The Effect of Animal Versus Plant Protein on Markers of Inflammation and Neuromuscular Performance Following an Acute Bout of Resistance Training
Jennifer Brasfield
Protein powders are one of the most popular nutritional supplements available today. They have been shown to enhance adaptations to resistance training and improve recovery times. Due to increased health, environmental and moral concerns, there is an increased demand for plant-based nutritional supplements. However, plant-based proteins possess a different amino acid profile compared to animal-based proteins and this difference may alter their efficacy. Purpose: The purpose of this investigation is to determine the effect of both animal and plant-based protein powders on markers of inflammation and neuromuscular performance following an acute bout of unaccustomed, eccentrically-biased exercise. We hypothesize that animal-based protein will be more effective at improving performance, reducing muscle soreness and limiting blood markers of inflammation during recovery compared to plant-based protein and placebo. Methodology: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental design 24 college-aged subjects will undergo baseline measurements that will include a visual analog scale for pain, a Y-balance test, a maximal counter movement jump, a 1RM leg press and have 7mL of blood drawn for analysis of interleukin-6 and creatine kinase. 48 hours later subjects will consume 25g of either animal or plant-based protein. 24 hours following this first consumption subjects will again consume 25g of their assigned protein and perform a bout of eccentrically-biased exercise with the lower body. 24 and 48 hours later the same measures collected at baseline will be collected again. Identifying potential nutritional strategies that can reduce recovery time in athletes could allow more practice/training time to be implemented thereby potentially enhancing an athlete’s performance. Furthermore, identifying agents that possess anti-inflammatory potential could be of use outside athletic competition, and could be an effective strategy to reduce the discomfort and soreness that is associated with novel and unaccustomed bouts of exercise that are often performed by non-athletes.
Jennifer Brasfield graduated from Woodruff High School and is currently a senior in exercise science. Her experiences include participation in Lander University's intramural softball league and volunteering for Habitat for Humanity.
