The article is based on research that showed that consumption of a breakfast smoothie containing animal-based whey protein or plant-based soy protein both lead to a greater sense of fullness and an increase in calories burned when compared to a carbohydrate-based smoothie.
Associate Professor of Exercise Science Svetlana Nepocatych and Assistant Professor of Exercise Science Takudzwa “Titch” Madzima, and have published a new study with Elon Alumna Carrie Melson ’17 showing that consumption of a breakfast smoothie containing animal-based whey protein or plant-based soy protein both lead to a greater sense of fullness and an increase in calories burned when compared to a carbohydrate-based smoothie.
This work also showed that fewer calories were consumed at lunch after consumption of both protein-based smoothies when compared to carbohydrate-based smoothie. The article titled in “The effects of whey and soy liquid breakfast on appetite response, energy metabolism, and subsequent energy intake” in Nutrition, a top nutrition journal.
This work is part of an ongoing collaborative research agenda by Nepocatych and Madzima investigating the role of timing of different macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates and fats) on energy metabolism and body composition.
An overall interesting finding from this study was that there no significant differences between whey (animal based) and soy (plant-based) protein on appetite, metabolism and the amount of food consumed at lunchtime. Thus, the findings contribute to current nutritional science literature highlighting the importance of high protein and protein content within a breakfast meal. In addition, the lack of difference in appetite and metabolism between whey and soy protein may be advantageous for individuals who choose to follow a plant-based diet.