NCT07063173 · United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine
Bioavailability of Ration Items Containing Tart Cherry Extract
(Tart Cherry)
What this study is about
To determine how consuming food items containing shelf-stored tart cherry impacts your body's ability to absorb and use the compounds within tart cherry.
View original scientific description
To determine how consuming food items containing shelf-stored tart cherry impacts your body's ability to absorb and use the compounds within tart cherry.
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
- Active duty military personnel and civilians will be invited to participate in the study if they:
- Are between the ages of 18 (or 17 for military personnel) and 39.
- Are willing to participate in all study procedures and comply with all study instruction.
- In good health as determined by OMSO (Office of Medical Support and Oversight).
- Supervisor approval for federal civilian employees and non-HRV active-duty military personnel stationed at NSSC
Exclusion criteria
- • Unable to understand verbal or written instructions or testing materials in English.
- Have a bleeding disorder (e.g., von Willebrand Disease, hemophilia) or are being treated with medication that will impair blood clotting (for example, coumadin)
- Have a history of GI-related conditions that may impact macronutrient absorption (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, Celiac's disease or gluten sensitivity, bariatric surgery or gastroparesis, short bowel, inflammatory bowel disease, etc…);
- Any use of antibiotics or antifungal, except topical antibiotics/antifungals within 3 months of study participation.
- Colonoscopy within 3 months of study participation.
- Regular (i.e., weekly or more frequent) use of over-the-counter medications (including antacids, laxatives, stool softeners, and antidiarrheals) unless approved by OMSO and study PI.
- Are habitually taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., Advil, aspirin), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) or immunosuppressants (e.g. Humira);
- Have an allergy or aversion (extreme dislike) to any of the test foods(e.g., cherry flavored beverages or bar). Allergy symptoms may include anaphylaxis, hives or eczema, tingling/itching in the mouth, dizziness or fainting, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat).
- Have donated blood within the past 8 weeks of the first test session or plan to donate blood during the study.
- Are not willing to abstain from tobacco products and vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours" before each trial and consume a low-polyphenol diet two days prior to each test session and on the day of the test session.
Where
- Natick, Massachusetts
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 Dec 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations