Combining a modified Atkins diet with exercise for patients with malignant glioma

A Pilot Study to Investigate the Effects of Combining a Modified Atkins Diet With a Physical Fitness Regimen in Patients Diagnosed With Malignant Glioma

Not applicable Interventional NYU Langone Health · NCT06665373

This study is testing whether a modified Atkins diet combined with exercise can help improve the health and well-being of people with malignant glioma.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT06665373 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study evaluates the effects of a modified Atkins diet alongside a structured physical fitness program in patients diagnosed with malignant glioma. Over a 15-week period, 15 participants will engage in two weekly supervised exercise sessions and follow an individualized home exercise regimen, all while adhering to the dietary modifications. The aim is to assess how these lifestyle changes may impact the health and well-being of patients with this aggressive form of brain cancer.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of high-grade glioma and a Karnofsky Performance Status of 70% or higher.

Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing radiation or chemotherapy, or those with severe medical conditions that limit physical activity or dietary restrictions, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could improve the overall health and quality of life for patients with malignant glioma.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel, similar studies exploring diet and exercise in cancer care have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Tissue confirmed diagnosis of high-grade glioma (World Health Organization grade III or IV)
* Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) ≥ 70%
* Willing to follow the study intervention and follow-up
* Able to give full informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Currently undergoing initial concurrent radiation/chemotherapy
* Severe medical co-morbidities
* Any medical condition which prohibits moderate to vigorous physical activity (60-85% HRmax)
* Any medical condition which prohibits a restrictive diet
* Neurological deficit preventing participation in moderate to vigorous physical activity
* Severe psychiatric illness

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Malignant Glioma
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.