Clinical Research Directory

Physical Activity in Bed Rest Hospitalized High-Risk Pregnant Women

This pilot study aims to evaluate the impact of a specifically designed exercise program for hospitalized high-risk pregnant individuals on bed rest. The exercise program, focused on resistance and strength training, is adapted for execution while in bed and seeks to address physical and emotional health challenges during hospitalization. The study will compare outcomes between participants who follow the exercise program and those receiving standard care. Primary outcomes include physical and emotional health parameters, quality of life, and sleep quality. Secondary outcomes focus on feasibility, adherence, and participant satisfaction. This research addresses the gap in physical activity guidelines for pregnant individuals on bed rest and explores the potential benefits of exercise to improve maternal well-being and postpartum recovery.

Impact of Energy Density on Energy Intake During Bed Rest

Brief summary: This study is conducted in the context of a 60 days strict bed-rest study with 6° head-down-tilt (HDT) body position. Food intake can be challenging during bed-rest due to loss of appetite and constantly feeling full. The study aims to assess whether or not energy intake varies during a meal when the energy density of a meal is increased by the fat content. This experiment follows a crossover design with repeated measures within subjects. The order of experimental conditions is balanced among participants and sex, and the assignment of orders to participants is randomly. On each test day, participants are provided with breakfast, lunch, and dinner as usual. Across test days, the ED of breakfast (24 participants) or lunch (24 participants) is modified to two levels: the standard level and an increased level (+ 0.42 kcal/g compared to the standard). The meals are adjusted in energy density without noticeable changes in appearance or taste. These meals have identical ingredients, but the macronutrient proportions are modified. Entrées with increased fat content are prepared by incorporating neutral-tasting vegetable oil into the standard recipes. Participants receive their meals and are given the flexibility to eat ad libitum for 45 minutes. To comply with the strict bed rest rules, the next meal will be used for counterbalancing total energy intake over the day if necessary. In case of problems, a nutrient drink could be used to assure the requested total energy intake in order to maintain body weight.The experiments are conducted during 4 campaigns, each campaign consisting of 12 participants.