Amino acid needs and protein intake recommendations
The unique amino acid composition of collagen peptides
Collagen peptides, a pure protein, are rich in specific amino acids glycine (Gly), hydroxyproline (Hyp), proline (Pro) and alanine (Ala).
After ingestion, collagen peptides are absorbed into the bloodstream as free amino acids and unique peptides. These peptides act as important signal molecules, stimulating cells and supporting the connective tissue and musculoskeletal health.
Peptan collagen peptides absorption and bioactivity
Rousselot's Peptan collagen peptides have been the subject of scientific studies aimed at better understanding their absorption and bioactivity. Research* has shown that when consumed, Peptan is absorbed in the blood as 57% amino acids and 43% bioactive di- and tripeptides (e.g. Pro-Hyp, Hyp-Gly), which then travel to target tissues to exert their bioactivity. The free amino acids serve as building blocks to support tissue structures and function within the body while the dipeptides and tripeptides operate as bioactive messengers essential for many physiological processes.
This is the secret behind Peptan’s potential as a holistic solution, offering a variety of benefits.
Compared to whey and soy protein, Peptan collagen peptide contains higher levels of Gly, Hyp, Pro, Ala. This specific amino acid composition provides collagen peptides with their unique bioactive properties not found with other protein sources.
In the table, we present an overview of the characteristics.
* Kleinnijenhuis, A. J., et al. Non-targeted and targeted analysis of collagen hydrolysates during the course of digestion and absorption. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry. 2019. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-019-02323-x
Virgilio, N., et al, Absorption of bioactive peptides following collagen hydrolysate intake: a randomized, double-blind crossover study in healthy individuals. Frontiers in Nutrition. (2024) https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1416643
Data Table
| Amino acids - % of protein | Special characteristics | Peptan average value | Whey protein conc. | Soy protein isolate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alanine | Alanine is a non-essential amino acid. Alanine is the rate-limiting precursor for carnosine, responsible for acid-base homeostasis in skeletal muscle. Alanine has a known ergogenic effect. | 8 | 4 | 4 |
| Arginine | Arginine is a conditionally essential amino acid. Arginine is important for wound healing, to build body mass, and for vascular health. | 8 | 2 | 8 |
| Glutamic acid | Glutamic acid is a conditionally essential amino acid. Glutamic acid is the precursor for glutamine which is important for the health of the immune and the digestive system, as well as energy production. | 11 | 13 | 19 |
| Glycine | Glycine is a conditionally essential amino acid. Glycine allows the collagen helix to form its unique helical structure. Glycine is anti-inflammatory, important for a healthy nervous system and cellular health and supports overall well-being. | 20 | 1, 5 | 4 |
| Hydroxy-proline | Proline is a conditionally essential amino acid and is the precursor for hydroxyproline. Hydroxyproline is needed to produce collagen which is contained in all connective tissues and is key for the exceptional stability of the collagen protein. | 12 | 0 | 0 |
| Proline | Proline is a conditionally essential amino acid and is the precursor for hydroxyproline. | 13 | 4 | 5 |
- Volpi, E., et al. 2013 Is the optimal level of protein intake for older adults greater than the recommended dietary allowance? J. Gerontol. 68:677–681. doi: 10.1093/gerona/gls229
- Campbell, B., et al. 2007. International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: Protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 4(1), 8.4-8
- Wienicke, E., 2011, In: Performance Explosion in Sports – an anti-doping concept. Meyer&Meyer Fachverlag und Buchhandel GmbH, ISBN-10:1841263303
- http://www.aminoacidsguide.com/
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