High Pulse Consumption for Gut Health
(PULSE Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine how eating pulses (such as beans and lentils) affects gut health, feelings of fullness, and certain body chemicals. Participants will follow a diet either high in pulses or without pulses for four weeks. The trial suits premenopausal men and women who are overweight, not very active, and willing to adhere to a specific diet and provide blood and fecal samples. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to valuable research on dietary impacts on health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You can continue taking your current medications if they are statins, anti-hypertensives, or anti-depressants, as long as they don't affect appetite, body weight, or the gut microbiome. However, you cannot participate if you are taking medications that affect the gut microbiome or appetite.
Is there any evidence suggesting that high pulse consumption is safe?
Research shows that eating more pulses, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas, benefits health. Studies have linked a diet rich in pulses to better heart health and improved digestion. Pulses are high in fiber, which feeds beneficial gut bacteria and aids digestion.
Most people can eat pulses without issues. Some might experience minor digestive problems, like gas or bloating, especially if unaccustomed to high fiber intake. These effects are usually temporary and can be minimized by gradually adding pulses to the diet.
Overall, pulses are safe and healthy for most people. They enhance the diet and provide important nutrients that many might lack.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about high pulse consumption for gut health because it offers a natural dietary approach that could improve gut function without relying on medications. Unlike traditional treatments that might involve probiotics or fiber supplements, this approach focuses on incorporating pulses, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas, into the diet. Pulses are rich in fiber and bioactive compounds, which may enhance gut microbiota diversity and function. This dietary intervention is not only cost-effective but also promotes overall health by supporting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
What evidence suggests that high pulse consumption could be effective for gut health?
Research has shown that eating pulses, such as beans, benefits gut health. These foods improve the balance of bacteria in the digestive system, enhancing digestion and overall gut function. Pulses are also linked to a lower risk of diseases like heart problems and type 2 diabetes. The nutrients in pulses may enhance the composition and function of gut bacteria. In this trial, participants will be divided into two groups: one will follow a high pulse consumption diet, while the other will follow a diet without pulses. The study aims to evaluate how these different diets impact gut health and provide other health benefits.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy individuals interested in the effects of high pulse consumption on gut health, appetite, and metabolism. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants are provided a high pulse or no pulse diet for 4 weeks. Tests include blood biochemistries, a meal tolerance test, body composition measured via DEXA, surveys, and fecal sample collection.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in gut microbiome, appetite hormones, and cardiometabolic risk factors after the treatment phase.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- High pulse consumption
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Missouri-Columbia
Lead Sponsor