Hydroponic Fortification and Dietary App Effect on Nutrients Level (Harvest)
The HARVEST study is investigating new ways to help vegan and vegetarian women maintain healthy iron and vitamin B12 levels. While plant-based diets offer many health benefits, they can sometimes make it harder to get enough of these specific nutrients. Iron from plants isn't as easily absorbed as from meat, and vitamin B12 is mostly found in animal products. This research, based in Norwich, UK, will test how eating certain tailored recipes and plants grown in a special way (hydroponically) can improve these nutrient levels. Participants will be women aged 18-50 who are already vegan or vegetarian and are willing to try these dietary changes.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called HARVEST, is designed to help women who follow vegan or vegetarian diets get enough of two very important nutrients: iron and vitamin B12. While plant-based eating has many health advantages, it can sometimes be tricky to get enough of these specific vitamins and minerals.
Iron helps your body make healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen. Plant-based foods like spinach and lentils contain iron, but your body doesn't absorb it as easily as iron from meat. Vitamin B12 is vital for your nerves and blood cells, and it's mainly found in animal products. This means vegans and vegetarians often need to take supplements or eat fortified foods to get enough. This study wants to find out if eating specially prepared recipes (to boost iron) and plants grown in a particular way (to provide B12) can be an effective way to keep these levels healthy without needing extra supplements.
Researchers are looking for women aged 18 to 50 who are vegan or vegetarian to take part. The study will involve trying out these special recipes and plants over 17 weeks. By measuring blood samples, the researchers hope to understand if these dietary changes can successfully improve iron and B12 levels. They will also ask about your diet, energy levels, and overall experience with the study.
Key takeaways
- New ways to boost iron and B12 for vegans/vegetarians.
- Specifically for women aged 18-50.
- Involves special recipes and unique plants.
- Study lasts 17 weeks, with 4 short visits to Norwich.
- Blood tests and questionnaires are part of participation.
- You can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to women aged between 18 and 50 years old who have been following a vegan or vegetarian diet for at least a year. You need to have regular periods and a healthy weight (not underweight or very overweight). It's important that you live within 40 miles of the Norwich Research Park in the UK.
To join, you should not be pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant soon. You also shouldn't have anaemia (a severe iron deficiency) or certain health conditions that might interfere with the study, like some allergies or eating disorders. If you take iron or B12 supplements, you'll need to keep your dose the same for three months before and during the study.
Basically, the research team is looking for healthy, non-smoking, vegan or vegetarian women who are interested in exploring how food can help manage their nutrient levels and are able to follow the study's requirements.
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 a woman aged 18-50?
- Have you been vegan or vegetarian for at least one year?
- Do you have a regular menstrual cycle?
- Do you live within 40 miles of Norwich Research Park?
- Are you currently not pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive?
- Do you have access to a smartphone and the internet?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the HARVEST study, you'll be involved for a total of 17 weeks. This will include four visits to the Quadram Institute Clinical Research Facility in Norwich. The first visit is a screening appointment to make sure you meet all the study requirements. There will then be two visits, each lasting about two hours, and one shorter visit.
During the study, you'll be asked to consume specific recipes designed to increase your iron intake and, for some participants, plants grown using a special method to boost B12. You'll need to continue with your usual vegan or vegetarian diet throughout the study. We will take blood samples to check your iron and vitamin B12 levels. You'll also be asked to fill in questionnaires about your diet, how tired you feel, and your thoughts on the study tools.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Quadram Institute BioscienceVerified postcodeNorwich, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'hydroponic unit'?
A hydroponic unit is a way of growing plants without soil, often using water with added nutrients. In this study, specific plants might be grown this way to boost their B12 content.
Do I have to stop taking my vitamin supplements?
No, if you already take iron or B12 supplements, you should continue them at the same dose you've been on for at least three months before and throughout the study.
Will I know if I'm getting the iron recipes or B12 plants?
This is a 'double-blinded' study, meaning neither you nor the researchers will know exactly which specific dietary interventions you're receiving until the study concludes. This helps ensure fair results.
What if I feel unwell during the study?
If you feel unwell or have any concerns, you should contact the study team immediately. Your safety and well-being are a priority.
Where does the study take place?
All study visits will be at the Quadram Institute Clinical Research Facility (QI CRF) in Norwich, UK.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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