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Effect of Plant vs Animal Protein Supplementation on Body Composition in Youth Soccer Players
Sponsor: Antonio Molina Lopez
Summary
This prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial investigates the comparative effects of plant-based protein (soy and rice blend) versus animal-based protein (whey) supplementation on body composition parameters in elite male youth soccer players. Twenty-five players (ages 16-18.7 years) from Udinese Calcio's Primavera (U-19) category are randomized into three groups: Plant Protein Group (n=8), Animal Protein Group (n=9), and Placebo Group (n=8). The intervention consists of post-training protein supplementation (17g protein/dose) administered within 15-30 minutes after each training session over a 4-week microcycle during the competitive season. Body composition is assessed using a multi-compartmental model including anthropometry (ISAK protocol), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).
Official title: A Prospective, Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Plant-Based and Animal-Based Protein Supplementation Effects on Body Composition and Lean Mass in Elite Male Youth Soccer Players: A 4-Week Intervention Study
Key Details
Gender
MALE
Age Range
16 Years - 19 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
25
Start Date
2026-01-17
Completion Date
2026-03-30
Last Updated
2026-05-06
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Plant-Based Protein Supplement
Composition per dose: 330ml soy beverage (10.8g protein) + 22g plant protein powder (6.6g protein) = 17.4g total protein. Administered post-training (15-30 min after), prepared 8 hours before, stored at 4°C, supervised consumption verified by nutrition staff.
Animal-Based Protein Supplement (Whey)
Composition per dose: 200ml rice beverage (0.2g protein) + 22g neutral whey protein (12.0g protein) + 11g vanilla whey protein (5.1g protein) = 17.3g total protein. Administered post-training (15-30 min after), prepared 8 hours before, stored at 4°C, supervised consumption verified by nutrition staff.
Placebo
Composition per dose: 200ml rice beverage (0.2g protein) + vanilla flavoring = 0.2g total protein. Administered post-training (15-30 min after), prepared 8 hours before, stored at 4°C, supervised consumption verified by nutrition staff. Identical appearance to active supplements to maintain blinding.
Locations (1)
Udinese Calcio
Udine, Udine, Italy