NCT06921356 · Johns Hopkins University
Groceries Plus Multi-Component Lifestyle Intervention for Adults With Hypertension and Type 2 Diabetes
(DASH-Life)
What this study is about
People with high blood pressure and diabetes often have low levels of key nutrients as a result of not eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Research studies suggest that these nutrients can lower blood pressure and blood sugar.
View original scientific description
People with high blood pressure and diabetes often have low levels of key nutrients as a result of not eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Research studies suggest that these nutrients can lower blood pressure and blood sugar. This study will investigate if providing encouragement to adopt this healthy and nutritious way of eating and providing guidance on weight management will lower blood pressure and blood sugar. The DASH-Life research study will recruit adults with hypertension and type 2 diabetes who live in Baltimore metro areas that don't have many stores selling healthy foods. The DASH-Life research study is 6 months long. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: 1) Self-Shopping DASH (S-DASH) diet advice group, or 2) Coaching DASH (C-DASH) diet advice group.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Coach-Directed Tailored DASH Groceries Plus Lifestyle Intervention
Participants assigned to the C-DASH group will meet by telephone with the study coach for 1 hour, and then have brief weekly conversations (about 15-30 minutes) by phone during the first three months. During these weekly calls, the study coach will assist participant with selecting fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beans. During months 4-6, the study coach will continue to work with participant to set goals for following the DASH-Life way of eating, but the study will no longer provide a weekly food allowance to purchase groceries.
BEHAVIORAL
Self-Shopping DASH diet advice
Participants assigned to the S-DASH group will receive a brochure about the DASH eating plan. For the first three months, Participants will also receive a gift card to shop at a local supermarket. During months 4-6, participants will be asked to continue following the DASH eating plan listed in the brochure but will no longer be provided the grocery gift card.
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility as assessed by the number of participants enrolled
Time frame: Baseline
The observed count of responses to the prescreening will be summarized. Recruitment yields at screening visit and randomization visit will be derived.
Acceptability as assessed by the Acceptability of the Intervention Measure survey
Time frame: 3 months
Acceptability of the intervention will be quantitatively measured by the Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM) survey. The survey consists of 4 items, each measured on a 5-point Likert scale from 1 (completely disagree) to 5 (completely agree). The score is calculated as the mean of the responses to the 4 items. A higher score is better.
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
- Age 18 years or older
- Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 defined by: self-reported type 2 diabetes diagnosis, or HbA1c\>=6.5%, or treatment of diabetes with diabetes medications(s)
- Baseline systolic BP 120-159 mmHg (with or without medications.)
- Serum potassium level \>3.0 and \<5 mmol/L,
- Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) \>=45 mL/min/1.73m2.
- Willing and able to complete required procedures in English.
- Living in Healthy Food Priority Area in Baltimore; the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) defined low income, low access areas, or census blocks with area deprivation index (ADI) 60 and above (State Decile\>=6.)
Exclusion criteria
- Hypoglycemia requiring hospitalization or the assistance of another person in the last 6 months
- Cardiovascular event within 6 months
- On diabetes or weight loss medications such as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), GLP-1/glucose-dependent insulin-releasing peptide (GIP), insulin, or any combination of these medications
- HbA1c ≥ 10%
- Type 1 diabetes
- Baseline systolic BP \< 100 mmHg
- Weight \>400 lbs due to the maximum weight on study scale
- Chronic disease that might interfere with trial participation
- Current participation in another clinical trial that might affect blood pressure, weight loss, diabetes, or ability to adhere to study procedures
- Current participation in program with conflicting dietary guidance (i.e., meal replacement or keto diets)
- Unwillingness or inability to adopt a DASH-like diet
- Planning to leave area in the next 6 months
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Collaborators
National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD)
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 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations