Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health

Information for Volunteers

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

Most of the research carried out in the Human Intervention Studies Unit (HISU) involves nutrition-related intervention studies which require only periodic checks or appointments. A small number of other studies may require a stay in the residential suite, which contains 11 en-suite bedrooms, kitchen and dining facilities and a lounge area.

The duration of each study varies and measurements taken depend upon the study requirements. Examples of assessments that can be carried out include:

Body mass index

Height and weight measurements are taken to determine body mass index (BMI), a useful tool for estimating how healthy a person’s weight is.

Blood pressure

Automatic devices are used to determine an individual’s blood pressure.

Bone density

A DXA scanner uses low dose x-rays to measure bone density, which is indicative of bone strength. It is normally used in a hospital setting to diagnose osteoporosis or the risk of developing fractures but it can also be used to measure body composition. The DXA scan involves the volunteer lying on a bed and remaining still while the scanner moves over the area to be tested. The scan normally takes about 10-15 minutes.

Body composition

The BOD POD is an egg-shaped capsule which is used to measure body composition (i.e. body fat and lean body mass). The volunteer has to wear a swimsuit and cap and sit in the capsule for approximately 5 minutes whilst the measurement is taken.

Waist circumference and abdominal fat

The Tanita ViScan assesses waist circumference and also provides an estimation of the amount of body fat in the abdominal region. The scan procedure involves an electrode belt being placed on the volunteer’s abdominal region and a small electrical signal, which cannot be felt, is sent through the area. The measurement takes less than 30 seconds.

Energy expenditure, cardiovascular and respiratory function

The Oxycon Pro is a system that is used to measure metabolic energy expenditure and can also determine cardiovascular and respiratory function at rest or during exercise.

Monitor activity levels

The RT3 accelerometer is a small, portable device used to monitor activity levels. The volunteer wears the device attached to an item of clothing. The device then measures the amount of energy expended during periods of activity and rest and calculates the calories used.

Blood samples

Some studies require volunteers to provide blood samples. Specialist blood taking rooms are available within the HISU. Blood samples are taken by fully trained and qualified phlebotomists to ensure that any discomfort is kept to a minimum.

Before taking part in any study, all volunteers will be fully informed of the study details including what measurements will be taken, the duration of the study and if the study involves a stay in the residential suite.

ONGOING STUDIES

Body composition and Endothelial function Study

This study is investigating the relationships between body composition and endothelial function in healthy non-smoking males and females aged between 19 - 55 years.

The Trinity, Ulster and Department of Agriculture (TUDA) Cohort study

The TUDA study is examining the link between diet, genetics and health in adults over 60 years of age, who live in the North or South of Ireland, with a range of conditions including hypertension, osteoporosis and cognitive decline.

For further information, please contact Dr Geraldine Horigan on 028 71296166 or email gb.horigan@ulster.ac.uk or Dr Leane Hoey on 028 70123516 or email l.hoey@ulster.ac.uk

The SWAFAX Study

The SWAFAX Study is investigating the effects of seaweed polyphenol extract on measures of inflammation and oxidative stress.

For further information, please contact Dr Chris Gill on 028 70123181 or email c.gill@ulster.ac.uk or Dr Francina Baldrick on 028 70124096 or email fr.baldrick@ulster.ac.uk

B-vitamins and Bone Health in Coeliac Disease

This study is examining the effect of B-vitamin supplementation on measures of bone health in patients with Coeliac disease.

For further information please contact Miss Michelle Clarke on 028 70123529 or email Clarke-M3@email.ulster.ac.uk

The SEAPALM Study

The SEAPALM study aims to investigate the health benefits of incorporating Irish seaweed (dulse) into everyday foods.

For further information please contact Dr Philip Allsopp on 028 70123125 or email pj.allsopp@ulster.ac.uk

Pork Study

This study is investigating the effects of consuming pork from pigs fed seaweed extract.

For further information please contact Dr Emma Brown on 028 70123973 or email em.brown@ulster.ac.uk