Measurement of Water in Breath and Saliva for Human Energy Expenditure

This trial explores a new method to measure certain elements in breath and saliva to better understand how the body uses energy. Researchers aim to track these elements without administering any special doses to participants. The study seeks healthy adults living in the Denver area, specifically those without major illnesses like diabetes or heart problems and who are not obese. Participants should identify as healthy and be between 18 and 45 years old. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to groundbreaking research in energy metabolism without the risks associated with new treatments.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, since the study involves healthy adults without chronic diseases, it might be best to discuss your medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that deuterium and oxygen-18 are stable forms of elements, meaning they do not break down or emit radiation. Studies have found these forms safe for tracking in human samples like saliva and urine over time.

Further research supports using these forms to measure body water. Deuterium, often administered as deuterium oxide, mixes with the body's water without causing harm.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a new method of measuring human energy expenditure by analyzing the isotopes 2H:1H and 18O:16O in saliva and breath. Unlike traditional methods that often require more invasive procedures or equipment to estimate energy use, this approach could offer a non-invasive and easily repeatable alternative. By focusing on healthy adults, the trial aims to refine the accuracy of this technique, potentially paving the way for more personalized and accessible health monitoring.

Research shows that measuring certain types of water in saliva and breath reveals how much energy a person uses. These special types of water, called isotopes, can also be measured in other body fluids like urine. This accurate method helps researchers learn about a person's energy use over time. It employs a technique known as the doubly labeled water method, which tracks how these isotopes move through the body. Although still under study, early results suggest it could reliably assess a person's energy needs. Participants in this trial will specifically focus on the feasibility of measuring these isotopes in saliva and breath.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