Can protein help older muscles bounce back after a long walk?

NCT ID NCT06235476

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Radboud University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether protein supplements or dietary advice could reduce muscle damage in active older adults after long-distance walking. 199 participants aged 60+ used whey protein, plant-based protein, or protein-rich foods for 5 weeks, and walked 30-50 km. Researchers measured muscle damage through blood tests and pain scores.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: whey protein supplement, mixed plant-based protein supplement, and dietary counseling via e-health app
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward simple dietary strategies to help older adults recover from exercise and maintain muscle health.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed trial with no phase designation, so results may not apply broadly. Protein supplements may cause digestive issues in some people.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for SARCOPENIA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Sarcopenia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SARCOPENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Radboudumc

Nijmegen, Gelderland, 6525GC, Netherlands

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.