Recruiting

Testing a Special Diet to Prevent Eating Disorder Relapse

Plain-English translation of NCT05197309 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated February 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing a special eating plan called the Metabolic Diet to help prevent relapse in women who have recovered from anorexia nervosa. The diet focuses on changing the balance of nutrients in meals—increasing healthy fats and lowering carbohydrates—to keep blood sugar stable throughout the day, which researchers believe may reduce the risk of the eating disorder returning. The study will compare women who are recovering from anorexia nervosa with healthy women without a history of eating disorders.

People who have recovered from anorexia nervosa often struggle with relapse, and researchers want to find practical ways to help prevent it. This trial explores whether stable blood sugar levels through a modified diet might reduce cravings, mood swings, and urges related to disordered eating.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are a woman between 18 and 40 years old
you have been diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and have recently returned to a healthy weight (within the past 6 months)
your weight is now at a healthy level (BMI of at least 18.5)
you speak English
you are medically stable and cleared by a doctor to participate

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a history of psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, or active substance use
you are currently taking medications that affect metabolism or have taken them within the past 2 weeks
you have attempted suicide in the past 6 months or are at current risk
you have diabetes, pregnancy, or other significant medical or metabolic conditions
you are currently experiencing severe depression

What participation looks like

You would participate in an 8-week program involving weekly visits with a dietician and physician to learn and follow the Metabolic Diet. At home, you would keep a food log and measure urinary ketones (a simple test), which you would discuss with your care team each week. You would also complete surveys and blood tests at the beginning, middle, and end of the study.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 8, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York