Agro-Ecological vs Conventional Diet for Inflammation
(AGROHEALTH Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if consuming foods grown using agro-ecological methods—such as farming in harmony with nature—can improve health markers like inflammation compared to foods from conventional farming. Participants will alternate between diets sourced from both methods to compare their effects. The study seeks individuals aged 35–60 with a stable weight and moderate body mass index (BMI), who are not on certain medications or strict diets and have no chronic illnesses affecting inflammation. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the health benefits of sustainable farming practices.
What prior data suggests that consuming foods from agro-ecological systems is safe?
Research has shown that eating foods from agro-ecological farming systems is generally safe. These diets are carefully balanced with regular diets in terms of food amount and calories, helping to prevent unexpected side effects from other sources.
No specific reports of negative effects from consuming these foods have emerged, suggesting they are likely safe. The trial's "Not Applicable" phase indicates no major safety concerns have arisen so far. These findings are based on existing studies comparing diets from different farming methods.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how agro-ecological farming systems might impact inflammation differently compared to conventional dietary sources. Unlike traditional treatments that often involve medications targeting inflammation, this trial focuses on the potential benefits of diet sourced from sustainable farming practices. Agro-ecological diets emphasize diversity, soil health, and ecological balance, which may offer a novel way to manage inflammation by potentially providing more nutrient-rich and bioactive compounds. This approach could lead to a more natural and holistic method of reducing inflammation, sparking interest in the broader implications for dietary interventions.
What evidence suggests that this trial's diets could be effective for reducing inflammation?
This trial will compare the effects of agro-ecological farming systems with conventional farming methods on diet and inflammation. Research has shown that agro-ecological systems might improve human health by enhancing food nutrition. One study found that foods grown using these methods contain more nutrients, which can benefit health. These farming practices may also reduce inflammation, a factor in many long-term diseases. By increasing plant and soil biodiversity, these methods might lower inflammation markers in the body. Although more research is needed, early results suggest these practices could lead to healthier diets than traditional farming methods. Participants in this trial will follow both diet sequences to assess their impact on inflammation.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephan van Vliet
Principal Investigator
Utah State University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 35-60 with a BMI between 25 and 35, stable weight and medication use, non-diabetic blood glucose levels, not pregnant or planning to be, moderate alcohol consumption, non-smokers. Excludes those with inflammatory diseases, on certain medications like NSAIDs or steroids, engaged in high-level exercise or following strict diets.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Dietary Intervention 1
Participants consume either the agroecological or conventional diet for 44 days
Washout Period
Participants return to their habitual diet for 14 days to clear effects of the first diet
Dietary Intervention 2
Participants switch to the alternate diet (agroecological or conventional) for another 44 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Agro-ecological Farming Systems
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Utah State University
Lead Sponsor
GreenAcres Foundation
Collaborator