(P06-003-24) Protein’s Effect on the Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolites: Our Virtual/Remote Recruitment Efforts

Objectives: Diet affects the gut microbiota and our well-being. Fiber’s effect has been studied extensively, yet little attention has been paid to dietary protein and many Americans consume more than they need. Our study aims to determine the effect of dietary protein on the gut microbiota and the metabolites it produces. Here, we report our recruitment efforts.

Methods: The study was designed to recruit virtual/remote participants without in-person communication or a physical study site. Fecal samples, 24-hour dietary recall, and physical activity information were collected before and after participants consumed 50g of whey or pea protein for 7 days. It was statistically determined that 15 healthy participants were needed per protein type. Participants were recruited throughout the U.S. via emails, social media, and personal communications, potentially reaching 12,036 people. At the American Public University System (APUS, an online university), emails were sent to 9,139 undergraduate and graduate students twice, and advertisements were posted in the faculty, staff, and graduate student webpages, reaching 2,339 people. Social media reach was approximately 498, while personal communication was 60 people. Potential participants completed our interest survey. Individuals were excluded if they took an antibiotic in the last 3 months, consumed an anti-diarrhea drug, laxative, prebiotics, or probiotics in the last week, had a GI disease, took prescription drugs, or were under age 25.

Results: 225 people completed the interest survey for a rate of 1.9%. Of these, 14 did not complete the consent form, and 124 did not meet the inclusion criteria. Thus, 87 (38.7%) were randomized and contacted to confirm interest; 20 did not respond. Study supplies were sent to 66, of which 4 dropped out. 62 returned one or both fecal samples. Of these, 16 consuming whey protein and 20 consuming pea protein returned both fecal samples within 24 hours, exceeding our goal of 30 participants. Our recruitment success rate was 0.3%.

Conclusions: We successfully recruited the participants needed for this remote, randomized control trial but required a large pool of people to achieve that goal. Other researchers should keep this in mind if considering a remote recruitment strategy.

Funding Sources: APUS & the Research Dietetic Practice Group