Pilot Study of Nutraceutical --Epicatechin to Improve Muscle Health in Older Adults with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of the nutraceutical -- Epicatechin on muscle health in people with advanced chronic kidney disease CKD. CKD often leads to muscle loss and weakness due to metabolic changes and muscle tissue replacement by fat, reducing strength and quality of life. This pilot study aims to see if 100 mg per day of -- Epicatechin, a natural compound found in green tea and cocoa, can improve muscle quality, function, and regeneration in this group. The study has two phases an 8-week control period without supplementation followed by an 8-week treatment period where participants take 50 mg of -- Epicatechin twice daily, mixed with juice before meals or before sleep. A total of 10 participants will be enrolled. The nutraceutical is provided in monodose sachets, and participants are asked not to change their diet during the study. The study includes five visits over 16 weeks, with safety monitoring through blood tests and phone calls. During the study, participants will have muscle mass and quality assessed using ultrasound and MRI, and muscle strength and performance will be measured through walking and chair stand tests. Blood and urine samples will be collected to evaluate markers related to muscle regeneration and mitochondrial function. Participants will also wear activity monitors and be monitored for side effects. The main goals are to evaluate changes in muscle fat infiltration, function, and related biological markers to understand the potential benefits of -- Epicatechin for muscle health in CKD.

The Effect of the Nutraceutical (-)- Epicatechin on Myosteatosis in Patients With Advanced CKD