Ankara University has announced its upcoming clinical trial exploring the effects of the Mediterranean diet on nutritional outcomes in Parkinson’s disease patients receiving bilateral subthalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS). As of October 5, 2025, the study is listed as ‘Not yet recruiting.’
The research aims to investigate whether dietary interventions can positively impact the nutritional status and overall well-being of patients undergoing advanced neurosurgical treatments for Parkinson’s disease.
In this article
What is the study?
Ankara University is sponsoring a clinical trial titled ‘Effect of Mediterranean Diet on Nutrition in Parkinson’s Disease Patients With Bilateral Subthalamic Deep Brain Stimulation.’ The study focuses on a specific demographic—individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease who are undergoing bilateral subthalamic DBS surgery.
The intervention uses the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its potential benefits in improving metabolic conditions and reducing inflammation. By assessing the diet’s impact on patients post-DBS, the study aims to provide actionable insights into nutritional approaches that could complement neurological treatments.
How can diet impact Parkinson’s patients with DBS?
Deep brain stimulation is an advanced surgical intervention used to manage motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease. While DBS can improve the quality of life substantially, effective management of post-surgical nutrition is crucial for optimizing its success.
The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole grains, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats (e.g., olive oil), and lean proteins. This dietary pattern may reduce oxidative stress and improve cellular health, factors that are critical for patients with neurodegenerative conditions.
The investigation by Ankara University seeks to validate the hypothesis that a diet adhering to Mediterranean guidelines can support nutritional stability, potentially mitigating complications and enhancing recovery outcomes in Parkinson’s patients with DBS implants.
Who should care?
This study should interest:
- Neurologists seeking integrative care strategies for Parkinson’s disease.
- Clinical dietitians involved in post-operative patient care.
- Regulatory teams monitoring clinical trials involving medical devices such as DBS systems.
- Patients and caregivers concerned about optimizing nutrition during advanced treatments.
FAQs
1. What is the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet focuses on plant-based foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil, while minimizing processed foods and sugar.
2. What is deep brain stimulation?
Deep brain stimulation is a neurosurgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in certain areas of the brain to modulate abnormal neural activity in Parkinson’s patients.
3. When will this study begin?
The trial is currently marked as ‘Not yet recruiting’ on ClinicalTrials.gov.
Conclusion
Ankara University’s trial underscores the importance of nutrition in enhancing clinical outcomes for individuals undergoing deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease. The integration of dietary strategies could pave the way for more holistic and effective neurological care models. Healthcare professionals monitoring advancements in DBS should keep an eye on findings from this upcoming study.
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for educational purposes intended for healthcare professionals and regulatory teams. It is not legal or medical advice.
Announcement Link
For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07187739?term=medical+device