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

Heath Gasier
Dr. Gasier is a physiologist and nutritionist. His research is focused on understanding how breathing altered PO2 impacts cell physiology in the lung, brain, and skeletal muscle. Emphasis is placed on mitochondrial quality control (dynamics, mitophagy, and biogenesis) and bioenergetics. He uses in vivo and in vitro models, and employs an array of methods (e.g., confocal and electron microscopy, Seahorse respiration, immunoblotting, RT-qPCR, ELISA’s, isotope tracers, and 10X genomics) for hypothesis testing. The goal of his research is to improve the operational capacity of divers and safety of hyperoxia in hyperbaric and critical care medicine. Dr. Gasier believes in a hands-on mentoring approach and individualized training plans based on mentee’s aspirations. He is committed to lifetime learning and contributing to knowledge advancement.
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