Effect of Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) on Gut Barrier Protection in Runners

This study was designed to determine if an ingredient in milk fat can prevent gut leakiness induced by running at 80% maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max). In mouse studies, the milk fat ingredient, and individual components thereof, have been shown to reduce gut leakiness induced by intra peritoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injections. The investigators hypothesis is as follows: Compared to a sports drink with identical macro nutrient composition, a sports drink with milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) will reduce the change in gut leakiness induced by running at 90% VO2max for 30 minutes. The decrease in gut permeability change will be associated with a decreased area under the curve of plasma endotoxin for 5 hours following the exercise. In addition, decreased gut permeability will be associated with lower area under the curve values for inflammatory cytokines.