Exploring how neural and metabolic factors influence carbohydrate reward
Neural and Metabolic Factors in Carbohydrate Reward: An Examination of Speed
This study is testing how our brains and bodies react to different carbohydrate-rich foods to see if understanding their calorie content can help us make better food choices.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Roanoke, Virginia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06053294 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the relationship between neural mechanisms and carbohydrate metabolism, focusing on how implicit knowledge of caloric content affects food choices. Participants will be given different carbohydrate-rich beverages and meals to assess their responses and the underlying neural signatures involved. The research aims to understand the communication pathways between the gut and the brain that influence dietary preferences and behaviors. By examining these factors, the study seeks to uncover potential interventions for improving dietary choices and addressing metabolic dysfunction.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with a BMI between 18.5-30 kg/m2 who reside in the Roanoke area and can attend study sessions.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of diabetes, thyroid problems, or those currently on medications that influence metabolic measures may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new strategies for improving dietary habits and reducing the risk of obesity and related metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific neural mechanisms related to carbohydrate reward are still being explored, previous studies have shown promise in understanding the gut-brain axis and its impact on dietary choices.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. BMI between 18.5-30 kg/m2 2. Not pregnant or planning to become pregnant during study participation 3. Residing in the Roanoke area and/or willing/able to attend sessions at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute 4. Able to speak and write in English Exclusion Criteria: 1. Current inhaled nicotine use 2. History of alcohol dependence. 3. Current or past diagnosis of diabetes or thyroid problems. 4. Taking medications known to influence study measures (including antiglycemic agents, thyroid medications, sleep medications) 5. Active medical or neurologic disorder. 6. Current shift work (typical pattern of work/activity overnight) 7. Previous weight loss surgery 8. Adherence to a special diet within the past 3 months (e.g., low-carb or ketogenic diet, exclusion of food groups/specific macronutrients, intermittent fasting, etc.) 9. Allergy to any food or ingredient included in the study diets, meals, or beverages 10. Currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant during study participation 11. Claustrophobia 12. Contraindications for MRI, including pacemaker, aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, cochlear or other implants, metal in eyes, regular work with steel, etc.
Where this trial is running
Roanoke, Virginia
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC — Roanoke, Virginia, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Alexandra G DiFeliceantonio, PhD
- Email: dife@vt.edu
- Phone: 5405262285
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.