Infant Gut Health Research Study
Researchers at Colorado State University are conducting a study in infants to understand the impact of walnuts on the development of immunity and gut health.
Fast Facts
Infant less than 5 months old
Infant is Breastfed
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Fort Collins, CO
Study Background
Researchers at Colorado State University are conducting a research study to understand the role of walnuts in infant immunity and gut health development.
The early transition phase to introduce solid foods into an infant diet is a crucial period for shaping immunity and gut health early in life. In this study, we will evaluate the the role of walnuts in your baby’s immunity and gut health. While participating, one group of infants will receive walnuts, and the other group will be advised to avoid walnuts/tree nuts during the intervention so the researchers will be able to compare the two groups. This study will provide critical evidence that could inform future dietary guidance in infants.
Study Background
Researchers at Colorado State University are conducting a research study to understand the role of walnuts in infant immunity and gut health development.
The early transition phase to introduce solid foods into an infant diet is a crucial period for shaping immunity and gut health early in life. In this study, we will evaluate the the role of walnuts in your baby’s immunity and gut health. While participating, one group of infants will receive walnuts, and the other group will be advised to avoid walnuts/tree nuts during the intervention so the researchers will be able to compare the two groups. This study will provide critical evidence that could inform future dietary guidance in infants.
Additional Information
The purpose of this research is to learn more about how walnuts as a first food in infants impact immunity and infant gut health. Findings from this study will provide evidence for future dietary recommendations in infants.
Your baby may qualify for this study if they meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Less than 5 months old
- Breastfeeding
- No significant consumption of complementary food.
- Born at 37 weeks or later of gestation
- No health conditions that affect growth
The study lasts 7 months. Once enrolled, the study involves:
When your baby turns 5 months: You will visit the Human Nutrition Clinical Research Center at Colorado State University. During the initial screening and visit, we will:
- Collect information about the health history of your baby
- Measure your baby’s length, weight, and head size.
- We will collect a small amount of blood from your baby to measure biomarkers related to immune system development, a urine sample using cotton pads and a soiled diaper for a stool sample.
- We will collect a small amount of breastmilk (manual pump provided) to measure the calories and nutrients in your breastmilk.
- A diet record for your baby.
During the intervention, three clinical visits will be scheduled. These visits will occur in the months 7, 9, and 11. At these visits, we will:
- Measure your baby’s length and weight
- Collect a stool (soiled diaper) and breast milk sample
- Complete a health questionnaire and collect a three-day diet record for your baby.
When your baby turns 12 months, we will repeat the activities from the first visit.
As a participant, you will receive $50 for each visit completed (up to $250). You will also receive health data about your infant and have access to a registered dietician for nutrition counseling.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
