Chia + Hemp Seeds for Weight Management
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether chia seeds or hemp seeds can help people feel fuller after a meal. Participants will receive meals enhanced with either chia or hemp seeds, and their responses will be compared to those eating regular meals. The trial targets healthy adults who can travel to the USDA Nutrition Center in Beltsville, Maryland, for scheduled meals and testing. It suits individuals without certain medical conditions, who are not trying to change their weight, and who have not used tobacco recently. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to nutritional science and potentially improve dietary recommendations.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial may require you to stop taking certain medications or supplements if they could interfere with the study's goals. It's best to discuss your current medications with the study team to see if any changes are needed.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that chia seeds are safe to eat. The European Food Safety Authority has approved them, and they can help improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Similarly, hemp seeds are also safe. The FDA has classified hulled hemp seeds as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food use. Both chia and hemp seeds have been added to various foods without major reports of negative effects. They are generally well-tolerated when consumed in normal food amounts.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about chia and hemp seeds for weight management because they offer a natural way to help people feel fuller and potentially eat less. Unlike traditional weight management options like prescription medications or calorie-restricted diets, chia and hemp seeds might enhance satiety through the high fiber content they naturally contain. Chia seeds, in particular, are known for expanding in the stomach, which can help curb hunger, whereas hemp seeds are rich in protein and healthy fats, contributing to prolonged fullness. This approach harnesses the power of superfoods to manage weight, offering a more holistic and accessible option compared to conventional methods.
What evidence suggests that chia and hemp seeds could be effective for weight management?
This trial will compare the effects of chia seeds and hemp seeds on weight management. Research has shown that chia seeds alone might not lead to significant weight loss, but they can reduce hunger when included in a low-calorie diet. Chia seeds are high in fiber, which helps maintain a feeling of fullness. Participants in one arm of this trial will receive meals enriched with chia seeds.
In another arm, participants will receive meals enriched with hemp seeds. Hemp seeds may aid weight control and promote fullness by influencing hunger-related hormones. They are nutrient-rich, high in protein, and contain healthy fats, which can also enhance satiety. Both chia and hemp seeds contain ingredients that might promote fullness, potentially supporting weight management.678910Who Is on the Research Team?
Janet Novotny, PhD
Principal Investigator
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This study is for healthy adults over 25 without allergies to the study foods, and no history of diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, or weight control surgery. Participants must not be pregnant or planning pregnancy soon, using interfering medications/supplements, have substance abuse issues within the past year, or actively trying to change their weight.Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo three 2-day treatment periods with different meal compositions to assess satiety effects of chia and hemp seeds
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for satiety and food intake through questionnaires and food weighing
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Chia Seeds
- Hemp Seeds
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
USDA Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center
Lead Sponsor