Experimental Approach to Test Predictions of Body Weight Regulation Models
Recruiting · Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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?
The regulation of human body weight and fatness is not fully understood. Although some models of regulation have been proposed (set point, dual-intervention point, others), no studies have been designed to test their predictions.
It is , overseen by an independent and licensed medical staff.
Read the full clinical description
The regulation of human body weight and fatness is not fully understood. Although some models of regulation have been proposed (set point, dual-intervention point, others), no studies have been designed to test their predictions. In this pilot and feasibility study, the investigators will implement an experimental approach to test the predictions of models of body weight regulation in humans. Men and women with either low body weight or obesity will be exposed to a 2-day fasting followed by a 2-day ad-libitum refeeding. During the entire fasting-refeeding period, energy intake and expenditure will be accurately measured within metabolic chambers. The investigators will therefore determine the compensatory responses to fasting elicited to prevent weight loss. The results will serve to design and power future studies to better understand body weight regulation.
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…
- •Be 18 to 40 years old.
- •Have either BMI < 20 kg/m2 (low body weight group) or BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (obesity group).
- •Have stable weight in the last 6 months (within ±3 kg).
- •For women: have never had a pregnancy and have regular menstrual cycles in the last 6 months (25–35 days).
- •Agree to drink only up to two assigned flavors of Ensure Plus for 2 days and report that they like at least one of the flavored liquid meals (Ensure Plus).
🚫 You may not be able to join if…
- •Have an eating disorder or score high enough on an eating disorder questionnaire (global score ≥2.80) or have a past eating disorder diagnosis.
- •Have food insecurity (for the low body weight group).
- •Smoke cigarettes or vape.
- •Use certain medicines that can affect energy intake or energy use (examples listed include GLP-1 medicines like semaglutide/liraglutide/exenatide, and others).
- •Have certain medical conditions listed, including HIV, lactose intolerance/galactosemia, diabetes (type 1 or 2), cancer, lung disease, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, or inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s).
Are you a good fit?
Simplified highlights. The study team always confirms the full details with you.
- ✓Adults roughly 18–40
- ✓Have Obesity / overweight
- !Some conditions may not be a fit: Heart / cardiovascular disease
- !Not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- !May require a break from current GLP-1 medications
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?+
The regulation of human body weight and fatness is not fully understood. Although some models of regulation have been proposed (set point, dual-intervention point, others), no studies have been designed to test their predictions.
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.
I take a GLP-1 medication (like Ozempic or Wegovy). Can I still join?+
Maybe. This study may ask you to pause certain weight or diabetes medications for a period of time (a 'washout') before joining, or it may be looking for people not currently on them. The coordinator will review your medications with you — don't stop any medication on your own.
Does it cost anything? Will I be paid?+
Study-related care is provided at no cost to you. This study may also compensate you for your time and travel — the team will tell you the amount before you join. 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 · NCT06309576 · Locations: Louisiana