Whey or plant protein with or without adaptogens for active women
Official title: Whey Protein and Adaptogenic Herb Supplementation in Physically Active Females: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Run by Sports Performance and Applied Research in Trials and Analysis · NCT07594444 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether whey or plant protein, with or without an adaptogenic blend, helps improve strength, recovery, and wellbeing in physically active women.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Sports Performance and Applied Research in Trials and Analysis Research network |
| Locations | 1 site (Brighton, East Sussex) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | November 20, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | October 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07594444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are physically active women 18-45 years old who train ≥3 times per week and are not currently taking protein or adaptogenic supplements.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals unable to maintain their usual training or dietary habits, or those with sensitivities to the supplement ingredients, may not see any benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The trial examines four supplement combinations over six weeks in endurance- and strength-trained women aged 18-45. Participants are randomly assigned to whey protein, whey protein with adaptogens, plant protein, or plant protein with adaptogens and will take their assigned product daily while keeping their training and diet constant. Measurements before and after the intervention will assess muscle strength, recovery, stress, sleep, and overall wellbeing. The adaptogenic blend consists of ashwagandha root extract and shatavari root extract. The study is conducted at Strength and Nutrition Ltd in Brighton with lead sponsorship from Sports Performance and Applied Research in Trials and Analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants might experience improved strength, faster recovery, and better stress management from protein supplementation, especially when combined with adaptogens.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown mixed results; this study builds on existing work by directly comparing whey and plant protein with/without an adaptogenic blend in a targeted female population.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Female, aged 18-45 years * Currently participating in regular structured athletic or physical training (≥3 sessions per week) * Free from musculoskeletal injury that would prevent testing * Willing to maintain usual diet and training habits during the study * Not currently using protein supplements or adaptogenic supplements Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy during the study period * Known allergy or sensitivity to dairy, pea protein, pumpkin seed, chia seed, ashwagandha, shatavari, or nightshades * Current use of prescribed medication that may interact with the supplements * Thyroid disorders, autoimmune conditions, hormone-sensitive conditions, or other medical conditions that may be affected by supplementation * Diagnosed eating disorder or condition affecting protein metabolism * Current musculoskeletal injury preventing participation in testing * Current use of other protein supplements or adaptogens
Where it's running
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Strength and Nutrition Ltd
Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.