BCFS001630-UCSD-Frank-157 [Landing Page-form] -

Anorexia Nervosa Research Study

Researchers at the Eating Disorders Center at UC San Diego are testing a novel dietary intervention to target metabolic pathways in the brain and reduce the urges associated with anorexia nervosa.

Fast Facts

Additional Information

Why is this study being done?

This study is being done to test the effectiveness of an intervention for symptoms of anorexia nervosa in adults.

Is this study for me?

You may qualify for the study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

Ages 18-45
Current Anorexia Nervosa
- Currently struggling with eating disorder thoughts and behaviors

Exclusion Criteria:

Taking psychiatric medications other than antidepressants, anxiolytics, or atypicals
Currently pregnant or lactating
Experiencing psychosis
Kidney or liver abnormalities
Current alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD)
Diabetes mellitus
Uncontrolled hypertension
History of recent heart attack, vascular disease, or any other acute medical conditions
Neurological conditions (e.g. dementia, TBI)

What will happen if I participate in the study?

Participation in this study will involve a variety activities, virtual and in-person:

Screening (virtual) – phone screening and questionnaires
In person Screening Visit (must be in person)– diagnostic interview, blood draw, genetic testing
Pre-Induction Visit (virtual or in person) – meeting with study dietician
Induction Period (Weeks 1 – 2, virtual or in person) – daily ketone readings, weekly meetings with study dietician and PI, questionnaires
Maintenance Period (Weeks 3 – 14, virtual or in person) – weekly meetings with study dietician and PI, questionnaires
Weekly labs – weekly blood draw to measure ketone levels, monitor for referring syndrome and electrolytes
Exit Interview (in person and virtual) – meeting with PI and study dietician, completion of exit questionnaires, blood draw
Follow-up Visits (virtual or in person) – meeting with PI and study dietician, completion of questionnaires at 3-months, 6-months and 1-year after completion of the study intervention

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

Participants can earn up to $800 across the course of the study and receive 14 weeks of ketogenic diet meals.

Will it cost me anything to participate in this study?

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.