Plain-English translation of NCT05938322 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · 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.
This trial is testing whether a ketogenic diet—a very low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan—helps patients better tolerate radiation therapy for rectal cancer compared to a standard Mediterranean-style diet. The study will measure how well patients stick to each diet, and whether the diet affects their muscle strength, body composition, and side effects from treatment.
Radiation therapy for rectal cancer can cause significant side effects and challenges with nutrition. Researchers want to know if changing what patients eat during treatment might help them maintain muscle strength, manage their weight better, and experience fewer complications.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You will visit the clinic before your radiation starts, where you'll be randomly assigned to either the ketogenic diet group or the standard Mediterranean diet group. You'll receive a personalized meal plan and be asked to keep a detailed food diary. During your radiation treatment (about 5–6 weeks), you'll have follow-up visits where staff will measure your weight, muscle strength, and how well you're managing side effects. After treatment ends, there will be one final visit to assess your recovery and how closely you followed your assigned diet.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 27, 2026 · Not medical advice
Italy
Sponsor
Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS
Enrollment target
~194 participants
Started
June 2024
Primary completion
December 2026
Age range
18 Years – 75 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in September 2025.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Maria Cristina Mele, MD
Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.