The Effects of Protein and Carbohydrate Supplementation, with and without Creatine, on Occupational Performance in Firefighters.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to determine whether whey protein combined with carbohydrate supplementation, with or without creatine, improves occupational performance in firefighters.
Results Summary
The study found that adding creatine to a protein and carbohydrate supplement improved firefighters' performance in high-intensity, repetitive tasks, though no significant differences were observed at baseline.
Population
Thirty male career firefighters (age 34.4 ± 8.4 years).
Effective Dosage
25 g whey protein isolate + 25 g carbohydrate powder daily.
Duration
21-26 days (depending on shift rotations).
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
25 g of whey protein isolate + 25 g of carbohydrate powder | no change | measures of performance | thirty male firefighters | no significant change | No significant differences in measures of performance were observed | #1 |
ProCarb + 5 g of creatine | increase | occupational performance | career firefighters | - | improves | #2 |
ProCarb + 5 g of creatine | increase | occupational performance in specific areas of high-intensity, repetitive actions | firefighters | - | improves | #3 |
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of protein and carbohydrate supplementation, with and without creatine, on occupational performance in firefighters. METHODS: Using a randomized, double-blind approach, thirty male firefighters (age: 34.4 ± 8.4 yrs., height: 1.82 ± 0.07 m; weight: 88.6 ± 12.5 kg; BF%: 17.2 ± 5.8%) were randomized to receive either (A.) 25 g of whey protein isolate + 25 g of carbohydrate powder (ProCarb group); or (B.) ProCarb + 5 g of creatine (Creatine group) in a double-blind fashion over a period of 21-26 days (depending on shift rotations) to evaluate the impact of supplementation on occupation-specific performance. At baseline and following supplementation, firefighters completed a battery of tests. These tests included an aerobic speed test on an air-braked cycle ergometer followed by the hose carry, body drag, stair climb, and Keiser sled hammer for time. RESULTS: No significant differences in measures of performance were observed at baseline ( CONCLUSIONS: The addition of supplemental creatine to a protein and carbohydrate supplement to the diet of career firefighters throughout a three week period improves occupational performance in firefighters in specific areas of high-intensity, repetitive actions.