Improving the Anabolic Action of Plant-based Foods Using Complementary Proteins

1. Preliminary Testing Preparation: Participants will arrive for the preliminary testing session after an overnight fast (~10 h no caloric foods/beverages consumed) and having refrained from exercise for the 72 h prior. Prior to any in-person procedures, participants will be briefed on the procedures and risks associated with participation via reviewing the informed consent document. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions and have their questions answered prior to being asked if they'd like to continue. Confirmation will be documented via signature on an informed consent process form.

1.1 Anthropometrics: Upon provision of consent, participants' height and weight will be measured to confirm body mass index (BMI) is within eligibility limits (18.5 - 30 kg/m^2). Since participants have already been assessed for all other inclusion and exclusion criteria, an eligible BMI will result in study inclusion and continuation of the preliminary testing session. Following confirmation of study eligibility, blood pressure will be measured by a trained member of the research team. Subsequently, body composition will be determined via dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Briefly, participants will be asked to remove all metal objects from their person prior to being positioned by a trained technician for accurate measurement of lean body mass and fat mass. The scan lasts approximately 6-10 minutes during which the participant will be instructed to remain motionless.

1.2 Resting Metabolic Rate: Resting metabolic rate (RMR) will be assessed via indirect calorimetry. This is a non-exertional test whereby RMR is measured using an automated gas analysis system. This device measures oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production as the difference between inspired and expired gas concentrations. Prior to the beginning of the test, participants will lie supine on a table and a clear, hard plastic hood and soft, clear plastic drape will be placed over the participants neck, head, and shoulders to capture expired gases. Participants will then lie motionless without falling asleep while respiratory gas concentrations are captured. Testing will conclude when RMR is stable for at least 20 min (typically ~30 min from the onset).

1.3 Ten-Repetition Maximum (10RM) Testing: Following resting metabolic rate testing, participants will have their 10RM tested for the leg extension and leg press. To begin, participants will cycle at a self-selected pace on a standard cycle ergometer for ~5 minutes. Participants will then complete a set of 8-10 repetitions at ~50% of their predicted 10RM followed by 1-2 minutes of rest. The load will then be set at ~90% of their predicted 10RM. Load will be increased by 2.5-5.0% following each successful attempt until failure (typically within 5 attempts). Two minutes of rest will be allotted between maximal attempts and 5 minutes between exercises. Leg extension will be tested first followed by leg press. Before leaving the laboratory, participants will be allowed to ask any questions they have before concluding the session.

1.4 Habitual Diet Record: Current diet intake will be assessed through an online automated self-administered (ASA24) diet record system. Participants will receive their individual and private username and password. They will be asked to record 3 consecutive days (2 weekdays, 1 weekend day). As it is an online system, they can complete off-site, at their leisure.