Examining blood vessel health in obese adults with insulin resistance using Vitamin C

Sympathetic-vascular Dysfunction in Obesity and Insulin Resistance

Phase1; Phase2 Interventional University of Kansas Medical Center · NCT04715022

This study is testing if Vitamin C can help improve blood vessel health and lower blood pressure in obese adults with insulin resistance.

Quick facts

PhasePhase1; Phase2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment23 (estimated)
Ages35 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Kansas Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Kansas City, Kansas)
Trial IDNCT04715022 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how obesity and insulin resistance contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases by examining blood vessel health and nerve activity in affected adults. It specifically tests the effects of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) on improving blood vessel function and lowering blood pressure. Participants will be monitored for changes in blood pressure as a primary outcome, with the goal of identifying mechanisms to reduce vascular dysfunction. The study aims to provide insights that could lead to targeted interventions for hypertension in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are obese adults aged 35-65 with insulin resistance who are not currently taking certain supplements or medications.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, controlled hypertension, or a history of heart or vascular disease may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new treatments for hypertension in obese individuals with insulin resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in using Vitamin C for vascular health, but this specific approach in the context of obesity and insulin resistance is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Obese: BMI \>30 m/kg2
2. Middle-aged: 35-65 years
3. Participants must be willing and able to discontinue taking any vitamin C or E supplements or omega-3 fatty acids beginning 2 weeks prior.
4. Able and willing to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Diabetes mellitus: fasting glucose \< 1267 mg/dL and/or HbA1c \< 6.5%
2. Currently taking a statin or antihypertension medication
3. Hyperlipidemia: Fasting triglycerides \< 250 mg/dL
4. Hypertension: \<130/80 mmHg
5. History of heart disease (e.g., myocardial infarction, stent)
6. History of vascular disease (e.g., bypass, stroke)

Where this trial is running

Kansas City, Kansas

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 HypertensionCardiovascular Diseases
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.