Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 45 Men only

Whey protein with or without an adaptogenic blend for physically active men

Official title: Whey Protein and Adaptogenic Herb Supplementation in Physically Active Males: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Run by Sports Performance and Applied Research in Trials and Analysis · NCT07716904 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether whey protein alone or with an adaptogenic blend can improve strength, recovery, stress, and wellbeing in active men over six weeks.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexMen only
Enrollment60 (estimated)
SponsorSports Performance and Applied Research in Trials and Analysis
Research network
Locations1 site (Brighton, East Sussex)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJuly 20, 2026
Main results expectedNovember 20, 2026
Study endsDecember 1, 2026
Registry record updatedOctober 13, 2026
Trial IDNCT07716904 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Male adults 18-45 who train regularly (≥3 sessions/week) and are not using protein or adaptogenic supplements prior to enrollment.

Probably not a fit

Individuals with dairy allergies/intolerance or those unlikely to tolerate whey or ashwagandha may not benefit or could be excluded.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

The trial compares two supplement regimens in physically active men aged 18-45 who train at least three times weekly. Participants are randomized to receive either whey protein alone or whey protein plus an adaptogenic blend containing 600 mg ashwagandha root extract for six weeks. They undergo pre- and post-intervention testing, complete recovery, sleep, stress, soreness, and digestive health questionnaires, and provide saliva samples to measure stress-related biomarkers. The study aims to determine if adding ashwagandha to whey offers additional benefits beyond protein alone for strength, recovery, sleep, and wellbeing.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the regimen could offer a dietary approach to enhance strength, recovery, and wellbeing for active individuals.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research in whey protein and adaptogens suggests possible benefits for recovery and stress, but results vary and this specific combination in active men is less established.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male, 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
* Signing of informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known allergy or sensitivity to dairy, ashwagandha or nightshades
* Current use of prescribed medication that may interact with the supplements
* Thyroid disorders, autoimmune conditions, hormone-sensitive conditions, or other medical conditions
* Diagnosed eating disorder or condition affecting protein metabolism
* Current musculoskeletal injury preventing participation in testing
* Current use of other protein supplements or adaptogens
* No signing of informed consent form

Where it's running

  • Strength and Nutrition Ltd
    Brighton, East Sussex, United Kingdom
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.