NCT06025292 · University of Arkansas
Effects of Lean Pork Loin Intake on Protein Homeostasis and Glucose Regulation in Prediabetic Adults
(PORK)
What this study is about
We will be directly comparing a high-quality protein diet composed primarily of lean pork loin (PORK) to a lower-quality plant-based protein diet (PLANT) in individuals with prediabetes on muscle and whole-body protein turnover and glucose regulation.
View original scientific description
We will be directly comparing a high-quality protein diet composed primarily of lean pork loin (PORK) to a lower-quality plant-based protein diet (PLANT) in individuals with prediabetes on muscle and whole-body protein turnover and glucose regulation.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 1\. Males and females ages 40-65 years.
- 2\. BMI 25 to ≤40 kg/m2 (or body fat % ≥25% in males or ≥36% in females)
- 3\. Capable of providing informed consent.
- 4\. COVID-19 negative and/or asymptomatic.
- 5\. Willing to abstain from drinking alcohol or consuming marijuana and CBD products during the 4-day study meal period
- 6\. HbA1c: 5.7-6.4% or fasting glucose 100-125 mg/dL
Exclusion criteria
- 1\. Participant who does not/will not eat animal protein sources.
- 2\. Allergy to wheat, soy, or common ingredients in plant-based protein products.
- 3\. Body mass index \<25 kg/m2 or \>40 kg/m2.
- 4\. Hemoglobin \<10g/dL at screening.
- 5\. Platelets \<150,000/uL at screening.
- 6\. History of chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer in the 6 months prior to enrollment.
- 7\. History of gastrointestinal bypass/reduction surgery.
- 8\. Pregnant or lactating individuals.
- 9\. History of a chronic inflammatory disease (e.g. Lupus, Crohn's disease)
- 10\. Currently receiving androgen (e.g., testosterone) or anabolic (e.g., GH, IGF-I) therapy.
- 11\. Currently using prescription blood thinning medications.
- 12\. Currently using corticosteroid medications (cortisone, hydrocortisone, prednisone, etc.).
- 13\. Unable or unwilling to suspend aspirin use for 7 days prior to Visit 3 and Visit 7.
- 14\. Unwilling to avoid using protein or amino-acid supplements during participation.
- 15\. Unwilling to fast overnight.
- 16\. Unwilling to avoid alcohol, marijuana and CBD products for the four study days.
- 17\. Participants on glucagon-like-peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1-RA) medications for \<1 month or with less than one treatment dose (injection) every two weeks
Where
- Little Rock, Arkansas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations