Specific Collagen Peptides in Combination with Resistance Training Improve Body Composition and Regional Muscle Strength in Premenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Impact of Collagen Peptide Supplementation in Combination with Long-Term Physical Training on Strength, Musculotendinous Remodeling, Functional Recovery, and Body Composition in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Over the past decade, collagen peptide (CP) supplements have received considerable attention in sports nutrition research. These supplements have shown promising results in improving personal health, enhancing athletic performance, and preventing injuries in some but not all studies.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has been conducted to investigate the effects of long-term daily collagen peptide (CP) supplementation on strength, musculotendinous adaptation, functional recovery, and body composition in healthy adults, both with and without concurrent exercise interventions over several weeks.

METHODS

The PRISMA with PERSiST guidelines were followed for this systematic literature review, which was conducted in December 2023 using PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus databases. Eligible studies included healthy, normal to overweight adults over 17 years of age who engaged in exercise and daily collagen peptide (CP) supplementation for a minimum of 8 weeks (except one 3-week trial only included for maximal strength). Studies examining recovery-related outcomes were also eligible if they included a 1-week supplementation period without exercise. Methodological study quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. A random-effects model with standardized mean differences (SMD) of change scores was chosen to calculate overall effect sizes.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies comprising 768 participants were included in both the systematic review and meta-analysis. Results indicate statistically significant effects in favor of long-term CP intake regarding fat-free mass (FFM) (SMD 0.48, p < 0.01), tendon morphology (SMD 0.67, p < 0.01), muscle architecture (SMD 0.39, p < 0.01), maximal strength (SMD 0.19, p < 0.01), and 48 h recovery in reactive strength following exercise-induced muscle damage (SMD 0.43, p = 0.045). The GRADE approach revealed a moderate certainty of evidence for body composition, a very low certainty for tendon morphology and mechanical properties, and a low certainty for the remaining.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis represents the first comprehensive investigation into the effects of long-term CP supplementation combined with regular physical training on various aspects of musculoskeletal health in adults. The findings indicate significant, though of low to moderate certainty, evidence of improvements in fat-free mass (FFM), tendon morphology, muscle mass, maximal strength, and recovery in reactive strength following exercise-induced muscle damage. However, further research is required to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these effects, particularly regarding tendon mechanical properties and short-term adaptations to collagen peptide (CP) intake without exercise, as observed in recovery outcomes. Overall, CP supplementation appears promising as a beneficial adjunct to physical training for enhancing musculoskeletal performance in adults. Open Science Framework (Registration DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/WCF4Y ).

Partly Substituting Whey for Collagen Peptide Supplementation Improves Neither Indices of Muscle Damage Nor Recovery of Functional Capacity During Eccentric Exercise Training in Fit Males

Previous studies showed that collagen peptide supplementation along with resistance exercise enhance muscular recovery and function. Yet, the efficacy of collagen peptide supplementation in addition to standard nutritional practices in athletes remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of the study was to compare the effects of combined collagen peptide (20 g) and whey protein (25 g) supplementation with a similar daily protein dose (45 g) of whey protein alone on indices of muscle damage and recovery of muscular performance during eccentric exercise training. Young fit males participated in a 3-week training period involving unilateral eccentric exercises for the knee extensors. According to a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group design, before and after training, they received either whey protein (n = 11) or whey protein + collagen peptides (n = 11). Forty-eight hours after the first training session, maximal voluntary isometric and dynamic contraction of the knee extensors were transiently impaired by ∼10% (Ptime < .001) in whey protein and whey protein + collagen peptides, while creatine kinase levels were doubled in both groups (Ptime < .01). Furthermore, the training intervention improved countermovement jump performance and maximal voluntary dynamic contraction by respectively 8% and 10% (Ptime < .01) and increased serum procollagen type 1N-terminal peptide concentration by 10% (Ptime < .01). However, no differences were found for any of the outcomes between whey and whey protein + collagen peptides. In conclusion, substituting a portion of whey protein for collagen peptide, within a similar total protein dose, improved neither indices of eccentric muscle damage nor functional outcomes during eccentric training.

Specific collagen peptides increase adaptions of patellar tendon morphology following 14-weeks of high-load resistance training: A randomized-controlled trial

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a supplementation with specific collagen peptides (SCP) combined with resistance training (RT) on changes in structural properties of the patellar tendon. Furthermore, tendon stiffness as well as maximal voluntary knee extension strength and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the rectus femoris muscle were assessed. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, 50 healthy, moderately active male participants completed a 14-week resistance training program with three weekly sessions (70-85% of 1 repetition maximum [1RM]) for the knee extensors. While the SCP group received 5g of specific collagen peptides daily, the other group received the same amount of a placebo (PLA) supplement. The SCP supplementation led to a significant greater (p < 0.05) increase in patellar tendon CSA compared with the PLA group at 60% and 70% of the patellar tendon length starting from the proximal insertion. Both groups increased tendon stiffness (p < 0.01), muscle CSA (p < 0.05) and muscular strength (p < 0.001) throughout the intervention without significant differences between the groups. The current study shows that in healthy, moderately active men, supplementation of SCP in combination with RT leads to greater increase in patellar tendon CSA than RT alone. Since underlying mechanisms of tendon hypertrophy are currently unknown, further studies should investigate potential mechanisms causing the increased morphology adaptions following SCP supplementation.Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register identifier: DRKS00029244..

Influence of specific collagen peptides and 12-week concurrent training on recovery-related biomechanical characteristics following exercise-induced muscle damage-A randomized controlled trial

Introduction

It has been shown that short-term ingestion of collagen peptides improves markers related to muscular recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether and to what extent a longer-term specific collagen peptide (SCP) supplementation combined with a training intervention influences recovery markers following eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage.

Methods

Fifty-five predominantly sedentary male participants were assigned to consume either 15 g SCP or placebo (PLA) and engage in a concurrent training (CT) intervention (30 min each of resistance and endurance training, 3x/week) for 12 weeks. Before (T1) and after the intervention (T2), eccentric muscle damage was induced by 150 drop jumps. Measurements of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), rate of force development (RFD), peak RFD, countermovement jump height (CMJ), and muscle soreness (MS) were determined pre-exercise, immediately after exercise, and 24 and 48 h post-exercise. In addition, body composition, including fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), body cell mass (BCM) and extracellular mass (ECM) were determined at rest both before and after the 12-week intervention period.

