UPDATE Trial Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
UPDATE: Investigating the effects of Ultra-Processed versus minimally processed Diets following UK dietAry guidance on healTh outcomEs: an 8-week community-based crossover randomised controlled trial in people with overweight or obesity, followed by a 6-month behavioural intervention.
IRAS ID
311525
Contact name
Rachel L. Batterham
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2022/05/125, UCL Data Protection Registration Number
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 18 days
Research summary
Obesity is a growing healthcare challenge, increasing the risk of poor health. The Eatwell Guide (EWG) provides the UK public with guidance for a healthy, balanced diet, to reduce our risk of obesity and other health problems. The EWG recommends foods lower in saturated fat, sugar and salt. However, research suggests that some types of food processing might alter our risk of health problems, but these types of food processing are not included within the recommendations. Many people with overweight/obesity attempt to lose weight, but few succeed. This may be due to the processing of many products marketed for weight-loss. To date, no studies have assessed whether the health impact of following dietary guidelines is dependent on types of food processing, nor provided behavioural support to UK adults living with overweight/obesity to reduce their UPF intake.
UPDATE is a randomised, controlled, crossover trial with a follow-up behavioural intervention. The trial aims are to:
1) Compare the health effects of two 8-week diets, both following the EWG, but each with different types of food processing, on changes in health markers such as body composition, heart rate, blood pressure, cardiovascular risk factors, appetite, physical activity and fitness, sleep and wellbeing.
2) Assess the effectiveness and health impact of a 6-month behavioural support program to help people eat a healthy, balanced diet, and be more active.
55 UCLH staff with overweight/obesity will be recruited via marketing materials. First, participants will be given two diets following EWG recommendations in a random order, for 8 weeks each. All food and drink will be provided. Participants will then receive 6 months of behavioural support to eat a healthier diet and be more physically active. The findings will increase the knowledge of how food processing influences health, and help identify factors that help or hinder healthy eating.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/YH/0281
Date of REC Opinion
22 Dec 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion