Operational Stress for Fatigue

(REP DEF Trial)

This trial aims to understand how repeated stress and limited recovery affect muscle protein synthesis, overall body protein balance, iron absorption, and aerobic performance. It involves active adults, categorized by body fat percentage, who will undergo cycles of energy deficit and recovery. Participants should be weight-stable, healthy, and regularly engaged in exercise such as step-ups or aerobic activities for at least six months. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to foundational research that could enhance understanding of exercise and recovery.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must refrain from alcohol, nicotine, caffeine not provided in the study, and dietary supplements during the trial.

Research has shown that working long hours can lead to fatigue, which poses dangers, especially in demanding jobs. Fatigue can impair job performance and overall health. Studies suggest that managing fatigue is crucial for safety.

Burnout, often resulting from heavy workloads or insufficient rest, can exacerbate safety and health issues. This study examines the cycle of stress and recovery, mirroring experiences in demanding jobs. Although it does not involve specific medication, understanding stress's impact on the body is vital.

Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how operational stressors impact fatigue differently based on body weight phenotypes. Unlike standard fatigue treatments that typically focus on medications or lifestyle changes to boost energy, this trial examines the body's response to controlled energy deficits and recovery phases. By comparing active adults with overweight and normal weight phenotypes, the trial hopes to uncover how these stressors affect fatigue in diverse body types, potentially leading to more personalized and effective fatigue management strategies in the future.

This trial will compare the effects of operational stress on active adults representing overweight and normal weight phenotypes. Research has shown that work-related stress can impact mental health and task performance. Studies with military personnel found that repeated stress can cause mental fatigue and lower performance. For instance, excessive workload often leads to fatigue, which then affects performance. While direct evidence linking stress to reduced fatigue is limited, stress is known to alter stress levels and performance outcomes. This suggests that understanding and managing work-related stress might help address fatigue-related issues.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