Dietary Pattern Study

               The role of the gut microbiota in metabolism and neuroprotection  
                                            A human nutritional intervention study

Research question:

The aim of this human intervention study is to investigate the effects of three dietary patterns (Nordic, Vegetarian, Western (Habitual)) on metabolism, immune system and neurodegeneration in persons exhibiting metabolic syndrome characteristics. In addition, the composition and function of the gut microbiome is studied and epigenetic parameters related to neuroprotection are analyzed. In a follow-up, a cross-over with a subgroup of the study participants is performed and the role of the gut microbiota in the effects of the diets are analyzed in more detail.

Study Design and Procedure:

This is a prospective, monocentric, randomized, controlled clinical nutrition intervention study in a parallel-group design with cross-over design in follow-up.

During a 6-week nutritional intervention, the effects of the three dietary patterns are investigated in 120 individuals with metabolic syndrome characteristics. Study participants are randomized to one of three intervention groups:

(i) Nordic Diet

ii) Ovo-lacto-vegetarian diet

iii) Habitual diet

To implement the study diets (i and ii), isocaloric diet plans, which alternate at 14-day intervals, are provided for 3 main meals and 2 snacks, including beverages. The control group maintains their habitual diet.

In the follow-up study, a subgroup of the study participants are invited to participate in the study again. The participants are randomly assigned to one of the other two intervention groups in a cross-over and have repeated the 6-week intervention.

M. Sc. Hanna Huber                                                        Jun.-Prof. Dr. Marie-Christine Simon

IEL – Ernährung und Mikrobiota                                      IEL – Ernährung und Mikrobiota

Nussallee 9, 53115 Bonn                                                 Nussallee 9, 53115 Bonn

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M. Sc. Alina Schieren                                               

IEL – Ernährung und Mikrobiota                                      

Nussallee 9, 53115 Bonn                                                

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0228/73 2018