INTRODUCTION: Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, is a growing global health concern, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The Philippines has seen a significant rise in metabolic syndrome prevalence, linked to lifestyle factors and socioeconomic changes. This condition increases the risk of serious health issues like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary interventions, are crucial for managing metabolic syndrome. While dietary recommendations exist, practical challenges hinder their implementation. Diabetes-specific nutrition formulas (DSNFs) offer a convenient and effective solution, especially for individuals with limited cooking skills or knowledge. While DSNFs show promise in managing diabetes, their impact on metabolic syndrome remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the effects of DSNF on the metabolic parameters of Filipino adults with metabolic syndrome.
METHODS: This open-label randomized crossover trial will be conducted at St. Luke's Medical Center Global City. Filipino adults aged 19-65 with metabolic syndrome will be recruited. Participants will be randomized to either a 90-day intervention phase (DSNF) with a 14-day washout period or a 90-day control phase. After the initial phase, participants will cross over to the alternate phase. The primary outcome will be the change in metabolic parameters in the metabolic syndrome criteria (fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and waist circumference). Secondary outcomes include changes in metabolic parameters related to the metabolic syndrome (glycosylated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, body weight, BMI, body composition), and safety and tolerability of the treatments. Participants will be monitored through regular follow-up visits, daily food diaries, and subjective assessments. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.