Effects of krill oil and protein on muscle building after exercise

Investigating the Effects of Krill Oil and Krill Protein on Post-exercise Muscle Protein Metabolism: a Randomised Controlled Trial

NA · University of Glasgow · NCT05774444

This study tests if krill oil and krill protein can help older adults build muscle and recover better after weightlifting compared to vegetable oil or carbohydrates.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Glasgow (other)
Locations1 site (Glasgow)
Trial IDNCT05774444 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates whether krill oil can enhance muscle protein metabolism following resistance exercise, specifically weightlifting. It also examines the effects of krill protein and the combined impact of krill oil and protein on muscle building processes. Participants will be given either krill oil, krill protein, vegetable oil, or carbohydrates to assess their effects on muscle recovery and growth. The study aims to provide insights into nutritional strategies for improving muscle health in older adults.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 60 and older who engage in structured exercise for less than 2 hours per week and have a BMI under 35.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved muscle health and recovery strategies for older adults, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into omega-3 fatty acids and muscle metabolism, this specific combination of krill oil and protein in older adults is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be 60 years old or older
* Have a BMI of less than 35kg/m2
* Be participating in structured exercise for less than 2h per week

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diabetes
* Severe cardiovascular disease
* Seizure disorders,
* Uncontrolled hypertension (\>150/90mmHg at baseline measurement)
* Cancer or cancer that has been in remission \<5 years
* Ambulatory impairments which would limit ability to perform assessments of muscle function
* Dementia
* Taking medication known to affect muscle (e.g., steroids)
* Have an implanted electronic device (e.g., pacemaker/defibrillator/insulin pump),
* Anticoagulant therapy
* Allergies to seafood
* Regular consumption of more than 1 portion of oily fish per week.

Where this trial is running

Glasgow

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hypertrophy, Omega-3, Krill oil, Protein, Exercise

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.