Eligibility: Identical and fraternal, healthy male twins – aged 18-45 years.
We have seen a shift in dietary patterns with increased consumption of processed, easily accessible foods. Minimal attention has been placed on what changes occur to sperm as a result of differences in diet, and whether this can impact the health of future offspring. Because of this, there is a lack of fertility healthcare and dietary guidelines available to men.
Introducing the Food Intake and Epigenetic Alteration in the Spermatozoa of Singletons and Twins (FEASST) study
This study will help understand the impact of diet on fertility, and the potential impact on child health. It is hoped this could also help the development of dietary guidelines for fathers-to-be.
Learn more about the study in the video below.
What is involved?
Clinic visits: If you agree to participate you will be required to attend the clinic located in Clayton on 3 occasions:
- To determine eligibility
- Just before you begin the dietary intervention
- At the end of the dietary intervention
At the clinic, trained medical staff will conduct a physical examination and collect blood, medical information and ask you to complete some surveys. You will also be required to provide a semen sample. As reimbursement of your time, you will also receive $100 pre-paid debit card for each clinic visit you attend ($300 maximum available per participant).
Dietary intervention: You and your twin will be given different diets to consume for 3-weeks. You will be required to only consume what is provided to you. The food provided will consist of 3 meals and 2 snacks per day and is valued at approximately $1000. You will also be asked to refrain from consuming alcohol during the dietary intervention.
Along with free meals and $300 of reimbursements for attending clinic appointments, participants will also receive a detailed general and reproductive health report, and a one-month gym voucher or a FitBit.
Who is eligible?
All twins who meet the following criteria are eligible:
- Male identical and fraternal twin pairs
- 18-45 years old
- No food allergies
- No disorder of the reproductive system
- Do not take certain* daily medications (*please discuss with the researchers)
Would you like to get involved?
If you would like to participate or find out more please contact us.
If you are not yet a Twins Research Australia member you will also need to register online here.
Recruitment:
July 2022 – ongoing in 2023
Please contact us if you are interested.
