Study #2955: Effect of Dietary Strawberry Supplementation on Older Adults

Read our Health & Safety Commitment in response to COVID-19

Purpose of this study:
This research study will compare participants consuming a powdered strawberry supplement to a strawberry-flavored placebo powder over a 3-month period to determine the health effects of consuming a strawberry supplement on mobility and memory in older adults. Specifically, we are looking for individuals who have been told “to watch their sugar intake,” or
that they are “pre-diabetic,” “insulin resistant,” or have elevated blood sugar (or hemoglobin A1C) levels but are not taking metformin or any other medications for diabetes to participate in this research study.

Target population:
Men and postmenopausal women, 55 to 75 years of age.

Major exclusions:        

• Smoking or use of nicotine replacement products within the last 6 months
• BMI<27.5 or BMI>45 kg/m2
• Vegetarian or vegan
• Strawberry allergy
• Unable to walk unassisted for 20 minutes
• Diabetes
• Liver or kidney disease
• Neurological disorders

Length of study:

• 4 months

Residency:

• None

Time commitment/number of visits:

• 1 screening and 4 study visits

Study diet:

• Abstain from consuming berry fruits and foods/beverages containing berries but otherwise maintain your usual diet. Consume a powdered berry or placebo supplement twice daily for approximately 90 days. Participants will be provided with the strawberry or placebo powder over the course of the study.

Can I work?

• Yes, but not on the mornings of visits 2, 3 or 4.

Stipend:

• $25 for screening visit, and up to $615 if you qualify and complete the study.