Investigating the Effects of Dietary Phospholipids on Stress Reactivity and Recovery

The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of 6- and 12- week supplementation of a bioactive whey protein concentrate drink containing dairy phospholipids on stress reactivity and recovery in healthy adults. The proposed randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel groups design methodology will assess the stress reactivity and recovery effects (both self-reported and physiological) of 40g per day of bioactive whey protein concentrate in the form of a powder that the participant will be required to mix with 350ml of water and matched placebo prior to (baseline) and after -6 week and -12 week supplementation. The trial will utilise the Multi-tasking framework (MTF) during testing visits to elicit an acute stress response within the laboratory. Self reported anxiety (STAI short-form) at multiple time points before and after the stressor will be measured as well as perceived task demand following the stressor (NASA-TLX). Physiological measurements of the stress response will also be measured through blood pressure, heart rate arability, and galvanic skin response. 150 participants will participate, aged 25-49, and self-reported as being in good health. Participants will be supplied with either the active treatment or the placebo (allocated by a randomised schedule) whilst visiting the research centre for the testing appointments, and will take treatment home to consume daily for the duration of the study. Participants will record time of taking treatment each day in a treatment diary which will be returned to the research centre, along with any unused treatment, upon completion of the study.