Exploring the benefits of forest therapy for patients with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risks
Effects of Nature and Forest Therapy in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Risk Factors - a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests if spending time in nature through guided forest therapy can improve the physical and mental health of people with metabolic syndrome and heart risks.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Charite University, Berlin, Germany Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Berlin) |
| Trial ID | NCT04781491 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of guided forest therapy on individuals diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. Participants will engage in weekly 90-minute sessions in the Düppeler Forest, where trained nature guides will lead exercises focused on nature perception, health connection, movement, and mindfulness. The study aims to assess the physical and mental health benefits of regular exposure to nature over a two-month period, with a control group waiting for therapy after the study concludes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with metabolic syndrome as defined by specific waist circumference and risk factor criteria.
Not a fit: Patients with serious acute or chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, or serious mental health issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance the physical and mental well-being of patients with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risks.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of forest therapy is gaining attention, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Definition of Metabolic Syndrome according to the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF): * waist circumference: at least 94 cm for men, at least 80 cm for women * plus at least two of the following risk factors: * fasting blood glucose levels of \> 100 mg/dl (\> 5.6 mmol/l) measured in blood plasma or diagnosed diabetes mellitus * elevated triglycerides \> 150 mg/dl (\> 1.7 mmol/l) or therapy already initiated to lower triglycerides * low HDL cholesterol: \< 40 mg/dl (\< 1.05 mmol/l) in men and \< 50 mg/dl (\< 1.25 mmol/l) in women or already initiated therapy to increase HDL * Hypertension (from \> 130 mmHg systolic and \> 85 mmHg diastolic) or already treated hypertension Exclusion Criteria: * Serious acute or chronic illnesses * Immobility or limitation of mobility due to orthopedic, neurological or other medical cause * Participation in another study * Serious mental illness * Pregnancy and lactation
Where this trial is running
Berlin
- Charité Hochschulambulanz für Naturheilkunde am Immanuel Krankenhaus — Berlin, Germany (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andreas Michalsen, Prof. Dr. — Charité Hochschulambulanz für Naturheilkunde am Immanuel Krankenhaus
- Study coordinator: Miriam Rösner
- Email: m.roesner@immanuel.de
- Phone: 00493080505682
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.