NCT07475377 · University of Alabama at Birmingham
Understanding the Impact of Meal Timing on Neurological Health in Adults With Multiple Sclerosis
(Meal Time MS)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if the time an individual eats each day impacts neurological health in people with multiple sclerosis. The main questions the investigators are asking are: 1. Does meal timing affect biomarkers of neuronal health (neurofilament light chain \[NfL\] and BDNF) and inflammation (IL-6, IL-17, TNF-ɑ) in adults with MS. 2.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if the time an individual eats each day impacts neurological health in people with multiple sclerosis. The main questions the investigators are asking are: 1. Does meal timing affect biomarkers of neuronal health (neurofilament light chain \[NfL\] and BDNF) and inflammation (IL-6, IL-17, TNF-ɑ) in adults with MS. 2. Does meal timing affect expression of circadian clock genes and genes associated with autophagy in adults with MS. Participants will be instructed to start and stop eating at specific times each day based on their group assignment and their personal schedule. They will respond to prompts sent to them on their smartphone to record the times they start and stop eating each day. As a secondary goal, the study will also explore the feasibility of including translocator protein (TSPO)-PET imaging of neuroinflammation in future clinical trials of TRE in people with MS. To accomplish this, imaging will be completed in a subset of 8 participants at the beginning and end of the study.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Time Restricted Eating
Participants will eat all meals within 8 hours/day and fast for the remaining 16 hours/day.
BEHAVIORAL
Unrestricted eating
Participants will eat all meals over 12 or more hours/day.
Primary outcome measures
Neurofilament light chain
Time frame: Baseline and 12 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
- Diagnosed with relapsing remitting or secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (RRMS or SPMS)
- If on disease modifying therapy (DMTs), stable for 6 months
- If not on DMTs, no DMT usage within previous 6 months
- BMI 18.5-50 kg/m2
- Access to a smartphone
- Responsible for personal eating schedule or able to have input into schedule
Exclusion criteria
- Relapse within previous 30 days
- Actively engaged in a weight loss program or unwilling to follow assigned eating schedule
- Current use of GLP-1 or use within previous 3 months
- Regularly fasts \> 12 hours/day
- Employed in night shift or rotating shift work
- Unable to walk 25 feet with or without assistive device (EDSS \> 6.5).
- Current use of insulin or sulfonylurea agents
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Currently enrolled in another trial that would confound results (e.g., exercise studies or other diet studies)
Where
- Birmingham, Alabama
Collaborators
Paralyzed Veterans of America Research Foundation
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 Sep 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations