Prolonged Nightly Fasting for Fibromyalgia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The present randomized-controlled pilot trial will test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an 8-week prolonged nightly fasting (PNF) intervention protocol in 20 adults with fibromyalgia.Aim 1: Evaluate feasibility and acceptability of the PNF intervention among participants with fibromyalgia.Aim 2: Evaluate preliminary efficacy of PNF on pain severity and sensitivity, mood, sleep and inflammation.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial requires that you stop taking melatonin or any immunosuppressant medications (like steroids) if you are currently using them.
Is prolonged nightly fasting safe for humans?
Research on intermittent fasting, including alternate day fasting, suggests it is generally safe for weight loss and may improve mood and cardiovascular health. However, some concerns about safety and eating disorder symptoms have been raised, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting such a regimen.12345
How does the treatment Prolonged Nightly Fasting differ from other treatments for fibromyalgia?
Prolonged Nightly Fasting is unique because it involves time-restricted eating, which may enhance mood and relieve pain by increasing brain chemicals like serotonin and endocannabinoids. Unlike conventional treatments, it focuses on dietary behavior and fasting periods to potentially improve chronic pain and mood.56789
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Prolonged Nightly Fasting for Fibromyalgia?
Research suggests that fasting, including prolonged nightly fasting, may help improve mood and reduce pain in chronic pain conditions by increasing brain chemicals like serotonin and endocannabinoids. Additionally, intermittent fasting has shown potential benefits in managing chronic pain, which could be relevant for fibromyalgia treatment.5681011
Who Is on the Research Team?
Chung Jung Mun, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
Arizona State University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adult women aged 18-65 with fibromyalgia, as defined by the latest ACR criteria. Participants must be able to use a smartphone and communicate in English. It's not for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, fasting over 12 hours nightly, working night shifts, have diabetes or eating disorders, plan to move soon, suffer from chronic inflammatory diseases or are using certain medications.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants engage in an 8-week prolonged nightly fasting (PNF) intervention or receive health education control (HEC) content
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Health Education Control
- Prolonged Nightly Fasting
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Arizona State University
Lead Sponsor