Plant Protein Blend and Milk Protein Supplements in Older Individuals

Launched by MAASTRICHT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · May 6, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of taking daily protein supplements—either a plant-based protein blend or milk protein—on muscle health in older adults. As we age, maintaining muscle mass becomes more challenging, and this study aims to see if these protein supplements can help support muscle growth, especially for those who may not be getting enough protein in their regular diet. The trial will include healthy individuals aged 60 to 80 who meet certain health criteria.

Eligible participants will need to have a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 30 and should not be following a vegetarian or vegan diet. They should also not have any allergies to milk, corn, or peas, and must not be currently involved in a structured exercise program. Throughout the study, participants will take the protein supplements while following their usual diet, and researchers will monitor their muscle growth over time. This trial is particularly important as it explores new ways to support muscle health in older individuals, which could lead to better overall health and quality of life.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Male or female sex
• • Aged between 60 and 80 y inclusive
• • BMI between 18.5 and 30 kg/m2
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Following a self-reported vegetarian and vegan diet the 6 months prior to the study.
• • Intolerant to milk products
• • Corn allergy
• • Pea allergy
• • Participating currently or in the 3 months prior to the study in a structured (progressive) exercise program.
• • Smoking regularly (i.e. \>5 cigarettes/week)
• • History of cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urogenital, neurological, psychiatric, dermatologic, musculoskeletal, metabolic, endocrine, haematological, immunologic disorders, allergy, major surgery and/or laboratory assessments which might limit participation in or completion of the study protocol, interfere with the execution of the experiment, or potential influence the study outcomes (to be decided by the principal investigator and responsible physician)
• • Diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU)
• • Uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure above 160/100 mmHg)
• • Donated blood 3 months prior to test day
• • Use of any medications that interferes with study participation and/or outcomes (i.e. corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, gastric acid suppressing medication) as assessed by the responsible medical doctor.
• • Use of DOAC, vitamin-K-antagonist, or multiple anticoagulants
• • Pregnancy