Gut check: could sauerkraut and fiber help fight cancer?

NCT ID NCT06475807

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Pittsburgh Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study explores whether eating high-fermented foods (like yogurt and kimchi) followed by high-fiber supplements can change the gut microbiome and improve immune response in people with melanoma or lung cancer who are receiving standard immunotherapy. Researchers will track changes in gut bacteria and immune cells in 70 participants over several weeks. The goal is to gather early data on whether diet can support cancer treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: high-fermented foods and high-fiber supplements
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward simple dietary changes that help cancer patients respond better to immunotherapy.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early pilot study with only 70 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Dietary changes may have no significant effect on immunity or treatment outcomes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cancer melanoma neoplasm non-small cell lung carcinoma small cell lung carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15232, United States

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