Oligopeptides are short chains of amino acids produced by breaking down proteins into smaller, more easily absorbed fragments. They are used in nutritional supplements, infant formulas, and medical fo...
Oligopeptides are short chains of amino acids produced by breaking down proteins into smaller, more easily absorbed fragments. They are used in nutritional supplements, infant formulas, and medical foods to enhance protein absorption, reduce allergenicity, and potentially improve nitrogen retention and immune function. While generally well-tolerated, gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions are possible, especially with specific protein sources or at high doses. Dosage and specific benefits vary greatly depending on the source and sequence of the oligopeptides.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
Varies widely depending on the specific oligopeptide and its intended use, but commonly ranges from 5-20g daily, often split into multiple doses.
Source Type
hybrid
Production Process
Oligopeptides are produced through enzymatic hydrolysis of protein sources (e.g., whey, soy, casein, rice) or through chemical synthesis. Enzymatic hydrolysis involves using enzymes to break down long protein chains into shorter peptide chains. Chemical synthesis allows for the creation of specific oligopeptide sequences.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Oligopeptides are absorbed more efficiently than intact proteins, leading to faster amino acid delivery and improved muscle protein synthesis and recovery. This is due to their smaller size and specialized transport mechanisms.
Oligopeptides may improve nitrogen retention due to their enhanced absorption, which supports protein synthesis, tissue repair, and muscle growth. Improved nitrogen balance is crucial for maintaining an anabolic state within the body.
Hydrolyzed proteins are used to reduce the allergenicity of foods and formulas. By breaking down proteins into smaller fragments, the likelihood of triggering an allergic reaction is decreased.
Certain oligopeptides, from sources like colostrum or glutamine, support immune function by modulating immune cell activity, strengthening the gut barrier, and enhancing antibody responses. This leads to a more robust immune system and reduced susceptibility to infections.
Possible Side Effects
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Gastrointestinal distress involves digestive discomfort like bloating, diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Severity varies based on individual factors and can be triggered by irritation or inflammation of the digestive tract.
Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies have investigated the absorption and metabolism of hydrolyzed proteins and peptides, including: * Grimble GK. Effect of peptide chain length on absorption of amino acids and protein. Clin Sci (Lond). 1994 Oct;87(4):373-8. * Silk DB. Dietary protein hydrolysates in nutritional therapy. Br J Nutr. 1992 Mar;67(3):283-303. * Zeanandin, G., et al. "Oligopeptide Absorption in the Jejunum and Ileum." Pediatric Research 49.4 (2001): 571-575. (Note: Specific studies on specific oligopeptide sequences are abundant, but a general overview is provided here.)
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