Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)NCT06959043
Therapeutic Strategies for Type 2 Diabetes Based on Lifestyle Changes: Plant-based Diet and Physical Exercise
A study testing Probiotic Supplementation in people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Insulin Resistance, run by Maria Elizabeth Rossi da Silva at 1 site in Brazil.
Trial summary
The study evaluates the impact of a strict vegetarian diet combined with regular physical exercise and the use of probiotics on metabolic, inflammatory, and epigenetic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 45 to 70 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), Insulin Resistance, Inflamation
- What is being tested?
- Probiotic Supplementation
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 60 participants
- Where
- 1 siteBrazil
- Study dates
- 22 Nov 2022to Dec 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 45 to 70 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Have a medical diagnosis of type 2 diabetes for a maximum of 5 years.
- Be omnivorous; Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 and < 40 kg/m2;
- Be between the ages of 45 and 70, both genders.
- Women should be in the postmenopausal stage;
- Use no more than three hypoglycemic medications in total;
- Have the availability for a four-week consecutive hospitalization at CSVN.
Who cannot join
- Be using insulin, anti-obesity medications, antibiotics, and/or probiotic supplements in the 2 months preceding data collection;
- Use of alcohol or tobacco;
- Have limited mobility and a previous diagnosis of cardiopulmonary diseases;
- Report current or previous (within the past two months) diarrhea during screening;
- Have liver or kidney failure and uncontrolled endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, and adrenal insufficiency);
- Have eating disorders or have undergone bariatric surgery.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Brazil1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Universidade de São Paulo (USP)
São Paulo, São Paulo, 01246-903
Benicio T. S. Pereira, MD, +5511996464421, benicio.pereira@adventistas.org
Edna C. Vieira, Master of Science in Nutrition, +5511987951544, ednavieira@gmail.com
About this study
The study evaluates the impact of a strict vegetarian diet combined with regular physical exercise and the use of probiotics on metabolic, inflammatory, and epigenetic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes. It aims to determine the influence of these interventions on gut microbiota, glycemic control, body composition, insulin resistance, and quality of life.
Read the detailed description
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of a strict vegetarian diet (SVD) combined with regular physical exercise (RPE), with or without probiotic supplementation, on key metabolic and physiological parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Participants will be monitored for changes in glycemic control, insulin resistance (IR), liver function (elastography and ultrasound), metabolomic profile, muscle composition (biopsy), cholesterol efflux, and gene expression.
Glycemic Control Glycemic control will be assessed through glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting glucose, fructosamine, and oral meal tolerance test (OMTT). A standardized dietary test (500 kcal plant-based meal) will be conducted at baseline and post-intervention, measuring postprandial glucose, insulin, proinsulin, C-peptide, and incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP).
Insulin Resistance (IR) IR will be evaluated using HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) and fasting insulin levels. The study will also analyze inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ), as chronic low-grade inflammation plays a crucial role in IR development.
Elastography and Ultrasound (US) Liver ultrasound and transient elastography (FibroScan®) will be performed to assess hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, which are highly prevalent in T2DM. The effects of dietary and probiotic interventions on liver fat content, liver stiffness, and metabolic liver function will be analyzed.
Metabolome Analysis Metabolomic profiling will be conducted through mass spectrometry-based analysis of fasting and postprandial plasma samples. The study will evaluate amino acids, lipids, short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, ketone bodies, and glycolysis-related metabolites to understand how dietary and microbiome changes influence metabolic pathways in T2DM.
Muscle Biopsy A vastus lateralis muscle biopsy will be performed in a subgroup of participants (n=24). Samples will be analyzed for fiber composition, extracellular matrix remodeling, mitochondrial function, and inflammatory markers. The role of microRNAs (miR-29a, miR-29b, miR-1, miR-133a/b, miR-206) in muscle insulin sensitivity will also be investigated.
Cholesterol Efflux HDL functionality will be assessed by measuring cholesterol efflux capacity from macrophages exposed to participants' serum. This analysis will provide insight to cardiovascular risk modulation by diet and probiotics in T2DM.
Gene Expression Analysis Peripheral blood lymphocytes will be analyzed for expression of inflammation-related genes (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IFN-γ, TLR4, TLR5) and longevity-related genes (SIRT1, FOXO1, PGC-1α, P53). These markers will help determine how dietary and probiotic interventions influence immune response, cellular aging, and metabolic regulation.
Microbiota analysis This study will assess how a strict vegetarian diet and probiotic supplementation influence gut microbiota composition and functionality in individuals with T2DM. Stool samples will be collected before and after the intervention (4 weeks) and analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing (NGS platforms: Ion Torrent PGM or Illumina MiSeq).
Microbiota diversity (alpha and beta diversity metrics) and the relative abundance of key bacterial taxa (Bacteroides, Firmicutes, Akkermansia, Prevotella, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus) will be evaluated. Functional analysis will include metagenomic predictions (PICRUSt2), short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and microbial metabolic pathways.
The impact of probiotic supplementation (B. breve BR03, B. breve B632, B. longum 04, L. reuteri LRE11) will be assessed by comparing gut microbiota changes between the probiotic and placebo groups, focusing on butyrate-producing bacteria, lactate-utilizing species, and intestinal barrier integrity markers.
The intervention will last four weeks, followed by 12 months of telemedicine follow-up. This study aims to provide new insights into the role of lifestyle interventions in metabolic regulation, inflammation, and gut microbiota modulation in T2DM, potentially offering novel therapeutic strategies beyond pharmacological approaches.
- Being tested
- Probiotic Supplementation, Placebo Administration
- Keywords
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Insulin Resistance, Inflamation, Metabolic Syndrome, Physical Exercise, Gut Microbiome, Plant-based Diet, Lifestyle Interventions
- Medical subject headings
- Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome, Motor Activity
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Probiotic SupplementationDietary supplement
Also called Probiotic
Participants will follow the same strict vegetarian diet and regular physical exercise as in Intervention 1. Additionally, they will receive a probiotic supplement, taken twice daily for four weeks. This aims to evaluate the metabolic impact of probiotics in type 2 diabetes.
Placebo AdministrationDietary supplement
Also called Placebo
Participants will follow a strictly plant-based diet rich in fiber and bioactive compounds, with controlled macronutrient distribution. Regular physical exercise includes supervised aerobic and resistance training sessions. The intervention lasts four weeks. Instead of probiotic supplementation, participants will receive a placebo, administered in the same manner as the probiotic group to maintain blinding.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Strict Vegetarian Diet, Regular Physical Exercise, and Placebo Administration | Placebo comparator | Participants in this group will follow a strict vegetarian diet (SVD) combined with regular physical exercise (RPE) for four weeks. The diet will consist of plant-based foods rich in fiber and bioactive compounds, with a controlled macronutrient distribution. Physical activity will include structured aerobic and resistance exercises supervised by a physical educator. Instead of probiotic supplementation, participants will receive a placebo administered in the same manner as the probiotic group to ensure blinding. Receives: Dietary Supplement: Placebo Administration |
| Strict Vegetarian Diet, Regular Physical Exercise, and Probiotic Supplementation | Experimental | Participants in this group will receive the same strict vegetarian diet (SVD) and regular physical exercise (RPE) as Arm 1. In addition, they will take a probiotic supplement containing a combination of four different strains, administered twice daily for four weeks. This group aims to assess the potential additional metabolic benefits of probiotic supplementation in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Receives: Dietary Supplement: Probiotic Supplementation |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI)
Body mass index (BMI) will be calculated from height and weight (weight in kg / height in m²) to assess the impact of the intervention on overall body weight regulation. This outcome reflects metabolic improvement and lifestyle adherence.
Unit of Measure: kg/m²
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Waist, Abdominal, and Hip Circumference
Waist, abdominal, and hip circumferences will be measured using a standardized flexible tape method. These anthropometric parameters are indicators of central fat distribution and associated cardiometabolic risk. Measurements will follow WHO recommendations.
Unit of Measure: cm
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)
Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) will be calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference. This index is used to evaluate body fat distribution and the risk of metabolic disorders, particularly central obesity, in individuals with T2DM.
Unit of Measure: Ratio (unitless)
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Functional Aerobic Capacity (1-Mile Walk Test)
Aerobic capacity will be assessed using the 1-Mile Walk Test. Participants will be instructed to walk one mile as fast as possible on a flat surface, and the time to completion will be recorded. The objective is to evaluate improvements in cardiovascular endurance following the intervention.
Unit of Measure: Time in minutes
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Functional Mobility (Up and Go Test)
Functional mobility will be assessed using the "Up and Go" test. Participants will be timed as they rise from a seated position, walk three meters, turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down. The test is used to detect improvements in balance, mobility, and lower-limb function in response to the intervention.
Unit of Measure: Time in seconds
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Fasting Blood Glucose
Fasting plasma glucose will be measured after 8-12 hours of fasting by glucose-oxidase method to evaluate improvements in basal glycemic levels.
The goal is to determine whether the intervention improves glucose homeostasis in patients with T2DM.
Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Postprandial Glucose Levels
Two-hour postprandial glucose will be measured using capillary or venous blood samples by glucose-oxidase method after a standardized meal. The goal is to evaluate improvements in glycemic response to food intake due to the intervention.
Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels will be measured in venous blood samples using HPLC to assess long-term glycemic control. The main hypothesis is that the combined intervention of a plant-based diet, physical exercise, and probiotics will significantly reduce HbA1c levels compared to baseline.
Unit of Measure: % HbA1c
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Secondary outcomes (22)
Change in Liver Enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT)
Serum levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT) will be measured using automated enzymatic assays to evaluate liver function and detect possible hepatocellular injury or metabolic improvements after the intervention.
Unit of Measure: U/L
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Standard Lipid Profile
Serum levels of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides will be measured by enzymatic colorimetric assays. These parameters are essential for assessing cardiometabolic risk in patients with T2DM.
Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
HDL Function and Lipid Profile
HDL function will be evaluated by measuring cholesterol efflux capacity in vitro using labeled macrophage assays. The result reflects HDL's ability to remove cholesterol from peripheral tissues, a key anti-atherogenic property.
Unit of Measure: % cholesterol efflux
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Levels
C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic low-grade inflammation and cardiovascular risk, will be measured in plasma using high-sensitivity Luminex assay.
Unit of Measure: mg/L
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Plasma Cytokine Levels
Plasma concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ will be measured using the Luminex multiplex assay. These markers are associated with systemic inflammation and insulin resistance in patients with T2DM.
Unit of Measure: pg/mL
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Metabolomic and Biochemical Markers
Metabolomic profiling will assess amino acids, fatty acids, and glucose/lipid-related metabolites in plasma using mass spectrometry. Both fasting and postprandial samples will be analyzed.
Unit of Measure: μmol/L
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in expression of Metabolism- and Inflammation-Related microRNAs
Expression levels of specific microRNAs involved in metabolic and inflammatory pathways will be measured in plasma and tissue samples by qPCR.
Unit of Measure: Fold change
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Expression of Inflammatory Genes
Gene expression of inflammatory markers will be analyzed in peripheral blood lymphocytes using NGS.
Unit of Measure: Fold change
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Inflammatory Gene Expression in Lymphocytes and Skeletal Muscle
Expression of genes encoding inflammatory mediators will be assessed by RT-qPCR in samples from peripheral blood lymphocytes and skeletal muscle. Expression will be reported as fold change compared to baseline.
Unit of Measure: Fold change
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Fasting Insulin, Proinsulin, and C-Peptide Levels
Fasting serum levels of insulin, proinsulin, and C-peptide will be measured using specific immunoassays. These markers collectively provide information about pancreatic β-cell function, insulin secretion, and metabolic status in patients with T2DM. Measurements will assess the effect of the intervention on pancreatic hormone production and secretion.
Unit of Measure: ng/mL
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Insulin Resistance Assessed by HOMA-IR
Insulin resistance will be evaluated using the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), calculated from fasting glucose and insulin concentrations. Higher HOMA-IR values indicate greater insulin resistance.
Unit of Measure: Index value (unitless)
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Incretin Hormone Levels (GLP-1 and GIP)
Fasting plasma levels of the incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP will be assessed using ELISA assays. These hormones play essential roles in glucose homeostasis by enhancing insulin secretion.
Unit of Measure: pmol/L
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Changes in Gut Microbiota Composition
Microbial composition will be analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing of fecal samples. Outcomes include alpha- and beta-diversity indices and the relative abundance (%) of specific bacterial taxa. These analyses aim to assess the impact of the dietary and probiotic intervention on gut microbiota in T2DM patients.
Unit of Measure: Diversity index, % abundance
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Liver Steatosis Assessed by Abdominal Ultrasound
Hepatic steatosis will be assessed using abdominal ultrasound performed by trained radiologists. Ultrasound evaluation will classify the degree of steatosis based on echogenicity criteria (mild, moderate, or severe). The purpose is to monitor the presence and severity of hepatic fat infiltration among participants with T2DM and to evaluate their response to the intervention.
Unit of Measure: Steatosis grade (mild, moderate, severe)
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Liver Fat and Fibrosis Assessed by Transient Elastography
Hepatic fat content and liver stiffness will be evaluated by transient elastography (FibroScan) to assess changes in hepatic steatosis and fibrosis after the intervention. Measurements will be expressed in kilopascals (kPa).
Unit of Measure: kPa
Measured: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Depressive Symptoms Measured by the Beck Depression Inventory - Second Edition (BDI-II)
Depressive symptoms will be assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory - Second Edition (BDI-II), a 21-item self-report questionnaire. Each item is scored from 0 to 3, resulting in a total score ranging from 0 to 63. Higher scores indicate greater severity of depressive symptoms. Interpretation of the total score is as follows: 0-13: minimal depression; 14-19: mild depression; 20-28: moderate depression; 29-63: severe depression.
Unit of Measure: Total BDI-II score (range: 0-63; higher scores indicate worse outcomes)
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention
Change in Diabetes-Specific Quality of Life Measured by the Diabetes Quality of Life Measure (DQOL)
Diabetes-specific quality of life will be assessed using the Diabetes Quality of Life Measure (DQOL), Brazilian version. The instrument contains 44 items divided into four domains: satisfaction, impact, social/vocational concerns, and diabetes-related concerns. Each item is rated on a 5-point Likert scale. The mean score ranges from 1 to 5, with higher scores indicating worse quality of life. Interpretation of the scores is as follows:
- 1.0 to 2.0: Very good diabetes-related quality of life
- 2.1 to 3.0: Moderate quality of life
- 3.1 to 4.0: Poor quality of life
- 4.1 to 5.0: Very poor quality of life Unit of Measure: Mean DQOL - Brazil score (range: 1-5; higher scores indicate worse outcomes)
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention
Change in General Well-Being Measured by the Q8RN Questionnaire
General well-being will be assessed using the Q8RN Questionnaire (Eight Natural Remedies Questionnaire), which evaluates eight dimensions of healthy lifestyle habits: nutrition, exercise, water intake, sunlight exposure, temperance, fresh air, rest, and trust in God. Each dimension is assessed through Likert-scale questions, generally rated from 0 to 4 or from 1 to 5, depending on the version. Participants indicate how frequently they engage in each behavior (e.g., "never," "rarely," "sometimes," "often," "always").
Scores for each dimension can be analyzed separately or summed into a global score. Interpretation: higher scores indicate better adherence to healthy lifestyle practices. The Q8RN results can be used to identify lifestyle areas needing improvement or to track changes over time following educational or health-promotion interventions.
Unit of Measure: Total Q8RN score (range: 8-40; higher scores indicate better outcomes)
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention
Change in Fasting Glucose During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Fasting plasma glucose will be measured at each telemedicine follow-up visit (every 3 months) over one year to monitor glycemic control. Blood samples will be collected after at least 8 hours of fasting. The intervention aims to improve and maintain fasting glucose levels within target ranges for patients with T2DM.
Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Measured: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Change in HbA1c Levels During Telemedicine Follow-Up
HbA1c will be measured at each telemedicine follow-up to evaluate long-term glycemic control. Blood samples will be analyzed to determine the average blood glucose concentration over the preceding 2-3 months. The intervention aims to reduce and stabilize HbA1c levels.
Unit of Measure: % HbA1c
Measured: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Change in Lipid Profile During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Serum lipid profile, including total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides, will be assessed at each telemedicine follow-up to monitor cardiometabolic health. These parameters reflect lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk among patients with T2DM.
Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Measured: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Change in Liver Enzymes During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Liver function will be monitored through serum levels of liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and GGT) measured every 3 months. This monitoring helps detect potential hepatic changes and the effect of the intervention on liver health.
Unit of Measure: U/L
Measured: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted6 May 2025
- Study start22 Nov 2022
- Primary completionAug 2025 (estimated)
- Study completionDec 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (10)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This is a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Patients will be informed about the type of therapy they will receive at the clinic, which includes a strict vegetarian diet and regular physical exercises, as well as the importance of adhering strictly to the prescribed instructions. A total of 60 patients will be recruited, with a maximum of six participants per four-week cycle. They will be randomized and allocated to the following treatment groups: Group 1: Strict vegetarian diet (SVD) + regular physical exercise (RPE) (n=30). Group 2: SVD + RPE + administration of a probiotic pool (n=30).
- Masking
- Quadruple blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Care provider, Investigator, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 60 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Maria Elizabeth Rossi da Silva
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Clínica e Spa Vida Natural, Probiotical S.p.A., Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico
- Responsible party
- Sponsor-investigator, Maria Elizabeth Rossi da Silva, University of Sao Paulo General Hospital
- Investigators
- Maria E. R. Silva, MD, PhD, Principal investigator, University of Sao Paulo
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06959043
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Cappesq
- Status last verified
- May 2025
- First submitted
- 9 Mar 2025
- Last updated
- 18 May 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: Data will be available upon request.
Publications
Guasch-Ferre M, Hruby A, Toledo E, Clish CB, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Salas-Salvado J, Hu FB. Metabolomics in Prediabetes and Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Diabetes Care. 2016 May;39(5):833-46. doi: 10.2337/dc15-2251.
PubMed 27208380Nikiforova VJ, Giesbertz P, Wiemer J, Bethan B, Looser R, Liebenberg V, Ruiz Noppinger P, Daniel H, Rein D. Glyoxylate, a new marker metabolite of type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Res. 2014;2014:685204. doi: 10.1155/2014/685204. Epub 2014 Nov 27.
PubMed 25525609Koutnikova H, Genser B, Monteiro-Sepulveda M, Faurie JM, Rizkalla S, Schrezenmeir J, Clement K. Impact of bacterial probiotics on obesity, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease related variables: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open. 2019 Mar 30;9(3):e017995. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017995.
PubMed 30928918Miraghajani M, Dehsoukhteh SS, Rafie N, Hamedani SG, Sabihi S, Ghiasvand R. Potential mechanisms linking probiotics to diabetes: a narrative review of the literature. Sao Paulo Med J. 2017 Mar-Apr;135(2):169-178. doi: 10.1590/1516-3180.2016.0311271216.
PubMed 28538869Heppner KM, Perez-Tilve D. GLP-1 based therapeutics: simultaneously combating T2DM and obesity. Front Neurosci. 2015 Mar 20;9:92. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00092. eCollection 2015.
PubMed 25852463Firouzi S, Majid HA, Ismail A, Kamaruddin NA, Barakatun-Nisak MY. Effect of multi-strain probiotics (multi-strain microbial cell preparation) on glycemic control and other diabetes-related outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Nutr. 2017 Jun;56(4):1535-1550. doi: 10.1007/s00394-016-1199-8. Epub 2016 Mar 17.
PubMed 26988693Hopper I, Billah B, Skiba M, Krum H. Prevention of diabetes and reduction in major cardiovascular events in studies of subjects with prediabetes: meta-analysis of randomised controlled clinical trials. Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2011 Dec;18(6):813-23. doi: 10.1177/1741826711421687. Epub 2011 Aug 30.
PubMed 21878448Jardine MA, Kahleova H, Levin SM, Ali Z, Trapp CB, Barnard ND. Perspective: Plant-Based Eating Pattern for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Treatment: Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Practical Considerations. Adv Nutr. 2021 Dec 1;12(6):2045-2055. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmab063.
PubMed 34113961Lean ME, Leslie WS, Barnes AC, Brosnahan N, Thom G, McCombie L, Peters C, Zhyzhneuskaya S, Al-Mrabeh A, Hollingsworth KG, Rodrigues AM, Rehackova L, Adamson AJ, Sniehotta FF, Mathers JC, Ross HM, McIlvenna Y, Stefanetti R, Trenell M, Welsh P, Kean S, Ford I, McConnachie A, Sattar N, Taylor R. Primary care-led weight management for remission of type 2 diabetes (DiRECT): an open-label, cluster-randomised trial. Lancet. 2018 Feb 10;391(10120):541-551. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(17)33102-1. Epub 2017 Dec 5.
PubMed 29221645Barnard ND, Katcher HI, Jenkins DJ, Cohen J, Turner-McGrievy G. Vegetarian and vegan diets in type 2 diabetes management. Nutr Rev. 2009 May;67(5):255-63. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00198.x.
PubMed 19386029
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 18 May 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Therapeutic Strategies for Type 2 Diabetes Based on Lifestyle Changes: Plant-based Diet and Physical Exercise
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06959043
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Cappesq
- Keywords
- Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Insulin Resistance, Inflamation, Metabolic Syndrome, Physical Exercise, Gut Microbiome, Plant-based Diet, Lifestyle Interventions
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 60 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Maria Elizabeth Rossi da SilvaUniversity, hospital or other
- Collaborators
- Clínica e Spa Vida Natural, Probiotical S.p.A., Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico
- Study start
- 22 Nov 2022 (actual)
- Primary completion
- Aug 2025 (estimated)
- Study completion
- Dec 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 6 May 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The study evaluates the impact of a strict vegetarian diet combined with regular physical exercise and the use of probiotics on metabolic, inflammatory, and epigenetic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes. It aims to determine the influence of these interventions on gut microbiota, glycemic control, body composition, insulin resistance, and quality of life.
Detailed description
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of a strict vegetarian diet (SVD) combined with regular physical exercise (RPE), with or without probiotic supplementation, on key metabolic and physiological parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Participants will be monitored for changes in glycemic control, insulin resistance (IR), liver function (elastography and ultrasound), metabolomic profile, muscle composition (biopsy), cholesterol efflux, and gene expression.
Glycemic Control Glycemic control will be assessed through glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting glucose, fructosamine, and oral meal tolerance test (OMTT). A standardized dietary test (500 kcal plant-based meal) will be conducted at baseline and post-intervention, measuring postprandial glucose, insulin, proinsulin, C-peptide, and incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP).
Insulin Resistance (IR) IR will be evaluated using HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) and fasting insulin levels. The study will also analyze inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ), as chronic low-grade inflammation plays a crucial role in IR development.
Elastography and Ultrasound (US) Liver ultrasound and transient elastography (FibroScan®) will be performed to assess hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, which are highly prevalent in T2DM. The effects of dietary and probiotic interventions on liver fat content, liver stiffness, and metabolic liver function will be analyzed.
Metabolome Analysis Metabolomic profiling will be conducted through mass spectrometry-based analysis of fasting and postprandial plasma samples. The study will evaluate amino acids, lipids, short-chain fatty acids, bile acids, ketone bodies, and glycolysis-related metabolites to understand how dietary and microbiome changes influence metabolic pathways in T2DM.
Muscle Biopsy A vastus lateralis muscle biopsy will be performed in a subgroup of participants (n=24). Samples will be analyzed for fiber composition, extracellular matrix remodeling, mitochondrial function, and inflammatory markers. The role of microRNAs (miR-29a, miR-29b, miR-1, miR-133a/b, miR-206) in muscle insulin sensitivity will also be investigated.
Cholesterol Efflux HDL functionality will be assessed by measuring cholesterol efflux capacity from macrophages exposed to participants' serum. This analysis will provide insight to cardiovascular risk modulation by diet and probiotics in T2DM.
Gene Expression Analysis Peripheral blood lymphocytes will be analyzed for expression of inflammation-related genes (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, IFN-γ, TLR4, TLR5) and longevity-related genes (SIRT1, FOXO1, PGC-1α, P53). These markers will help determine how dietary and probiotic interventions influence immune response, cellular aging, and metabolic regulation.
Microbiota analysis This study will assess how a strict vegetarian diet and probiotic supplementation influence gut microbiota composition and functionality in individuals with T2DM. Stool samples will be collected before and after the intervention (4 weeks) and analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing (NGS platforms: Ion Torrent PGM or Illumina MiSeq).
Microbiota diversity (alpha and beta diversity metrics) and the relative abundance of key bacterial taxa (Bacteroides, Firmicutes, Akkermansia, Prevotella, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus) will be evaluated. Functional analysis will include metagenomic predictions (PICRUSt2), short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and microbial metabolic pathways.
The impact of probiotic supplementation (B. breve BR03, B. breve B632, B. longum 04, L. reuteri LRE11) will be assessed by comparing gut microbiota changes between the probiotic and placebo groups, focusing on butyrate-producing bacteria, lactate-utilizing species, and intestinal barrier integrity markers.
The intervention will last four weeks, followed by 12 months of telemedicine follow-up. This study aims to provide new insights into the role of lifestyle interventions in metabolic regulation, inflammation, and gut microbiota modulation in T2DM, potentially offering novel therapeutic strategies beyond pharmacological approaches.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Quadruple blind (participant, care provider, investigator, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- This is a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Patients will be informed about the type of therapy they will receive at the clinic, which includes a strict vegetarian diet and regular physical exercises, as well as the importance of adhering strictly to the prescribed instructions. A total of 60 patients will be recruited, with a maximum of six participants per four-week cycle. They will be randomized and allocated to the following treatment groups: Group 1: Strict vegetarian diet (SVD) + regular physical exercise (RPE) (n=30). Group 2: SVD + RPE + administration of a probiotic pool (n=30).
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Strict Vegetarian Diet, Regular Physical Exercise, and Placebo Administration | Placebo comparator | Dietary Supplement: Placebo AdministrationParticipants in this group will follow a strict vegetarian diet (SVD) combined with regular physical exercise (RPE) for four weeks. The diet will consist of plant-based foods rich in fiber and bioactive compounds, with a controlled macronutrient distribution. Physical activity will include structured aerobic and resistance exercises supervised by a physical educator. Instead of probiotic supplementation, participants will receive a placebo administered in the same manner as the probiotic group to ensure blinding. |
| Strict Vegetarian Diet, Regular Physical Exercise, and Probiotic Supplementation | Experimental | Dietary Supplement: Probiotic SupplementationParticipants in this group will receive the same strict vegetarian diet (SVD) and regular physical exercise (RPE) as Arm 1. In addition, they will take a probiotic supplement containing a combination of four different strains, administered twice daily for four weeks. This group aims to assess the potential additional metabolic benefits of probiotic supplementation in individuals with type 2 diabetes. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 45 to 70 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Have a medical diagnosis of type 2 diabetes for a maximum of 5 years.
- Be omnivorous; Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2 and < 40 kg/m2;
- Be between the ages of 45 and 70, both genders.
- Women should be in the postmenopausal stage;
- Use no more than three hypoglycemic medications in total;
Key exclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Be using insulin, anti-obesity medications, antibiotics, and/or probiotic supplements in the 2 months preceding data collection;
- Use of alcohol or tobacco;
- Have limited mobility and a previous diagnosis of cardiopulmonary diseases;
- Report current or previous (within the past two months) diarrhea during screening;
- Have liver or kidney failure and uncontrolled endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism, hypogonadism, and adrenal insufficiency);
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Probiotic SupplementationAlso: ProbioticParticipants will follow the same strict vegetarian diet and regular physical exercise as in Intervention 1. Additionally, they will receive a probiotic supplement, taken twice daily for four weeks. This aims to evaluate the metabolic impact of probiotics in type 2 diabetes. | Dietary supplement | Strict Vegetarian Diet, Regular Physical Exercise, and Probiotic Supplementation |
| Placebo AdministrationAlso: PlaceboParticipants will follow a strictly plant-based diet rich in fiber and bioactive compounds, with controlled macronutrient distribution. Regular physical exercise includes supervised aerobic and resistance training sessions. The intervention lasts four weeks. Instead of probiotic supplementation, participants will receive a placebo, administered in the same manner as the probiotic group to maintain blinding. | Dietary supplement | Strict Vegetarian Diet, Regular Physical Exercise, and Placebo Administration |
Primary outcome
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Body mass index (BMI) will be calculated from height and weight (weight in kg / height in m²) to assess the impact of the intervention on overall body weight regulation. This outcome reflects metabolic improvement and lifestyle adherence. Unit of Measure: kg/m²
Change in Waist, Abdominal, and Hip Circumference
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Waist, abdominal, and hip circumferences will be measured using a standardized flexible tape method. These anthropometric parameters are indicators of central fat distribution and associated cardiometabolic risk. Measurements will follow WHO recommendations. Unit of Measure: cm
Change in Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) will be calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference. This index is used to evaluate body fat distribution and the risk of metabolic disorders, particularly central obesity, in individuals with T2DM. Unit of Measure: Ratio (unitless)
Change in Functional Aerobic Capacity (1-Mile Walk Test)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Aerobic capacity will be assessed using the 1-Mile Walk Test. Participants will be instructed to walk one mile as fast as possible on a flat surface, and the time to completion will be recorded. The objective is to evaluate improvements in cardiovascular endurance following the intervention. Unit of Measure: Time in minutes
Change in Functional Mobility (Up and Go Test)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Functional mobility will be assessed using the "Up and Go" test. Participants will be timed as they rise from a seated position, walk three meters, turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down. The test is used to detect improvements in balance, mobility, and lower-limb function in response to the intervention. Unit of Measure: Time in seconds
Change in Fasting Blood Glucose
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Fasting plasma glucose will be measured after 8-12 hours of fasting by glucose-oxidase method to evaluate improvements in basal glycemic levels. The goal is to determine whether the intervention improves glucose homeostasis in patients with T2DM. Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Change in Postprandial Glucose Levels
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Two-hour postprandial glucose will be measured using capillary or venous blood samples by glucose-oxidase method after a standardized meal. The goal is to evaluate improvements in glycemic response to food intake due to the intervention. Unit of Measure: mg/dL
Change in Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels will be measured in venous blood samples using HPLC to assess long-term glycemic control. The main hypothesis is that the combined intervention of a plant-based diet, physical exercise, and probiotics will significantly reduce HbA1c levels compared to baseline. Unit of Measure: % HbA1c
22 secondary outcomes
Change in Liver Enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Standard Lipid Profile
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
HDL Function and Lipid Profile
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Levels
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Plasma Cytokine Levels
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Metabolomic and Biochemical Markers
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in expression of Metabolism- and Inflammation-Related microRNAs
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Expression of Inflammatory Genes
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Inflammatory Gene Expression in Lymphocytes and Skeletal Muscle
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Fasting Insulin, Proinsulin, and C-Peptide Levels
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Insulin Resistance Assessed by HOMA-IR
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Incretin Hormone Levels (GLP-1 and GIP)
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Changes in Gut Microbiota Composition
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Liver Steatosis Assessed by Abdominal Ultrasound
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Liver Fat and Fibrosis Assessed by Transient Elastography
Time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention
Change in Depressive Symptoms Measured by the Beck Depression Inventory - Second Edition (BDI-II)
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention
Change in Diabetes-Specific Quality of Life Measured by the Diabetes Quality of Life Measure (DQOL)
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention
Change in General Well-Being Measured by the Q8RN Questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks post-intervention
Change in Fasting Glucose During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Time frame: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Change in HbA1c Levels During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Time frame: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Change in Lipid Profile During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Time frame: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Change in Liver Enzymes During Telemedicine Follow-Up
Time frame: Every 3 months over a 12-month follow-up period after the intervention
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 18 May 2025.
- Background: PubMed 27208380Guasch-Ferre M, Hruby A, Toledo E, Clish CB, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Salas-Salvado J, Hu FB. Metabolomics in Prediabetes and Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Diabetes Care. 2016 May;39(5):833-46. doi: 10.2337/dc15-2251.
- Background: PubMed 25525609Nikiforova VJ, Giesbertz P, Wiemer J, Bethan B, Looser R, Liebenberg V, Ruiz Noppinger P, Daniel H, Rein D. Glyoxylate, a new marker metabolite of type 2 diabetes. J Diabetes Res. 2014;2014:685204. doi: 10.1155/2014/685204. Epub 2014 Nov 27.
- Background: PubMed 30928918Koutnikova H, Genser B, Monteiro-Sepulveda M, Faurie JM, Rizkalla S, Schrezenmeir J, Clement K. Impact of bacterial probiotics on obesity, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease related variables: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open. 2019 Mar 30;9(3):e017995. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017995.
- Background: PubMed 28538869Miraghajani M, Dehsoukhteh SS, Rafie N, Hamedani SG, Sabihi S, Ghiasvand R. Potential mechanisms linking probiotics to diabetes: a narrative review of the literature. Sao Paulo Med J. 2017 Mar-Apr;135(2):169-178. doi: 10.1590/1516-3180.2016.0311271216.
- Background: PubMed 25852463Heppner KM, Perez-Tilve D. GLP-1 based therapeutics: simultaneously combating T2DM and obesity. Front Neurosci. 2015 Mar 20;9:92. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00092. eCollection 2015.
- Background: PubMed 26988693Firouzi S, Majid HA, Ismail A, Kamaruddin NA, Barakatun-Nisak MY. Effect of multi-strain probiotics (multi-strain microbial cell preparation) on glycemic control and other diabetes-related outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Nutr. 2017 Jun;56(4):1535-1550. doi: 10.1007/s00394-016-1199-8. Epub 2016 Mar 17.
- Background: PubMed 21878448Hopper I, Billah B, Skiba M, Krum H. Prevention of diabetes and reduction in major cardiovascular events in studies of subjects with prediabetes: meta-analysis of randomised controlled clinical trials. Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil. 2011 Dec;18(6):813-23. doi: 10.1177/1741826711421687. Epub 2011 Aug 30.
- Background: PubMed 34113961Jardine MA, Kahleova H, Levin SM, Ali Z, Trapp CB, Barnard ND. Perspective: Plant-Based Eating Pattern for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Treatment: Efficacy, Mechanisms, and Practical Considerations. Adv Nutr. 2021 Dec 1;12(6):2045-2055. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmab063.
- Background: PubMed 29221645Lean ME, Leslie WS, Barnes AC, Brosnahan N, Thom G, McCombie L, Peters C, Zhyzhneuskaya S, Al-Mrabeh A, Hollingsworth KG, Rodrigues AM, Rehackova L, Adamson AJ, Sniehotta FF, Mathers JC, Ross HM, McIlvenna Y, Stefanetti R, Trenell M, Welsh P, Kean S, Ford I, McConnachie A, Sattar N, Taylor R. Primary care-led weight management for remission of type 2 diabetes (DiRECT): an open-label, cluster-randomised trial. Lancet. 2018 Feb 10;391(10120):541-551. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(17)33102-1. Epub 2017 Dec 5.
- Background: PubMed 19386029Barnard ND, Katcher HI, Jenkins DJ, Cohen J, Turner-McGrievy G. Vegetarian and vegan diets in type 2 diabetes management. Nutr Rev. 2009 May;67(5):255-63. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00198.x.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. Data will be available upon request.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Maria E. R. Silva, MD, PhD principal investigator
University of Sao Paulo
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Probiotic Supplementation in people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Insulin Resistance, run by Maria Elizabeth Rossi da Silva at 1 site in Brazil.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 18 May 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Brazil. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Maria E. R. Silva, MD, PhD (+55 11 3061-7258, mbeth@usp.br), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI) (time frame: Baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention). The study lists 8 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06959043, which also lists 10 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 18 May 2025.