Results

Three-way mixed ANOVA showed significant interaction effects in favor of the SCP group. MVC (p = 0.02, ηp2 = 0.11), RFD (p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.18), peak RFD (p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.15), and CMJ height (p = 0.046, ηp2 = 0.06) recovered significantly faster in the SCP group. No effects were found for muscle soreness (p = 0.66) and body composition (FM: p = 0.41, FFM: p = 0.56, BCM: p = 0.79, ECM: p = 0.58).

Conclusion

In summary, the results show that combining specific collagen peptide supplementation (SCP) and concurrent training (CT) over a 12-week period significantly improved markers reflecting recovery, specifically in maximal, explosive, and reactive strength. It is hypothesized that prolonged intake of collagen peptides may support muscular adaptations by facilitating remodeling of the extracellular matrix. This, in turn, could enhance the generation of explosive force.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier ID: NCT05220371.

Effects of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides in Combination with Concurrent Training on Running Performance and Indicators of Endurance Capacity in Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

First evidence indicates that the supplementation of specific collagen peptides (SCP) is associated with a significant improvement in running performance in physically active women; however, it is unclear if the same is true in males. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of a concurrent training program including 60 min of continuous moderate intensity running training and 15 min of dynamic resistance training combined with supplementation of SCP on parameters of running performance in moderately trained males.

METHODS

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial, participants performed a 12 weeks concurrent training and ingested 15 g of SCP [treatment group (TG)] or placebo [control group (CG)] daily. Before and after the intervention, running endurance performance was measured by a 1-h time trial on a running track. Velocity at the lactate threshold (VLT) and at the individual anaerobic threshold (VIAT) were assessed on a treadmill ergometer. Body composition was evaluated by bioelectrical impedance analysis.

RESULTS

Thirty-two men (28.4 ± 5.2 years) completed the study and were included in the analysis. After 12 weeks, TG had a statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) higher increase in running distance (1727 ± 705 m) compared to the CG (1018 ± 976 m) in the time trial. VLT increased in the TG by 0.680 ± 1.27 km h-1 and slightly decreased by - 0.135 ± 0.978 km h-1 in the CG, resulting in statistically significant group differences (p ≤ 0.05). A significantly higher improvement in VIAT (p ≤ 0.05) was shown in the TG compared with the CG only (1.660 ± 1.022 km h-1 vs 0.606 ± 0.974 km h-1; p ≤ 0.01). Fat mass decreased (TG - 1.7 ± 1.6 kg; CG - 1.2 ± 2.0 kg) and fat free mass increased (TG 0.2 ± 1.2 kg; CG 0.5 ± 1.3 kg) in both groups with no significant group differences.

CONCLUSION

In summary, supplementation with 15 g of SCP improved running performance in a 1-h time trial and enhanced indicators of endurance capacity at submaximal exercise intensities such as an increased velocity at the lactate as well as the anaerobic threshold more effectively than CT alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ETK: 123/17; DRKS-ID: DRKS00015529 (Registered 07 November 2018-Retrospectively registered); https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00015529.

Preventive Effects of Collagen-Derived Dipeptide Prolyl-Hydroxyproline against Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy in Mouse C2C12 Skeletal Myotubes

Glucocorticoids, commonly used to manage inflammatory diseases, can induce muscle atrophy by accelerating the breakdown of muscle proteins. This research delves into the influence of Prolyl-hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp), a collagen-derived peptide, on muscle atrophy induced with dexamethasone (DEX), a synthetic glucocorticoid, in mouse C2C12 skeletal myotubes. Exposure to DEX (10 μM) for 6 days resulted in a decrease in myotube diameter, along with elevated mRNA and protein levels of two muscle-atrophy-related ubiquitin ligases, muscle atrophy F-box (MAFbx, also known as atrogin-1) and muscle ring finger 1 (MuRF-1). Remarkably, treatment with 0.1 mM of Pro-Hyp mitigated the reduction in myotube thickness caused by DEX, while promoting the phosphorylation of Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and forkhead box O3a (Foxo3a). This led to the inhibition of the upregulation of the ubiquitin ligases atrogin-1 and MuRF-1. These findings indicate the potential significance of Pro-Hyp as a promising therapeutic target for countering DEX-induced muscle atrophy.

The Effect of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides on Tendon Remodeling during 15 wk of Lower Body Resistance Training

PURPOSE

Collagen peptide supplementation has been reported to enhance synthesis rates or growth in a range of musculoskeletal tissues and could enhance tendinous tissue adaptations to resistance training (RT). This double-blind placebo-controlled study aimed to determine if tendinous tissue adaptations, size (patellar tendon cross-sectional area (CSA) and vastus lateralis (VL) aponeurosis area), and mechanical properties (patellar tendon), after 15 wk of RT, could be augmented with collagen peptide (CP) versus placebo (PLA) supplementation.

METHODS

Young healthy recreationally active men were randomized to consume either 15 g of CP ( n = 19) or PLA ( n = 20) once every day during a standardized program of lower-body RT (3 times a week). Measurements pre- and post-RT included patellar tendon CSA and VL aponeurosis area (via magnetic resonance imaging), and patellar tendon mechanical properties during isometric knee extension ramp contractions.

RESULTS

No between-group differences were detected for any of the tendinous tissue adaptations to RT (ANOVA group-time, 0.365 ≤ P ≤ 0.877). There were within-group increases in VL aponeurosis area (CP, +10.0%; PLA, +9.4%), patellar tendon stiffness (CP, +17.3%; PLA, +20.9%) and Young's modulus (CP, +17.8%; PLA, +20.6%) in both groups (paired t -tests (all), P ≤ 0.007). There were also within-group decreases in patellar tendon elongation (CP, -10.8%; PLA, -9.6%) and strain (CP, -10.6%; PLA, -8.9%) in both groups (paired t -tests (all), P ≤ 0.006). Although no within-group changes in patellar tendon CSA (mean or regional) occurred for CP or PLA, a modest overall time effect ( n = 39) was observed for mean (+1.4%) and proximal region (+2.4%) patellar tendon CSA (ANOVA, 0.017 ≤ P ≤ 0.048).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, CP supplementation did not enhance RT-induced tendinous tissue remodeling (either size or mechanical properties) compared with PLA within a population of healthy young men.

Low-Molecular Collagen Peptide Supplementation and Body Fat Mass in Adults Aged ≥ 50 Years: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to confirm whether collagen peptide supplementation for 12 week has a beneficial effect on body fat control in older adults at a daily physical activity level. Participants were assigned to either the collagen group (15 g/day of collagen peptide) or the placebo group (placebo drink). Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). In total, 74 participants (collagen group, n = 37; placebo group, n = 37) were included in the final analysis. The collagen group showed a significant reduction in total body fat mass compared with the placebo group, as evidenced by both BIA (p = 0.021) and DEXA (p = 0.041) measurements. Body fat mass and percent body fat of the whole body and trunk reduced at 12 weeks compared with baseline only in the collagen group (whole body: body fat mass, p = 0.002; percent body fat, p = 0.002; trunk: body fat mass, p = 0.001; percent body fat, p = 0.000). Total fat mass change (%) (collagen group, -0.49 ± 3.39; placebo group, 2.23 ± 4.20) showed a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.041). Physical activity, dietary intake, and biochemical parameters showed no significant difference between the groups. The results confirmed that collagen peptide supplementation had a beneficial effect on body fat reduction in older adults aged ≥ 50 years with daily physical activity level. Thus, collagen peptide supplementation has a positive effect on age-related changes.

Effects of 12 weeks of low molecular collagen peptide supplementation on body composition in overweight Korean adults aged 50 years and older.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3016558/v2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

After the age of 50, their muscle mass gradually declines each year, and the lost muscle is often replaced by fat mass. Insufficient protein intake after middle age further accelerates this process. Previous studies that have used collagen as a supplementation, which accounts for about 30% of the body's protein, have combined it with resistance exercise. This study investigated the effects of collagen supplementation on body composition in individuals over the age of 50 (23≤BMI≤32), while maintaining their daily activity levels constant. Participants were assigned to either the collagen group (n=42) or the placebo group(n=42). Collagen supplementation (15g of collagen) and placebo product (xanthan gum) were offered. Bioactive Collagen Peptides, which is a type of low molecular weight collagen extracted from porcine raw materials, was used. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Blood samples were taken for analysis. Physical activities and dietary intake were measured by international physical activity questionnaire and a 3-day food record, respectively. 74 participants in the collagen group (n=37) and placebo group (n=37) were used in the final analysis. Physical activity and dietary intake showed no significant difference between the two groups. The collagen group showed a significant reduction in total body fat mass compared to the placebo group, as evidenced by both BIA (P=0.021) and DEXA (P=0.041) measurements. There were no significant differences in blood measurements between the two groups. Therefore, the intake of collagen supplementation after middle age may be used for preventing age related fat mass accumulation.

Effects of collagen supplementation on body composition and muscle strength in Korean adults aged 50 years and older.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3016558/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

BACKGROUND: Insufficient protein intake can accelerate the loss of muscle mass as one ages. A decrease in muscle mass leads to an increase in fat mass, creating a vicious cycle that can result in sarcopenic obesity. Previous studies that have used collagen as a supplementation, which accounts for about 30% of the body's protein, have combined it with resistance exercise. OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effects of collagen supplementation on body composition in individuals over the age of 50, while maintaining their daily activity levels constant. DESIGN: Double-blind randomized controlled trial PARTICIPANTS: Participants were assigned to either the collagen group (n=42) or the placebo group(n=42). MEASUREMENTS: Collagen supplementation (14g of collagen) and placebo product (xanthan gum) were offered to collagen group and placebo group respectively, once a day. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Participants were instructed to maintain their dietary intake and physical activity levels, which were evaluated through a 3-day food record analysis and an international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ) analysis, respectively. RESULTS: 74 participants in the collagen group (n=37) and placebo group (n=37) completed the follow-up, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of physical activity levels. The collagen group showed a significant reduction in total body fat mass compared to the placebo group, as evidenced by both BIA (P=0.021) and DEXA (P=0.041) measurements. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of muscle mass. Conclusion: From this study, the consumption of collagen supplementation is effective in reducing fat mass, which is significant in preventing sarcopenic obesity after middle age.

Potential of Food Protein-Derived Bioactive Peptides against Sarcopenia: A Comprehensive Review

Sarcopenia is an age-related progressive muscle disorder characterized by accelerated loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, which are important causes of physiological dysfunctions in the elderly. At present, the main alleviating method includes protein supplements to stimulate synthesis of muscle proteins. Food protein-derived peptides containing abundant branched-chain amino acids have a remarkable effect on the improvement of sarcopenia. Understanding the underlying molecular mechanism and clarifying the structure-activity relationship is essential for the mitigation of sarcopenia. This present review recaps the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of sarcopenia, which facilitates a comprehensive understanding of sarcopenia. Moreover, the latest research progress on food-derived antisarcopenic peptides is reviewed, including their antisarcopenic activity, molecular mechanism as well as structural characteristics. Food-derived bioactive peptides can indeed alleviate/mitigate sarcopenia. These antisarcopenic peptides play a pivotal role mainly by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK pathways and inhibiting the ubiquitin-proteasome system and AMPK pathway, thus promoting the synthesis of muscle proteins and inhibiting their degradation. Antisarcopenic peptides alleviate sarcopenia via specific peptides, which may be absorbed into the circulation and exhibit their bioactivity in intact forms. The present review provides a theoretical reference for mitigation and prevention of sarcopenia by food protein-derived bioactive peptides.

Randomized, double-blind, four-arm pilot study on the effects of chicken essence and type II collagen hydrolysate on joint, bone, and muscle functions

BACKGROUND

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability among older adults. Medical and surgical treatments are costly and associated with side effects. A natural nutraceutical, collagen hydrolysate, has received considerable attention due to its relieving effects on OA-associated symptoms. This study investigated the effects of hydrolyzed collagen type II (HC-II) and essence of chicken (BRAND'S Essence of Chicken) with added HC-II (EC-HC-II) on joint, muscle, and bone functions among older adults with OA.

