Combining a healthy diet and therapy to treat depression in university students
The NutriMind Trial: A Low-cost Randomized Trial Combining a Healthy Diet and Psychotherapy to Treat Depressive Symptoms Among University Students - The Case of Uganda
This study is testing whether a healthy Mediterranean diet combined with mindfulness therapy can help university students in Uganda feel less depressed.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 500 (estimated) |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Bergen Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kampala, Central Uganda) |
| Trial ID | NCT05848973 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a healthy diet, specifically a modified Mediterranean diet, combined with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in reducing depressive symptoms among university students in Uganda. The study addresses the growing rates of depression in low- and middle-income countries, particularly among students facing significant life transitions. By conducting a randomized controlled trial, the researchers will assess both clinical outcomes and biomarkers related to metabolic pathways. The goal is to identify a low-cost, scalable treatment method that is culturally acceptable and evidence-based.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are university students in Uganda who score between 16 and 25 on the CES-D scale and have completed more than one year of study.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic disorders, pregnant individuals, or those with food allergies may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide an accessible and effective treatment for depression among university students in low-resource settings.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have shown promise in other contexts, this specific combination of diet and therapy has not been extensively tested among university students in low- and middle-income countries.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * Those who score between 16 and 25 on the CES-D scale * Completed \>1 study-year of study and have \>2 study-years before graduation * Not using any medication regularly that might interfere with study adherence or - outcomes * Giving consent to participate Exclusion criteria: * Not being diagnosed with chronic disorder or cancer * Not being pregnant * Not having food allergy- or intolerance * Not having experienced recent bereavement or major personal loss (e.g. income or divorce)
Where this trial is running
Kampala, Central Uganda
- Makerere University — Kampala, Central Uganda, Uganda (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Prudence A Friberg — University of Bergen
- Study coordinator: Prudence A Friberg, PhD
- Email: prudence.friberg@uib.no
- Phone: +4794094826
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.