Carbohydrate or Protein Drinks Before Exercise in the Heat

The Impact of Pre-Exercise Meal Composition on Metabolic Heat Production and Thermal Strain During Exercise in a Hot Environment

This project examines whether consuming a high-protein or high-carbohydrate beverage before exercise in the heat impacts metabolism and heat balance during exercise, with the following research questions:

1. Does a high-protein vs. high-carbohydrate pre-exercise drink impact metabolism and body temperature responses during a treadmill walking in the heat?
2. Does a high-protein or high-carbohydrate drink change oxygen use and heat production during treadmill walking in the heat?

Inclusion Criteria:

• Able to walk or run up to 5 mph on a treadmill
• Able to consume products containing dairy (no allergy or dietary restrictions)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Following a diet that excludes any macronutrient group (low-carb or low-fat)
• Diagnosed cardiovascular or metabolic diseases (hypertension, diabetes)
• Diagnosed heat illness in past 3 months (heat exhaustion, heat stroke)