NCT06477120 · University of Illinois at Chicago
Time-restricted Eating Among Pregnant Females With Severe Obesity
(TRE-Preg)
What this study is about
In the United States, a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35.0 kg/m2 affects about 15% of women of reproductive age. Severe obesity is a significant predictor of adverse perinatal outcomes including gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-eclampsia, premature birth, and at its most severe, fetal death, birth defects and a three-fold greater risk of maternal mortality.
View original scientific description
In the United States, a body mass index (BMI) of at least 35.0 kg/m2 affects about 15% of women of reproductive age. Severe obesity is a significant predictor of adverse perinatal outcomes including gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-eclampsia, premature birth, and at its most severe, fetal death, birth defects and a three-fold greater risk of maternal mortality. Observational studies suggest weight maintenance and even modest body fat loss and altering the maternal metabolic milieu (availability of glucose and lipids) in the gestational period may be important to reducing perinatal health risks among pregnant females with severe obesity. The proposed research aims to assess time-restricted eating in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy to explore the effects on maternal weight, and perinatal health outcomes compared to standard clinical care.
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
- Female based on sex assigned at birth
- Preconception body mass index (BMI) 35.0 - 60 kg/m2
- Singleton pregnancy
- Age 18-44 years old
- 14 - \< = 20 weeks gestational age
- Fluency in English to provide consent and complete study procedures
- Ability to provide informed consent
- Cleared by study doctor and the obstetrician/mid-wife provider to participate
- Access to a smartphone to complete intervention procedures
Exclusion criteria
- Deemed medically high risk
- Multiple pregnancy (e.g., twins)
- Type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus
- Early gestational diabetes (diagnosed at \< = to17 weeks gestational age through an oral glucose tolerance test)
- Currently eating ≤ 12 hours daily
- Autoimmune disorder (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
- iron deficiency anemia
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Previous spontaneous preterm birth
- History of bariatric surgery
- Night shift work
- Currently incarcerated
- Eating disorder
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
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 Jan 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations