Looking Into the Potential Benefits of Taking Micronutrient Supplements for Adults With Metabolic Syndrome

Contents

Next Steps

  1. Complete the study questionnaire
  2. Understand if you’re eligible to participate
Click Here

About the Study


Please note: This trial has finished recruiting and is not accepting new participants.

Research Centre: University of Otago, Christchurch
Location: 2 Riccarton Ave, Christchurch, 8011,  New Zealand
Lead Researcher: Associate Professor Anitra Carr
HDEC: This study has been reviewed and approved by the Southern Health and Disability Ethics Committee 

Obesity and physical inactivity are the driving forces behind metabolic syndrome (metabolic syndrome). In 2016, the World Health Organisation estimated that 39% of the world’s population were overweight and 13% were obese with a high risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Because metabolic syndrome increases one’s risk of heart disease and type-2 diabetes, there is currently a need to treat individuals early to help slow and prevent the development of such conditions.

Inflammation is believed to be a major contributor to the progression of metabolic syndrome. This research study seeks to determine whether a micronutrient supplement with vitamin C can decrease inflammation in those with metabolic syndrome. The results of this study may help in the development of better approaches to the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome.


Why Participate?


  • Participants may experience improvements in their overall metabolic health. 
  • Participants will be contributing valuable information that may benefit those with metabolic syndrome in the future.
  • Participants will be compensated up to $60 worth of MTA vouchers for participating in this study. Compensation (in the form of an MTA/petrol voucher) will be provided for each clinic visit attended.
  • Participants will be helping to advance medical research on preventing and managing metabolic syndrome.

Your Rights


  • If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time.
  • Any information that you provide will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
  • A qualified health professional is available to monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?


  • Men and women aged 18 and above who have ANY of the below conditions (or are taking medications for any of these):
    • Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
    • Raised triglycerides (lipids/fat)
    • Lowered HDL (‘good’ cholesterol)
    • Hypertension (high blood pressure)

 

  • Must have a BMI > 30 kg/m2 or a large waist
  • Must not be taking any micronutrient supplements (or be prepared to stop taking these for the duration of the study)
  • Must be able to attend 3 study visits at the research site over approximately 12 weeks

Key Study Details


The study team will explain the research study in its entirety but some study details are:

  • Participants will be randomly assigned to 2 groups – 1 group will receive the study supplement and the other will receive a placebo.
  • The study supplement is an everyday multivitamin. It is an effervescent tablet containing vitamin C and other vitamins and trace minerals.
  • Participants will be asked to complete lifestyle and health questionnaires.
  • Clinic visits will occur during weeks 1, 6, and 12. During weeks 1 and 6, participants will be given a 6-week allocation of the study supplements. Participants will also be asked to return any remaining tablets and tablet containers during weeks 6 and 12. 
    • Each study visit will take approximately 1 hour. 
  • Participants will be asked to donate a small amount of blood.

About the Research Center


University of Otago
As New Zealand’s first university, founded in 1869, the University of Otago has earned an international reputation for excellence in research and teaching. Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world (QS World Rankings) and the Christchurch campus has internationally recognised research strengths in a number of areas including heart disease, indigenous health, infectious diseases, genetics, cancer, biomedical engineering, nursing, mental health, and public health.

Please note:

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the researchers would like to assure the participants that ensuring their and the study staff’s safety is of utmost importance.


Study Location


What’s Next?

  1. Click the link to enter your contact details and take the study questionnaire.
  2. If eligible, a member of the research team will contact you to discuss the study and answer any questions you may have.
Click Here to Check Your Eligibility for This Study

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