NCT07661368 · Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Cooking Health-Oriented Meals to Prevent Dementia and Diabetes
(CHOMPDD)
What this study is about
Previous research demonstrates that 1) adherence to a DASH dietary pattern and diets low in certain UPFs are linked to lower likelihood of experiencing cognitive impairments in later life, that 2) engagement in cooking is linked to healthier eating, reduced UPF consumption, and higher food self-effectiveness, and 3) that cooking activity itself in midlife is associated with reduced incidence of dementia. There may be multiple pathways through which cooking engagement facilitates healthier cognitive aging- including the benefits of healthier meals on cardiometabolic and neural health, but also the role of cooking as a cognitively-engaging activity - one that has been identified as a potential contributor to cognitive reserve during aging. While at least one computerized cognitive training program is based on cooking activities and has demonstrated improvements to untrained EF processes in older adults, no intervention has used actual cooking as a form of cognitive training. Part of the promise of such an intervention is that this sort of activity, while still engaging EF processes in a way that might lead to generalizable improvements, is much closer to real-world instrumental activities of daily living and may reinforce consumption of a brain- and cardiometabolic- health promoting dietary pattern. This pilot study involves a randomly assigned controlled trial of a behavioral change intervention to promote a healthy diet by increasing cooking self-effectiveness (agency), and for this study, cooking self-effectiveness is the primary focus.
View original scientific description
Previous research demonstrates that 1) adherence to a DASH dietary pattern and diets low in certain UPFs are linked to lower likelihood of experiencing cognitive impairments in later life, that 2) engagement in cooking is linked to healthier eating, reduced UPF consumption, and higher food self-efficacy, and 3) that cooking activity itself in midlife is associated with reduced incidence of dementia. There may be multiple pathways through which cooking engagement facilitates healthier cognitive aging- including the benefits of healthier meals on cardiometabolic and neural health, but also the role of cooking as a cognitively-engaging activity - one that has been identified as a potential contributor to cognitive reserve during aging. While at least one computerized cognitive training program is based on cooking activities and has demonstrated improvements to untrained EF processes in older adults, no intervention has used actual cooking as a form of cognitive training. Part of the promise of such an intervention is that this sort of activity, while still engaging EF processes in a way that might lead to generalizable improvements, is much closer to real-world instrumental activities of daily living and may reinforce consumption of a brain- and cardiometabolic- health promoting dietary pattern. This pilot study involves a randomized controlled trial of a behavioral change intervention to promote a healthy diet by increasing cooking self-efficacy (agency), and for this study, cooking self-efficacy is the primary focus.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Cooking skills training including in-person classes
For four weeks, participants (n=20) attend an in-person cooking class once per week (1-1.5 hours), followed by an at-home cooking practice session (1 hour), and at-home cognitive training on their smartphones (3 times per week, 10 minutes per session)
BEHAVIORAL
Cooking skills education (at-home)
For four weeks, participants (n=20) receive nutrition educational handouts with recipes or cooking tips for healthy, balanced meals via email.
Primary outcome measures
Food agency scale (FAS)
Time frame: Five minute survey in laboratory at baseline and post-intervention
A survey measure of cooking proficiency, eight items, each from 1-7, minimum score is 8 and maximum score is thus 56 and higher score means greater food agency
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: 50 - 75 yrs
- Score of 5 or greater on ADA (diabetes) screener
- Self-report family history of dementia or AD
- Smartphone (iOS or Android)
- Verbal and written informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Food allergies or conditions requiring a specialized diet that would limit participation
Where
- Blacksburg, Virginia
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 Sep 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations