NCT06309576 · Pennington Biomedical Research Center
Experimental Approach to Test Predictions of Body Weight Regulation Models
(DIP)
What this study is about
The regulation of human body weight and fatness is not fully understood. Although some models of regulation have been proposed (set point, dual-intervention point, others), no studies have been designed to test their predictions. In this pilot and feasibility study, the investigators will implement an experimental approach to test the predictions of models of body weight regulation in humans.
View original scientific description
The regulation of human body weight and fatness is not fully understood. Although some models of regulation have been proposed (set point, dual-intervention point, others), no studies have been designed to test their predictions. In this pilot and feasibility study, the investigators will implement an experimental approach to test the predictions of models of body weight regulation in humans. Men and women with either low body weight or obesity will be exposed to a 2-day fasting followed by a 2-day ad-libitum refeeding. During the entire fasting-refeeding period, energy intake and expenditure will be accurately measured within metabolic chambers. The investigators will therefore determine the compensatory responses to fasting elicited to prevent weight loss. The results will serve to design and power future studies to better understand body weight regulation.
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
- Body mass index lower than 20 kg/m2 for the low body weight group, or 30 kg/m2 or greater for the obesity group
- 18-40 years old
- Nulliparous and regular menstrual cycle (25-35 days) during the last six months (in women)
- Normal thyroid function, blood count, and chemistry 15 panel (normal plasma glucose will be considered at \<100 mg/dL; normal serum HDL cholesterol at \>=50 mg/dL for women and \>=40 mg/dL for men; and normal serum triglycerides at \<150 mg/dL).
- Self-reported weight stability during the last six months (±3 kg)
- Rate the liking of at least one of the flavored liquid meals (Ensure Plus, Abbot Nutrition) between 5 and 8 on a 9-point Likert scale
- Willing to only drink up to two assigned flavors of Ensure Plus for two consecutive days
Exclusion criteria
- Eating disorders as indicated by a global score ≥2.80 in the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, or a previous diagnosis of an eating disorder
- For the low body weight group, having food insecurity (with or without hunger) as assessed by the USDA
- Recreational moderate-intensity physical activity ≥150 min/week, recreational vigorous-intensity physical activity ≥75 min/week, or a combination of recreational moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity physical activity (moderate time + \[2 × vigorous time\]) ≥150 min/week as assessed by the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, or being a professional athlete
- Cigarette or vape smoking
- Intake of more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week
- Use of medications that may affect energy intake and/or expenditure, for example, semaglutide, liraglutide, exenatide, other GLP-1 receptor agonists, phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, orlistat, metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, pramlintide, levocarnitine, amphetamines, and amphetamine-like drugs
- Human immunodeficiency virus, galactosemia, and lactose intolerance
- Diseases that affect energy homeostasis including endocrine such as hypo/hyperthyroidism, or type 1 or 2 diabetes; cancer; chronic pulmonary diseases; cardiovascular disease; and renal disease
- History of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's), malabsorption syndromes (intestinal, pancreatic), and sprue or gluten intolerance
- Having moderate to severe sleep apnea defined as an oxygen desaturation index \>10 times/hour assessed by overnight oximetry to be conducted on the night following the screening visit
- Use of oral hormonal contraceptives or less than 6 months using a hormonal intrauterine device (in women)
- Adults who are unable to consent
- Currently pregnant or breastfeeding (in women)
Where
- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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 May 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations