Health Effects of Substituting Sugary Beverages With Artificially-sweetened Beverages or Water

Launched by BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · Sep 22, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating whether swapping sugary drinks, like soda and sweetened fruit juices, with calorie-free options like artificially sweetened beverages or water can help people manage their weight and improve their health. The study aims to understand if these alternatives are a good choice for adults who regularly consume sugary drinks and are classified as overweight or obese.

To be eligible for the trial, participants should be between 20 and 69 years old, drink at least one sugary beverage a day, and have a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 45. Participants will need to have a smartphone to use a study app and must be willing to follow the beverage guidelines for six months. Throughout the trial, participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups, each with different beverage options. It’s important to note that individuals with certain health conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding are not eligible to join. This study could provide valuable insights for those looking to reduce their sugar intake and improve their overall health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Adults aged 20-69 years
• • 2. Consume ≥1 serving/day (12 oz.) of SSBs (SSBs include soda, fruit drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, and sweetened waters, sweetened with high fructose corn syrup, sucrose, or fruit juices. SSBs do not include 100% fruit juice, sweetened teas, or flavored milk.)
• • 3. BMI 25.0 to 45.0 kg/m2
• • 4. Access to a smartphone and willingness and ability to download study app
• • 5. Willing to consume beverages consistent with any of the 4 possible group assignments for 6 months
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Physician diagnosis of T2D or fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL at in-person screening visit
• • 2. Intention to move away from greater Boston area within 1 year from randomization
• • 3. Major medical illness (known cardiovascular disease, cancer, kidney disease, cirrhosis, etc.)
• • 4. Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• • 5. Medication that may affect weight or other study endpoints
• • 6. Another family or household member participating in the study
• • 7. Pregnant in the past 12 months, currently breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the study period