Processed Chickpeas for Metabolic Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how different methods of processing chickpeas, such as turning them into hummus or pasta, affect the body's absorption and use of their nutrients for energy. Participants will be divided into groups to consume whole chickpeas, puréed chickpeas, chickpea flour products, or a non-chickpea snack. The trial aims to understand how these variations impact metabolic health. It is suitable for healthy adults who are not allergic to chickpeas, do not smoke, and are not trying to change their weight. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to valuable nutritional research that could influence future dietary guidelines.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you are not taking steroid-based medications or any medications known to affect appetite, blood lipids, body composition, body weight, or food intake. If you are on such medications, you may need to stop them to participate.
What prior data suggests that processed chickpeas are safe for metabolic health?
Studies have shown that chickpeas are generally safe to eat and beneficial for health. Research indicates that chickpeas aid digestion and help maintain steady blood sugar levels. With a low glycemic index, they digest slowly, promoting stable blood sugar.
However, chickpeas contain substances like phytates and lectins that can affect nutrient absorption. Proper processing can significantly reduce these substances.
Puréed chickpeas, such as those in hummus, may assist with weight management and control blood sugar and insulin levels, indicating they are safe for most people.
Chickpea flour, another processed form, is rich in proteins and offers health benefits, including supporting digestion and providing antioxidants. It is generally considered safe and beneficial.
While chickpeas are nutritious and mostly safe, some individuals might be allergic. Checking for allergies before trying new foods is advisable. Overall, chickpeas in various forms appear safe and beneficial for most people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatments because they explore the potential of chickpeas in enhancing metabolic health in unique ways. Unlike standard dietary interventions that often rely on processed carbohydrates, these treatments use whole chickpeas, puréed chickpeas, and chickpea flour, offering a variety of forms that could influence metabolism differently. These chickpea-based snacks are rich in fiber and protein, which might improve metabolic markers like blood sugar levels and cholesterol more effectively. By testing these different forms, researchers hope to discover which preparation maximizes health benefits, potentially offering a tasty and nutritious alternative to current options.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for metabolic health?
This trial will compare the effects of different forms of chickpeas on metabolic health. Research has shown that chickpeas can help manage blood sugar levels. Studies have found that whole chickpeas, which participants in this trial may consume, lower blood sugar more effectively than potatoes and wheat. They also support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria in the stomach and may lower cholesterol in people with prediabetes. Puréed chickpeas, featured in the puréed chickpeas arm of this trial, can reduce blood sugar spikes after meals and are linked to better diet quality. Foods made from 100% chickpea flour, another option in this trial, have a lower glycemic index, meaning they raise blood sugar more slowly, and are more nutritious than those made with refined wheat flour. Overall, chickpeas are a promising food for improving metabolic health.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Shanon Casperson
Principal Investigator
USDA Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy individuals interested in how different forms of processed chickpeas affect the body's use of nutrients. Specific eligibility details are not provided, so general health and interest in nutritional science may be key factors.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants consume differentially processed pulse-based food products daily for 12 weeks to assess metabolic health impacts
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Processed Chickpeas
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
USDA Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center
Lead Sponsor