Effect of Pistachio Breakfasts on Cognitive Function in Older Adults
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Investigate the Cognitive, Vascular, Neural and Biochemical Effects of Acute Pistachio Intervention in Older Adults
NA · University of Reading · NCT06900452
This study is testing whether different amounts of pistachio nuts in breakfast can help improve thinking and mood in healthy older adults aged 65-80.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 52 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Reading (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Reading, Berkshire) |
| Trial ID | NCT06900452 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how different serving sizes of pistachio nuts in breakfast meals affect cognitive function in healthy older adults aged 65-80. It employs a crossover design where participants will consume varying doses of pistachios or a placebo, with cognitive and mood assessments conducted at multiple intervals after the meal. Additionally, the study will analyze blood samples to measure inflammation and brain health markers, as well as utilize EEG and blood flow measurements to explore the potential cognitive benefits of pistachios. Participants will undergo a screening visit followed by four testing visits spaced one week apart, adhering to specific dietary restrictions prior to each visit.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 65-80 who consume limited servings of fruits and vegetables and do not have significant dietary restrictions.
Not a fit: Patients with psychological disorders, significant food allergies, or those on specific diets may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into dietary interventions that enhance cognitive health in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on dietary impacts on cognition exist, this specific approach using pistachios is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 65 - 80 years old * Fruit \& veg intake less than or equal to 4 servings per day * Not regularly consuming more than 3 servings of fish per week * Adequate English language and visual \& auditory acuity to perform the cognitive tasks * Normal BMI for age * Normal MMSE performance between 26-30 Exclusion Criteria: * Being diagnosed with psychological or psychiatric disorders * ADHD or dyslexia * Any food allergy or intolerance * Use of medications and dietary supplements that may impact study results * Antibiotic use within the last 3 months * Adherence to vegan or vegetarian diets, or other specific diets that may impact study outcomes * Being diagnosed with cardiometabolic disease (including type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease), or suffer from untreated hypertension or thrombosis related disorders * Taking blood thinners
Where this trial is running
Reading, Berkshire
- Nutrition, Cognition & Health Lab, School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading — Reading, Berkshire, United Kingdom (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Claire Williams, PhD — University of Reading
- Study coordinator: Claire Williams, PhD
- Email: claire.williams@reading.ac.uk
- Phone: 0118 378 7540
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: Cognition, Pistachios, Vascular, Neural, Inflammation, Mood