NCT06230744 · University of Chicago
A Novel Intervention for Weight Loss in Young Adults
What this study is about
Obesity and cardiometabolic risks are significant public health issues, with about two-thirds of U.S. adults overweight or obese. Weight loss can prevent these health problems, but current lifestyle interventions have limited success. New, effective strategies are needed to address this rising issue at the population level.
View original scientific description
Obesity and cardiometabolic risks are significant public health issues, with about two-thirds of U.S. adults overweight or obese. Weight loss can prevent these health problems, but current lifestyle interventions have limited success. New, effective strategies are needed to address this rising issue at the population level. The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate how a behavioral intervention combined with technology impacts weight loss in young adults.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Lifestyle
All participants will receive diet and exercise goals and coaching.
BEHAVIORAL
Lifestyle II
All participants will receive diet and exercise goals and coaching.
Primary outcome measures
Weight loss
Time frame: Baseline and 6 months
Change in weight \[kg\] at 6 months. Weight will be measured by research staff during each visit in the morning in duplicate in the fasted state after voiding using calibrated digital scales, wearing a hospital gown.
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
- Overweight or obese (BMI 25.5- 34.9 kg/m2) men and women
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- Weight stable (no change \>25 lbs in the past 3 months)
- Owns a smartphone and willing to install the study app
Exclusion criteria
- Presence of obstructive sleep apnea or history of any other sleep disorder.
- Irregular menses, menopausal symptoms or post-menopausal, currently pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing
- Regular travel across time zones
- Subjects who are currently following a weight loss regimen or any other special diet or exercise programs
- Increased fractional lean body mass (e.g., athletes)
- Unable to walk, using an assistive device for mobility, or any contraindications to exercise
- Claustrophobia
- Excessive alcohol (\>2 drinks/day) or caffeine (\>300mg/day) intake, regular nicotine use, substance abuse.
- Abnormal findings on screening blood testing.
- Participants taking any prescription, over-the-counter drugs/supplements that can affect sleep or weight.
- Major psychiatric or any eating disorder, and any acute or chronic medical condition that increase the risk of interventions (e.g., heart disease)
- Any underlying disease likely to limit life span and/or increase risk of interventions including cardiovascular disease (e.g. unstable angina, heart failure requiring hospitalization in the past 6 months, significant heart block or arrhythmias, NYHA Class\>2), pulmonary disease with dependence on oxygen or daily use of bronchodilators, cancer requiring treatment in the past 5 years unless the prognosis is considered good, active or chronic infection, thyroid disease and other endocrine disorders (e.g. Cushing syndrome, acromegaly), hepatitis or other chronic gastrointestinal disease (pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease), renal disease, significant anemia, recent surgery or significant abdominal surgery, major psychiatric or any eating disorder, acute coronary syndrome or stroke in the past 6 months
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
Northwestern University, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
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 Oct 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations