The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether whey protein, with or without an adaptogenic herb blend, can improve strength, recovery, stress, and wellbeing in active males. The adaptogenic blend contains 600mg ashwagandha root extract.The main questions the study aims to answer are:
Does whey protein improve muscle strength and recovery in physically active males? Does adding ashwagandha to whey protein further improve stress, recovery, sleep, and wellbeing compared with protein alone? Are there differences between whey protein when combined with the adaptogenic blend?
Researchers will compare two supplement groups:
* Whey protein * Whey protein with ashwagandha
Participants will:
* Take their assigned supplement for 6 weeks * Attend two testing sessions before and after the intervention * Complete questionnaires about recovery, sleep, stress, soreness, and digestive health * Provide saliva samples to measure stress, hormone, immune, and inflammation markers * Complete muscle strength tests, including handgrip strength and push-up testing * Complete a 24-hour dietary recall * The study includes physically active males aged 18 to 45 years who regularly participate in structured training.
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
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