<p>Energy restriction-induced weight loss results in the loss of both fat mass (FM) and fat free mass (FFM). Declines in FFM, comprised mostly of skeletal muscle, have the potential to impair metabolic health. A recent meta-analysis demonstrated higher protein hypo-energetic diets (≥ 1.25 g/kg/d) can help retain FFM (Weinheimer, Sands, & Campbell, 2010). This effect is attributed to protein ingestion induced stimulation of muscle protein synthesis (MPS), which is dependent on protein source (Tang, Moore, Kujbida, Tarnopolsky, & Phillips, 2009). However, protein source on modulating FFM preservation during ER remains understudied. In a double blind investigation, 40 adults (BMI 28-40) undertook a moderate 14 day hypo-energetic diet. Subjects were randomized to be supplemented twice daily with whey (WHEY) or soy (SOY) protein, or a carbohydrate (CHO) powder as part of their ER diet. Preliminary and post diet intervention testing included skeletal muscle biopsies, blood samples and DXA measures. Absolute changes in body mass (-2.3 ± 0.18 kg), FM (-1.2 ± 0.16 kg) and FFM (-0.8 ± 0.24 kg) did not significantly differ between groups. Basal serum cortisol was unchanged in WHEY but increased significantly in SOY and CHO (p</p> / Master of Science in Kinesiology