Microalgae as an Alternative Protein Source in Human Nutrition.
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Completed
- Sponsor
- University of Exeter
- Enrollment
- 15
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- Plasma amino acids
Study Overview
Brief Summary
Protein is an essential part of the human diet. But with a growing global population and climate emergency, current sources of dietary protein are unable to continue to sustainably meet the global demand. To ensure future food security, new sustainable protein sources are required. Microalgae - a group of plant-like single cells - are thought to be a good option due to their sustainable farming methods and naturally high protein content. Long term health benefits of eating microalgae have been seen in humans. However, the time directly following microalgae ingestion has not been well studied but is an important period when considering a protein source. This research will compare the period after ingestion of three preparations and/or types of microalgae to a traditional source of protein.
Study Design
- Study Type
- Interventional
- Allocation
- Randomized
- Intervention Model
- Crossover
- Primary Purpose
- Basic Science
- Masking
- Quadruple (Participant, Care Provider, Investigator, Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 18 Years to 40 Years (Adult)
- Sex
- All
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria
- •BMI 18.5 -30 kg/m2
- •age 18 - 40 years
- •non-smoker
Exclusion Criteria
- •BMI <18.5 or >30 kg/m2
- •metabolic disease
- •relevant food intolerance
- •using medications known to affect metabolism
Arms & Interventions
Whole cell chlorella
Intervention: Protein shake (Dietary Supplement)
Cracked cell chlorella
Intervention: Protein shake (Dietary Supplement)
Spirulina
Intervention: Protein shake (Dietary Supplement)
Milk protein
Intervention: Protein shake (Dietary Supplement)
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
Plasma amino acids
Time Frame: 5 hours postprandial
Amino acid concentrations measured in participant plasma following the ingestion of protein drinks.
Secondary Outcomes
No secondary outcomes reported