METHODS

Patients (n = 160) with grade 1-3 knee OA according to the Kellgren-Lawrence classification system, joint pain for ≥ 3 months, and a Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score of > 6 were randomly assigned with equal probability to consume EC-HC-II, HC-II, glucosamine HCl, or a placebo for 24 weeks in combination with resistance training. Outcome measurements were WOMAC score, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, grip strength, fat-free mass (FFM), and bone mass.

RESULTS

All groups exhibited similar levels of improvement in WOMAC index scores after 24 weeks. HC-II significantly reduced VAS pain score by 0.9 ± 1.89 (p = 0.034) after 14 days. A repeated-measures analysis of variance showed that HC-II reduced pain levels more than the placebo did (mean ± standard error: - 1.3 ± 0.45, p = 0.021) after 14 days; the EC-HC-II group also had significantly higher FFM than the glucosamine HCl (p = 0.02) and placebo (p = 0.017) groups and significantly higher grip strength than the glucosamine HCl group (p = 0.002) at 24 weeks.

CONCLUSION

HC-II reduces pain, and EC-HC-II may improve FFM and muscle strength. This suggests that EC-HC-II may be a novel holistic solution for mobility by improving joint, muscle, and bone health among older adults. Large-scale studies should be conducted to validate these findings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04483024).

Effects of collagen peptide supplementation on cardiovascular markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled trials

Previous studies have advocated that collagen peptide supplementation (CPS) can positively affect cardiovascular health. However, the widespread impact of CPS on CVD-related markers is not fully resolved. Consequently, the current systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of CPS on CVD-related markers. A systematic search in the Scopus, PubMed and ISI Web of Science databases were completed to identify relevant randomised, placebo-controlled trials (RCT) published up to November 2021. Mean Differences were pooled using a random-effects model, while publication bias, sensitivity analyses and heterogeneity were assessed using previously validated methods. Twelve RCT, comprising of a total of eleven measured markers, were selected for the quantitative analysis. Pooled data revealed that CPS significantly decreased fat mass (-1·21 kg; 95 % CI: -2·13, -0·29; I² = 0·0 %; P = 0·010) and increased fat-free mass, based on body mass percentage (1·49 %; 95 % CI: 0·57, 2·42; I² = 0·0 %; P = 0·002). Moreover, collagen peptide supplementation led to a significant decrease in serum LDL (-4·09 mg/dl; 95 % CI: -8·13, -0·04; I² = 93·4 %; P = 0·048) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) (-5·04 mmHg; 95 % CI: -9·22, -0·85; I² = 98·9 %; P = 0·018). Our analysis also indicated that CPS did not affect glycemic markers. Our outcomes indicate that CPS reduces fat mass, LDL and SBP while increasing fat-free mass. Future investigations with longer CPS duration are needed to expand on our results.

Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature

Collagen is one of the main components of the extracellular matrix of the dermis and articular cartilage and influences the body's mechanical, organizational, and tissue formation properties. Produced from food industry by-products, it is considered a nutraceutical product widely used as an ingredient or supplement in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. This study aimed to conduct a literature review on the scientific evidence regarding the beneficial effects of collagen consumption in the treatment of skin and orthopedic diseases. Literature data have shown that hydrolyzed collagen supplementation promotes skin changes, such as decreased wrinkle formation; increased skin elasticity; increased hydration; increased collagen content, density, and synthesis, which are factors closely associated with aging-related skin damage. Regarding orthopedic changes, collagen supplementation increases bone strength, density, and mass; improves joint stiffness/mobility, and functionality; and reduces pain. These aspects are associated with bone loss due to aging and damage caused by strenuous physical activity. Thus, this review addresses the economic and health potential of this source of amino acids and bioactive peptides extracted from food industry by-products.

The Preventive Effect of Specific Collagen Peptides against Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy in Mice

Muscle atrophy, also known as muscle wasting, is the thinning of muscle mass due to muscle disuse, aging, or diseases such as cancer or neurological problems. Muscle atrophy is closely related to the quality of life and has high morbidity and mortality. However, therapeutic options for muscle atrophy are limited, so studies to develop therapeutic agents for muscle loss are always required. For this study, we investigated how orally administered specific collagen peptides (CP) affect muscle atrophy and elucidated its molecular mechanism using an in vivo model. We treated mice with dexamethasone (DEX) to induce a muscular atrophy phenotype and then administered CP (0.25 and 0.5 g/kg) for four weeks. In a microcomputed tomography analysis, CP (0.5 g/kg) intake significantly increased the volume of calf muscles in mice with DEX-induced muscle atrophy. In addition, the administration of CP (0.25 and 0.5 g/kg) restored the weight of the gluteus maximus and the fiber cross-sectional area (CSA) of the pectoralis major and calf muscles, which were reduced by DEX. CP significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of myostatin and the phosphorylation of Smad2, but it did not affect TGF-β, BDNF, or FNDC5 gene expression. In addition, AKT/mTOR, a central pathway for muscle protein synthesis and related to myostatin signaling, was enhanced in the groups that were administered CP. Finally, CP decreased serum albumin levels and increased TNF-α gene expression. Collectively, our in vivo results demonstrate that CP can alleviate muscle wasting through a multitude of mechanisms. Therefore, we propose CP as a supplement or treatment to prevent muscle atrophy.

The effect of specific bioactive collagen peptides on function and muscle remodeling during human resistance training

AIM

Bioactive collagen peptides (CP) have been suggested to augment the functional, structural (size and architecture), and contractile adaptations of skeletal muscle to resistance training (RT), but with limited evidence. This study aimed to determine if CP vs. placebo (PLA) supplementation enhanced the functional and underpinning structural, and contractile adaptations after 15 weeks of lower body RT.

METHODS

Young healthy males were randomized to consume either 15 g of CP (n = 19) or PLA (n = 20) once every day during a standardized program of progressive knee extensor, knee flexor, and hip extensor RT 3 times/wk. Measurements pre- and post-RT included: knee extensor and flexor isometric strength; quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteus maximus volume with MRI; evoked twitch contractions, 1RM lifting strength, and architecture (with ultrasound) of the quadriceps.

RESULTS

Percentage changes in maximum strength (isometric or 1RM) did not differ between-groups (0.684 ≤ p ≤ 0.929). Increases in muscle volume were greater (quadriceps 15.2% vs. 10.3%; vastus medialis (VM) 15.6% vs. 9.7%; total muscle volume 15.7% vs. 11.4%; [all] p ≤ 0.032) or tended to be greater (hamstring 16.5% vs. 12.8%; gluteus maximus 16.6% vs. 12.9%; 0.089 ≤ p ≤ 0.091) for CP vs. PLA. There were also greater increases in twitch peak torque (22.3% vs. 12.3%; p = 0.038) and angle of pennation of the VM (16.8% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.046), but not other muscles, for CP vs. PLA.

CONCLUSIONS

CP supplementation produced a cluster of consistent effects indicating greater skeletal muscle remodeling with RT compared to PLA. Notably, CP supplementation amplified the quadriceps and total muscle volume increases induced by RT.

Collagen peptide supplementation for pain and function: is it effective?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Connective tissue injuries are prevalent in active and aging populations, leading to chronic pain and decreased function. Turnover of this tissue is not well understood, especially as it relates to aging and injury. Supplementation of collagen peptides has been shown to improve connective tissue recovery and pain through increased collagen production.

RECENT FINDINGS

Collagen peptide supplementation improves pain and function, and upregulates metabolic pathways associated with muscle and tendon growth. Literature from the past 12-18 months supports that these pathways are also involved with increased synthesis and degradation of collagen and other elements of the extracellular matrix. Improvements in body composition and strength have been noted with collagen peptide supplementation when paired with resistance training. Collagen peptide supplements are hydrolyzed into small peptides, termed bioactive peptides, and individual amino acids. These bioactive peptides are associated with the benefits observed with collagen peptide supplementation and may play a critical role in the collagen turnover.

SUMMARY

Collagen peptide supplementation has been shown to promote recovery, decrease pain, and improve strength and body composition when paired with resistance training. These benefits may be attributed to bioactive peptides in collagen peptide supplements. Additional research is warranted to examine the specific effects of these bioactive peptides.

Rheological Method for Determining the Molecular Weight of Collagen Gels by Using a Machine Learning Technique

This article presents, for the first time, the results of applying the rheological technique to measure the molecular weights (Mw) and their distributions (MwD) of highly hierarchical biomolecules, such as non-hydrolyzed collagen gels. Due to the high viscosity of the studied gels, the effect of the concentrations on the rheological tests was investigated. In addition, because these materials are highly sensitive to denaturation and degradation under mechanical stress and temperatures close to 40 °C, when frequency sweeps were applied, a mathematical adjustment of the data by machine learning techniques (artificial intelligence tools) was designed and implemented. Using the proposed method, collagen fibers of Mw close to 600 kDa were identified. To validate the proposed method, lower Mw species were obtained and characterized by both the proposed rheological method and traditional measurement techniques, such as chromatography and electrophoresis. The results of the tests confirmed the validity of the proposed method. It is a simple technique for obtaining more microstructural information on these biomolecules and, in turn, facilitating the design of new structural biomaterials with greater added value.

Effects of specific collagen peptide supplementation combined with resistance training on Achilles tendon properties

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of specific collagen peptides (SCP) combined with resistance training (RT) on changes in tendinous and muscular properties. In a randomized, placebo-controlled study, 40 healthy male volunteers (age: 26.3 ± 4.0 years) completed a 14 weeks high-load resistance training program. One group received a daily dosage of 5g SCP while the other group received 5g of a placebo (PLA) supplement. Changes in Achilles tendon cross-sectional area (CSA), tendon stiffness, muscular strength, and thickness of the plantar flexors were measured. The SCP supplementation led to a significantly (p = 0.002) greater increase in tendon CSA (+11.0%) compared with the PLA group (+4.7%). Moreover, the statistical analysis revealed a significantly (p = 0.014) greater increase in muscle thickness in the SCP group (+7.3%) compared with the PLA group (+2.7%). Finally, tendon stiffness and muscle strength increased in both groups, with no statistical difference between the groups. In conclusion, the current study shows that the supplementation of specific collagen peptides combined with RT is associated with a greater hypertrophy in tendinous and muscular structures than RT alone in young physically active men. These effects might play a role in reducing tendon stress (i.e., deposition of collagen in load-bearing structures) during daily activities.

Protein and Sport: Alternative Sources and Strategies for Bioactive and Sustainable Sports Nutrition

Nutrition and sport play an important role in achieving a healthy lifestyle. In addition to the intake of nutrients derived from the normal diet, some sport disciplines require the consumption of supplements that contribute positively to improved athletic performance. Protein intake is important for many aspects related to health, and current evidence suggests that some athletes require increased amounts of this nutrient. On the other hand, society's demand for more environmentally friendly products, focus on the search for alternative food sources more sustainable. This review aims to summarize the latest research on novel strategies and sources for greener and functional supplementation in sport nutrition. Alternative protein sources such as insects, plants or mycoproteins have proven to be an interesting substrate due to their high added value in terms of bioactivity and sustainability. Protein hydrolysis has proven to be a very useful technology to revalue by-products, such as collagen, by producing bioactive peptides beneficial on athletes performance and sport-related complications. In addition, it has been observed that certain amino acids from plant sources, as citrulline or theanine, can have an ergogenic effect for this target population. Finally, the future perspectives of protein supplementation in sports nutrition are discussed. In summary, protein supplementation in sports nutrition is a very promising field of research, whose future perspective lies with the search for alternatives with greater bioactive potential and more sustainable than conventional sources.

Sustainable Applications of Animal Waste Proteins

Currently, the growth of the global population leads to an increase in demand for agricultural products. Expanding the obtaining and consumption of food products results in a scale up in the amount of by-products formed, the development of processing methods for which is becoming an urgent task of modern science. Collagen and keratin make up a significant part of the animal origin protein waste, and the potential for their biotechnological application is almost inexhaustible. The specific fibrillar structure allows collagen and keratin to be in demand in bioengineering in various forms and formats, as a basis for obtaining hydrogels, nanoparticles and scaffolds for regenerative medicine and targeted drug delivery, films for the development of biodegradable packaging materials, etc. This review describes the variety of sustainable sources of collagen and keratin and the beneficial application multiformity of these proteins.

