NCT07340125 · University of South Carolina
Pistachio Snacking and Metabolic Flexibility
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of pistachio snacking on metabolic flexibility (at rest, during exercise, and in post-exercise recovery) in healthy overweight and obese adults. Secondary goals include evaluating effects on changes in diet quality, sleep characteristics, physical activity, and hormonal health in women.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of pistachio snacking on metabolic flexibility (at rest, during exercise, and in post-exercise recovery) in healthy overweight and obese adults. Secondary goals include evaluating effects on changes in diet quality, sleep characteristics, physical activity, and hormonal health in women. In randomized order, participants will complete four days of pistachio snacking and four days of normal dietary habits (control). For both conditions, primary outcomes of resting substrate metabolism, metabolic flexibility during exercise, and post-exercise substrate metabolism will be measured pre-post intervention via indirect calorimetry. Secondary outcome of diet quality (kcal, carb, fat, protein) will be measured pre-post intervention via diet log. Exploratory outcomes of daily physical activity (steps, intensity), nightly sleep characteristics (quantity, quality, latency, efficiency), and daytime sleepiness and hunger.
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
- Males and Females
- Age: 25-45 years
- Overweight or obese (BMI=25.0-34.9 kg/m²)
- Poor sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index ≥ 5)
- Healthy (no diagnosed metabolic, cardiovascular, sleep, or other health condition that may significantly alter metabolism, sleep, or ability to participate in the exercise test)
- Not meeting weekly physical activity recommendations (\<150 min moderate-intensity exercise, \<75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise, and \<2 days of strength training)
- Not following a diet that is restrictive or eliminates certain food group/types
Exclusion criteria
- Allergies to nuts, especially tree nuts
- Has a pacemaker
- Following a diet that is restrictive or eliminates certain food group/types
- Self-repoted health or disease state that may influence study outcomes, including known metabolic or endocrine disorder (e.g. prediabetes, type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome), cardiovascular diseases, neuromuscular disorders, musculoskeletal disorders; current or recent history of cancer/cancer treatment (within the past year)
- History of gastrointestinal surgery, hysterectomy
- For women: pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant during the time of participation, pregnant within the last year, currently breastfeeding, or known to be perimenopausal
Where
- Columbia, South Carolina
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 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations