Protein Needs Study
Severe muscle loss in patients with cancer has been associated with increased physical disability, extended hospitalization, infectious and noninfectious complications, increased risk of severe toxicity during cancer treatment, poor quality of life and shortened survival. Adequate protein is key to sustain muscle mass and overall health. However, current nutritional recommendations are not specific or evidence-based. The aim of this project is to determine the protein needs of patients with colorectal or breast…
Conditions studied
Colorectal Cancer, Breast Cancer
About this study
Severe muscle loss in patients with cancer has been associated with increased physical disability, extended hospitalization, infectious and noninfectious complications, increased risk of severe toxicity during cancer treatment, poor quality of life and shortened survival. Adequate protein is key to sustain muscle mass and overall health. However, current nutritional recommendations are not specific or evidence-based. The aim of this project is to determine the protein needs of patients with colorectal or breast cancer. Protein needs will be determined using a novel, non-invasive approach. Our results will inform nutritional recommendations and guidelines with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for people with cancer.
Interventions
- Dietary Supplement: Phenylalanine intake — Oral consumption of eight hourly experimental meals- Includes 4 tracer-free experimental meals containing a mixture of free amino acids, calories from a flavored liquid and protein-free cookies and 4 labeled amino acid experimental meals.
Primary outcomes
- 13C Phenylalanine Oxidation (8.5 hours)
Eligibility information
Study locations
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2R3 Canada
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov. Record last refreshed by Varda Clinical: 2026-10-08.