Exploring how different smells affect energy use in people with obesity and those who are lean
SNEEX - Impact of Olfactory Odour StimulatioN on Energy EXpenditure
This study is testing whether different smells can change how much energy people with obesity and lean people use.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 58 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Basel) |
| Trial ID | NCT05472168 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of olfactory stimulation using distinct odors on energy expenditure in individuals with obesity and lean individuals. Participants aged 18-55 will undergo short sessions of olfactory stimulation to assess any changes in their energy expenditure. The study aims to understand whether specific smells can influence metabolic rates, potentially offering new insights into obesity management. The research will include both obese participants (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) and lean participants (BMI 18-25 kg/m²) who have normal sense of smell.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-55 with either obesity or a lean body type and a normal sense of smell.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic sinus issues, severe chronic diseases, or those who smoke or abuse drugs may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a novel approach to managing obesity by utilizing olfactory stimulation to enhance energy expenditure.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of olfactory stimulation is relatively novel in the context of energy expenditure, similar studies have shown promising results in related fields.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • Age 18-55 years * Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) and Lean (BMI 18-25 kg/m2) * Written informed consent * Normosmia (defined by sniffing Sticks test) Exclusion Criteria: * • Chronic or acute sinusitis * Surgical intervention of the nasal cavity or the paranasal sinus * Known allergy to odors used in the study * Smokers * Current illicit drug abuse including daily marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) consumption (alcohol ≤2 drinks per day allowed) * Any kind of severe chronic disease (e.g. severe heart failure, active cancer disease) * Diabetes mellitus * Treatment with insulin sensitizing drugs including Glucagon-like Peptide (GLP)-1 analogues within the last 3 months * History of neurodegenerative diseases, severe head trauma * Severe renal impairment (e.g. estimated glomerular filtration rate \<30 ml/min/m2) * Known liver cirrhosis or other severe liver impairment * Use of any kind of decongestant more than twice a week * Use of cortisone-containing nasal spray within the last 3 months * Acute upper respiratory tract infection * Uncontrolled dysthyroidism * Uncontrolled hypertension * Regular use of psychopharmaceutic drugs * Study participants aims to start a new diet or exercise program during the study * Bariatric surgery * Pregnancy/Lactation * Onset of climacteric symptoms within one year (e.g. hot flashes and/or diaphoresis) OR initiation of hormonal replacement therapy in the last three months * Inability to follow the procedures of the study, e.g. due to language problems, psychological disorders, dementia, etc. * Participation in an interventional study within the last 3 months
Where this trial is running
Basel
- University Hospital Basel — Basel, Switzerland (Recruiting)
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.