Effects of Natural Aronia Juice on Immune Health in Women With Obesity, Depression, or Normal Weight Aged 18 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of polyphenols found in natural aronia juice on the immune system, focusing on healthy, obese, and depressive women aged 18 to 40. The study aims to understand how these nutrients influence regulatory T cells, gut microbiome, metabolome, and nutritional status, providing insight into the positive impacts of vegetarian diets and immunomodulation. This study is led by the Medical University of Graz and involves a randomized controlled design with single blinding. Participants are divided into six groups based on weight and depressive status, receiving either polyphenol-rich aronia juice or a placebo drink daily for six weeks. The placebo contains similar nutrients but lacks polyphenols. Participants are asked to maintain their usual diet and lifestyle during the intervention. The study includes a six-week intervention period followed by a six-week washout phase. During the study, participants undergo evaluations of regulatory T cells and gut microbiome at baseline, after six weeks, and again after twelve weeks. Researchers will measure changes in these immune and microbial markers to assess the juices impact. The total participation period is twelve weeks, including intervention and follow-up, with ongoing monitoring for safety and adherence.

ESAN II - Energy Sensing in Depression