Tart Cherry Products for Bioavailability
(Tart Cherry Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to assess how the body absorbs and uses compounds in tart cherries when consumed in different forms. Participants will try tart cherry products, such as a snack bar, juice, or powdered drink, to compare their effectiveness. Individuals who are healthy, understand English, and have no gastrointestinal issues or allergies to cherries may be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the scientific understanding of tart cherry consumption.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you regularly use certain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the study team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that tart cherry juice and extract are generally safe for short-term use. People with gout often use tart cherry juice, and studies indicate it does not significantly affect body weight or fat. Some individuals might experience mild issues like diarrhea after consuming tart cherry products, but this is uncommon.
Tart cherry products, such as juice, fruit bars, or powdered drinks, contain polyphenols that may help reduce inflammation. Studies have not reported any major side effects from these forms.
Overall, tart cherry products appear well-tolerated with few side effects, making them a safe option for most people considering joining a trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these tart cherry products because they offer a natural approach to delivering anthocyanins, compounds known for their potential health benefits. Unlike many supplements that use synthetic ingredients, these treatments incorporate tart cherry extract in different forms like snack bars, juices, and powdered drinks, making them versatile and easy to consume. Tart cherry products are celebrated for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which could complement or enhance current dietary interventions. This trial aims to explore how effectively the body absorbs these beneficial compounds from different tart cherry formats, potentially paving the way for new, natural health supplements.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for bioavailability?
Research has shown that tart cherry products, like those tested in this trial, contain ingredients that might reduce inflammation and act as antioxidants. Tart cherries are rich in anthocyanins, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. This trial will compare different tart cherry products, including a fruit bar, tart cherry juice, and a powdered drink, each providing about 120 mg of anthocyanins. Studies have found that drinking tart cherry juice can improve sleep quality, suggesting benefits beyond reducing inflammation. While the trial's main goal is to assess how well the body absorbs these compounds, previous studies suggest that tart cherries can help manage inflammation and oxidative stress.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tracey Smith, PhD
Principal Investigator
United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy active duty military personnel and civilians aged 18-39 who can follow study instructions in English. Excluded are those using regular over-the-counter meds, with GI conditions affecting nutrient absorption, recent antibiotic or colonoscopy patients, allergy to test foods, blood donors within 8 weeks, unwilling to avoid tobacco/exercise before trials or on a low-polyphenol diet.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants consume three different food products containing tart cherry component and a control over four different sessions, each followed by a five-day washout period.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for postprandial concentrations of polyphenols in plasma and urine, and associations with gut microbiome composition.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Tart Cherry Extract
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine
Lead Sponsor