Diet and Depression

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · Feb 8, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called "Diet and Depression," aims to explore whether reducing ultra-processed foods (like sugary snacks, fast food, and certain packaged goods) from the diets of individuals with major depressive disorder can help improve their mood. The study is designed for adults aged 18 to 80, regardless of their background, who are currently stable on their medication and therapy for depression. Participants should be able to attend two in-person visits at UCSF and speak and read English to complete surveys.

If you join the study, you’ll work with researchers to follow a personalized diet that limits ultra-processed foods. It's important to know that this trial is currently recruiting participants, and you should not have had recent severe mood issues or hospitalizations. Additionally, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning major lifestyle changes during the study are not eligible. By participating, you’ll contribute to understanding how our diet can affect mental health, which may help others in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18-80 year olds (inclusive), all race/ethnic groups
• • Willing to not change psychotropic medication or psychotherapy regimen during the study
• • Willing and able to come to UCSF for in person visits two times
• • Ability to speak and read English and answer participant surveys
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Psychiatric hospitalization in past 3 months
• • Active suicidal ideation with intent and plan or scoring a 3 or higher on the Columbia suicide severity rating scale (C-SSRS)
• • In a current severe mood state when entering the study that would prohibit compliance with study visits or dietary program
• • Known GI abnormalities or known GI medical problems (diarrhea, chronic intestinal disease, toxic megacolon, ileum) or known swallowing or chewing disorders or issues
• • Anticipating or planning any major changes in physical activity or sleep during the study
• • Pregnant or planning to be pregnant during the study
• • Breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed during the study