RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Whey Protein and Adaptogenic Supplementation in Physically Active Males

This study is for active men aged 18 to 45 years who are interested in how nutrition can improve their fitness. Researchers want to find out if taking whey protein helps men recover and get stronger after exercise. They also want to see if adding ashwagandha – a natural herb – to whey protein offers even more benefits, like helping with stress, sleep, and overall well-being. Participants will take a supplement for six weeks and complete some simple tests, questionnaires, and provide samples to see how their bodies respond. This research could help physically active men make informed choices about supplements for their recovery and health goals.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Sports Performance and Applied Research in Trials and Analysis

Enrolment target

Start

20 Jul 2026

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2026

Sports Nutritional Sciences Sports Nutrition Recovery Recovery Following Exercise Muscle Strength Recovery

What is this study about?

This research study is looking at how two types of supplements affect men who are physically active. The main idea is to see if whey protein, a common supplement, can help active men improve their strength and recover better after exercise. The study also wants to explore if adding a special herbal blend, which includes 600mg of ashwagandha root extract, provides extra benefits compared to just whey protein.

Ashwagandha is a natural ingredient often called an 'adaptogen.' This means it's thought to help your body manage stress. So, the researchers are particularly interested in whether adding ashwagandha to whey protein can further improve things like stress levels, the quality of sleep, how well participants recover from their workouts, and their general feeling of well-being.

To figure this out, participants will be put into one of two groups: one group will receive whey protein, and the other will receive whey protein with the ashwagandha blend. By comparing the results between these two groups, scientists hope to learn more about the best ways to support recovery and health in active men.

Key takeaways

Study explores whey protein (with or without ashwagandha) for active males.
Aims to improve strength, recovery, stress, sleep, and well-being.
Participants will take a supplement daily for 6 weeks.
Involves two testing sessions, questionnaires, and saliva samples.
Open to physically active men aged 18-45 without certain health conditions.
Your contribution helps understand supplement benefits for fitness.

Who may be eligible?

This study is specifically looking for men between the ages of 18 and 45. To join, you must be someone who regularly exercises or trains at least three times a week. It's important that you don't have any current injuries that would stop you from taking part in the activities and tests involved.

You also can't be currently using protein shakes or similar adaptogen supplements (like ashwagandha) already. This helps make sure that any changes seen during the study are due to the supplements being tested. You should also be prepared to keep your usual eating and exercise habits during the study so we can accurately see what effects the supplements might have.

There are some conditions that would prevent you from taking part. For example, if you have allergies to dairy, ashwagandha, or a group of plants called nightshades, or if you're taking medications that might react with the supplements. Certain health conditions, like thyroid problems, autoimmune diseases, or diagnosed eating disorders, would also mean you can't join. This is all to ensure your safety throughout the study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a man between 18 and 45 years old?
Do you exercise or train at least three times a week?
Do you currently avoid protein supplements or similar adaptogen products?
Do you NOT have any serious allergies (dairy, ashwagandha, nightshades)?
Are you free from major health conditions like thyroid disorders or autoimmune conditions?
Are you able to attend two brief study visits?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be asked to take your assigned supplement (either whey protein or whey protein with ashwagandha) every day for six weeks. During this time, it's important to keep your usual diet and exercise routine as much as possible.

You will need to attend two in-person testing sessions. One will be at the beginning of the study, before you start taking the supplement, and the other will be at the end of the six weeks. These sessions will involve some simple muscle strength tests, like handgrip tests and push-ups. You'll also be asked to fill out questionnaires about how you're recovering, your sleep, stress levels, any muscle soreness, and your digestion.

In addition, you'll provide some small saliva samples, which will help researchers measure things like stress hormones and other markers in your body. You'll also be asked to complete a '24-hour dietary recall,' which means you'll describe what you've eaten over the past day. The total duration of your active participation, including taking the supplement and attending sessions, will be about six weeks.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer potential benefits, such as helping you learn more about how certain supplements could affect your recovery, strength, and overall well-being. It also contributes valuable information to scientific research that could help other physically active individuals in the future. Potential risks are generally low, but could include mild digestive upset if you're sensitive to dairy products (in whey protein) or ashwagandha. As with any supplement, there's always a small chance of allergic reaction, though serious reactions are rare. You will be closely monitored, and your safety is the top priority. Importantly, you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your healthcare or your relationship with the researchers.

Locations (1)

Strength and Nutrition Ltd
Verified postcode
Brighton, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What exactly is ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a natural herb commonly used in traditional medicine. It's considered an 'adaptogen,' which means it may help your body manage stress.

Will I know if I'm taking the whey protein or the whey protein with ashwagandha?

No, this study is 'blinded,' meaning you won't know which supplement you're getting. This helps keep the results fair and unbiased.

How long do the testing sessions take?

The study brief doesn't specify the exact duration of each session, but they will involve questionnaires, strength tests, and providing saliva samples.

What if I miss a dose of the supplement?

It's important to try and take your supplement regularly as instructed. If you do miss a dose, please inform the study team during your next contact.

Will this study affect my usual workout routine?

No, you are asked to maintain your usual exercise habits throughout the study. The aim is to see how the supplements interact with your regular training.

How to find out more

Alex L Levington, PhD(c)

alex@strengthandnutrition.co.uk 07882461098 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.