Weight loss and exercise program for older Veterans recovering from COVID-19

Modifying Adiposity Through Behavioral Strategies to Improve COVID-19 Rehabilitation

Not applicable Interventional VA Office of Research and Development · NCT05880108

This study is testing if a 12-week weight loss and exercise program can help older Veterans who are recovering from COVID-19 feel better and improve their health.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorVA Office of Research and Development Federal
Locations2 sites (Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05880108 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research examines how obesity and Post-COVID Conditions (PCC) affect physical functioning and health-related quality of life in older Veterans. It aims to evaluate the impact of a 12-week weight loss intervention, which includes dietary changes and exercise, on reducing inflammation and promoting recovery from PCC. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of weight loss versus weight stability in Veterans with varying degrees of post-COVID symptoms. The goal is to better understand the relationship between obesity, inflammation, and recovery from PCC.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are U.S. Veterans who are either experiencing post-COVID symptoms or have recovered but are overweight or obese.

Not a fit: Patients with significant comorbid conditions that limit physical activity or those with uncontrolled diabetes may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve recovery outcomes and quality of life for Veterans suffering from obesity and post-COVID conditions.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on this approach, studies have shown that weight loss and exercise can improve health outcomes in similar populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. U.S. Veteran
2. Self-reported COVID-19 naïve or COVID-19 \> 90 days ago for lean and obese PCC naïve or documented COVID-19 for the lean and obese PCC groups (At least one PCC symptom \>4 weeks)
3. Body Mass Index: 19-25 or 30-50 kg/m2

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Neurologic, musculoskeletal, or other condition that limits subject's ability to complete study physical assessments
2. Active inflammatory, COVID-19, autoimmune, infectious, hepatic (LFTs \> 2.5 x WNL), renal (eGFR\<45), gastrointestinal, malignant, and psychiatric disease
3. Uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c \>10% or the current use of insulin)
4. Weight change within the past month of \>5 kg
5. Self-reported alcohol or drug abuse
6. Anti-coagulant medication usage

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland and 1 other locations

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 Post-COVID ConditionsObesityCOVID-19SenescenceWeight LossExercise
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.