The Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP) is looking for 150 volunteers for a new clinical trial to evaluate the impact of seaweed intake on reducing cardiovascular risk.
“The results of the research may pave the way for new forms of intervention to reduce cardiovascular risk by improving the intestinal flora, also known as the microbiome,” states information shared by FMUP.
This clinical trial is developed under the Blue Bioeconomy Pact project and funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) and European NextGenerationEU Funds.
Participants must be over 50 years old, have a high cardiovascular risk or history of stroke or heart attack (myocardial infarction), and must be willing to add algae-based supplementation to their usual diet.
The CALGUT trial will involve three face-to-face visits to FMUP and the São João Local Health Unit, in Porto, to carry out laboratory analyses and diagnostic tests.
According to FMUP, “they intend to measure and compare clinical parameters and results of evaluations, which will be carried out by a multidisciplinary team. Throughout the trial, volunteers will benefit from clinical and nutritional monitoring, in addition to having access to free analyses and exams.
Led by João Pedro Ferreira, professor at FMUP, this study will explore the potential of algae supplementation as a therapeutic adjuvant in people at high cardiovascular risk.
“Algae have several nutritional and therapeutic applications, namely at the intestinal level”, says the institution’s information. During the trial, the effects of the microalgae Spirulina and the macroalgae Gelidium, algae species authorized as food or food supplements, will be analysed. After which the impact of these algae on cardiovascular health will be compared and the results published.”
The CALGUT trial (Effects of food supplements with algae on cardiovascular risk markers and the gut microbiome: randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial) was approved by the Ethics Committee of ULS São João.
The consortium that manages this trial involves 83 members and two partners, including companies, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and other higher education institutions.
Those interested in participating must register by filling out the registration form. All information collected will remain confidential.
For those seeking further information, please call 220 426 820.
The trial is estimated to last seven months.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
Dutch
English
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Spanish