NO-Frail Study

STUDY BASICS

Are you age 70 or older and currently exercise for less than one hour per week? If so, you may be able to participate in a research study to help find out if taking nitrite capsules can improve muscle health and help older adults become more active. Participation involves nine visits over four months. Compensation and parking pass provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Many older adults become less physically active, which can increase the risk for developing health problems, becoming weak, and having a decreased quality of life. The purpose of this study is to find out if taking nitrite tablets can improve muscle health and help older adults become more active. Some research has shown that nitrites, which are naturally occurring compounds found in a variety of foods we eat, may help muscle cells work better with more energy and better action. Researchers hope their findings lead to better health for older adults in the future.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• Age 70 and up
• Do not currently exercise for more than one hour per week

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Study participants will attend nine visits over about 16 weeks. Participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to receive either nitrite capsules or placebo capsules for about 14 weeks. The placebo capsules look the same as the nitrite capsules but do not contain any active ingredients. During the study visits, study procedures may include questionnaires, physical activity tests, blood draws, muscle biopsy, and magnetic resonance spectrometry scanning.