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NZ Synergy Study
A two-week residential study exploring diet and type 2 diabetes risk.
About
Why this study matters
Are you concerned about your diabetes risk? The NZ Synergy Study investigates whether the foods you eat alter circulating blood markers that we have recently found to be associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes.
This is a residential study at the Human Nutrition Unit in Mt Eden. Participants live on-site for two weeks while we precisely control diet and monitor metabolic responses. You can still attend daily work, classes, and visit friends and family during the day you simply consume only the food and drinks we provide.
The findings will help shape nutrition guidance for people at elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly within Chinese and European Caucasian populations in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Participation
What you'll be asked to do
Two-week residential stay
Live at the Human Nutrition Unit in Mt Eden for the full study period. You may attend work, classes, or visit family during the day, but all meals and drinks must come from our kitchen.
Controlled diet
Consume all meals and snacks provided to you. Our research dietitians plan every meal to match the study protocol, so we can measure exactly how your body responds.
Avoid vigorous exercise
Refrain from intense physical activity such as power walking, running, or vigorous cycling for the duration of the study. Gentle daily movement is fine.
Eligibility
Who we're looking for
You can join if
- You are aged 18–60 years.
- Your BMI is between 24 and 40 kg/m² (overweight or obesity range).
- You have elevated fasting blood sugar but have NOT been diagnosed with diabetes (we can check this for you).
- You identify as Chinese (including mainland China, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, or Taiwan) OR European Caucasian.
- You live in the Auckland area and can stay at our Mt Eden facility for two weeks.
- You are happy to eat a wide range of foods.
You cannot join if
- You have already been diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
- Following a vegetarian, vegan, or strict elimination diet
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy during the study period.
FAQ
Common questions
Do I have to stay overnight at the unit for the full two weeks?+
 Yes. The study is residential you sleep at our Mt Eden facility every night so we can precisely control your meal timing. During the day you are free to leave for work, classes, or social activities, as long as you only eat what we provide.
Will I be paid for participating?+
Yes, you will be compensated for your time and effort. The exact amount depends on the visit schedule — please contact us for current rates.