30 Participants Needed

Protein Beverages for Amino Acids

LG
SC
Overseen BySara Campbell, MPH
Age: 18 - 65
Sex: Any
Trial Phase: Academic
Sponsor: Midwest Center for Metabolic and Cardiovascular Research
No Placebo GroupAll trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial aims to evaluate how two different protein drinks affect amino acid levels in the bloodstream. It also examines their impact on digestion, blood sugar, appetite, and potential to cause nausea. Participants will try either a new protein drink (protein powder) or a control version for comparison. The trial seeks generally healthy adults with a body mass index (BMI) between 22.5 and 32.5, who do not frequently experience digestive issues and are willing to follow specific guidelines during the study. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to valuable nutritional research that could enhance dietary options for many.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

You may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that affect digestion or gastrointestinal function, like laxatives or antacids, for 14 days before the study. If you're on other medications, it's best to discuss with the study team to see if they might affect your participation.

Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?

Studies have shown that some protein powders contain heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. Although this might sound concerning, research indicates that the amounts found do not pose a significant health risk for non-cancer-related issues. Generally, these products are considered safe for most people when used as directed. However, awareness of these findings is important, and careful product selection is advised for those concerned about metal exposure.12345

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about this protein beverage treatment because, unlike standard protein supplements, it explores the potential benefits of a new protein powder formulation when mixed with water. This experimental approach could offer better absorption of amino acids, potentially enhancing muscle recovery and growth more effectively than current options. Additionally, by simply mixing the protein powder with water, it provides a convenient and accessible way to consume essential nutrients, which could appeal to a broader range of individuals seeking to improve their protein intake.

What evidence suggests that these protein beverages are effective for amino acid absorption?

Research shows that protein supplements help the body build and repair muscles. Studies have found that consuming protein significantly boosts the process of muscle growth and healing. Even a small amount of essential amino acids in protein powders can effectively kickstart this process. Protein provides these important amino acids needed for overall muscle health. This trial will compare two protein beverages: an experimental protein powder and an active control protein powder, both mixed into 8 oz of water. These findings suggest that protein drinks could increase amino acid levels in the body, supporting muscle growth and recovery.678910

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for adults interested in the effects of protein beverages on amino acid levels, digestion, and appetite. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided.

Inclusion Criteria

Individual understands the study procedures and signs forms documenting informed consent to participate in the study and authorization for release of relevant protected health information to the study Investigator
Individual has a body mass index (BMI) of 22.5 to 32.5 kg/m2. Only 5 participants will have a BMI of 30 to 32.5 kg/m2
Individual is judged by the Investigator to be in generally good health on the basis of medical history and screening measurements
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Exclusion Criteria

I haven't had cancer in the last 2 years, except for skin cancer or cervical pre-cancer.
I often have diarrhea or constipation that might affect study results.
Individual has uncontrolled hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥160 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥100 mm Hg)
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Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

1-2 weeks

Treatment

Participants consume two different protein beverages in a crossover design to assess amino acid appearance in circulation

1 day per beverage with a washout period in between
2 visits (in-person)

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for changes in gastrointestinal tolerability, glycemia, appetite markers, and nausea

12 hours post-consumption per beverage
2 visits (in-person)

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

  • Protein Powder

Trial Overview

The study aims to compare how two different protein powders affect amino acid levels in the blood after consumption. It will also look at their impact on digestive comfort, blood sugar control, hunger signals, and feelings of nausea.

How Is the Trial Designed?

2

Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Experimental - Protein BeverageExperimental Treatment1 Intervention
Group II: Active Control - Protein BeverageActive Control1 Intervention

Find a Clinic Near You

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Midwest Center for Metabolic and Cardiovascular Research

Lead Sponsor

Trials
22
Recruited
880+

The Hershey Company

Industry Sponsor

Trials
8
Recruited
210+

Citations

Effects of Protein Supplementation on Performance and ...

There is robust evidence which shows that consuming protein pre- and/or post-workout induces a significant rise in muscle protein synthesis.

Role of Ingested Amino Acids and Protein in the Promotion ...

We found that protein/AA supplements, combined with RET, produced a positive, albeit minor, effect on the promotion of lean mass growth.

Stimulation of muscle protein synthesis with low-dose ...

We conclude that a low dose of an EAA-based composition can effectively stimulate muscle protein synthesis. Introduction. Essential amino acid ( ...

Essential Amino Acids and Protein Synthesis

Ingesting protein-containing supplements and foods provides essential amino acids (EAA) necessary to increase muscle and whole-body protein synthesis (WBPS).

Muscle Protein Synthesis in Response to Plant-Based Protein ...

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a novel plant-based blend protein (PBP), PBP with added leucine (PBP + Leu) to levels ...

The hidden dangers of protein powders - Harvard Health

Researchers screened 134 products for 130 types of toxins and found that many protein powders contained heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, ...

Protein Powders and Shakes Contain High Levels of Lead

CR tests of 23 popular protein powders and shakes found that most contain high levels of lead.

A human health risk assessment of heavy metal ingestion ...

The data in the current study suggest that heavy metal exposure via protein powder supplement ingestion does not pose an increased non-carcinogenic risk to ...

2024-25 Protein Powder Category Report

This document reveals key findings on contaminants in popular protein powders, aiming to highlight the gaps in traditional nutritional labels and set new safety ...

Popular Protein Powders, Shakes Test Positive for Lead. ...

More than two-thirds of the 23 products tested exceeded the organization's self-set safety threshold of 0.5 micrograms per serving. Plant-based ...