What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for improving immune health using nutritional components such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants generally have mild side effects. For instance, high doses of vitamin C can cause gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea and nausea. Excessive intake of vitamin D may lead to hypercalcemia, resulting in nausea, vomiting, and kidney complications. Overconsumption of antioxidants like vitamin E can interfere with blood clotting and increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Minerals such as zinc, when taken in large amounts, can cause nausea, vomiting, and impair immune function. It is important to use these supplements within recommended dosages to avoid adverse effects.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved various treatments aimed at enhancing immune health, particularly those involving nutritional components. For instance, vitamin D supplements have been approved for their role in supporting immune function and reducing the risk of infections. Similarly, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have been recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit immune health. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and E are also commonly approved for their ability to protect cells from oxidative stress, thereby supporting overall immune function. These approvals align with the ongoing research into the benefits of almond consumption, which is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, for improving immune function.

What other types of research exist?

Promising alternatives to almond consumption for improving immune function include: <ol> <li>Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.</li> <li></li> </ol> Fruits and Vegetables: High in vitamins (such as vitamin C) and antioxidants that support immune health. 3. Nuts: Other nuts like walnuts and hazelnuts, which also contain beneficial fats and antioxidants. 4. Dietary Fiber: Found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which supports overall health and immune function. 5. Vitamin C Supplements: Known to reduce the duration and severity of infections. 6. Vitamin D: Important for immune regulation, can be obtained from sunlight exposure, fortified foods, and supplements.

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Almonds for Immune Health

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Waitlist Available

Research Sponsored by San Diego State University

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Healthy male and female subjects aged 40-65 years

Be older than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up baseline, after 8 weeks

Awards & highlights

Summary

This trial is testing if eating almonds regularly can improve the immune system. The study involves overweight/non-obese adults aged 40-65. Almonds are rich in nutrients that might help the body fight infections better. Almonds have been studied for their potential health benefits, including their role in improving cardiovascular health, body weight management, and skin health.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for healthy men and women aged 40-65 with a BMI of 24-30. Participants should not have almond allergies, smoke, or consume more than two alcoholic drinks per day. They must also agree to stop taking multivitamins and supplements (except vitamin D and calcium) for 30 days before and during the study.

What is being tested?

The study aims to determine if eating almonds can boost immune function compared to a control group consuming pretzels. It's prompted by the need for better nutrition in light of COVID-19, suggesting diet might help strengthen immunity against infections.

What are the potential side effects?

Since almonds are generally safe, side effects may be rare but could include digestive discomfort or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The control food, pretzels, may cause similar minor digestive issues.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I am between 40 and 65 years old and in good health.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ baseline, after 8 weeks

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~baseline, after 8 weeks

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and baseline, after 8 weeks for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

change in Natural Killer Function

Secondary study objectives

change in Cytokines

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Almond (2 ounces)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

Consume 2 ounces almond daily for 8 weeks

Group II: PretzelActive Control1 Intervention

Consume comparative amount of pretzel for 8 weeks

0 / 1Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for improving immune health often focus on nutritional components like vitamins (e.g., Vitamin C and D), minerals (e.g., zinc), and antioxidants (e.g., those found in almonds). Vitamin C enhances the production and function of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. Vitamin D modulates the immune response and reduces inflammation. Zinc is essential for the normal development and function of immune cells. Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall immune function. These mechanisms are vital for immune health patients as they help to strengthen the body's defense system, reduce the risk of infections, and improve overall health outcomes.

Proposed Anti-Inflammatory Diet Reduces Inflammation in Compliant, Weight-Stable Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis in a Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial.Dietary Interventions with or without Omega-3 Supplementation for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review.Minimal changes in telomere length after a 12-week dietary intervention with almonds in mid-age to older, overweight and obese Australians: results of a randomised clinical trial.