Protein hydrolysates in sports and exercise: a brief review

Protein can be hydrolyzed, producing small chains of amino acids called peptides. Several studies have shown that protein hydrolysates containing mostly di- and tripeptides are absorbed more rapidly than free form amino acids and much more rapidly than intact proteins. In addition, there is recent evidence that protein hydrolysate ingestion has strong insulinotropic effect. Thus, recovery sports drinks containing protein hydrolysates may be of great value. Key PointsProtein hydrolysates containing mostly di- and tripeptides are absorbed more rapidly than free form amino acids and much more rapidly than intact proteins.Oral intake of protein hydrolysates and amino acids in combination with carbohydrates can result in an insulinotropic effect as much as 100% greater than with the intake of carbohydrates only.Recovery sports drinks containing protein hydrolysates and insulinotropic amino acids may be of great value, but more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.