Military Heart Health Nutritional Research Studies
Researchers at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences are conducting studies on nutritional berry supplements for heart health and military readiness.
Fast Facts
Military-Active Duty, Retiree, Dependent, Reservist, National Guard or USUHS Graduate School of Nursing or School of Medicine Student
Adults Ages 40-75 Who Have High Blood Pressure and/or Have Mild (Subclinical) Heart Disease
Do Not Use Tobacco Products
Conducted in Bethesda, MD
Study Background
Berry-based supplements may support heart health and improve military readiness.
We are conducting two clinical trials to study the effects of berry supplements on cardiovascular health. Participants will take either blackcurrant supplements (Heart Health Study) or aroniaberry/cherry supplements (Berry Heart Study). Researchers will measure blood vessel function, arterial stiffness, and blood markers related to heart health.
These studies aim to identify how nutritional supplements may improve blood flow, reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, and support the health and longevity of individuals with high blood pressure or mild (subclinical) heart disease. Findings may also help improve operational readiness and reduce the economic burden of cardiovascular disease within the military community.
Study Background
Berry-based supplements may support heart health and improve military readiness.
We are conducting two clinical trials to study the effects of berry supplements on cardiovascular health. Participants will take either blackcurrant supplements (Heart Health Study) or aroniaberry/cherry supplements (Berry Heart Study). Researchers will measure blood vessel function, arterial stiffness, and blood markers related to heart health.
These studies aim to identify how nutritional supplements may improve blood flow, reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, and support the health and longevity of individuals with high blood pressure or mild (subclinical) heart disease. Findings may also help improve operational readiness and reduce the economic burden of cardiovascular disease within the military community.
Additional Information
To better understand how berry-based supplements may improve cardiovascular health, reduce risk factors for heart disease, and support military readiness.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults ages 40-75 who have high blood pressure and/or have mild (subclinical) heart disease
- Military-active duty, retiree, dependent, Reservist, National Guard or USUHS Graduate School of Nursing or School of Medicine student
- Do not use tobacco products
- No serious or uncontrolled medical illness
- No uncontrolled, secondary, or malignant hypertension
- Not currently pregnant
- Not taking specific medications for inflammatory disease processes or blood-thinning medications
- No allergy to blackcurrant, aroniaberry, or cherry
You will attend in-person visits where researchers will review your health history, perform blood draws, and conduct non-invasive blood vessel tests. You’ll take the study supplement and return for follow-up visits every 6 weeks for up to 6 total visits.
Contact Us: elena-raluca.nicoli.ctr@usuhs.edu
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
USU IRB Numbers: USUHS 2020-059 & USUHS 2021-086