exclusion Criteria: * Active smokers * Smoking cannabis or vape * Students with clinically significant asthma * COPD and emphysema * Allergic rhinitis * High levels of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO ≥40ppb) * Developing kidney stone * Clinically significant heart disease * Cerebrovascular disease * Thyroid dysfunction * Out-of-control diabetes * Significant current problems with schizophrenia, psychosis, mood disorders, suicidality, and drug or alcohol dependence or abuse
Where this trial is running
Dallas, Texas and 1 other locations
- Southern Methodist University — Dallas, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
- Baylor University — Waco, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thomas Ritz, Ph.D. — Southern Methodist University
- Study coordinator: Savannah Springfield, BA
- Email: sspringfield@mail.smu.edu
- Phone: (214) 768-6441
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Respiratory Tract Infections, Cold Symptoms, Exhaled Nitric Oxide