NCT07211217 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Time Restricted Eating (TRE) in Bipolar Disorder
(TREBD)
What this study is about
This is a randomly assigned controlled trial investigating the effects of an 8-TRE intervention compared to a wait list (control) on metabolic health and body composition in people diagnosed with BD and who are currently obese and at least mildly depressed. Following a 1-week baseline assessment, participants will be randomly assigned to either a TRE or the wait list (1-to-1 ratio) for 8 weeks.
View original scientific description
This is a randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of an 8-TRE intervention compared to a wait list (control) on metabolic health and body composition in people diagnosed with BD and who are currently obese and at least mildly depressed. Following a 1-week baseline assessment, participants will be randomized to either a TRE or the wait list (1-to-1 ratio) for 8 weeks. At baseline, Week 8 (post treatment), and Week 20 (follow-up), investigators will assess daily eating patterns for one week, followed by collection of fasting lipids, body weight and vital signs. At Week 4 (i.e., mid-treatment), the investigators will assess self-reported outcomes only. Participants assigned to the wait list condition will have the option of receiving the TRE intervention after 20 weeks.
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
- Adults (aged 18-65 years)
- Diagnosed with bipolar disorder (i.e., subtype Bipolar I or II as assessed with the Quick SCID)21
- Currently experiencing depression (i.e., PHQ-9 ≥ 10)22
- Currently overweight (i.e., Body mass index (BMI) \> 30 kg/m2)
- Provides Informed Consent
Exclusion criteria
- Dietary factors:
- Diagnosis, or strong clinical suspicion, of eating disorders, including but not limited to, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder (as assessed with the Quick SCID)
- Concurrent dietary intervention or modification unrelated to study procedures
- Psychiatric factors:
- Severe depression (i.e., PHQ-9\>20)
- Experiencing manic symptoms (i.e., ASRM \< 6)23
- Active suicidal ideation (i.e., PHQ-9, item 9 \>2)
- Current alcohol/substance use disorder (as assessed with the Quick SCID)
- Medical factors:
- Use of weight loss medications or supplements
- Use of medications that may cause weight loss or gain, unless body weight and medication usage remained stable for at least 6 months
- Previous weight loss surgery
- Malignancy within past 2 years
- Major surgery within past 3 months
- Medical instability considered to interfere with study procedures
- Use of medications that have the potential to cause hypoglycemia (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas)
- Undergoing treatment for cancer
- Use of medications for which time restricted eating would interfere with recommended timing of medication ingestion with food intake.
- Lifestyle and other factors: a. Work or social schedules that would impede ability to adhere to study protocol
- Adherence factors:
- Ability to adhere to study procedures
Where
- Boston, 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 Jun 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations