The CHARM study builds on the HEAL study to explore how diet, particularly the consumption of processed foods, affects metabolic health. CHARM will collect blood samples and optional stool samples from up to 4,500 HEAL participants within two weeks of a 24-hour dietary recall. Blood samples will be analyzed for metabolic health markers and metabolomics, while stool samples will be stored for future gut microbiome research. CHARM includes a focus on populations often left out of health research, such as those with lower education, those who have experienced discrimination, or those living in rural areas. CHARM aims to close critical knowledge gaps and generate evidence to support more inclusive public health policies and dietary guidance for all Canadians.
For more information about the CHARM study, please visit our website.