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Phenylalanine Requirements in the Menstrual Phases
Sponsor: University of British Columbia
Summary
Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that must be obtained through food. Current adult phenylalanine recommendation is based on male-conducted studies and set the same for females. These recommendations may not be appropriate for females, as they do not take into consideration the hormonal changes over the menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is a rhythmic hormonal process split into two phases, with hormones regulating metabolism differently. The aim of this study is to find phenylalanine requirement for healthy, menstruating females. An innovative, non-invasive technique utilizing pre-determined diets, safe stable isotopes, and a simple breath collection method will be used. Previous work done by Elango Lab investigators has applied this method to investigate other amino acids in pregnant, non-pregnant, and lactating females as well as in children.
Key Details
Gender
FEMALE
Age Range
20 Years - 35 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
15
Start Date
2026-05-01
Completion Date
2028-12-01
Last Updated
2026-03-18
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Dietary Phenylalanine Intakes
Participants consume 8 hourly meals that contain the assigned test phenylalanine intake. Each meal will provide one-twelfth of the participants' daily energy requirements as estimated by 1.5 x Resting Energy Expenditure (REE) and adequate protein at 1.0 g.kg.d, to maintain a metabolic steady state. The meals are in the form of a crystalline amino acid protein shake, and protein-free cookies.
Locations (1)
BC Children's Hospital Research Institute
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada