Threonine Requirement in Adults >60 Years of Age
This study is investigating the dietary needs of threonine, an essential body-building block found in food, for adults aged 60 and over. Threonine is particularly important for maintaining a healthy gut lining, which protects against bacteria. While current recommendations for threonine intake are based on studies in younger adults, research suggests that as we age, our bodies might need more of it to keep the gut strong. This trial aims to find the correct amount of threonine older adults need to support their gut health. If you are a healthy person between 60 and 90, you might be able to take part in this important research.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Our bodies are amazing machines, and just like any machine, they need the right fuel to work well. This study is focused on a specific nutrient called threonine. Think of threonine as one of the important building blocks that make up your body, similar to how bricks build a house. You can only get threonine from the food you eat, as your body can't make it itself.
Threonine plays a really important role in keeping your gut healthy. Inside your gut, there's a protective lining, like a natural shield, which helps stop bad bacteria from getting in. Threonine is vital for making this shield strong. We know that as people get older, this protective gut lining might not work as well, potentially making them more vulnerable. Current advice on how much threonine people need is based on studies with younger adults. However, it's possible that older adults actually need more threonine to keep their gut healthy and strong.
The main goal of this study is to figure out exactly how much threonine adults over 60 years old need in their diet. By doing this research, scientists hope to provide better dietary guidelines for older people, helping them maintain a healthy gut and overall well-being as they age. This is important because having a healthy gut contributes to your general health and how well you feel every day.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to find the right amount of threonine, a key nutrient, for adults over 60.
- Threonine is crucial for maintaining a strong, protective lining in your gut.
- Current dietary guidelines for threonine are based on younger people.
- Participation involves health checks, specific dietary plans, and some blood tests.
- This research could help improve future dietary advice for older adults.
- You can withdraw from the study at any point if you change your mind.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for healthy adults between 60 and 90 years old. You should feel generally well, be able to give your agreement to take part, and be willing to have some blood tests and health checks to make sure you're suitable.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have ongoing health problems like diabetes, kidney, or liver disease, or if you've recently had a serious illness. You also can't take part if you're on certain medications (like steroids), have recently lost a lot of weight, or if you have allergies to food that would make it hard to follow the study diet.
Also, if you drink more than two cups of coffee or tea per day, or more than one alcoholic drink per day (like a pint of beer or half a glass of wine), or if you're not comfortable with having blood taken or using special equipment to measure your energy, this study might not be 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 60 and 90 years old?
- Are you generally in good health?
- Do you not have long-term health conditions like diabetes, kidney, or liver disease?
- Are you not taking medications that could affect your body's use of nutrients?
- Do you consume less than 2 cups of caffeine (coffee/tea) per day?
- Do you drink less than 1 alcoholic drink (e.g., 1 beer or 1/2 glass of wine) per day?
What does participation involve?
If you take part in this study, you will have your health checked, including a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and some blood tests. Over a period of time, you will follow a special diet. This diet will help the researchers understand how your body uses threonine. During the study, you may also need to have blood samples taken through a small tube that stays in your arm (a venous access) and use a special hood to measure how your body uses energy. The total duration of your participation in the study will be explained in detail.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- The Hospital for Sick ChildrenVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is threonine and why is it important?
Threonine is a vital nutrient, like a building block for your body, that you must get from your diet. It's especially important for keeping your gut healthy and protected.
Why are you studying older adults?
Current advice on threonine intake is based on younger adults. We want to find out if older adults need a different amount to keep their gut healthy as they age.
Will I have to take any new medicines?
No, this study is about diet and nutrients, not new medicines. You will follow a special diet, but you won't be given any new medications for the trial.
Will I have to change my normal diet a lot?
You will follow a specific diet during parts of the study. The research team will explain all the details and how this might affect your usual eating habits.
What if I decide I don't want to continue?
You are free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting any of your medical care or future treatment.
How to find out more
Alyssa Paoletti, PhD, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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