NCT07780188 · Texas A&M University
Lean Beef as Part of a Healthy Meal Plan in Adolescents With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)/Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)
(Beef+)
What this study is about
This pilot randomly assigned controlled study will plan to enroll 36 adolescent females with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)/Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a tailored dietary intervention which will be termed "Beef+", that will emphasize the incorporation of unprocessed, lean beef (\<10% fat) as part of a healthy meal plan to improve glycemic control, diet quality, and health-related quality of life
View original scientific description
This pilot randomized controlled study will plan to enroll 36 adolescent females with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)/Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a tailored dietary intervention which will be termed "Beef+", that will emphasize the incorporation of unprocessed, lean beef (\<10% fat) as part of a healthy meal plan to improve glycemic control, diet quality, and health-related quality of life
Interventions
OTHER
Beef+
Adolescents will be instructed to consume a minimum of 1 (3oz) serving per day of cooked unprocessed, lean (\<10% fat) beef (21 oz/week) for 12 weeks. To facilitate adoption, the intervention will be offered at the household level, but it is not a requirement. The intervention is a multi-modal behavior change intervention with three overarching components: modifying beef intake, consuming beef in healthy meals, and the research team purchasing the beef needed for the intervention. To facilitate adoption of lean beef as part of a healthy diet, a study RDN will meet with the participant and at least one representative parent/guardian at bi-weekly check-ins to provide tailored dietary support and develop an implementation plan. A financial supplement of $100/month will be provided offset grocery costs.
Primary outcome measures
Change in HbA1c
Time frame: Baseline, Week 6 and Week 12 of Intervention or Usual Lifestyle
HbA1c measured as point of care using A1CNow+ point-of-care analyzer, HbA1c will also serve as a safety endpoint.
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 Adolescent
- 11-17 years old
- Suspected or confirmed diagnosis of PCOS
- ≥1-year post-menarche
- BMI ≥85th percentile for age/height
- Able to read and speak English
Exclusion criteria
- Medications affecting glucoregulation, metabolic health, and/or appetite (e.g., metformin, GLP-1)
- Unable or unwilling to eat beef
- Pregnant or planning pregnancy during study
- HbA1c ≥6.5%
- Unwilling or unable to complete study procedures
- Conditions affecting ability to complete study procedures or the intervention such as gastrointestinal diseases or syndromes, bleeding disorders, ongoing or unresolved eating disorder)
- Conditions affecting reproductive function other than PCOS
- Conditions that may interfere with continuous glucose monitor (CGM) application or use, including dermatological conditions such as eczema or allergies/reactions to medical adhesives Conditional Exclusion Criteria: \- Current use of hormonal contraceptives if in the suspected PCOS group (allowable if current for at least the previous 3 months with physician-confirmed PCOS)
Where
- College Station, Texas
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 Aug 21, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations