Study of Beetroot Juice to Improve Walking Ability in People with Peripheral Artery Disease PAD

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of beetroot juice on walking ability in people aged 50 and older with peripheral artery disease PAD, a condition that affects blood flow to the legs. This multi-center, double-blind, randomized clinical trial aims to see if beetroot juice can improve the distance participants can walk in six minutes after four months compared to a placebo. The study also explores how beetroot juice affects muscle blood flow, muscle health, and regeneration, as well as the relationship between nitrate metabolism and walking performance. Participants receive either two 70 ml drinks daily for four months containing beetroot juice with nitrate or a placebo drink that looks similar but has the nitrate removed. Each active drink provides 400 mg of nitrate, totaling 800 mg daily. The study measures both the immediate effect of beetroot juice 2.5 hours after consumption and the longer-term effects after four months. The placebo group receives a nitrate-free beetroot juice drink to compare results. During the trial, participants undergo tests including a six-minute walk test at baseline, 2.5 hours, and four months to measure walking distance changes. Additional assessments measure calf muscle blood flow using MRI, muscle health, and questionnaire scores related to walking ability. Researchers will monitor nitrate levels in the blood to understand their impact. Participants are followed for at least four months, with strict eligibility criteria and health monitoring to ensure safety and study integrity.

BEETroot Juice to Reverse Functional Impairment in PAD