Protein can be hydrolyzed, producing small chains of amino acids called peptides. Several studies have shown that protein hydrolysates containing mostly di- and tripeptides are absorbed more rapidly than free form amino acids and much more rapidly than intact proteins. In addition, there is recent evidence that protein hydrolysate ingestion has strong insulinotropic effect. Thus, recovery sports drinks containing protein hydrolysates may be of great value.

KEY WORDS:Proteins, amino acids, protein hydrolysates, ergogenic aids, sports supplements