Enzymes Plus Probiotics Improves Digestibility and Absorption of Plant-Based Protein and Amino Acids
Recent research study has underscored the importance of protein in various dietary supplements, ranging from sports nutrition to medical formulations. With proteins derived from both animal and plant sources, the latter is gaining traction due to ethical and regulatory advantages. Among plant proteins, pea protein stands out for its high-quality, balanced amino acid availability, and low allergenic potential, making it a preferred source for many dietary needs.
The digestibility and bioavailability of proteins are crucial for their effectiveness, leading to the exploration of protein hydrolysates for enhanced absorption. However, limitations such as the presence of protease inhibitory peptides have led researchers to investigate alternative methods to improve protein utilisation. The incorporation of enzymes and probiotics with plant proteins has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance protein digestibility and amino acid bioavailability.
A recent study utilising a blend of enzymes and probiotics, named Pepzyme Pro, aimed to test the hypothesis that this combination could improve the digestion and absorption of pea protein. The study focused on the effects of this blend on protein digestibility, amino acid bioavailability, and gut microbiota, alongside assessing the safety of such supplementation.
The findings revealed an uptrend in amino acid absorption when the enzymes-probiotics blend was consumed regularly, indicating its potential to enhance pea protein utilisation. This improvement could be attributed to the synergistic action of exogenous enzymes and probiotics in promoting efficient digestion and facilitating a healthier gut microbiota, which in turn aids in the absorption of amino acids.
For the burgeoning market of plant-based, vegan dog food, these findings carry significant implications. The inclusion of digestive enzymes and probiotics in vegan dog food formulations could potentially enhance the nutritional value and digestibility of plant-based proteins, such as pea protein. This approach not only caters to the dietary requirements of dogs but also aligns with ethical and sustainability preferences of pet owners opting for vegan pet food options.
Moreover, the safety assessment of the enzyme-probiotics supplementation reported no adverse effects, suggesting that such formulations could be safely incorporated into pet food products. This opens up new avenues for the development of more nutritionally complete, plant-based diets for dogs, ensuring they receive the essential amino acids necessary for their health and wellbeing.
Of particular interest was the enhancement of absorption of the amino acid, methionine. This particularly because methionine is most often the limiting amino acid in plant-based food for dogs and plays a major role in dog heart health. (1, 2, 3)
In conclusion, the combination of probiotics and enzymes presents a viable solution to improve the absorption of plant-based proteins, with promising applications in the formulation of vegan dog foods. This approach not only addresses the nutritional needs of pets but also supports the growing demand for sustainable and ethically produced dog food options. Further research in this area could lead to the development of a wider range of health-focused, plant-based pet food products, benefiting both pet health and the environment.
Bonza, a premium vegan dog food includes high quality plant-based protein sources, including pea, potato, quinoa, chickpea, fava bean and seaweed.
The Superfoods and Ancient Grain formula also includes pineapple and papaya for their respective digestive enzymes, bromelain and papain, as well as a clinically researched probiotic, Calsporin®.
This combination of digestive enzymes and probiotics helps to support the bioavailability and utilisation of the protein and amino acids by your dog which in turn supports your dog’s very best health.
