Effects of different meals on brain activity and cognition

Nutritional Modulation of Learning and Decision Making and Their Underlying Neural Processes

Not applicable Interventional University of Vienna · NCT06386237

This study tests how different types of breakfasts affect brain activity and thinking skills in healthy young adults.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Vienna Academic / other
Locations1 site (Vienna)
Trial IDNCT06386237 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how various meal interventions, specifically standardized breakfasts with differing macronutrient compositions, affect cognitive functions such as learning and decision-making, as well as brain activity in healthy participants. The research involves healthy individuals aged 18 to 40 who will undergo MRI scanning to assess changes in brain function related to dietary intake. The study aims to provide insights into the relationship between nutrition and cognitive performance.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 18 to 40, fluent in German, and with a BMI between 18.5 and 29.9.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic health conditions, those on interfering medications, or individuals with specific dietary restrictions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of how dietary choices influence cognitive health and brain function.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach may be novel, there is existing research indicating that nutrition can significantly impact cognitive functions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 to 40 years old
* fluent in German
* right-handed
* able to safely undergo MRI scanning
* BMI (Body-Mass-Index) between 18.5 and 29.9 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

* current medication that might interfere with the processes studied
* any metabolic, gastrointestinal, cardiological, neurological, psychiatric or any recurring or chronic diagnoses
* drug use
* alcohol consumption \> 10 g/d for women and \> 20 g/d for men
* smoking
* shifted circadian rhythm (e.g. jetlag, shift work)
* vegan or vegetarian diet
* food intolerances
* females: hormonal contraception, pregnancy, lactation

Where this trial is running

Vienna

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 Nutrition, HealthyCognitive ChangeBrain Activity
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.