Fatty Acid + L-Carnitine for Obesity
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The Department of Veterans Affairs is the largest single provider of medical care to people with HIV in the United States. The condition of excess lipid within and around muscle, termed myosteatosis, predisposes Veterans to physical function decline, frailty, disability, and cardiometabolic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In the investigators current Merit supported cohort, the investigators found that 36% of Veterans with treated HIV and obesity have "myosteatotic type obesity". Based on the investigators findings, the investigators have designed a multipronged integrated intervention that combines: 1) dietary replacement of saturated with unsaturated fats; 2) administration of L-carnitine and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation; and 3) targeted resistance exercise training.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you use metformin or other anti-diabetic agents, or if you take dietary or herbal supplements that affect body weight, muscle mass, or immune function.
Is the combination of Fatty Acid and L-Carnitine safe for humans?
How does the treatment of L-carnitine and omega-3 fatty acids for obesity differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it combines L-carnitine, which helps transport fats into cells to be burned for energy, with omega-3 fatty acids, known for their heart health benefits. This combination aims to enhance fat metabolism and provide cardiovascular benefits, which is different from many other obesity treatments that focus solely on weight loss.678910
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment L-carnitine and omega-3 fatty acids for obesity?
Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce obesity by suppressing appetite, improving circulation, and enhancing fat metabolism. Some studies have shown potential benefits of omega-3 supplementation for weight loss, especially when combined with a low-calorie diet or exercise.1112131415
Who Is on the Research Team?
Heidi J Silver, PhD
Principal Investigator
Tennessee Valley Healthcare System Nashville Campus, Nashville, TN
John R Koethe, MD
Principal Investigator
Tennessee Valley Healthcare System Nashville Campus, Nashville, TN
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for Veterans with HIV and obesity (BMI 28-50), aged at least 20, who have been on specific antiretroviral therapy for over three months. They must have stable body weight and no diabetes, severe kidney disease, mitochondrial disorders, or conditions that limit physical tests.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo a multipronged integrated intervention including dietary changes, supplementation, and resistance exercise training
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- L-carnitine
- w-3 fatty acid
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor