Comparing the effects of animal and plant-based protein on health
Acute Effects of Animal Versus Plant-Based Protein Within a Realistic High-Fat Meal on Metabolic and Inflammatory Factors
This study tests how eating a high-fat meal with either plant-based meat or ground beef affects health markers in people aged 18 to 50 with different body weights.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ball State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Muncie, Indiana) |
| Trial ID | NCT06445296 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the metabolic, gastrointestinal, and inflammatory responses to a high-fat meal containing either a plant-based meat alternative (Beyond Meat) or ground beef. Participants aged 18 to 50 with varying body weights will undergo two meal trials in a randomized crossover design, where they will consume meals with identical macronutrient profiles. Blood samples will be collected before and after the meals to assess various health markers. The goal is to understand how these two protein sources affect individuals differently based on their weight status.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-50 with a BMI greater than 18.5 kg/m2 who do not have chronic health conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, or chronic inflammatory conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into healthier dietary choices for individuals struggling with overweight or obesity.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence on the specific impacts of newer plant-based meat alternatives, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding dietary effects on health.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 - 50 years. * Body mass index \> 18.5 kg/m2 * Not pregnant (females only) * Not postmenopausal (females only). * Not been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. * Not been diagnosed with a cardiometabolic conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes) * Not been diagnosed with a chronic inflammatory condition (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease). * Does not regularly take anti-inflammatory drugs (more than 2x week). * Does not use glucose-lowering drugs (e.g., metformin) * Does not use lipid-lowering drugs (e.g., statins) * Does not use tobacco products or any illicit drugs. * Does not have a pacemaker. * Can consume pea products (Beyond Meat is made from pea protein). Exclusion Criteria: * Not between the ages of 18-50 * Body mass index \< 18.5 kg/m2 * Pregnant (females only) * Postmenopausal status (females only). * Been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. * Been diagnosed with a cardiometabolic conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes) * Been diagnosed with a chronic inflammatory condition (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease). * Regularly take anti-inflammatory drugs (more than 2x week). * Uses glucose-lowering drugs (e.g., metformin) * Uses lipid-lowering drugs (e.g., statins) * Uses tobacco products or any illicit drugs. * Have a pacemaker. * Allergic to pea products (Beyond Meat is made from pea protein).
Where this trial is running
Muncie, Indiana
- Health Professions Building, Ball State University — Muncie, Indiana, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Bryant Keirns — Ball State University
- Study coordinator: Bryant Keirns, PhD
- Email: bryant.keirns@bsu.edu
- Phone: 765-285-8356
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.