Comparative Meal Response to Plant vs. Animal Protein in Women With PCOS

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Intervention Type: Other
Study Type: Interventional
Study Phase: Not Applicable
SUMMARY

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and reproductive dysfunction. Dietary strategies that improve postprandial insulin and glucose responses are central to managing metabolic symptoms in PCOS. Meals higher in protein can attenuate postprandial glycemia and enhance satiety, but the effects may vary by protein source. Animal sources of protein typically have higher essential amino acid content and insulinogenic potential, whereas plant proteins offer fiber and phytochemicals that may influence glycemic dynamics differently. Few studies have directly compared the acute metabolic effects of plant versus animal protein in women with PCOS. Given the distinct pathophysiology of PCOS, extrapolating findings from healthy populations may be misleading. Understanding protein-specific effects on postprandial insulin, glucose, and appetite-regulating hormones in this group is essential for targeted nutrition guidance. Additionally, plant-based diets are increasingly promoted for cardiometabolic health, but their acute effects in insulin-resistant women remain underexplored. This study will assess whether plant and animal protein meals elicit differential postprandial responses in women with PCOS. Findings may inform dietary recommendations aimed at improving metabolic outcomes in this high-risk population.

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: Female
Minimum Age: 18
Maximum Age: 50
Healthy Volunteers: f
View:

• Females ages 18-50 years

• Confirmed diagnosis of PCOS

• Body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 35 kg/m2

• Stable body weight for at least 3 months (+ 5 pounds)

• Willingness to consume both plant- and animal-based protein meals

Locations
United States
Arkansas
Center for Human Nutrition
RECRUITING
Fayetteville
Contact Information
Primary
Jamie I Baum, PhD
baum@uark.edu
479-575-4474
Backup
Sydney Boudrey, MS, RDN
seboudre@uark.edu
Time Frame
Start Date: 2025-08-18
Estimated Completion Date: 2027-06-30
Participants
Target number of participants: 30
Treatments
Active_comparator: Plant protein challenge
After an overnight fast, participants will be given a 350-400 kcal meal containing 30% energy from plant protein sources. Participants will be given 10 minutes to consume the meal and appetite and metabolic response will be measured for 240 following the meal.
Experimental: Animal Protein Challenge
After an overnight fast, participants will be given a 350-400 kcal meal containing 30% energy from animal protein sources. Participants will be given 10 minutes to consume the meal and appetite and metabolic response will be measured for 240 following the meal.
Sponsors
Leads: University of Arkansas, Fayetteville

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov