Vegetable Drinks for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
(DMAPS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether drinking a vegetable beverage with a wide range of plant types, known as the High Plant Diversity Beverage, can improve symptoms of PTSD, a mental health condition triggered by traumatic events. Researchers aim to determine if the drink enhances gut health, reduces inflammation, and improves overall well-being compared to a simpler vegetable drink. Individuals with PTSD who are not on antibiotics, do not have certain diseases, and can adhere to study guidelines may qualify. Participants will consume a vegetable drink daily and attend regular check-ups to monitor changes. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to new insights into PTSD treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You can continue taking your current medications if your regimen has been stable for at least two months before the study and remains unchanged during the study. However, any changes in medication or starting antibiotics during the study would lead to dismissal from the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that eating more plants can improve gut health by increasing the variety of helpful bacteria in the stomach. This is important because a healthy gut might lower inflammation and boost mental well-being. Although specific studies on the safety of the high plant variety drink used in this trial are lacking, consuming a wide range of plant foods is generally safe and healthy.
This trial compares two vegetable drinks: one made from 30 different plants and another from just three. While specific data on any side effects from these drinks is unavailable, eating vegetables is usually safe and part of a healthy diet. Since this trial involves dietary changes rather than testing a new drug, the risks are likely low. Participants should still monitor how they feel and inform the trial team of any concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Most treatments for PTSD involve medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, or psychotherapy. However, the high plant diversity beverage being studied offers a novel approach by using natural ingredients to potentially address symptoms. This treatment is unique because it blends 30 different vegetables into a single 4 oz drink, delivering a wide range of nutrients that might support mental health in a more holistic way. Researchers are excited about these treatments because they offer a dietary intervention that could complement existing therapies, potentially with fewer side effects. Additionally, the low plant diversity beverage provides a simpler blend of just three vegetables, allowing researchers to compare the effects of varied plant diversity on PTSD symptoms.
What evidence suggests that this high plant diversity beverage might be an effective treatment for PTSD?
Research shows that eating a wider variety of plants can increase the different types of helpful bacteria in the gut, which links to better health. For people with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), studies suggest that more varied gut bacteria may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. In this trial, participants will receive either the High Plant Diversity Beverage, which includes 30 different vegetables, or the Low Plant Diversity Beverage, which contains only three vegetables. The High Plant Diversity Beverage aims to boost gut bacteria variety and is expected to have a stronger effect on gut health and PTSD symptoms compared to the low-diversity drink. While direct clinical data on these specific drinks is not yet available, the concept relies on strong evidence that a diverse plant diet can positively impact mental health.14567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Tiffany Weir, PhD
Principal Investigator
Colorado State University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with PTSD. Participants should be willing to consume a vegetable drink daily for four weeks. The study excludes individuals who have dietary restrictions or health conditions that prevent them from consuming a wide variety of plants.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants consume a daily 4 oz beverage with either high or low plant diversity for four weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- High Plant Diversity Beverage
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Colorado State University
Lead Sponsor
University of Colorado, Denver
Collaborator
University of Utah
Collaborator