RECRUITING

Meal Response, Protein, and PCOS

Description

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. Protein-rich meals can attenuate postprandial glycemia and enhance satiety, but the effects may vary by protein source. Animal proteins typically have higher leucine 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.

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

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. Protein-rich meals can attenuate postprandial glycemia and enhance satiety, but the effects may vary by protein source. Animal proteins typically have higher leucine 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.

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

Meal Response, Protein, and PCOS

Condition
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Fayetteville

Center for Human Nutrition, Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States, 72704

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * 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
  • * Smoking or use of nicotine products
  • * Smoking or use of marijuana products
  • * Food allergies or dietary restrictions incompatible with test meals
  • * Diagnosed diabetes (type 1 or 2)
  • * Use of medications that interfere with study outcomes (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 agonists, etc.)

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to 50 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

FEMALE

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

University of Arkansas, Fayetteville,

Jamie I Baum, PhD, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville

Study Record Dates

2027-06-30