Supplementation of Specific Collagen Peptides Following High-Load Resistance Exercise Upregulates Gene Expression in Pathways Involved in Skeletal Muscle Signal Transduction

Previous evidence suggests that resistance training in combination with specific collagen peptides (CP) improves adaptive responses of the muscular apparatus. Although beneficial effects have been repeatedly demonstrated, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Therefore, the primary objective of the present randomized trial was to elucidate differences in gene expression pathways related to skeletal muscle signal transduction following acute high-load resistance exercise with and without CP intake. Recreationally active male participants were equally randomized to high-load leg extension exercise in combination with 15 g CP or placebo (PLA) supplementation. Muscle biopsies from the vastus lateralis muscle were obtained at baseline as well as 1, 4 and 24 h post exercise to investigate gene expression using next generation sequencing analysis. Several important anabolic pathways including PI3K-Akt and MAPK pathways were significantly upregulated at 1 and 4 h post-exercise. Significant between-group differences for both pathways were identified at the 4 h time point demonstrating a more pronounced effect after CP intake. Gene expression related to the mTOR pathway demonstrated a higher visual increase in the CP group compared to PLA by trend, but failed to achieve statistically significant group differences. The current findings revealed a significantly higher upregulation of key anabolic pathways (PI3K-Akt, MAPK) in human skeletal muscle 4 h following an acute resistance training combined with intake of 15 g of specific collagen peptides compared to placebo. Further investigations should examine potential relationships between upregulated gene expression and changes in myofibrillar protein synthesis as well as potential long-term effects on anabolic pathways on the protein level.

Whey Protein Supplementation Is Superior to Leucine-Matched Collagen Peptides to Increase Muscle Thickness During a 10-Week Resistance Training Program in Untrained Young Adults

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of supplementation of whey protein (WP) versus leucine-matched collagen peptides (CP) on muscle thickness MT and performance after a resistance training (RT) program in young adults. Twenty-two healthy untrained participants were randomly assigned to either a WP (n = 11) or leucine-matched CP (n = 11) group and then submitted to a supervised 10-week RT program (3 days/week). The groups were supplemented with an equivalent amount of WP (35 g, containing 3.0 g of leucine) and CP (35 g, containing 1.0 g of leucine and 2.0 g of free leucine) during the intervention period (after each workout and in the evening on nontraining days). MT of the vastus lateralis and biceps brachii, isokinetic peak torque and mean power output of the elbow flexors, and peak power output of the lower body were assessed before and after the RT program. The WP group experienced a greater (interaction, p < .05) increase in the vastus lateralis (effect size, WP = 0.68 vs. CP = 0.38; % Δ, WP = 8.4 ± 2.5 vs. CP = 5.6 ± 2.6%) and biceps brachii muscle thickness (effect size, WP = 0.61 vs. CP = 0.35; % , WP = 10.1 ± 3.8 vs. CP = 6.0 ± 3.2%), with a similar increase in muscle performance (peak torque, mean power output, and peak power output) between groups (time p < .05). Supplementation with WP was superior to leucine content-matched CP supplementation in increasing muscle size, but not strength and power, after a 10-week RT program in young adults.

Potential Relevance of Bioactive Peptides in Sports Nutrition

Bioactive peptides are physiologically active peptides mostly derived from proteins following gastrointestinal digestion, fermentation or hydrolysis by proteolytic enzymes. It has been shown that bioactive peptides can be resorbed in their intact form and have repeatedly been shown to have a positive effect on health-related parameters such as hypertension, dyslipoproteinemia, inflammation and oxidative stress. In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that biologically active peptides could also play an important role in sports nutrition. Current studies have shown that bioactive peptides could have a positive impact on changes in body composition and muscular performance, reduce muscle damage following exercise and induce beneficial adaptions within the connective tissue. In the following overview, potential mechanisms as well as possible limitations regarding the sports-related effect of bioactive peptides and their potential mechanisms are presented and discussed. In addition, practical applications will be discussed on how bioactive peptides can be integrated into a nutritional approach in sports to enhance athletic performance as well as prevent injuries and improve the rehabilitation process.

The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review

Collagen peptide supplementation (COL), in conjunction with exercise, may be beneficial for the management of degenerative bone and joint disorders. This is likely due to stimulatory effects of COL and exercise on the extracellular matrix of connective tissues, improving structure and load-bearing capabilities. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current literature available on the combined impact of COL and exercise. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, a literature search of three electronic databases—PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL—was conducted in June 2020. Fifteen randomised controlled trials were selected after screening 856 articles. The study populations included 12 studies in recreational athletes, 2 studies in elderly participants and 1 in untrained pre-menopausal women. Study outcomes were categorised into four topics: (i) joint pain and recovery from joint injuries, (ii) body composition, (iii) muscle soreness and recovery from exercise, and (iv) muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and collagen synthesis. The results indicated that COL is most beneficial in improving joint functionality and reducing joint pain. Certain improvements in body composition, strength and muscle recovery were present. Collagen synthesis rates were elevated with 15 g/day COL but did not have a significant impact on MPS when compared to isonitrogenous higher quality protein sources. Exact mechanisms for these adaptations are unclear, with future research using larger sample sizes, elite athletes, female participants and more precise outcome measures such as muscle biopsies and magnetic imagery.

A systematic review and meta-analysis: Effects of protein hydrolysate supplementation on fat-free mass and strength in resistance-trained individuals

The quality of the existing evidence on the effects of protein hydrolysate supplementation on fat-free mass (FFM) and upper and lower body strength under resistance exercise intervention has not been evaluated. We conducted a structured literature search in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Scopus database. A random effect model was used with continuous data of FFM and upper and lower body strength for healthy participants over 18 years old who received resistance training for ≥4 weeks and took protein hydrolysate or equivalent control supplements. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were also conducted. Data from 330 participants in eight studies showed that supplemental protein hydrolysate had a positive effect on the FFM (n = 13, SMD = 0.36, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.16-0.56, P = 0.000) and lower (n = 7, SMD = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.16-0.69, P = 0.001) and upper (n = 5, SMD = 0.17, 95% CI: -0.06-0.41, P = 0.145) body strength of resistance-trained individuals compared with placebo, showing an increase in physical fitness and muscle strength. However, the current evidence is insufficient to establish ingestion recommendations.

