NCT07613645 · University of Michigan
Lifestyle and Recurrent Clostridioides Difficile Infection (CDI)
What this study is about
This study aims to evaluate the impact of diet on the gut microbiome in adults with Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Eligible participants will be randomly assigned and receive meals plus different types of health counseling. Counseling visits will be by phone or online videoconference (e.g. Zoom).
View original scientific description
This study aims to evaluate the impact of diet on the gut microbiome in adults with Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Eligible participants will be randomized and receive meals plus different types of health counseling. Counseling visits will be by phone or online videoconference (e.g. Zoom). Meals will be provided for two weeks and then participants will be asked to continue similar meals for 6 more weeks. Participants will provide responses to questionnaires and multiple stool samples over the course of the study. The goal is to understand how different health factors might impact the risk of becoming infected again with C. difficile in the future. Of note, this study will conceal the intervention details (type of diets) so that the control group does not increase their intake with the particular diet during the study. Participants in the control arm will be unblinded at the end of the study during a debrief with a member of the study team. At that time participants will be informed of diet being tested.
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
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
- Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and lifestyle considerations and availability for the duration of the study
- Non-recurrent non-fulminant CDI (laboratory-confirmed C. difficile infection without prior C. difficile infection within 3 months and no shock, hypotension, ileus, or megacolon)
- Currently receiving treatment or with plan to initiate treatment for CDI
- CDI treatment with standard regimen (fidaxomicin 200milligrams (mg) by mouth (PO) twice a day x 10-14 days or vancomycin 125mg PO 4 x a day (QID) x 10-14 days)
- No prior advanced therapy for C. difficile (i.e. prolonged antibiotic therapy, bezlotoxumab, fecal transplant, other microbial therapy)
Exclusion criteria
- Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or transplant within 12 months
- Colon not in continuity (i.e. status post total colectomy or with current ileostomy)
- Medical comorbidities requiring specific fluid, sodium, or protein intake level outside range of prepared diet options
- Baseline diet with \> 11grams fiber/1000 kilocalories
- Low sodium diet, vegan diet, gluten-free diet, Kosher diet or any other diet not able to be accommodated by the metabolic kitchen
- Allergies, food preferences, or other restrictions not able to be accommodated by the metabolic (note: lactose intolerance will not impact eligibility)
- Unwilling to stop probiotic supplements during the study period
- Current antibiotic therapy that will continue after CDI treatment has finished
- Hospitalized or in skilled nursing facility at time of CDI treatment conclusion
- Pregnancy or breast-feeding
- Unable to provide a stool sample of appropriate quality for further analysis (i.e. low volume, adulterated, delayed return, etc.)
Where
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
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 Jul 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations