How pork protein affects recovery after simulated firefighting

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In this randomized, double-blind, crossover trial, healthy adult firefighters will try three ready-to-eat meal conditions—pork-based protein, plant-based protein, and a carbohydrate-focused lower-protein option—around a simulated firefighting test. Each participant completes all three conditions with a 14–21 day washout between them to compare effects on muscle damage, physiological stress, soreness, and both physical and cognitive performance during recovery. The study aims to see if pork protein offers advantages over plant-based protein or carbohydrate meals in recovery and readiness for subsequent tasks. A 14–21 day washout period separates each condition, and meals are designed to match energy and macronutrients across conditions. Primary outcomes include biomarkers of muscle damage and measures of physical and cognitive performance during recovery.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 to 60 years of age
* Current trained male or female firefighter with the Fort Worth Fire Department
* Able to comply with all study procedures and the study timeline
* Willing to consume only the study-provided ready-to-eat meals (RTEM) during designated study periods
* Willing to refrain from alcohol, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and over-the-counter pain medications for 48 hours before testing sessions
* Available to complete the study visits and required testing procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

* Younger than 18 years or older than 60 years
* Not a current firefighter with the Fort Worth Fire Department
* Pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the study
* Orthopedic or musculoskeletal limitations that prevent safe completion of the vertical jump or simulated fire ground test
* Use of weight-loss dietary supplements or medications within the previous 2 weeks
* Unwilling to refrain from alcohol, NSAIDs, aspirin, or over-the-counter pain medications for 48 hours before testing sessions
* Unwilling or unable to consume only the study-provided RTEM during designated study periods
* Heavy smoking, defined as more than 1 pack of cigarettes per day during the previous 3 months
* Allergy to any of the protein sources or study foods

Where it's running

• Bob Bolen Public Safety Complex Administration
  Fort Worth, Texas, United States Recruiting
• Sam Houston State University
  Huntsville, Texas, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Drew E Gonzalez, PhD — Sam Houston State University
• Study coordinator: Drew Edward Gonzalez, PhD
• Email: drewgonzalez418@shsu.edu
• Phone: 2107888616

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.