This pilot study aims to determine the impact of whey protein supplementation on brain antioxidant levels and to assess the effects of whey protein supplementation on physical function, body composition, and cognition in pre-frail older adults.
Frailty is characterized by weakness, muscle loss, and physical impairment. It is suggested that long term oxidative stress might contribute to frailty. Glutathione (GSH), an antioxidant in cells, is needed to combat oxidative stress. Whey protein has the potential to increase brain antioxidant (GSH) levels by aiding in antioxidant synthesis. Frail older adults under-consume protein compared to healthy older adults. Researchers want to see if supplementing with whey protein will improve brain antioxidant status in pre-frail older adults. They will measure this by using special Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans. Participants will be asked to complete a total of 4 study visits, all taking place on the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) main campus. Two of these visits will include an MRI scan. Participation will last about 3 months.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
20
24g of whey protein will be given to the participant to be consumed daily. Participants will be asked to consume 1 serving per day for 3 months.
A calorie matched serving of carbohydrate powder will be given to participants to consume daily. Participants will be asked to consume 1 serving per day for 3 months.
The University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, Kansas, United States
RECRUITINGChange in brain glutathione (GSH) levels measured using MRI scans.
Brain GSH levels will be measured using 3T MRI scans.
Time frame: Changes from baseline to 3 months.
Assess the change in physical function by measuring balance resistance, sit-to-stand, muscle strength and performance.
Balance resistance will be measured with a pressure-sensitive walkway. Sit-to-stand will be measured by number of repetitions in 30 seconds and the time to complete 5 repetitions. Muscle strength and performance will be measured by grip strength and gait speed. Grip strength is measured 3 times and averaged. Gait speed is measured with a 15-foot walk test and will be measured twice.
Time frame: Changes from baseline to 3 months.
Assess body composition with a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) device.
To measure, subjects will stand on the device, covering the electrodes with their hands and feet. The measure takes less than 2 minutes.
Time frame: Changes from baseline to 3 months.
Assess cognition using the NIH Toolbox cognition battery.
The NIH Toolbox cognition battery will include 5 tests resulting in a composite score. The exam will be administered on an iPad device.
Time frame: Changes from baseline to 3 months.
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