This Trial Aims to Assess the Effects of Three Different Taste-based Dietary Recommendations for Reducing Free Sugar Intakes on Free Sugar Consumption in UK High Free Sugar Consumers
This study, called a clinical trial, aims to find the best ways to help people in the UK reduce the amount of 'free sugars' they eat. Free sugars are those added to food and drinks, or found naturally in honey, syrups, and fruit juices. We're looking at three different types of dietary advice, all based on taste. Participants will be asked to swap sugary items with healthier options: some will get advice focused on sweet-tasting sugar-free foods, others on tasty non-sweet options, and a third group on less flavourful non-sweet options. The main goal is to see which approach helps people lower their sugar intake the most over 12 weeks. We also want to understand if these changes affect how people perceive sweetness or their overall health.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is a type of study called a 'randomised controlled trial'. We're looking for adults in the UK who eat a lot of 'free sugars'. These are sugars added to foods and drinks, and those naturally found in things like honey, syrups, and fruit juices (but not the sugars found inside whole fruits or milk). We know that eating too much free sugar isn't good for our health, so this study is trying to find the most effective way to help people reduce it.
We're testing three different approaches to dietary advice, all focusing on how food tastes. Everyone in the study will be asked to cut down on sugary foods and drinks. The difference is what they'll be advised to swap them with. One group will be told to replace sugary items with foods and drinks that still taste sweet but have little to no free sugar. Another group will focus on tasty, non-sweet foods and drinks that are also low in free sugar. The third group will be advised to choose non-sweet, low-flavour foods and drinks that are low in free sugar.
The main thing we want to find out is which of these three types of advice helps people reduce their free sugar intake the most over a 12-week period. We also want to see if these changes affect other things, like how people taste sweet foods, their overall diet, and their general well-being. By understanding which advice works best, we can help more people make healthier choices and improve their diet.
Key takeaways
- A 12-week study looking at how different taste-based advice can help reduce sugar intake.
- Compares three types of advice for replacing sugary foods and drinks.
- Aims to find the most effective way to help people reduce 'free sugars'.
- Requires visits to Bournemouth University for assessments.
- No medications involved, just dietary guidance.
- Participants must live in the South of England and currently eat a high amount of free sugars.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who live in the South of England, specifically close enough to Bournemouth to attend testing appointments at Bournemouth University. A key part of being eligible is that you currently consume more than 10% of your daily energy from free sugars, which means you eat a fair amount of sugary foods and drinks.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, already underweight (BMI below 18.5), or if you smoke or have smoked in the last three months, you won't be able to take part. Also, if you're currently trying to lose weight with a specific diet plan (like Weight Watchers or Keto), or if you have certain medical conditions or take medications that might affect your taste, this study might not be suitable for you. We also can't include anyone with allergies to foods or drinks used in the study.
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 18 years old or older?
- Do you live in the South of England and can travel to Bournemouth University?
- Do you feel you eat a lot of sugary foods and drinks?
- Are you not currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Are you not on a specific weight-loss diet or special diet due to a medical condition?
- Are you not a smoker or haven't smoked in the last 3 months?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, it will last for 12 weeks. You will be assigned to one of three different groups, each receiving a specific type of advice on how to reduce your free sugar intake. You'll be asked to follow this advice, replacing sugary foods and drinks with healthier options. We will need you to attend appointments at Bournemouth University for testing before the study begins and at the end of the 12 weeks. During these visits, we will measure your usual diet and other health aspects. There are no medications involved in this study; it's all about dietary changes and advice. Your commitment to following the advice and attending the scheduled appointments is key.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Bournemouth UniversityVerified postcodeBournemouth, United Kingdom
Common questions
What are 'free sugars'?
Free sugars are sugars added to foods and drinks, plus sugars found naturally in honey, syrups, and fruit juices (but not in whole fruits or milk).
How long will the study last?
The study will last for 12 weeks.
Do I have to take any medicine?
No, this study does not involve any medication. It's all about dietary advice.
Where do I need to go for the study?
You will need to visit Bournemouth University's Talbot Campus for some appointments.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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