Investigating how nitrate affects red blood cells in people with type 2 diabetes

The Effect of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on Red Blood Cell Function in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Not applicable Interventional Karolinska Institutet · NCT04917471

This study is testing if drinking beetroot juice can improve how well red blood cells work in people with type 2 diabetes.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKarolinska Institutet Academic / other
Locations1 site (Stockholm)
Trial IDNCT04917471 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the impact of nitrate supplementation, specifically through beetroot juice, on the function of red blood cells in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the beetroot juice or a placebo juice to assess any differences in red blood cell performance. The study will focus on understanding how nitrate may influence blood flow and oxygen delivery in this patient population. By examining these effects, the research seeks to provide insights into potential dietary interventions for managing diabetes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who do not have any of the exclusion criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, or those on a vegetarian diet may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new dietary recommendations that improve red blood cell function and overall health in patients with type 2 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on nitrate's effects on red blood cells in diabetes, similar studies on dietary nitrates have shown promising results in other cardiovascular contexts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Type 2 diabetes

Exclusion Criteria:

Acute coronary syndrome Vegetarian diet Impaired renal function Absolute indication for proton pump inhibitor Ongoing treatment with organic nitrate Heart failure (ejection fraction \<35%) Any condition that interferes with the possibility to fulfill the study protocol

Where this trial is running

Stockholm

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 Type 2 Diabetes
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.