NCT07329283 · University of Utah
Nighttime Synchrony of Your Nutrition and Circadian Health
(N-Sync)
What this study is about
Sleep is an important factor for overall health. This study will see how different light exposure patterns and food intake impact a person's metabolism (how the body breaks down food) when sleeping is reduced. Participants will attend 6 to 8 in-person visits to the study clinic, including three overnight stays. People will complete surveys and medical tests.
View original scientific description
Sleep is an important factor for overall health. This study will see how different light exposure patterns and food intake impact a person's metabolism (how the body breaks down food) when sleeping is reduced. Participants will attend 6 to 8 in-person visits to the study clinic, including three overnight stays. People will complete surveys and medical tests. The study will last about 4 to 6 months.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Central Clock Misalignment
Light exposure will be dimmed during the first 4 hours of scheduled wakefulness, with bright light exposure during the nighttime hours of extended wakefulness.
BEHAVIORAL
Peripheral Misalignment
Most daily calories will be given later in the day to shift eating patterns toward the nighttime hours.
Primary outcome measures
Insulin Sensitivity
Time frame: Immediately following the 5-day sleep restriction segment
Insulin sensitivity will be measured by intravenous glucose tolerance tests.
Internal Circadian Misalignment (Uridine and Isobutyryl-L-carnitine)
Time frame: During the constant routine, following the 5-day sleep restriction segment
Phase angle between DLMO and acrophase of uridine and isobutyryl-L-carnitine during constant routine.
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
- Age: 18-35 years old; equal numbers of men and women
- Body Mass Index (BMI): 18.5-24.9 kg/m2
- Sleep Habits: habitual self-reported average total sleep time (TST) 7-9 hours per night for prior 6 months
Exclusion criteria
- Clinically diagnosed sleep disorder or apnea hypopnea index (AHI) ≥5
- Evidence of significant organ system dysfunction or disease (e.g., heart disease, diabetes)
- Fasting plasma glucose ≥100 mg/dL
- Major psychiatric illness (e.g., major depressive disorder)
- Cancer that has been in remission less than 5 years
- History of shift-work in prior year
- Weight change \>5% of body weight over prior six months
- Currently following a weight-loss program
- Pregnant/nursing
- Greater than 5-day variation in menstrual cycle length month-to-month
- Currently smoking
- Alcohol intake \>14 drinks/week or \>3 drinks/day.
- Use of prescription medications (except oral contraceptives) within one month prior to or during in-lab visits.
- Consumption of illegal drugs or \>500mg per day of caffeine.
Where
- Salt Lake City, Utah
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 Jan 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations