Effects of water intake on weight control in older adults

Water Intake and Weight Control in Older Adults

Not applicable Interventional Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University · NCT05843318

This study is testing if different ways of drinking water can help older adults who are overweight or obese manage their weight better while on a low-calorie diet.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment375 (estimated)
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVirginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Blacksburg, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT05843318 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This intervention focuses on adults aged 50 and older who are overweight or obese, comparing three different approaches to water consumption alongside a hypocaloric diet. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one consuming 500 ml of water before each meal, another drinking 1500 ml of water throughout the day, and a control group with no specific water intake instructions. The study will utilize smart water bottles to monitor water intake and assess compliance through urine and serum osmolality. Additionally, it will explore the effects of water consumption on appetite regulation and cognitive function, which may influence adherence to the diet.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 50 and older with a BMI of 25 or higher who have been weight stable for the past six months.

Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, certain medical conditions requiring specialized diets, or those with gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a simple and effective strategy for weight management in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that increased water intake can aid in weight management, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* aged 50+ years
* BMI ≥25 kg/m2
* weight stable (+/- 2 kg) in past 6 months
* willing to provide consent and comply with study protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

* usual plain drinking water intake \>1500 ml/d
* uncontrolled hypertension (\>159/99 mmHg)
* medical condition requiring specialized diet prescription (eg, T2D, CHF wih fluid restriction)
* medical condition that precludes participating in a physical activity program (eg, orthopedic injury)
* current or history of GI disease (eg, Crohn's), GI surgery, or medications which impact GI function
* allergies or aversions to foods included in the test meals

Where this trial is running

Blacksburg, Virginia

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 Overweight and Obesity
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.