NCT07649148 · The Cleveland Clinic
Dietary Tracking in Heart Failure
(DOTTIE)
What this study is about
Emerging evidence links ultra processed foods (UPFs) to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. UPFs are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats and added sugars, while being low in essential nutrients and fiber. UPFs contribute to systemic inflammation, fluid retention, and metabolic dysfunction-key drivers of HF and kidney disease progression.
View original scientific description
Emerging evidence links ultra processed foods (UPFs) to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. UPFs are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats and added sugars, while being low in essential nutrients and fiber. UPFs contribute to systemic inflammation, fluid retention, and metabolic dysfunction-key drivers of HF and kidney disease progression. Traditional dietary counseling often lacks specificity around food processing levels. Furthermore, the majority of nutrition studies relied on extensive self-reported dietary recall food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) that are subjective, often labor intensive, and difficult to implement practically in the clinical setting. As such, researchers have developed metabolite scores from blood and urine samples to help quantify UPF consumption, which has the promise to better guide dietary counseling and track process. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and physiological impact of a structured UPF-reduction dietary intervention in patients with HF, leveraging both digital dietary tools (Cronometer) and biomarker assessments.
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 (≥18 years) with NYHA Class II-III HF
- Able to use Cronometer to track dietary intake and able to prepare food at home independently (able to modify dietary intake)
Exclusion criteria
- History of heart transplant or LVAD implant
- Unable or unwilling to follow dietary coaching for UPF reduction
- eGFR \<30 ml/kg/1.73m2
Where
- Cleveland, Ohio
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 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations