This study aims to investigate the extent to which vegan or plant-based, omnivorous, and carnivore dietary patterns affect LDL aggregation susceptibility (the affinity for LDL cholesterol particles to clump together in the blood), which may promote plaque build-up in arteries. Using a cross-sectional mixed-methods design, the study will measure LDL aggregation, blood lipids, and other metabolic biomarkers in individuals following these diets, and combine these data with dietary and behavioural information to examine links with cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Adults aged 25-60 years.
BMI range (18.5-29.9 kg/m²).
Following one of the specified dietary patterns (vegan/plant-based, carnivore, or omnivorous) for a minimum of 6 months.
Self-identified as health-focused (i.e., intentionally following the diet for perceived health benefits).
BMI outside the stated range (<18.5 or ≥30 kg/m²).
Use of lipid-lowering medications or supplements that may interfere with LDL levels.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Any significant deviation from the specified diet within the last month.
Individuals based in or around the Liverpool and North West area that habitually follow one of the three pre-specified dietary patterns.
Case-control
Cross-sectional
Not listed
LDL aggregation susceptibility
To measure changes in how easily LDL cholesterol particles 'clump' together in the blood vessels from baseline to post-intervention, assessed via plasma lipid and lipoprotein analysis.
Plasma lipid and lipoprotein profile
Changes in plasma levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides will be determined via enzymatic analysis and measured in mmol/L.
Lipoprotein particle size
Changes in lipoprotein particle size (diameter) will be measured via Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and expressed in nanometers.
Qualitative interview
Participants will complete a semi-structured interview (\~30-45 minutes) to explore their experiences of their chosen dietary pattern. Interviews will assess eating behaviour, attitudes, motivation, and perceived impact of the chosen diet. Question subsections include overall experience, practical challenges, social and lifestyle factors, and intentions to continue the diet. Interviews will be conducted in person or online via Microsoft Teams, audio-recorded with consent, transcribed verbatim, and anonymised prior to thematic analysis.
Blood pressure
Change in resting systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Blood pressure reflects cardiovascular function and may be influenced by dietary fat type and nutrient composition.
Flow-mediated dilation (FMD)
Change in blood vessel function will be assessed using a non-invasive ultrasound test to measure how well the arteries widen (dilate) in response to increased blood flow.
Plasma glucose
Changes in fasting blood glucose will be assessed via biochemical plasma analysis of a venous blood sample and recorded in mmol/L.
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
This trial is not recruiting at the moment. You can still explore other options:
