Hypoxia for Appetite
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a low-oxygen environment, similar to high altitude, affects appetite and energy intake in healthy young women. Participants will spend six hours in a chamber simulating 5000 meters above sea level to determine if this reduces hunger and affects subsequent food intake. The trial compares these results to normal oxygen levels (normoxia) to assess the impact of low oxygen alone. Women who are healthy, not on certain medications, and have regular menstrual cycles may qualify. As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific understanding of how altitude affects appetite and energy intake.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you do not use certain medications, including hypolipemic medications (for lowering cholesterol), hormonal contraceptives, antidepressants, and anticoagulants. If you are taking any of these, you would need to stop before participating.
What prior data suggests that this hypoxia protocol is safe for healthy young female adults?
Research has shown that high altitudes, where oxygen is scarce, can influence appetite and food intake. Some studies find that people in these areas often experience reduced appetite and altered taste perception. One study found that low oxygen levels caused a small but noticeable decrease in hunger after eating.
Although this research primarily focuses on individuals living or working at high altitudes, it provides insight into the effects of low oxygen. In this trial, participants experience low oxygen exposure for only six hours in a controlled environment, minimizing risks. This type of exposure is generally well-tolerated, particularly by healthy young adults.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the potential of using hypoxia to influence appetite because it offers a unique approach compared to traditional appetite control methods, like medications or dietary modifications. Unlike these standard treatments, which often focus on altering chemical signals or managing caloric intake, hypoxia involves simulating high-altitude conditions to naturally reduce appetite. This method works by exposing individuals to lower oxygen levels, which is believed to trigger physiological changes that can suppress hunger. Such a novel, non-invasive approach could open up new avenues for managing appetite and weight without relying on pharmaceuticals.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for appetite and energy intake?
This trial will compare the effects of hypoxia, simulating an altitude of 5000 meters above sea level, with normoxia on appetite. Research has shown that low oxygen levels, similar to those at high altitudes, can reduce hunger. Studies have found that this condition can lead to a small but noticeable decrease in hunger after eating, likely due to a drop in acylated ghrelin, a hormone that typically stimulates appetite. One study discovered that high altitudes can reduce appetite and increase energy expenditure, potentially aiding in weight loss. These findings suggest that low oxygen levels could help reduce appetite and food intake.56789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy young female adults interested in how simulated high-altitude conditions might affect their appetite and food intake. Participants should be eligible based on preliminary screening, but details of specific inclusion or exclusion criteria are not provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Experimental Sessions
Participants undergo two randomized, single-blind, experimental sessions consisting of six hours of passive exposure to normoxia or hypoxia in a climate-controlled chamber.
Post-Exposure Assessment
Participants consume foods provided from a curated list, served in ad libitum quantities, after leaving the laboratory to assess post-exposure energy intake.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in appetite and energy intake, as well as other physiological measures, after the experimental sessions.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Hypoxia
- Normoxia
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Ottawa
Lead Sponsor
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, Canada
Collaborator
Hopital Montfort
Collaborator
Institut du Savoir Montfort
Collaborator