Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Analysis of MicroBial Metabolites After Eating Refined Food
Sponsor: The Cleveland Clinic
Summary
The purpose of this study is to learn more about what happens in the human body after consuming a meal that contains ultra-processed foods like hamburgers, and if this is different to what happens after consuming a meal that contains lots of whole foods, like fresh vegetables, instead.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
46
Start Date
2020-09-01
Completion Date
2026-07
Last Updated
2025-07-29
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Ultra-processed Food Meal
An ultra-processed diet challenge test utilizing 1) potatoes fried in highly refined and processed vegetable oil, including corn, soybean, or canola oil, with wheat and milk derivatives; 2) a beef patty sandwich containing processed American cheese, enriched refined flour, mold inhibitor, preservatives and oxidation/reduction additives such as ascorbic acid, potassium/calcium iodate, alpha-amylase, and azodicarbonamide; and 3) a beverage composed of carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup and caramel coloring. The ultra-processed challenge meal will be obtained from a local restaurant on the day of the challenge test.
Whole Food Meal
A whole food diet challenge test utilizing 1) a side salad comprised of fresh leafy vegetables, and typical whole food toppings including fresh onion, fresh tomato, fresh carrots, and raw walnuts with a pure unrefined olive oil salad dressing; 2) a legume-based main dish including chickpeas, lentils and whole grain quinoa; 3) a fresh berry-rich smoothie beverage consisting of organic blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, bananas, and fresh orange juice. The whole food challenge meal will be made by the study team from readily available commercial foods bought from local grocery stores.
Locations (1)
Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Cleveland, Ohio, United States