Summary:
Do you have (or think you have) slightly high cholesterol but you don't want to take medication? We are evaluating the effects of nopales (cactus pads) and cucumber intake on cholesterol levels.
If you take part in the study, you would:
Eat 2 cups/day of nopales or 2 cups/day of cucumbers for 16 days.
After 2 to 3 weeks of no intervention, you will receive the alternative treatment for an additional 16 days.
Weight, blood pressure and blood samples will be collected before and after each dietary intervention.
Individuals willing to attend a preliminary screening visit to verify slightly high cholesterol levels, willing to follow the protocol for 7 weeks, and willing to have blood taken on eight occasions may be eligible to participate.
Qualified Participants Must:
• Be between 18 and 70 years of age
•
Live or work in Phoenix metropolitan area
•
Not have diabetes or heart disease
•
Not be taking cholesterol lowering medication
• Meet additional criteria that may apply
Qualified Participants May Receive:
The test foods, test results, up to $100 in gift cards, one set of ear phones and one pen drive to thank them for their time.