How Animal and Plant Protein Shakes Change the Body's Nutrient and Health Responses

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn how different protein types affect the body's metabolism and immune system in healthy adults. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does drinking smoothies with animal-based or plant-based protein change the level of amino acids like leucine in the blood? Does adding leucine to a plant-based smoothie make the body respond like it does to an animal-based smoothie? Participants will: Come to the research clinic for 3 study visits Drink a high-protein smoothie at each visit (one with animal protein, one with plant protein, and one with plant protein + leucine) Give blood samples before and 1 and 3 hours after each smoothie Researchers will look at how the body's metabolism and immune system respond. They are especially interested in a pathway called mTOR, which helps control how cells use nutrients and may be involved in heart disease like atherosclerosis. All smoothies are prepared to meet Halal and Kosher dietary guidelines.

NCT Number	NCT07121010
Lead Sponsor	University of Pittsburgh
Conditions	Cardiometabolic Health
Enrollment	20 participants
Start Date	2026-03-24
Primary Completion	2026-09 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-10 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-03-25