Examining the mechanisms that underlie the biological drive to eat
This study from the University of Leeds wants to understand if losing weight quickly or slowly makes a difference to your body and health. They are looking for healthy men and women aged 18 to 55, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 23 and 40. Participants will follow a free meal replacement diet until they lose 10% of their body weight, either at a fast or slow pace. The study lasts between 9 and 11 months and includes several visits to Leeds for health checks, scans, and blood tests. You'll receive a voucher, free meal replacements, and personalized nutrition advice. There are some temporary side effects like tiredness or digestive issues to consider.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The "EMBED Study" at the University of Leeds is looking into how weight loss affects your body and overall health. Specifically, they want to find out if losing weight at a faster or slower pace makes a difference in how your body responds and adapts. Understanding this could help improve future advice and treatments for people who want to manage their weight effectively.
Researchers are interested in the biological reasons behind why we feel hungry and how our bodies react to losing weight. By comparing different weight loss speeds, they hope to learn more about our metabolism – the process by which our body turns food into energy – and other important health factors. This knowledge is important for developing healthier and more sustainable ways for people to reach and maintain a healthy weight.
This study is not just about losing weight; it's about gaining a deeper understanding of the body's complex systems involved in eating and weight management. Participants will contribute to valuable research that could pave the way for better, more tailored support for people aiming to improve their health through weight loss.
Key takeaways
- Investigates fast vs. slow weight loss effects on the body.
- Healthy adults (18-55, BMI 23-40) needed.
- Involves a free, total meal replacement plan.
- Lasts 9-11 months, with visits to Leeds.
- Potential benefits: £100 voucher, free food, health info.
- Possible side effects include temporary tiredness or digestive issues.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for healthy men and women between the ages of 18 and 55. Your Body Mass Index (BMI) needs to be between 23 and 40. You must be able to understand the study details and agree to follow all the steps involved. If you're a woman, you'll need to be using contraception throughout the study and not planning to get pregnant.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have high blood pressure (160/100 mmHg or higher), if you're taking certain medications that affect appetite or metabolism, or if you've had significant weight loss (more than 3kg) in the last three months. You also can't take part if you smoke, work night or late shifts regularly, or have allergies to any study foods. You'll also need to have access to a mobile phone and the internet.
Certain health conditions will also prevent you from participating, such as a history of eating disorders, diagnosed anaemia, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, or thyroid issues. If you have abnormal digestive function, have been pregnant or breastfeeding recently, or can't have certain body scans (DXA scans), you won't be able to join either. The research team will carefully review your medical history to make sure the study is safe and right 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 between 18 and 55 years old?
- Is your BMI between 23 and 40?
- Are you generally healthy and not taking certain medications?
- Do you have access to a mobile phone and the internet?
- Are you able to visit the University of Leeds and Leeds General Infirmary regularly?
- Are you a non-smoker and do not work permanent night/late shifts?
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, it will last between 9 and 11 months. It starts with about two weeks of initial health checks. You'll then be put into one of two groups: a fast or a slow weight loss group. Both groups will use free meal replacement products until you've lost 10% of your body weight. This phase will take 8-12 weeks for the fast group and 12-16 weeks for the slow group.
After losing weight, you'll enter a four-week phase where you'll mix meal replacements with your own food to keep your new weight stable. Finally, there's a six-month follow-up where you'll go back to your normal eating habits and come back for a final health check.
You'll need to attend 7 appointments at the University of Leeds and 2 appointments at Leeds General Infirmary. These visits will include various tests like body scans, blood and urine samples, and filling out questionnaires about your lifestyle. The MRI scans are a key part of understanding changes in your body.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of LeedsApproximateLeeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds General InfirmaryApproximateLeeds, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The study wants to see how losing weight quickly versus slowly affects your body and health.
What will I have to eat in the study?
You'll use free meal replacement products provided by the study, and later mix them with your own food.
How long does the study last?
The study will last between 9 to 11 months in total.
Are there any payments for taking part?
Yes, you will receive a £100 voucher for your time and effort.
Where does the study take place?
You'll need to attend appointments at the University of Leeds and Leeds General Infirmary.
How to find out more
Mark Hopkins
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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