Daily Upgrade Trial

The trial includes an acute crossover phase and a chronic parallel-group phase. In the acute phase, participants complete three randomized laboratory visits during which they consume Daily Upgrade EAA+, whey protein isolate, or a non-caloric placebo prior to a standardized high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session. Metabolomic responses, amino acid kinetics, metabolic outcomes are assessed before and after exercise.

In the chronic phase, participants are randomized to consume Daily Upgrade EAA+ or placebo daily for three weeks while completing supervised HIIT sessions twice per week. Outcomes assessed before and after the intervention include body composition, exercise performance, fluid balance, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Inclusion criteria

• Participant is an adult between the ages of 25-45 years
• Participant has a recorded BMI between 18.5-30 kg/m^2
• Participant is apparently healthy and free from disease, as determined by a health history questionnaire
• Participant is a biological female
• Participant is naturally menstruating or uses a form of hormonal contraceptive
• Participant is recreationally active, based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire- Short Form
• Participant agrees to abstain from caffeine (12 hours), tobacco, alcohol, and exercise for 24 hours prior to testing days
• Participant is willing and able to comply with the protocol

Exclusion criteria

• Participant has been diagnosed with chronic heart disease, arrhythmias, thyroid disease, renal, hepatic, autoimmune or neurological diseases, as determined by a health history questionnaire.
• Participant has a musculoskeletal disorder or injury that would prohibit them from being able to safely complete the study protocol.
• Participant is currently enrolled in a separate clinical trial or weight loss program involving diet, exercise, physical activity, or the potential ingestion of an active drug or dietary supplement
• Participant is using, or has consistently used one of the following dietary supplements within 1 month prior to enrollment: whey protein, creatine, essential amino acids
• Participant has a known allergy or sensitivity to the placebo or active ingredients
• Participant is pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Participant does not speak English or is hearing impaired