Evaluating the Efficacy of Carbohydrate-rich Whey Protein Drink before Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy is a medical test that helps doctors look inside your stomach using a tiny camera. Researchers have been trying to find ways to make this experience more comfortable for patients. One interesting clinical trial has looked at whether drinking whey protein could be better than drinking plain water before a gastroscopy.

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol was first introduced in the 1990s and aimed to modify physiological and psychological responses to hasten postoperative recovery. Carbohydrate loading pre-surgery is one of the ERAS measures to improve patient outcomes, by shifting the fasting state into a fed state to reduce insulin resistance. However, its beneficial effects on gastroscopy patients have not yet been determined.

Whey protein is a type of protein found in milk. It's often used by athletes to help build muscles. In this clinical trial, scientists wanted to see if drinking a carbohydrate-rich whey protein beverage could also help people get ready for a gastroscopy. This drink is rich in carbohydrates, which are our body's main source of energy.

Clinical Trial

To find out if the whey protein beverage was better than water, the researchers conducted a clinical trial involving 78 participants undergoing gastroscopy. These patients were divided into two groups. One group drank the whey protein beverage, while the other group drank plain water before their gastroscopy.

Gastric contents were aspirated into a suction reservoir bottle to determine the gastric residual volume (GRV). Visual analog scale (VAS) of well-being (anxiety, hunger, thirst, tiredness, and weakness) was compared before and after the intervention.

Results

After studying the data, the researchers found some interesting results. People who drank the whey protein beverage had a better experience during their gastroscopy. They felt less uncomfortable and bloated. Compared with the control group, the carbohydrate beverage was associated with significantly higher GRV. Anxiety was less after intervention with the carbohydrate beverage, and fewer participants experienced hunger and thirst in the intervention group.

Not only did the carbohydrate-whey protein beverage seem to make the gastroscopy experience better, but it was also found to be safe to drink. Scientists carefully monitored the participants and didn't find any major side effects from the drink. This means that the whey-protein drink could be a good option for people who need to have a gastroscopy.

Conclusion

This clinical trial showed that drinking a carbohydrate-rich whey protein beverage before a gastroscopy could make the experience more pleasant. This drink not only helped people feel less uncomfortable but also proved to be safe. These results suggest that a carbohydrate-rich whey protein drink might be an effective option for people undergoing gastroscopy.
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