RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Investigating the Combined Effects of Protein, Blueberries, and Exercise on Cardiovascular Health and Frailty in Older Nova Scotians

This study is investigating whether a special plan combining extra protein, blueberries, and exercise can help older people in Nova Scotia become stronger and improve their heart health. Many older adults experience 'frailty,' which is like aging faster, and this can increase the risk of heart problems. Researchers want to see if this combined approach can reduce frailty and improve how the heart works, especially since diet and exercise are known to help. They're comparing a group who follows this plan with a group receiving their usual care, over one year, to understand the benefits for men and women.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Nova Scotia Health Authority

Enrolment target

240

Start

15 Dec 2025

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2028

Cardiovascular Disease Frailty

What is this study about?

Cardiovascular diseases, which affect the heart and blood vessels, are a major health concern worldwide, especially as people get older. However, age alone doesn't decide how healthy your heart is; everyone ages differently. Some people experience 'frailty,' which is a state where the body seems to age more quickly, making them more vulnerable to health issues like heart disease. Frail individuals are more likely to develop heart problems, suffer complications, and unfortunately, die from these conditions compared to healthier people of the same age. It's also known that women tend to experience frailty more often than men, and heart diseases can affect them differently. Understanding these links is important for improving health as we age.

The good news is that frailty can often be improved through lifestyle changes. For example, not being active, not eating enough, or having unhealthy eating habits can make frailty worse. On the other hand, adopting a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can actually help reduce frailty. This study is exploring a comprehensive approach that targets both diet and physical activity. The researchers believe that by making people less frail, they can also lower the risk of heart disease and support healthy aging.

The study focuses on a three-part intervention: regular exercise, extra protein, and blueberries. Exercise is known to boost fitness, build muscle, improve heart function, regulate blood pressure, help the body use insulin better, and reduce inflammation (a key factor in frailty). High-quality protein is vital for maintaining muscles, staying mobile, reducing inflammation, and fighting off frailty. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can help lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel health, reduce inflammation, and even help your body use protein more effectively. These are all crucial for a strong heart and healthy aging. The study aims to see if combining these elements for a year can reduce frailty and heart disease risk in older Nova Scotians, including both men and women, who are at risk.

Key takeaways

This study explores a new way to combat frailty and improve heart health in older adults.
It combines protein, blueberries, and exercise in a single program.
The goal is to see if this approach helps people age more healthily.
Results could help many older men and women in Nova Scotia.
Participation involves either a special program or usual care, for one year.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you need to be 65 years old or older. You also must be willing and able to take part in a gentle to moderate exercise program. This means you should feel comfortable with the idea of exercising regularly as part of the study.

There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. If you have any medical conditions or memory problems that would prevent you from safely participating in the exercise or diet parts of the study, you wouldn't be able to take part. Also, if you have allergies to blueberries or protein powder, or simply don't like eating them, then this study might not be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 65 years old or older?
Are you willing to try a low to moderate exercise program?
Do you have any medical conditions that would stop you from exercising or following a specific diet?
Do you have allergies or a strong dislike for blueberries or protein powder?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, it will last for one year, with an additional year of follow-up. You'll be randomly assigned to one of two groups. If you're in the 'treatment group,' you will participate in a special program that includes regular exercise sessions, taking extra protein supplements, and eating blueberries. The details of the exercise plan and how to incorporate the protein and blueberries will be provided to you.

If you're in the 'control group,' you will continue with your usual medical care, which means you won't receive the specific exercise, protein, or blueberry intervention from the study. Throughout the study, participants in both groups will have assessments to measure their fitness levels, frailty, and heart health. This includes blood tests and tests to check how your heart is working, such as an echocardiogram. You will also receive 'report cards' with your test results to help you monitor your health. The researchers will be comparing the results between the two groups to see if the combined intervention makes a difference.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer some potential benefits, such as improved fitness, stronger muscles, better heart health, and reduced frailty, potentially enhancing your quality of life. As with any exercise program or dietary change, there are potential risks, such as minor muscle soreness or individual reactions to protein or blueberries; however, the exercise program is designed to be low to moderate intensity. You will be monitored throughout the study. Remember, your participation is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

QEII Health Sciences Centre, Dickson Building
Verified postcode
Halifax, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'frailty'?

Frailty is a state where your body might be aging faster than it should, making you weaker and more vulnerable to health problems.

Will I have to eat a lot of blueberries?

The study will involve incorporating blueberries as part of the dietary intervention. The exact amount and how they are provided will be explained if you join.

What kind of exercise will I do?

The exercise program will involve both strength-building (resistance) and aerobic activities, designed to be low to moderate intensity and suitable for older adults.

How long will the study last?

The main part of the study where you receive the intervention or usual care will last for one year, with another year of follow-up.

Is this study safe for older people?

Yes, the study will be supervised by medical professionals, and the interventions like exercise are designed to be appropriate for older adults.

How to find out more

Scott A Grandy, PhD

scott.grandy@dal.ca 902-494-4303 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.