Effects of egg white hydrolysate on facial swelling: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial

Abstract This study evaluated whether egg white hydrolysate (EWH) reduces morning facial swelling in healthy adults who routinely experience this condition (UMIN000057170). Seventy-six participants were randomly assigned to an EWH-first or placebo-first sequence in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. Participants ingested 250 mg of EWH or placebo once daily before bedtime for one week, separated by a 2-week washout. The primary outcome was the morning Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score for facial swelling after 1-week intervention. Secondary outcomes included other subjective swelling and coldness sensations, and calf and ankle circumferences. A total of 61 participants were included in the final analysis. EWH intake significantly reduced the VAS score for morning facial swelling compared with placebo after one week (VAS: 54.8 ± 2.6 vs. 58.8 ± 2.6; P = 0.037). Therefore, EWH has the potential to serve as a functional food ingredient that reduces transient facial swelling and improves quality of life in healthy adults.