The effects of a carbohydrate-protein drink on performance and mood in U.S. Pararescue trainees

Carbohydrate-protein (CHO-PRO) beverages have been reported to improve endurance performance; however, no studies have been conducted on elite military combatants in a field setting in a fed state. Thus, the primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a CHO-PRO supplement on physical performance and mood in U.S. Air Force Pararescue indoctrination trainees. Eight, healthy U.S. Air Force Pararescue indoctrination trainees completed a double-blind, randomized crossover study. Following a morning meal (592 kcal), subjects completed a 2000 m swim, physically demanding water activities, calisthenics (push-ups, pull-ups, curl-ups and flutter-kicks), a 6.4 km run, and a 400 m exhaustive run. Supplements (600 ml x 5 doses) were provided throughout the study and consisted of a placebo (PLA), an 8.9% carbohydrate solution (CHO), and a 7.22% carbohydrate/1.81% protein solution (CHO-PRO). Times (minutes and seconds) and repetitions were used to assess physical performance, and subjective mood states were determined using the Profile of Mood States Questionnaire (POMS). No differences were observed between the CHO-PRO, CHO, and PLA groups on any of the physical performance measures or mood states. These results suggest that, in the fed state, a CHO-PRO beverage does not enhance physical performance or mood during a series of physically demanding activities lasting < 1 h in duration in U.S. Air Force Pararescue indoctrination trainees.

Duke Scholars

Author Heath Gasier Anesthesiology