Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Feasibility Testing of Plant-Based Meal Replacement Products Made With Manitoba Crop Ingredients for Weight Loss and Diabetes Remission

This study explores how well plant-based meal replacements work for people trying to lose weight or manage diabetes. If you're part of the Wellness Institute's Weight Loss Clinic, you might be interested. Researchers want to see if adding these new meal replacements, made from local Manitoba crops, to the clinic's usual program helps people lose weight and improve their health. They'll also check if these meal replacements can help reverse pre-diabetes or diabetes. You'd either use the meal replacements (like a shake or bar) or stick to the clinic's regular program. The aim is to understand if these products are a good fit for weight loss plans and if they offer real health benefits.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Manitoba

Enrolment target

Start

01 Sep 2025

Estimated completion

31 Mar 2026

Weight Loss Prediabetes Diabetes

What is this study about?

Imagine a new type of meal replacement, like a shake or a bar, made from plants grown right here in Manitoba. This study wants to find out if adding these types of meal replacements to a weight loss program can help people lose weight and become healthier. Specifically, the researchers are looking at people who are part of the Wellness Institute's Weight Loss Clinic.

The main idea is to see if these plant-based meal replacements are easy for people to use and if they actually make a difference. They'll compare people who use the meal replacements alongside their weight loss program with those who only follow the weight loss program. The study will track changes in weight, lifestyle habits, and important health markers related to conditions like pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Ultimately, this research hopes to show if these special plant-based meal replacements can be a helpful tool for weight loss and even potentially help reverse pre-diabetes or diabetes. It's about finding out if new, easy-to-use food options can play a role in making us healthier.

Key takeaways

This study tests plant-based meal replacements for weight loss and diabetes management.
It's for adults already in the Wellness Institute Weight Loss Clinic in Manitoba.
Participants will follow their program for 16 weeks, some using meal replacements.
The goal is to see if meal replacements help with weight loss and reversing pre-diabetes/diabetes.
You can choose between a meal replacement bar or shake daily if in that group.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 years or older, living in Manitoba. You must also be currently enrolled in the Wellness Institute's Weight Loss Clinic program and be able to understand and sign consent forms in English.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the study, you cannot participate. Also, if you have a known allergy to any ingredients in the meal replacements, or if you have an active eating disorder, this study isn't 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 18 years old or older?
Do you live in Manitoba?
Are you already enrolled in the Wellness Institute's Weight Loss Clinic?
Can you read and understand information in English?
Are you NOT pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy?
Do you have any known allergies to common plant-based foods?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the study, you will continue with your Wellness Institute Weight Loss Clinic program for 16 weeks. If you are in the group that uses the meal replacements, you'll start using them during this time. You'll get to choose whether you have a meal replacement bar or a shake each day and you'll keep a record of what you choose to eat. The researchers will compare how well the group using meal replacements does against the group who only follows the standard weight loss clinic program. You won't need to visit a specific study site; your participation is linked to your existing clinic program.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer you the benefit of potentially faster or more sustained weight loss, and could even help manage or reverse pre-diabetes or diabetes. You might also learn more about healthy eating habits. A potential risk could be mild side effects from the meal replacements, such as digestive upset, though these are generally rare with plant-based products. You would be fully informed of any known allergies or ingredients. Remember, your participation is voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your care at the Wellness Institute.

Locations (1)

Seven Oaks Hospital Chronic Disease Innovation Centre
Verified postcode
Winnipeg, Canada

Common questions

What are 'meal replacements'?

Meal replacements are specially designed foods, like shakes or bars, that provide all the nutrients of a balanced meal in a controlled portion. They can help with weight management.

What is 'diabetes remission'?

Diabetes remission means that your blood sugar levels return to normal without needing diabetes medication. It doesn't mean the disease is cured, but it's a very positive health outcome.

How long will I be in the study?

The study involves following your Weight Loss Clinic program and, if applicable, using the meal replacements for 16 weeks.

Will I have to pay for the meal replacements?

The study details don't mention payment for meal replacements. This is a good question to ask the study staff if you are considering joining.

Can I choose which meal replacement I use?

Yes, if you're in the meal replacement group, you'll be able to choose between a bar or a shake each day.

How to find out more

Kathy Cherepak, BSc

kcherepak@sogh.mb.ca 204-631-3834 Official trial record

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