Hydrolysed proteins: what are they and what are they used for?

Protein powdersare one of the most widely available supplements and are used by the majority of people who engage in intense sporting activity with heavy training loads, as they help to promote muscle growthby rebuilding muscle tissue and, at the same time, thanks to the presence of amino acids, they aid post-workout muscle recovery. Furthermore, they offer a quick and easy solution for those who need to meet their daily protein intake but have little time to prepare protein-rich meals or who have to eat in a hurry.

There are currently thousands of protein supplements on the market, which differ in terms of the raw materials used to make them. Indeed, protein powders can beof animal origin, such as whey protein and meat protein, or they can come from plant sources, such as soya protein.

Furthermore, we can make a further distinction between protein powders based on their degree of purity and rate of absorption. In this regard, there are three different types of protein powder: protein isolates, protein concentrates and hydrolysed protein powders.

In this article, the team at Tsunami Nutrition will discuss hydrolysed protein powders in detail, looking specifically at what they are, what they’re used for and the process by which they’re manufactured.

Hydrolysed proteins: what are they?

Hydrolysed protein powders are a dietary supplement made from a blend of amino acids and peptides derived from animal or plant sources, which have unique characteristics compared to other protein powders. In fact, these proteins take their name from the process by which they are produced, namelyhydrolysis.

The most commonly used are derived from whey protein , as they are a source of highly bioavailable amino acids with high biological value.

Hydrolysed proteins were developed to ensure unrivalled digestibility. This is made possible precisely by the advanced microfiltration process, which allows for absorption that is almost 40 per cent faster than with other proteins.

The most recommended time to take them, in addition to post-workout, is 30 to 60 minutes before exercise. This is because, as absorption is almost instantaneous, it allows all the essential amino acids to enter the bloodstream, ensuring a significant anabolic stimulus or, in the case of calorie restriction, helping to preserve lean body mass thanks to branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).

Speaking of hydrolysed proteins, the team at Tsunami Nutrition has created Hydro Pure Professional and Hydro Pure Bar, which are made with the patented OPTIPEP® hydrolysed whey protein using the CFM® microfiltration process, which enhances its absorption, digestibility, the amount of essential branched-chain amino acids and glutamine that reach the muscles, thereby strengthening and cleansing the body as they have already been broken down by enzymes into smaller peptides.

What is protein hydrolysis?

Hydrolysis is a process by which proteins are broken down into smaller molecules, namely dipeptides, tripeptides and oligopeptides, mimicking the digestive action of the stomach and intestines, where specific enzymes break down proteins.

The peptides obtained in this way always retain the same amino acid profile as the protein from which they are derived (generally proteins of animal origin). However, as they are already partially digested, the time hydrolysed proteins spend in the stomach is considerably reduced and they can reach the intestine quickly, where the dipeptides and tripeptides they consist of can be absorbed into the bloodstream very rapidly, even more so than simple amino acids.

By utilising these mechanisms, consuming hydrolysed protein powder can lead to a significant increase in blood amino acid levels within as little as 30 minutes.

What are hydrolysed proteins used for?

Hydrolysed proteins, just like concentrated and isolated protein powders, are a source of nutrients essential to the human body, both for people who do not engage in physical activity and for those who are more active.

These protein powders are extremely useful if you are unable to eat enough protein at mealtimes or if you need help reaching your daily protein intake.

Hydrolysed proteins are gentlest on the gastrointestinal tract and can therefore be taken even just before a workout (or even during it, if necessary) without digestion negatively affecting performance. This is possible thanks to the hydrolysis process used in their production, which gives them good solubility and increases their digestibility.

Furthermore, they provide a greater feeling of fullness compared to other macronutrients, a factor that makes them a useful option for those looking to lose weight. Indeed, by delaying the need for another meal, they can therefore contribute to a weight-loss diet through this characteristic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hydrolysed and non-hydrolysed proteins?

The difference between hydrolysed proteins and other types of protein lies in the production process used to manufacture them and the rate at which they are absorbed. Let’s look in detail at the differences between hydrolysed proteins, protein isolates and protein concentrates:

• Hydrolysed proteins: produced through a processof hydrolysis, which breaks down the proteins into simpler particles, allowing them to be absorbed very quickly by the body – in fact, this takes between 10 and 30 minutes.
• Protein isolates: are obtained using a method that separates the proteins from other components present, such as minerals and lactose. Once consumed, they are absorbed by the body within 30 minutes to an hour.
• Protein concentrates: these are the most common and do not involve any complex production methods. They take the longest to be absorbed of the three types, so it is best to consume them at breakfast or as a snack.

How should hydrolysed protein be taken?

The simplest and most traditional way to take hydrolysed protein powder is to use a shaker: pour water into it, then add the ideal amount of powder – based on your own diet – and mix until the product has completely dissolved. Finally, enjoy them as a pre-workout or post-workout snack.

However, there are other ways to take protein; indeed, it can be used as an ingredient in tasty healthy recipes such as pancakes, waffles, cakes or porridge.

What are the side effects of hydrolysed protein?

Hydrolysed protein powder, like all supplements, may have minor contraindications and side effects. Indeed, people who are allergic to specific proteins may still experience reactions despite the hydrolysis process.

Furthermore, although to a lesser extent, hydrolysed proteins may cause gastrointestinal problems in the most sensitive individuals, resulting in nausea and abdominal pain.