Dietary Biomarkers Development for Healthy Adults

(P2-SDBDC Trial)

This trial aims to improve dietary measurement by developing new methods to track dietary intake through the body. Participants will follow two different diets that vary in quality: the Higher HEI-2020 diet and the Lower HEI-2020 diet, in alternating order. The focus is on identifying dietary biomarkers (biological indicators) through blood, urine, and stool samples. Interested participants should be healthy adults willing to visit the Fred Hutch campus ten times and adhere to specific eating plans. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance dietary tracking methods for everyone.

The trial requires participants to stop taking certain over-the-counter supplements and weight-loss aids during feeding periods. If you are on specific prescription medications, you may not be eligible to participate. The protocol does not specify a general requirement to stop all current medications, but it does mention some restrictions.

Research has shown that diets with high scores on the Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2020) are linked to health benefits, such as a lower risk of some cancers. Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote good health.

Although specific safety data on HEI-2020 diets is lacking, they are based on general healthy eating guidelines that many people already follow. These diets emphasize nutritious foods and limit less healthy ones, suggesting they are safe and well-tolerated for most individuals.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how different dietary patterns, specifically the Health Eating Index (HEI)-2020 diets, can serve as biomarkers for health in adults. Unlike typical approaches that focus on specific nutrients or supplements, this study looks at the overall dietary patterns and their potential health impacts. By comparing higher and lower HEI-2020 diets, researchers hope to uncover valuable insights into how comprehensive dietary changes can influence health outcomes, paving the way for more holistic dietary recommendations in the future.

This trial will compare two dietary interventions: one group will follow a higher HEI-2020 diet first, then a lower HEI-2020 diet, while another group will do the reverse. Research has shown that a healthier diet, as measured by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2020), can lower the risk of colorectal cancer by 31%. Eating according to these guidelines may reduce the chance of developing this type of cancer. In contrast, a diet with a lower HEI-2020 score, which does not closely follow dietary guidelines, might not offer these protective benefits. The HEI-2020 is a tool that evaluates how well a diet aligns with recommended eating habits. While healthier eating can improve overall health, the specific benefits depend on adherence to these guidelines.²³⁴⁶⁷