Plant-based protein supplies essential amino acids, including branched-chain amino acids that participate in many of the body’s metabolic and physiologic systems. Protein turnover in the body is continuous and can be substantial. The rebuilding of skeletal muscle that is broken down during exercise is critically important to athletes. The dynamics of this constant degradation and re-synthesis demand a daily supply of dietary protein and their constituent amino acids. Essential or indispensable dietary amino acids must be supplied by the diet, as they are not synthesized by the body. Research shows that protein and essential amino acids ingested after exercise stimulate muscle protein synthesis. Plant sources such as pea and rice can be an alternative protein source to dairy protein with similar benefits to muscle mass, thickness and strength. Athletes competing in strength training or endurance sports may require significantly more total protein from food and supplements combined, typically in ranges of 1.5-2.0 g protein/kg of body weight.
Digestive enzymes support proper digestion and utilization of protein. ProHydrolase® is a blend of protease enzymes designed to break down protein quickly and efficiently into an easily absorbed form to maximize performance benefits of amino acids. In an in vitro study, the enzymes in ProHydrolase® demonstrated the ability to break down the rice and pea proteins in Klean Athlete® Plant Protein. Within 60 minutes, over 80% of the proteins were degraded to smaller peptides. At time 0, the protein sizes ranged from 10-100 kDa and within 90 minutes almost 90% of the protein sizes were less than 25 kDa. Smaller proteins and peptides tend to be more quickly and easily absorbed in the intestinal tract and cause less digestive discomfort.
Sunfiber® research has shown that as a prebiotic fiber, hydrolyzed guar gum can increase both beneficial Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species in the colon, supporting a healthy gut microbiota. Sunfiber® also helps moderate the glycemic index and post-prandial hunger by supporting the feeling of satiety. Hydrolyzed guar gum is well-tolerated and may not cause osmotic diarrhea due to its large molecular weight which balances the absorption of fluid in the colon. Studies also show that motility, frequency and consistency of stool is supported with daily consumption.
