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The Role of Dietary Fiber in Mitigating Sarcopenia Risk in Head and Neck Cancer

A Preliminary Elucidation of the Role of Dietary Fiber in Mitigating Sarcopenia Risk in Head and Neck Cancer

Who can join

Ages 18 and older · All sexes

Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥18 years of age
* Newly diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the: paranasal sinuses, nasal cavity, oral cavity, tongue, larynx, pharynx \[i.e., nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx\]
* Meeting at least 60% of baseline energy needs
* Willingness to provide data prior to treatment
* Access to the internet
* Access to a home freezer
* Ability to do remote interview
* Access to a phone
* Willingness to avoid pre-, pro-, or synbiotics

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previously diagnosed or positive screen for a GI-related condition or eating disorder
* Able to complete bioelectrical impedance (stand unsupported, no pacemaker or limb amputation) and Timed Chair Stands
* Currently pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
* Current or past 3-month antibiotic use

About the study

Emerging data suggest consumption of dietary fiber before and during cancer treatment may improve prognosis for patients with head and neck cancer, in part via increased production of short chain fatty acids, systemic anti-inflammatory effects, and decreased risk of sarcopenia. Foods rich in dietary fiber are often low in calories and protein, thus are not typically targeted in current treatment paradigms that focus on countering the catabolic state associated with sarcopenia. This project entails an observational, mixed methods study to: observe dietary fiber intake in patients with head and neck cancer from time of diagnosis for six months; elucidate the relationship between dietary fiber intake, short chain fatty acids, inflammatory markers, and sarcopenia; and explore the feasibility of and patient perceptions regarding promoting dietary fiber as part of their treatment approaches.

Sponsor: University of Oklahoma · Participants: 59 · Started: Oct 31, 2025

Contact the study team

• Ashlea C Braun, PhD · Phone: 15672401582

Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT07622914

Locations in the U.S.

Conditions

• Head and Neck Cancer
• Sarcopenia

From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.