Pulses for Obesity
(PS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how eating pulses, such as black beans and chickpeas, affects inflammation, gut health, and brain function in individuals with obesity and insulin resistance. Participants will have a body mass index (BMI) over 25 and fasting blood sugar levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL. The study involves consuming a cup of either black beans, chickpeas, or white rice daily for 12 weeks. It aims to determine if these foods improve health markers compared to a regular diet. As an unphased trial, this study provides participants the opportunity to contribute to understanding the health benefits of dietary changes.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
Yes, you may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that could interfere with the study, such as lipid-lowering medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and dietary supplements. If you are taking dietary supplements, a 30-day period without them is required before starting the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that black beans offer several health benefits. They improve insulin use and support a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Black beans also protect cells and reduce inflammation, promoting overall health. Although information on possible harmful effects is limited, black beans are generally safe to eat.
Chickpeas also provide many health benefits. They aid in weight management and support gut health. High in protein and fiber, chickpeas help maintain fullness. While nutritious, rare concerns exist about allergies or effects that might reduce nutrient absorption. Awareness of these issues is advisable, even though they are uncommon.
Both black beans and chickpeas are generally well-tolerated. For those considering participation in a study involving these foods, research suggests they are safe for most people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for obesity because they explore the potential benefits of pulses like black beans and chickpeas, which are high in protein and fiber. Unlike standard treatments that often involve medications or surgical interventions, these pulses offer a natural dietary approach that might help with weight management by improving satiety and reducing calorie intake. Additionally, incorporating these pulses into daily meals is simple and can easily fit into various diets, making them an accessible option for many people. This trial is especially interesting because it compares these pulses to white rice, a common carbohydrate, to see how they might differ in their effects on weight.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for obesity?
In this trial, participants will join different treatment arms to evaluate the effects of black beans and chickpeas on obesity. Research has shown that black beans might help reduce body fat and boost energy. One study found that black beans can also lower glucose and insulin levels, which are often high in people with obesity. Eating black beans might increase feelings of fullness, leading to reduced overall food intake.
Similarly, chickpeas may aid in weight management. Studies suggest that people who regularly eat chickpeas are less likely to be obese and tend to have better control over their blood sugar. Chickpeas can lower blood sugar levels by up to 36% after meals, which is beneficial for those managing their weight. Overall, both black beans and chickpeas could be useful parts of a diet aimed at addressing obesity and related issues. Participants in this trial will receive either black beans, chickpeas, or a control diet to assess these effects.16789Who Is on the Research Team?
Indika Edirisinghe, Ph.D
Principal Investigator
Illinois Insititute of Technology
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for men and women over 18 with a BMI ≥ 25, fasting blood glucose between 100-125 mg/dL, non-smokers or those who quit over two years ago. Participants should be in good health without major diseases or taking medications that affect the study outcomes. They must not drink alcohol or engage in vigorous exercise before visits.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Diet Stabilization and Wash-in
Participants undergo a 1-week diet stabilization and wash-in from anthocyanins and ellagitannins before randomization
Treatment
Participants receive one of three dietary interventions (control, black bean, or chickpea) for 12 weeks, with biweekly food pick-up and compliance visits
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including cognitive testing and collection of biological samples
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Black bean
- Chickpea
- Control
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Clinical Nutrition Research Center, Illinois Institute of Technology
Lead Sponsor
USDA Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center
Collaborator