Optimizing carbohydrate fueling for better physical performance during energy deficit
Optimized Carbohydrate Fueling to Enhance Physical Performance During Energy Deficit
This study is testing if combining glucose with fructose can help people perform better during exercise when they don't have enough energy, especially for those in military settings.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 39 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Natick, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06394401 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized crossover study investigates the effects of consuming glucose (GLU) versus a combination of glucose and fructose (GLU+FRU) on carbohydrate oxidation rates and physical performance during aerobic exercise under both energy balance and energy deficit conditions. Participants will undergo a glycogen normalization phase followed by controlled refeeding periods before completing steady-state exercise sessions. The study aims to determine if the GLU+FRU combination can enhance performance more effectively than GLU alone during periods of energy deficit, which is particularly relevant for military operations. Data will be collected on participants' physical characteristics and exercise performance metrics.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy men and women aged 18-39 who regularly engage in aerobic or resistance exercise.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic illnesses, musculoskeletal injuries, or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved dietary recommendations for enhancing physical performance in energy-deficient conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that using multiple transportable carbohydrates can improve performance, but this specific approach during energy deficit is novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Men and women aged 18 - 39 years * Healthy without evidence of chronic illness or musculoskeletal injury as determined by the USARIEM Office of Medical Support and Oversight (OMSO) or home duty station medical support * Routinely participate in aerobic and/or resistance exercise at least 2 days per week * Willing to refrain from alcohol, smoking/using any nicotine product (includes e-cigarettes, vaping, chewing tobacco), caffeine, and dietary supplements while consuming the study diet * Supervisor approval for federal civilian employees and non-HRV active duty military personnel * Females must have normal menstrual cycles between 26-32 days in duration; 5 menstrual cycles within the past 6 months; or on continuous oral or IUD contraception without placebo. Exclusion Criteria: * Musculoskeletal injuries that compromise exercise capability * Metabolic or cardiovascular abnormalities, gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., kidney disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, etc.), claustrophobia * Significantly abnormal blood clotting as determined by OMSO or home duty station medical support * Allergy to lidocaine (or similar local anesthetic) * Present condition of alcoholism, anabolic steroid use, or other substance abuse issues as determined by OMSO or home duty station medical support * Blood donation within 8-wk of beginning the study * Pregnant, trying to become pregnant, and/or breastfeeding (results of urine pregnancy test and self-report for breastfeeding will be obtained before body composition testing) * Unwilling or unable to consume study diets or foods provided due to personal preference, dietary restrictions, and/or food allergies * Unwilling or unable to adhere to study physical restrictions
Where this trial is running
Natick, Massachusetts
- Usariem — Natick, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Lee M Margolis, PhD
- Email: lee.m.margolis.civ@health.mil
- Phone: 508-206-2335
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.