Insect vs Animal Protein for Building Muscle
This study is looking into whether cricket protein, from insects, can help build muscle as effectively as whey protein, which comes from milk. Scientists want to find more sustainable ways to get protein, as insect farming is better for the environment than traditional livestock. While insects have been a food source for a long time in some cultures, there isn't much evidence yet on how well insect protein helps our muscles. This research will involve adults who regularly exercise, taking either a cricket or whey protein supplement daily for 12 weeks, alongside their resistance training. The aim is to see which protein has a better impact on muscle growth and strength.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is looking at which type of protein is best for building muscle: protein made from crickets, or whey protein, which is common in supplements and comes from milk. The main goal is to find out if cricket protein can be just as good as whey protein for helping your muscles grow and repair after exercise. This is important because farming insects like crickets is much better for our environment than raising animals like cows, pigs, or chickens. It uses less land and water, and creates fewer greenhouse gases.
While insect protein has been eaten for many years in other parts of the world, we don't have a lot of clear scientific information yet on how it compares to more traditional animal proteins for muscle building. Earlier research from this group suggests that your body can digest insect protein just as well as other animal proteins, no matter your age. Now, they want to take the next step and see if eating insect protein can actually help you get stronger and build more muscle over time.
To do this, the study will compare what happens to your muscles when you add either cricket protein or whey protein to your diet while also doing resistance exercise. This will help them understand if insect protein can be a great, eco-friendly option for athletes and anyone looking to improve their muscle health.
Key takeaways
- Compares cricket protein with whey protein for muscle building.
- Investigates a sustainable protein source for muscle health.
- Involves 12 weeks of resistance training and daily protein supplements.
- Requires regular visits and some medical tests at the University of Surrey.
- Aims to understand impact on muscle growth and strength.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be a healthy adult, aged 18 or over, and fall within a healthy weight range (BMI between 18.5 and 35). It's really important that you've been regularly doing resistance training, like lifting weights, at least three times a week for at least two years. You must also be prepared to continue this training and take a protein supplement daily for 12 weeks.
There are some reasons you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you have certain health conditions like diabetes, or if you're taking specific performance-enhancing supplements. You also can't be a smoker or use nicotine products, or have used them in the last six months. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, or can't eat dairy or eggs, this study wouldn't be right for you.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you weigh within a healthy range (BMI between 18.5 and 35)?
- Have you been regularly lifting weights at least 3 times a week for at least two years?
- Are you able and willing to follow a training program and take a daily protein supplement for 12 weeks?
- Are you free from conditions like diabetes and do not regularly use performance-enhancing supplements?
- Do you not smoke, vape, or use nicotine products (or haven't for over 6 months)?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, you'll first have a screening visit at the University of Surrey. This involves filling out a health questionnaire, having your height and weight measured, and giving your written permission to take part. After this, you'll have a baseline visit for more detailed checks, including a body scan (DEXA) to see your body composition. You will also need to provide blood and muscle samples.
For 12 weeks, you'll follow a resistance training program and take a protein supplement daily – it will either be cricket protein or whey protein, but you won't know which one. During this time, you'll have specific check-ups and tests to measure changes in your muscle mass and strength. You'll need to avoid alcohol and caffeine before some of these visits. The study involves several visits to the University of Surrey over approximately three months.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of Surrey, Stag Hill CampusGuildford, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The main goal is to compare cricket protein with whey protein to see which is better at helping build muscle and strength.
Why are crickets being used as a protein source?
Crickets are being explored because they are a more environmentally friendly and sustainable way to get protein compared to traditional animal farming.
Will I know if I'm taking cricket or whey protein?
No, you won't know which type of protein supplement you are taking as part of the study design.
What kind of exercise will I need to do?
You will need to follow a resistance training program, which typically involves lifting weights, for 12 weeks.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement in the study will last for 12 weeks, plus initial screening and baseline testing visits.
How to find out more
James AG Rutherford, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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