Examining how ultra-processed foods affect eating behavior and metabolism
Biobehavioral Reward Responses Associated With Consumption of Nutritionally Diverse Ultra-Processed Foods
This study is testing how ultra-processed foods affect our eating habits and metabolism to see if they contribute to overeating and obesity.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Oregon Research Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) |
| Trial ID | NCT05437809 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the rewarding characteristics of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and their impact on overeating and obesity. It aims to understand how different ingredients, specifically fat and refined carbohydrates, influence metabolic and behavioral responses to these foods. Participants will consume various UPFs and minimally processed foods during multiple assessments, where their subjective experiences and metabolic responses will be measured. The findings could help identify new intervention strategies for treating overeating and obesity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a BMI of 30 or higher who enjoy the test snack foods.
Not a fit: Patients with a BMI below 30, current diabetes, or significant dietary restrictions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to targeted interventions that help reduce overeating and obesity by understanding the effects of specific food ingredients.
How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of food reward in UPFs is emerging, similar studies in addiction research have shown promising results in understanding behavioral responses to rewarding substances.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria Men and women Age 18-65 years BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 Endorse liking the foods included in the compulsory test snacks at a 6 on a scale from 1-10 No history of severe psychiatric illness; current mild to moderate severity of depression, anxiety, or binge eating disorder, determined by the behavioral evaluation and the screening measures will be included Live in the greater Springfield, Oregon area and are willing/able to participate in six in-person assessments Can access and are willing/able to use a smartphone Exclusion Criteria Medical condition that may limit consumption of compulsory test snack foods or impact metabolic responses to food consumption Type I or II diabetes (HbA1c \> 6.5 based on blood test) Uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mm Hg) Cardiovascular event (e.g., stroke, myocardial infarction) in the last 12 months Individuals with dietary allergies of aversions to the test snack foods Individuals taking medications that may influence the metabolic responses of interest (e.g., metformin) Individuals who are actively pursuing weight loss or have lost ≥ 5% of their initial weight in the last 6 months Severe symptoms of mood, anxiety, and any severity of thought disorders Severe binge eating disorder or full criteria bulimia Persons with active substance-use disorders Current, active suicidal ideation, and/or a suicide attempt within the past year History of bariatric surgery Women who are nursing, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant in the next three months Self-report current diagnosis of a transferrable blood condition (including HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or syphilis) Self-report prior history of being dizzy or anxious during blood draws and/or technician not being able to find a vein.
Where this trial is running
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Drexel University — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Erica M. LaFata, Ph.D.
- Email: elafata@ori.org
- Phone: 9136535022
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.