Produce Prescription for Chronic Kidney Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if providing produce vouchers, known as "Produce Prescription," can enhance the health and well-being of individuals with chronic kidney disease. It targets those experiencing food insecurity, meaning they struggle to obtain enough nutritious food. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will receive regular produce vouchers, and the other will not. Researchers will compare these groups to assess the vouchers' impact on diet quality, mood, and overall health. Individuals with chronic kidney disease who reside near Philadelphia and face challenges in accessing sufficient food may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding the impact of produce vouchers on health and well-being.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on providing produce prescriptions, so you may not need to change your medication routine.
What prior data suggests that this produce prescription intervention is safe?
Research shows that programs providing vouchers for fruits and vegetables can promote healthier eating and improve conditions like diabetes and heart health. However, specific safety information for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is lacking. Generally, these programs are considered safe, as they involve incorporating more healthy foods into the diet. No reports of side effects in other health conditions suggest they are well-tolerated.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Produce Prescription for chronic kidney disease because it's a fresh approach that emphasizes lifestyle change through diet. Unlike traditional treatments like medications to control blood pressure or blood sugar, this method involves providing participants with vouchers for fresh produce, aiming to improve diet quality and potentially slow disease progression naturally. The novelty lies in empowering patients to make healthier food choices, which could have a broader impact on their overall health beyond just managing kidney function. This approach also highlights the importance of diet in disease management, offering a complementary strategy to conventional medical care.
What evidence suggests that this produce prescription might be an effective treatment for chronic kidney disease?
Research shows that prescribing fruits and vegetables to people with chronic conditions can improve their health. One study found that providing fruits and vegetables to patients with kidney issues lowered a urine marker indicating kidney health. Other studies suggest these prescriptions can enhance diet quality and help control diabetes, benefiting kidney health. Additionally, these programs often lead to better overall health and can be cost-effective. In this trial, participants in the Produce Prescription arm will receive produce vouchers, which might help manage chronic kidney disease and improve quality of life.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sarah Schrauben, MD, MSCE
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Nandta Mitra, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Eliza Kinsey, PhD, MPH
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (stages 3-5) who don't have enough access to food. They should be willing to complete surveys and health measurements during the study. People with other significant health issues that could interfere with the study or those unable to follow its procedures may not qualify.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive produce prescription vouchers every two weeks for six months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Produce Prescription
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pennsylvania
Lead Sponsor