Impact of ultra processed food on energy storage in the body

Effects of Ultra Processed Food on Intestinal Energy Harvest

Not applicable Interventional Columbia University · NCT06853288

This study is testing how eating mostly ultra processed foods affects energy storage in people with obesity.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages25 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorColumbia University Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT06853288 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how ultra processed foods affect energy balance in individuals with obesity. Participants will be assigned to consume either a diet consisting of 80% ultra processed foods or one with only 20% for two weeks each, with a washout period in between. The study will measure the energy content of stool samples to understand how these diets influence calorie absorption and storage. Baseline testing will include metabolic assessments and body composition analysis to ensure participant health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with a BMI between 30-40 who are otherwise healthy and stable in weight.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have a history of bariatric surgery, or are on anti-obesity medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into dietary impacts on obesity and inform better nutritional guidelines.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have indicated that dietary composition significantly affects energy balance, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* BMI 30-40kg/m2
* weight stable
* able to download app and willing to use it for duration of study
* does own grocery shopping
* otherwise healthy

Exclusion Criteria:

* pregnancy
* history of or planned bariatric surgery
* history of anti obesity medications

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Obesity and OverweightObesityUltra processed FoodEnergy balance
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.