What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for depression with anti-inflammatory properties include omega-3 fatty acids, celecoxib, and certain dietary supplements like blueberries. Omega-3 fatty acids are generally well-tolerated but can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea. Celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor, may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, cardiovascular risks, and renal issues. Dietary supplements like blueberries are typically safe but can cause mild digestive disturbances in some individuals. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The FDA has approved several drugs for the treatment of depression, including traditional antidepressants like SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, escitalopram) and SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine). Additionally, there has been interest in the anti-inflammatory properties of certain treatments. For example, studies have explored the use of omega-3 fatty acids, which have shown some promise in reducing depressive symptoms, although the evidence is not yet conclusive. The trial on freeze-dried blueberries aims to investigate their potential anti-inflammatory effects on depression, similar to the broader interest in anti-inflammatory approaches for treating depressive symptoms.

What other types of research exist?

Promising novel alternatives to freeze-dried blueberries for depression patients considering treatment in 2024 include: <ol> <li>Dendrobium candidum: This has shown potential in reducing inflammation by decreasing mRNA expression levels of NF-κB, iNOS, and COX-2, and increasing IκB-α expression.</li> <li></li> </ol> Citrus kawachiensis peel powder: Contains compounds like naringin, narirutin, auraptene, and heptamethoxyflavone, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in animal models. 3. Noni fruit isolates: These have shown immunomodulatory effects and the ability to down-regulate COX-2 and NF-κB, which are involved in inflammation.

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Blueberry Supplements for Depression

N/A

Waitlist Available

Led By Courtney Millar, PhD

Research Sponsored by Hebrew SeniorLife

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Be older than 65 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up through study completion, approximately 6 months

Summary

This trial tests if powdered blueberries can help older adults with depression feel better and become more active by reducing inflammation.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for sedentary adults aged 65 or older with mild depressive symptoms. Participants must spend a lot of time sitting and not have cognitive impairments, diabetes, substance abuse issues, severe psychiatric disorders, inflammatory bowel conditions, allergies to the products used in the study, or be taking certain medications like antibiotics or antidepressants.

What is being tested?

The study tests if daily freeze-dried blueberry powder can help reduce inflammation and improve motivation to be active compared to a placebo powder. It's designed for older adults who don't exercise much and feel down sometimes.

What are the potential side effects?

Potential side effects from consuming blueberry powder may include digestive discomfort or allergic reactions for those sensitive to blueberries. The placebo is unlikely to cause side effects but could include similar digestive issues.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ through study completion, approximately 6 months

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~through study completion, approximately 6 months

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and through study completion, approximately 6 months for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Engagement in Physical Activity

Secondary study objectives

Inflammatory Marker - Brain derived neurotrophic factor

Inflammatory Marker - C-Reactive protein

Inflammatory Marker - Interleukin-6

+2 more

Trial Design

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Placebo Group

Group I: Freeze-dried Blueberry PowderExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Randomized participants will be asked to consume 48 grams of freeze-dried blueberry powder each day for 12 weeks.

Group II: Placebo PowderPlacebo Group1 Intervention

Randomized participants will be asked to consume 48 grams of a nutritionally matched placebo powder devoid of fiber and anthocyanins each day for 12 weeks.

Do I qualify?Apply below to find out

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

Common treatments for depression include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and lifestyle interventions like exercise. SSRIs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and emotional stability. CBT helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Exercise boosts endorphin levels and reduces inflammation, which can alleviate depressive symptoms. Treatments with anti-inflammatory properties, such as the freeze-dried blueberry being studied, aim to reduce inflammation that may contribute to depression. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for patients, as it highlights the importance of a multifaceted approach to managing depression, potentially improving treatment outcomes.