NCT03100656 · University of California, San Diego
Study of Food Aversion in Patients With Anorexia Nervosa
What this study is about
This study uses a meal-challenge protocol to assess if patients with anorexia nervosa show a differential metabolism in response to food in comparison to healthy controls. This study determines how heritable and biochemical factors influence food metabolism in anorexia nervosa in order to develop more effective treatment strategies.
View original scientific description
This study uses a meal-challenge protocol to assess if patients with anorexia nervosa show a differential metabolism in response to food in comparison to healthy controls. This study determines how heritable and biochemical factors influence food metabolism in anorexia nervosa in order to develop more effective treatment strategies.
Interventions
OTHER
A breakfast sandwich
A meat-based breakfast sandwich
Primary outcome measures
Change of metabolism biomarker
Time frame: 2 hours
Percentage change of metabolism marker
Food aversion/anxiety
Time frame: 2 hours
Percentage change of food aversion/anxiety score
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Ill AN subjects will meet current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V) diagnosis of AN, body mass index (BMI) between 11 kg/m² and 17.5 kg/m², or BMI \> 17.5 kg/m² with active eating disorder symptoms.
- Recovered AN must meet the following criteria at time of study entry: 1) Current or past DSM V diagnosis of AN; 2) BMI between 18.5 kg/m2 and 30 kg/m2; 3) Having maintained a BMI of \>18.5 for at least one year.
- Control must be healthy adolescent or woman negative on our screen for AN, other Axis I psychiatric illnesses, and having maintained a BMI of between 18.5-30 kg/m² since the age of 18.
Where
- La Jolla, California
Collaborators
University of Toronto, University of California, Davis
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 31, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations