Effects of black rice on brain function and inflammation in older adults

Impact of Anthocyanin-Rich Black Rice Consumption on Cognitive Function, Inflammation and Micro-vascular Function in Older Adults

NA · University of Reading · NCT06583785

This study is testing whether eating black rice can improve brain function and reduce inflammation in older adults aged 50 to 80 compared to brown rice.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Reading (other)
Locations2 sites (Reading, UK and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06583785 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how consuming black rice affects cognitive function, inflammation, and vascular function in older adults aged 50-80 years. It employs a randomized controlled crossover design with a wash-out period, assessing the effects of black rice compared to brown rice over various time frames. Cognitive function will be evaluated through computer-based tests, while blood samples will measure inflammatory mediators, and vascular function will be assessed using Laser Doppler imaging. Participants will attend multiple visits at the Hugh Sinclair Unit of Human Nutrition for screening and testing.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy older adults aged 50-80 years with a BMI between 18.5 and 35.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular conditions, or those taking anti-inflammatory medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to dietary recommendations that enhance cognitive function and reduce inflammation in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown health benefits of black rice, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 50-80 years
* General healthy status
* Body Mass Index (BMI)18.5-35 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* Taking anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., aspirin, warfarin, ibuprofen)
* Having sign of infections or acute inflammation (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat, nasal congestion, moderate-severe pain, swelling-redness)
* Received antibiotics within the past 3 months
* Taking dietary supplements (e.g., vitamins, minerals) at high doses (e.g., more than 200% of the UK's reference nutrient intakes)
* Taking hormone replacement therapy, if you are menopausal
* Had major surgery (head, heart, chest, abdomen) within the past 6 months.
* Having plan to start to a restricted diet/ changing dietary pattern or lose weight.
* Diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, current stroke)
* Diagnosed with psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar depression, eating disorder)
* Diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension (blood pressure\>140/90 mmHg), active cancer, liver, or kidney diseases.
* Taking medication to lower blood fats (e.g., statins, fibrates) or to stabilise blood glucose (e.g., acarbose, metformin or sulfonylureas) or lower blood pressure.
* Unable to complete the cognitive function tasks for any reason (i.e., visual impairments, hearing loss)
* If you have a peacemaker
* If you have bleeding disorders or blood related diseases (anaemia, thalassemia, thrombosis, embolism)
* Heavy smoker
* Heavy alcohol drinking (\> 14 units/week) or a history of alcohol/substance abuse
* Allergies, hypersensitivity, or food intolerances (rice, eggs, soy sauce, vegetable oil)

Where this trial is running

Reading, UK and 1 other locations

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Older Adults, Cognitive function, Inflammation, Memory, Older adults

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.