Appetite and Energy Intake in Young Female Adults During and After Simulated High-Altitude

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to study the effects of acute passive continuous hypoxemia, or simulated high-altitude exposure, on appetite and energy intake in healthy young female adults aged 18 to 30. The study seeks to understand whether six hours at a simulated altitude of 5000 meters reduces subjective appetite scores and energy intake, and if these changes last after the exposure ends. Researchers will compare these effects with a control condition at normal sea-level oxygen levels to see if low oxygen alone impacts appetite and intake. Participants will take part in two randomized, single-blind experimental sessions. Each session involves six hours of passive exposure to either normal oxygen (normoxia) or simulated high-altitude conditions (hypoxia) in a climate-controlled chamber set at 22°C with 30% humidity. During exposure, participants remain fasted. After leaving the chamber, they will be offered foods from a selected list in unlimited amounts to assess energy intake following the exposure. Participants will visit the laboratory for a preliminary screening to confirm eligibility. During and after exposures, researchers will measure changes in appetite feelings such as desire to eat, hunger, fullness, and prospective food consumption at baseline, 6 hours, and 24 hours. Energy intake will be tracked immediately post-exposure and later. Additional assessments include heart rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, acute mountain sickness symptoms, fluid balance, sensory changes, metabolic rates, and blood markers. The total study duration includes both exposure sessions and follow-up assessments.

Hypoxia, Appetite, and Energy Intake in Young Female Adults