Monitoring urinary collagen metabolite changes following collagen peptide ingestion and physical activity using ELISA with anti active collagen oligopeptide antibody

Active collagen oligopeptides (ACOP) are bioactive collagen-derived peptides detected by a recently-established ELISA. To facilitate studies of the function and metabolism of these products, this study aims to determine which of these peptides is recognized by a novel anti-ACOP antibody used in this ELISA. We then investigate the effect of collagen peptide (CP) ingestion and exercise on urinary ACOP concentrations in a cohort of university student athletes using colorimetric, LC–MS/MS, and ELISA. We observed that the antibody showed strong cross-reactivity to Pro-Hyp and Gly-Pro-Hyp and weak cross-reactivity to commercial CP. CP ingestion increased the urinary level of ACOP over time, which correlated highly with urinary levels of peptide forms of Hyp and Pro-Hyp. Physical activity significantly decreased the urinary ACOP level. This study demonstrates changes in urinary ACOP following oral CP intake and physical activity using ELISA with the novel anti-ACOP antibody. Thus, ACOP may be useful as a new biomarker for collagen metabolism.

Nutrition and physical activity interventions for the general population with and without cardiometabolic risk: a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this scoping review was to examine the research question: In the adults with or without cardiometabolic risk, what is the availability of literature examining interventions to improve or maintain nutrition and physical activity-related outcomes? Sub-topics included: (1) behaviour counseling or coaching from a dietitian/nutritionist or exercise practitioner, (2) mobile applications to improve nutrition and physical activity and (3) nutritional ergogenic aids.

DESIGN

The current study is a scoping review. A literature search of the Medline Complete, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and other databases was conducted to identify articles published in the English language from January 2005 until May 2020. Data were synthesised using bubble charts and heat maps.

SETTING

Out-patient, community and workplace.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults with or without cardiometabolic risk factors living in economically developed countries.

RESULTS

Searches resulted in 19 474 unique articles and 170 articles were included in this scoping review, including one guideline, thirty systematic reviews (SR), 134 randomised controlled trials and five non-randomised trials. Mobile applications (n 37) as well as ergogenic aids (n 87) have been addressed in several recent studies, including SR. While primary research has examined the effect of individual-level nutrition and physical activity counseling or coaching from a dietitian/nutritionist and/or exercise practitioner (n 48), interventions provided by these practitioners have not been recently synthesised in SR.

CONCLUSION

SR of behaviour counseling or coaching provided by a dietitian/nutritionist and/or exercise practitioner are needed and can inform practice for practitioners working with individuals who are healthy or have cardiometabolic risk.

Long-term intake of ginger protease-degraded collagen hydrolysate reduces blood lipid levels and adipocyte size in mice

Collagen hydrolysate has various beneficial effects, such as bone strengthening, joint/skin protection and lipid metabolism regulation. In this study, the anti-obesity activity of ginger protease-degraded collagen hydrolysate (GDCH) was evaluated in BALB/c mice fed diets containing 14% casein (control group) or 10% casein +4% GDCH (GDCH group) for 10 weeks. In the GDCH group, triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol (CHO) levels in blood and adipocyte size in white adipose tissue were significantly decreased compared with those of the control group. Further, gene expression related to fatty acid synthesis, such as acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase and stearoyl-CoA desaturase, was decreased in the liver and white adipose tissue of GDCH-fed mice. On the other hand, single oral administration of GDCH did not result in decrease in blood TG and CHO compared with vehicle and casein in ICR mice pre-administered soybean oil. These results suggest that the GDCH-induced decreases in tissue and blood lipids occur through long-term alterations in lipid metabolism, not transient inhibition of lipid absorption. The lipid-lowering effects exhibited by partial substitution of casein with GDCH imply the possibility that daily supplementation of GDCH contributes to prevention/attenuation of obesity and hyperlipidemia.

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Long-term feeding of ginger-protease degraded collagen hydrolysate (GDCH) in mice.

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Blood triglycerides and cholesterol were decreased by GDCH intake.

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Adipocyte size of white adipose tissue was reduced by GDCH intake.

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Fatty acid synthesis genes were down-regulated by GDCH intake.

A collagen hydrolysate/milk protein-blend stimulates muscle anabolism equivalently to an isoenergetic milk protein-blend containing a greater quantity of essential amino acids in older men

Background & aims

Nutritional composition is key for skeletal muscle maintenance into older age. Yet the acute effects of collagen protein blended with other protein sources, in relation to skeletal muscle anabolism, are ill-defined. We investigated human muscle protein synthesis (MPS) responses to a 20 g blend of collagen protein hydrolysate + milk protein (CP+MP, 125 ml) oral nutritional supplement (ONS) vs. 20 g non-blended milk protein source (MP, 200 ml) ONS, in older adults.

Methods

Healthy older men (N = 8, 71±1 y, BMI: 27±1 kg·m⁻²) underwent a randomized trial of 20 g protein, from either a CP+MP blend (Fresubin®3.2 kcal DRINK), or a kcal-matched (higher in essential amino acids (EAA) ONS of MP alone. Vastus lateralis (VL) MPS and plasma AA were determined using stable isotope-tracer mass spectrometry; anabolic signaling was quantified via immuno-blotting in VL biopsies taken at baseline and 2/4 h after ONS feeding. Plasma insulin was measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Measures were taken at rest, after the feed (FED) and after the feed + exercise (FED-EX) conditions (unilateral leg exercise, 6 × 8, 75% 1-RM).

