Effects of Intermittent Fasting and Exercise on Inflammation, Metabolism, and the Microbiome in Metabolic Syndrome

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ERLANGEN-NÜRNBERG MEDICAL SCHOOL · Mar 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how intermittent fasting, either by itself or along with a specific type of exercise called high-intensity interval training, can help people with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of health problems that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. The main question the researchers want to answer is whether these approaches can lower chronic inflammation, which is a long-lasting condition that can lead to other health issues.

To participate in this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. If you join, you'll follow an intermittent fasting plan for three months and, if you're in the exercise group, do high-intensity workouts twice a week. Throughout the six-month study, you’ll attend several in-person visits and have phone check-ins, during which you'll receive guidance on nutrition. This research is currently recruiting participants, and it’s important to note that some individuals, like those who are pregnant or have certain medical conditions, may not be eligible to join.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Written consent to participate in the study.
• • Persons aged 18 years and older.
• • Diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) with elevated hsCRP.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant or nursing individuals.
• • Cardiovascular diseases or orthopedic restrictions that prevent exercise.
• • Use of medication or supplements that significantly affect study outcomes (e.g., anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics within the last 6 weeks).
• • Body weight greater than 200 kg (maximum capacity of training equipment).
• • Individuals with mental illnesses that may impair their ability to understand or participate in the study.