Spit check: simple saliva test may predict Kids' metabolic health

NCT ID NCT05211843

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Jodi Stookey Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether measuring insulin in saliva can help identify children at risk for metabolic problems and cavities. Researchers gave 105 children aged 5-10 either water, apple juice, or nothing, and checked how their saliva insulin changed. The goal was to see if saliva insulin could be a simple, non-invasive tool for school-based health screenings.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Drinking water and apple juice
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help schools use a simple saliva test to monitor children's risk for obesity, diabetes, and cavities without needles or questionnaires.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study (105 children) testing a biomarker, not a treatment. The results may not apply to all children or lead to a proven screening tool.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

dental caries

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CARIES METABOLOMIC PROFILE

Contacts and locations

Locations

UCSF Pediatric Dentistry

San Francisco, California, 94143, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.