Examining how diet affects gut bacteria and iron absorption
Heme and Non-heme Iron Intakes, Gut Microbiota, and Influence on Host Iron Absorption
This study is testing how different types of iron in our diets affect gut bacteria and how well our bodies absorb iron in healthy adults.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Cornell University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ithaca, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT06146608 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The FeMicrobiome study investigates the relationship between dietary iron sources and gut microbiome characteristics in healthy adults. It aims to understand how heme and non-heme iron intake influences iron absorption and the gut microbiota. The study will recruit 120 participants who follow either plant-based or animal protein-rich diets, measuring iron absorption through stable iron isotopes. Blood samples will be collected to assess iron levels after dietary interventions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18-40 who follow either a plant-based diet or a diet rich in animal protein.
Not a fit: Patients with preexisting medical conditions affecting iron metabolism or those taking supplements that influence iron status may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of dietary impacts on iron absorption, potentially leading to improved dietary recommendations for preventing anemia and iron overload.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on dietary impacts on iron absorption exist, this specific investigation into the interplay between gut microbiota and dietary iron sources is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy adults * Age between 18- 40y * Non-smoking * Not currently taking vitamin, mineral, prebiotic, and probiotic supplements. * Females: premenopausal and not pregnant or lactating * No preexisting medical complications (such as eating disorders, hemoglobinopathies, malabsorption diseases, steroid use, substance abuse history, or taking medications known to influence iron homeostasis) * Body mass index (BMI) between 18 - 27 kg/m2. Exclusion Criteria: * BMI \<18 or \> 27 kg/m2, * Age \<18 y or \> 40y, * Smoking * Pregnancy, lactating * Have gastrointestinal disorders/malabsorption diseases/hemoglobinopathies/dietary restrictions/steroid use/ medication use of medications known to impact iron status, iron utilization or inflammatory status * Currently take vitamin, mineral, prebiotic, and probiotic supplements. * Recently received antibiotic treatment
Where this trial is running
Ithaca, New York
- Cornell University — Ithaca, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: KIMBERLY ORA OBRIEN, PhD — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Kimberly O O'Brien, PhD
- Email: koo4@cornell.edu
- Phone: 607-255-3743
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.