Intermittent Fasting for NAFLD in Adults
Recruiting · Boston, Massachusetts
Always free
Study care at no cost to you
For your time and travel
Many studies pay you back
Most need no insurance or papers
Legal status usually isn't required; we'll tell you each study's requirements
Interpreters available
Ask for your language
Your choice
Voluntary — you can stop anytime
What is this study?
NAFLD is a growing threat to public health. Currently, there is a significant need for highly effective treatments for NAFLD.
It is , overseen by an independent and licensed medical staff.
Read the full clinical description
NAFLD is a growing threat to public health. Currently, there is a significant need for highly effective treatments for NAFLD. Non-obese NAFLD (BMI\<30kg/m2) is an increasingly recognized condition, sometimes described as "lean NAFLD". Intermittent Fasting (IF) may be uniquely beneficial in non-obese NAFLD. The purpose of this study is to identify non-pharmacologic, lifestyle-based methods of NAFLD treatment within non-obese adults.
Who this study is looking for
In plain language, from the study's own rules. The study team confirms the full details with you — this isn't a final yes or no.
✅ You may be able to join if…
- •You can sign an informed consent form.
- •You are 18 years or older at the time you sign consent.
- •Your BMI is between 23 and 30 kg/m² at screening.
- •You have NAFLD confirmed within the last 6 months by biopsy or by certain approved imaging tests, and your liver fat fraction is at least 10% on H-MRS during screening.
- •You test negative for Hepatitis C antibody and Hepatitis B surface antigen at screening.
🚫 You may not be able to join if…
- •You have heavy alcohol use in at least 3 consecutive months within the past 5 years (heavy means >20g daily for women or >30mg daily for men).
- •You have other known chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, Wilson disease, or known/suspected liver cancer, among others listed.
- •You have Type II Diabetes and currently need insulin or sulfonylureas.
- •You used medications for NAFLD/NASH in the last 6 months (except vitamin E on a stable dose).
- •You have significant liver disease such as known cirrhosis/stage 4 fibrosis/portal hypertension, Child-Pugh score 7 or higher, or you had (or are listed for) a liver transplant.
Are you a good fit?
Simplified highlights. The study team always confirms the full details with you.
- ✓Adults roughly 18–any age
- ✓Have Obesity / overweight or Fatty liver disease (NASH/MASH)
- !Some conditions may not be a fit: Type 2 diabetes, High blood pressure, Kidney disease
- !Not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
What to expect, step by step
- 1
Usually a few weeks
The study team checks whether the study is a good fit for you, with a visit and sometimes lab tests. You can ask any questions before deciding.
- 2
Treatment
If you join and choose to continue, you receive the study treatment and are watched closely by medical staff.
- 3
Follow-up
After treatment, the team checks on your health and confirms the visit schedule with you. You can leave the study at any point.
Has this treatment been tested before?
The study team can share what safety testing has been done so far.
What you need to know before you apply
What is this study testing?+
NAFLD is a growing threat to public health. Currently, there is a significant need for highly effective treatments for NAFLD.
Is it safe? Who makes sure of that?+
This is a research study. Every study is reviewed and monitored by an independent ethics board (called an IRB) whose job is to protect participants, and care is overseen by licensed medical staff. You'll be told the known risks before you agree to anything, and you can stop at any time.
Will I get a placebo instead of the real treatment?+
Some studies compare a treatment against a placebo (an inactive version), and some don't. If this one does, the study team will explain your chances of receiving the active treatment before you decide. Nothing is hidden from you.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications?+
It depends on the study. Some let you stay on your current medications and some ask you to adjust them. Never stop a medication on your own — the study team will review everything with you first.
Does it cost anything? Will I be paid?+
Study-related care is provided at no cost to you. Some studies also pay for your time; the coordinator can tell you if this one does. You should never be asked to pay to take part.
Do I need insurance? Will anyone ask about my immigration status?+
No. You do not need health insurance to take part in a research study, and you will not be asked about your immigration status to join. Taking part is about whether you're a medical fit for the study.
What if English isn't my first language?+
You have the right to understand everything before you agree. Study sites can often provide materials or an interpreter in your language — you can ask the coordinator for one.
Is my information private?+
Yes. Your health information is only shared with the study sites you choose to be contacted by, and only to help match and enroll you. It is never sold, and you can ask us to delete it at any time.
Some requirements (like specific lab values or timing) are confirmed directly by the study team, not by us.
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT04899102 · Locations: Massachusetts