AFRL and GNC to Study Effects of Whey Protein on Warfighter Performance Published May 8, 2008 By John Schutte, AFRL/RHOR Human Effectiveness Directorate WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE -- Researchers from AFRL and General Nutrition Centers (GNC), Inc., kicked off a unified effort to determine whether a specialized form of whey protein--a pure, natural, high-quality protein derived from cow's milk--can aid warfighter strength and alertness during fatigue-inducing missions. This joint venture, enabled through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement, represents the first clinical collaboration between the Air Force (AF) and GNC. The team will examine the specialized whey protein's effects on the mental and physical performance of individuals subjected to long hours without sleep. The nature of work performed by warfighters such as aircraft pilots and crew, and particularly Special Operations Forces personnel, often demands that these individuals remain awake for periods of more than 24 hours. Further, many civilian occupations--airline pilot, firefighter, and trucker, for example--have similarly rigorous requirements. GNC will supply the specialized whey protein and placebos needed for the effort, while the AF will provide up to 50 military test subjects, along with the facilities and equipment needed for assessing and analyzing results. This research may ultimately furnish the AF with a nonpharmaceutical option for bolstering warfighter strength and endurance during lengthy, high-performance missions. A readily available alternative would not only reduce the reliance on pharmaceutical products, some of which cause undesirable side effects, but would also lessen the potential liability associated with the use of such products. In turn, GNC would benefit from the establishment of an enhanced commercial product line benefiting the many members of the civilian population whose own work entails intense concentration and physical stamina.