CompletedInterventional

Digestibility of broad bean (faba bean) protein compared to whey protein

Researchers are studying broad bean protein to see how well our bodies digest it compared to whey protein (found in milk). They want to understand how these proteins affect things like our appetite and blood sugar levels, both when eaten on their own and when combined with sugar. Current health advice suggests eating more plant-based foods, and broad beans could be a great local protein source in the UK. This study, funded by agricultural departments, aims to provide valuable information for farmers, food producers, and health experts on how broad beans can support human health. Healthy adults aged 18-40 are participating in this research in Belfast.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

Queen's University Belfast

Enrolment target

Start

05 Mar 2024

Estimated completion

10 Jun 2024

This is an acute feeding study in healthy adults

What is this study about?

This research study is looking into how our bodies digest the protein found in broad beans (also known as faba beans) compared to whey protein, which comes from cow's milk. There's growing interest in eating more plant-based foods for both our health and the environment. Broad beans are a promising crop that can be grown here in the UK and Ireland, but we need to understand how their protein works in our bodies.

The main goal of the study is to see how well broad bean protein is broken down and absorbed, and how this affects important things like our appetite (due to gut hormones) and blood sugar levels. They are comparing it with whey protein, which is known to be easily digested. Researchers will test these proteins both on their own and when combined with sugar, to get a full picture of their effects.

By understanding this better, the results of this study could be very helpful. It could give farmers more reasons to grow broad beans, help food companies create new healthy products, and provide nutrition and health experts with valuable information on how broad beans can contribute to a healthy diet.

Key takeaways

Researchers are comparing broad bean protein to whey protein.
They want to see how these proteins affect appetite and blood sugar.
The study involves four visits where you'll drink a test drink and have blood taken.
Participation helps understand effects of plant-based proteins on health.
You'll receive £200 in vouchers for your time.
The study takes place in Belfast and is looking for healthy adults aged 18-40.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy adult volunteers between 18 and 40 years old. You should weigh at least 50 kg or have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 18.5 or higher. It's important that you are willing to try drinks containing both whey protein and broad bean protein.

You also need to be able to attend the study visits and provide blood samples as required. Unfortunately, you cannot take part if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have any known food allergies or intolerances (like to milk), or have conditions such as diabetes or other health issues that affect your blood sugar, appetite, or digestion.

Also, if you've been in hospital recently for a major illness or surgery in the last three months, or if you're taking certain medications like steroids, you won't be able to join. There are also restrictions on donating blood in the previous few months.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 40 years old?
Are you generally healthy and weigh at least 50kg?
Are you willing to consume drinks with broad bean and whey protein?
Can you attend four visits in Belfast and provide blood samples?
Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do you have any food allergies (like to milk) or health conditions like diabetes?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part and are found eligible, you'll need to attend four separate visits at the Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility in Belfast. These visits will be at least a week apart, and you'll need to arrive without having eaten anything (fasted).

At each visit, you'll drink one of four different drinks: either whey protein, broad bean protein, or one of these proteins combined with sugar. The order in which you receive these drinks will be random. The amount of protein in your drink will be adjusted based on your body weight, and the drinks will be mixed with water and a sugar-free cordial for flavour.

During your first visit, you'll complete a quick questionnaire about your lifestyle, and your height, weight, and waist size will be measured. At each of the four visits, a trained nurse will take a few small blood samples – one before you drink, and then four more times over the next two hours. These samples will help researchers understand how your body reacts to the drinks. You'll also be asked to rate your hunger and what you thought of the taste and texture of the drink. Overall, the study involves these four visits, with blood draws and questionnaires at each.

Potential risks and benefits

By taking part, you'll be helping researchers understand more about broad bean protein and its effects on our bodies, which could benefit future health and food production. As a thank you for your time, you'll receive a £100 voucher after your second visit and another £100 voucher after your final visit. The proteins used in the study are widely available and generally well-tolerated, so serious side effects are expected to be very rare. The main risks are associated with blood sampling, such as a little discomfort, bruising, or feeling faint. However, blood samples will be taken by properly trained staff to ensure your safety. You'll also be given time to rest and offered a snack and drink after your measurements are complete. Remember, you can choose to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast
City only
Belfast, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is whey protein?

Whey protein comes from cow's milk and is a common protein supplement, known for being easily digested.

What are broad beans?

Broad beans, also called faba beans, are a type of legume (like peas or lentils) that are a good source of plant-based protein.

Will I have to fast for the study?

Yes, for each of your four visits, you will need to arrive without having eaten anything beforehand.

Where is the study taking place?

The study visits will happen at the Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility in Belfast.

Will I be paid for taking part?

You will receive a £100 voucher after your second visit and another £100 voucher after your last visit, totalling £200.

How to find out more

Eleni Spyreli

Eleni.Spyreli@qub.ac.uk - Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.