Effects of pre-meal whey protein consumption on acute food intake and energy balance over a 48-hour period

Abstract

• Whey protein (20 g) reduced energy intake in both HW (193.4 kcal, 15.9 %) and OV/OB (215.81 kcal, 17.8 %) when consumed 20 min prior to mealtime, compared to placebo. • Energy deficits induced in an ad libitum test meal did not upregulate compensatory behaviours over the following 48 h. • A slowed eating rate may influence food intake following premeal whey ingestion. The effects of pre-meal whey protein consumption on acute food intake and subsequent energy balance measured over 48-h was investigated in males of healthy-weight (HW) or living with overweight and obesity (OV/OB). On two separate trial days, following a controlled breakfast (09:00) and lunch (13:00), 12 HW and 12 OV/OB males consumed either whey protein (20 g) or flavoured water beverages (16:40), and ad libitum test meal (17:00). A controlled 48-h assessment of energy intake and expenditure was used to determine any compensatory behaviour. Test meal energy intake reduced 15.9 % in HW (P = 0.003), and 17.8 % in OV/OB (P = 0.005) following whey protein, compared to placebo. We report no between-group differences and no changes in compensatory behaviour. A small dose of whey protein reduces energy intake at the next meal, without upregulating compensatory behaviours in both HW and OV/OB males. However, chronic effects on body composition and weight loss remain to be elucidated.