Effects of different protein drinks on older adults' metabolism

Metabolite Changes Following Consumption Of Different Protein Drinks In Singapore Older Adults

Not applicable Interventional National University of Singapore · NCT06956131

This study tests how different protein drinks affect the metabolism, mood, appetite, and brain function of older adults aged 60 to 80.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment32 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational University of Singapore Academic / other
Locations1 site (Singapore)
Trial IDNCT06956131 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the acute effects of various protein sources, including casein, whey, and soy, on the metabolomic profiles of older adults aged 60 to 80. It employs a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design, where participants will consume four different protein drinks across multiple visits. The study aims to assess changes in blood amino acids, cognitive function, mood, and appetite following protein intake. Insights gained may inform dietary recommendations for older adults to support their health and well-being.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are English-literate adults aged 60 to 80 with a BMI between 18.5 and 30.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently participating in other dietary studies or have significant weight changes or vigorous exercise habits may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into optimal protein sources for enhancing metabolic health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on protein intake and metabolism exist, this specific approach focusing on older adults and different protein sources is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* English-literate and able to give informed consent
* Adults 60 to 80 years old (inclusive)
* (If applicable) Postmenopausal
* BMI of 18·5 to 30 kg/m2 (inclusive)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Currently participating in another clinical study that involves altering the regular diet and/or involves consuming a dietary supplement or investigated food product as an intervention
* Weight change \>3 kg in the past 3 months
* Exercising vigorously over the past 3 months (i.e., engaging in high-intensity exercises for more than 3 hours a week, where high-intensity exercises leave one out of breath and unable to talk or sing during the workout)
* Current smokers or have quit smoking for less than 5 years
* Drinking \>2 alcoholic drinks per day (i.e., one drink is defined as either 150 ml of wine, 340 ml of beer/cider or 45 ml of distilled spirit)
* If drinking ≤2 alcoholic drinks per day, not willing to stop consumption of alcoholic beverages two days before and on the day of the test visits (total 12 days)
* Not willing to stop consumption of caffeinated beverages 10 to 12 hours before and on the day of the test visits (total 4 days)
* Taking supplements containing omega-3, magnesium, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), L-theanine, melatonin and/or 5-hydroxytryptophan for the past 3 months, and not willing to discontinue usage 3 months before and during the study duration
* Currently on a specialised diet (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, weight loss diet)

  * Had serious food allergies in the past, or having intolerance, sensitivities or allergies to any of the following: milk/dairy products (e.g., casein, whey), starch/starch-derived products (e.g., rice, corn, wheat, potato), soy/soy-derived products, gluten, eggs, nuts, peanuts, fish and crustaceans.
* Disease or impairment of the kidney and/or liver
* Currently diagnosed with diabetes, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal issues (e.g., lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome), gout and/or G6PD deficiency
* History of diseases known to affect the central nervous system (e.g., heart disease, stroke, migraine headaches, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, mental illnesses)
* Taking antibiotics 2 weeks prior to study participation
* Taking medication known to interfere with cognitive function and mental wellbeing (e.g., benzodiazepines, antidepressants, other central nervous agents)
* Taking anti-hypertensive or cholesterol-lowering drugs for less than 3 years unless medically declared by an official doctor to be in stable condition
* Poor peripheral venous access based on past experiences with blood drawing

Where this trial is running

Singapore

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions AgingProtein MetabolismOlder adultsMetabolomicsProtein intakeProtein metabolismAcutePostprandial
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.