Building Research for Intervention Development in Gliosis and Eating Habits

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · Mar 5, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, titled "Building Research for Intervention Development in Gliosis and Eating Habits," aims to explore how nutritious foods can affect inflammation in the brains of children who are overweight or obese. Researchers will use a type of imaging called MRI to study these effects in the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that helps control hunger and eating habits. The study will also look at how well children and their families accept and participate in programs that promote healthy eating.

To take part in this study, children aged 9 to 11 years who are either overweight or at risk of obesity (based on their body mass index) are eligible. Additionally, there are opportunities for their adult caregivers to join focus groups. However, some children may not qualify if they have serious health issues, certain medication use, or specific dietary restrictions. Participants can expect to learn about healthy eating habits and contribute to important research, all while being part of a supportive environment focused on improving children's health. The study is not yet recruiting participants, so keep an eye out for updates if you're interested!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Study1: Adult caregiver and Child age 9-11y. Willing to come to in-person focus group
• • Study 2: Age 9-11y, BMI ≥85th and ≤95th percentile for age and sex
• • Study 3:Adult caregiver with child who qualify for free or reduced-cost lunch in WA State. Child age 9-11y and with overweight.
• Exclusion Criteria (study 1 child participants and study 3 criteria for children of adult participants):
• • Significant health conditions including type 2 diabetes
• • History of major weight loss or eating disorder
• • Current use of medications known to alter appetite or body weight (e.g., stimulants for ADHD)
• • Documented cognitive disorder
• • Severe food allergies, vegetarian, or vegan (Study 1 only)
• • Unable to make the session date
• Exclusion Criteria (study 2, child participants):
• • Significant health conditions including type 2 diabetes
• • History of major weight loss or eating disorder
• • Current use of medications known to alter appetite or body weight (e.g., stimulants for ADHD)
• • Documented cognitive disorder
• • MRI contraindication (e.g., braces, claustrophobia)
• • Weight \>330 pounds (MRI limit)
• • Severe food allergies, vegetarian, or vegan
• • Currently in formal weight loss program