Hydrolyzed protein: benefits and features

Author: Ostapets Elena - specialist at the sports nutrition store nutrifit.ru.
2015-12-28

Along with the more familiar concentrate and isolate, there exists a so-called protein hydrolysate – one of the forms of whey protein. It is no coincidence that it is referred to as the pinnacle of whey protein. What is its main strength? We will delve into this and other questions in more detail.

Features of Hydrolysate

Hydrolysate is a partially broken down whey protein. This process of breakdown is almost identical to that in the digestive tract. Essentially, hydrolysate is ready for absorption right away, as it practically requires no time for digestion. This is the first and main distinguishing feature of hydrolysate from other types of proteins. For hydrolysate to be absorbed, it takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Moreover, thanks to the action of enzymes (or acid), the protein is absorbed by the body very quickly (even faster than whey), which in turn leads to rapid growth and recovery of muscle mass.

Advantages:

1. Hydrolysate better preserves the amino acid profile.
2. It has a higher rate of absorption and recovery compared to whey protein.
3. Unlike other protein types, hydrolysate promotes faster absorption, which leads to more effective protein synthesis.
4. It has a high degree of purity and better tolerance. Compared to other protein types, hydrolysate is virtually free of fats and carbohydrates.
5. Furthermore, hydrolysate combined with carbohydrates increases insulin production by 100%. This is a significant advantage, as insulin is a powerful muscle growth hormone that accumulates glycogen in muscle cells.

The only and probably the main reason that stops many from purchasing such a supplement is its relatively high cost. However, this is quite understandable due to the complex technological process. The only downside might be its slightly bitter taste, which can be easily masked by mixing the powder, for example, in milk.

When to Take It?

The timing for taking hydrolysate is no different from that of any other protein. It should be consumed before, immediately after physical activities, and even during training. On rest days, the supplement should be taken in the morning. The portion size, of course, depends on your body weight and the intake of other proteins. However, typically, 20-40 grams will be quite sufficient.

Anyone who values a pure source of protein can take hydrolysate. The product is excellent for both gaining muscle mass and reducing body fat. Additionally, hydrolysate should be consumed by those who are focused on muscle definition.

However, according to one study conducted by Orla Power, protein hydrolysate surpasses isolate and concentrate in all mentioned indicators by only 10-15%. There is a difference, but as you can see, it's not significant. Therefore, it makes sense to use protein hydrolysate as an alternative to amino acids and when it is necessary to recover in the shortest possible time after intense physical exertion. In this sense, a good option is Optimum Nutrition Platinum Hydro Whey. Not only does this product contain 77% protein, but it is completely free of sugar, trans fats, and cholesterol. Additionally, it also contains 18% BCAAs, which is quite nice.

If you are not ready to spend a substantial amount on hydrolysate, it makes sense to opt for concentrate or isolate – cheaper and equally effective supplements. Nowadays, you can also find hydrolyzed beef protein, which is less expensive, and its absorption rate is nearly the same. Based on everything said, we can conclude that purchasing whey protein hydrolysate makes sense for those who are engaged in professional sports. For amateurs, it is better to buy another type of protein along with creatine or BCAAs.