NCT05799222 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Medically Intensive Nutrition Therapy Program for Obesity and Diabetes in a Low-income Population
(MINT)
What this study is about
This study is being done to better understand whether meal replacements can be an effective tool for weight loss and treatment of elevated blood sugars in people with obesity/overweight and diabetes/pre-diabetes who have a low income.
View original scientific description
This study is being done to better understand whether meal replacements can be an effective tool for weight loss and treatment of elevated blood sugars in people with obesity/overweight and diabetes/pre-diabetes who have a low income.
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 (BMI) greater than or equal to 27 kg/m\^2
- HgA1C greater than or equal to 5.7 percent or fasting glucose greater than or equal to 100mg/dL within the previous 6 months
- Low-income as defined by having a family income at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty level guidelines for 2022
Exclusion criteria
- Current use of antihyperglycemic agents (other than metformin) or approved anti- obesity medications or plans to start such regimens over the 3 months post-study enrollment
- HbA1c greater than or equal to 10 percent
- Plans to pursue bariatric surgery over the 6 months post-study enrollment
- Weight loss of greater than 5 kg within the previous 3 months
- Current active eating disorder, with the exception of binge eating disorder
- Severe active psychiatric disease or significant cognitive impairment deemed by investigator likely to impede adherence to piloted intervention
- Active illicit substance abuse
- Pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering pregnancy within the next 6 months
- Current participation in another clinical research trial deemed by investigator to conflict with current study
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Dec 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations