Comparing whole food protein and supplements for muscle training
Investigation of Protein Source and Its Impact on Response to Resistance Training
This study tests whether eating lean red meat can help people build muscle better than taking whey protein supplements while they do strength training.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University College Cork Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cork City, Co. Cork) |
| Trial ID | NCT06739408 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effects of whole food protein sources, specifically lean red meat, compared to whey protein supplements on muscle function and composition in moderately active individuals. Participants will be randomized into three groups: one consuming lean red meat, another taking whey protein, and a control group receiving an isocaloric maltodextrin beverage. Over a 12-week period, all participants will engage in progressive resistance training while their nutritional intake and micronutrient status will be monitored. The study aims to determine if whole food protein can provide equivalent or superior benefits to supplementation in enhancing resistance training outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 18 to 35 who have low or no prior experience with resistance training.
Not a fit: Patients who are highly trained athletes or those with significant health concerns or disabilities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide evidence that whole food protein sources are as effective or more beneficial than supplements for muscle development and overall health.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of protein supplements is well-studied, the specific comparison of whole food protein sources like lean red meat against supplements is less common, making this approach relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * a. Aged between 18 to 35 years old. b. Have completed either no or low level only resistance training in the previous 6 months. c. Are not using any protein or performance/recovery enhancing supplements or willing to stop use for duration of the study. d. Willing to consume study treatment for duration of the study. e. Willing to perform resistance training. f. Must be able and willing to provide written informed consent to participate. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Have any notable health concern or disability which may conceivably increase risk to the participant and/or affect outcomes. 2. Has performed resistance training in the past 6 months at a moderate or high level. 3. Is a smoker. 4. Is unwilling or unable to perform full body resistance training. 5. Is pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study period. 6. Has a food allergy or intolerance that may place participant at risk to consume any of the study treatments. 7. Is post-menopausal or currently undergoing menopause. 8. Follows a vegetarian or meat-avoidant diet.
Where this trial is running
Cork City, Co. Cork
- Human Nutrition Studies Unit, University College Cork — Cork City, Co. Cork, Ireland (Recruiting)
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.