Results

MP resulted in a greater increase in plasma leucine (MP mean: 152 ± 6 μM, CP+MP mean: 113 ± 4 μM (Feed P < 0.001) and EAA (MP mean: 917 ± 25 μM, CP+MP mean: 786 ± 15 μM (Feed P < 0.01) than CP+MP. CP + MP increased plasma glycine (peak 385 ± 57 μM (P < 0.05)), proline (peak 323 ± 29 μM (P < 0.01)) and non-essential amino acids (NEAA) (peak 1621 ± 107 μM (P < 0.01)) with MP showing no increase. Plasma insulin increased in both trials (CP+MP: 58 ± 10 mU/mL (P < 0.01), MP: 42 ± 6 mU/mL (P < 0.01), with peak insulin greater with CP+MP vs. MP (P < 0.01). MPS demonstrated equivalent increases in response to CP+MP and MP under both FED (MP: 0.039 ± 0.005%/h to 0.081 ± 0.014%/h (P < 0.05), CP+MP: 0.042 ± 0.004%/h to 0.085 ± 0.007%/h (P < 0.05)) and FED-EX (MP: 0.039 ± 0.005%/h to 0.093 ± 0.013%/h (P < 0.01), CP+MP: 0.042 ± 0.004%/h to 0.105 ± 0.015%/h, (P < 0.01)) conditions. FED muscle p-mTOR fold-change from baseline increased to a greater extent with CP+MP vs. MP (P < 0.05), whilst FED-EX muscle p-eEF2 fold-change from baseline decreased to a greater extent with CP+MP vs. MP (P < 0.05); otherwise anabolic signaling responses were indistinguishable.

Conclusion

Fresubin®3.2 kcal DRINK, which contains a 20 g mixed blend of CP+MP, resulted in equivalent MPS responses to MP alone. Fresubin® 3.2 Kcal DRINK may provide a suitable alternative to MP for use in older adults and a convenient way to supplement calories and protein to improve patient adherence and mitigate muscle mass loss.

Influence of Specific Collagen Peptides and Concurrent Training on Cardiometabolic Parameters and Performance Indices in Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose was to examine the effects of concurrent training (CT) combined with specific collagen peptides (SCP) intake on cardiometabolic parameters and performance indices in women. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial recreationally active women (n = 59) completed a 12-week CT training (3 day/week) and ingested 15 g of SCP (treatment group [TG]) or placebo (control group [CG]) on a daily basis. Running distance as a marker of endurance performance (time trial), velocity and heart rate at the lactate and anaerobic threshold (incremental running test) and body composition (bioelectrical impedance analysis [BIA]) were measured. BIA measurements included determination of fat mass (FM) and fat free mass (FFM). Additionally, muscular strength (one-repetition-maximum [1RM]) and muscular endurance (60% of 1RM) were assessed. After 12-weeks, TG had a higher increase in running distance (1,034 ± 643 m) compared to the CG (703 ± 356 m) indicated by a significant interaction effect (p < 0.05). Velocity at lactate and anaerobic threshold improved in both groups over time (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between groups. Similarly, heart rate at lactate threshold decreased over time (p < 0.001), with no time × group interaction. TG declined more in heart rate at anaerobic threshold (−8 ± 14 bpm) than the CG (−1 ± 7 bpm), which resulted in a significant interaction effect (p < 0.01). FM decreased over time in TG and CG (p < 0.001), with no group differences. On contrary, TG had a higher increase in FFM (0.8 ± 0.9 kg) compared to the CG (0.3 ± 1.0 kg) (time × group interaction: p < 0.05). Both, 1RM and muscular endurance improved over time (p < 0.001), with no significant group differences. In conclusion, supplementation of SCP in combination with CT resulted in a significant increase in endurance performance compared to the control group. This might potentially be a consequence of improved structural and cardiometabolic adaptations.

Effects of Collagen Peptides on Recovery Following Eccentric Exercise in Resistance-Trained Males-A Pilot Study

The authors sought to determine whether consuming collagen peptides (CP) enhances musculoskeletal recovery of connective tissues following a damaging exercise bout. Resistance-trained males consumed 15 g/day of CP (n = 7) or placebo (n = 8), and after 7 days, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), countermovement jump height, soreness, and collagen turnover were examined. Five sets of 20 drop jumps were performed and outcome measures were collected 24, 48, and 120 hr postexercise. Countermovement jump height was maintained in the CP group at 24 hr (PRE = 39.9 ± 8.8 cm vs. 24 hr = 37.9 ± 8.9 cm, p = .102), whereas the CP group experienced a significant decline at 24 hr (PRE = 40.4 ± 7.9 cm vs. 24 hr = 35.5 ± 6.4 cm, p = .001; d = 0.32). In both groups, muscle soreness was significantly higher than PRE at 24 hr (p = .001) and 48 hr (p = .018) but not at 120 hr (p > .05). MVIC in both legs showed a significant time effect (left: p = .007; right: p = .010) over the 5-day postexercise period. Neither collagen biomarker changed significantly at any time point. CP supplementation attenuated performance decline 24 hr following muscle damage. Acute consumption of CP may provide a performance benefit the day following a bout of damaging exercise in resistance-trained males.

Animal, Plant, Collagen and Blended Dietary Proteins: Effects on Musculoskeletal Outcomes

Dietary protein is critical for the maintenance of musculoskeletal health, where appropriate intake (i.e., source, dose, timing) can mitigate declines in muscle and bone mass and/or function. Animal-derived protein is a potent anabolic source due to rapid digestion and absorption kinetics stimulating robust increases in muscle protein synthesis and promoting bone accretion and maintenance. However, global concerns surrounding environmental sustainability has led to an increasing interest in plant- and collagen-derived protein as alternative or adjunct dietary sources. This is despite the lower anabolic profile of plant and collagen protein due to the inferior essential amino acid profile (e.g., lower leucine content) and subordinate digestibility (versus animal). This review evaluates the efficacy of animal-, plant- and collagen-derived proteins in isolation, and as protein blends, for augmenting muscle and bone metabolism and health in the context of ageing, exercise and energy restriction.

Whey protein but not collagen peptides stimulate acute and longer-term muscle protein synthesis with and without resistance exercise in healthy older women: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Aging appears to attenuate the response of skeletal muscle protein synthesis (MPS) to anabolic stimuli such as protein ingestion (and the ensuing hyperaminoacidemia) and resistance exercise (RE).

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of protein quality on feeding- and feeding plus RE-induced increases of acute and longer-term MPS after ingestion of whey protein (WP) and collagen protein (CP).

METHODS

In a double-blind parallel-group design, 22 healthy older women (mean ± SD age: 69 ± 3 y, n = 11/group) were randomly assigned to consume a 30-g supplement of either WP or CP twice daily for 6 d. Participants performed unilateral RE twice during the 6-d period to determine the acute (via [13C6]-phenylalanine infusion) and longer-term (ingestion of deuterated water) MPS responses, the primary outcome measures.

RESULTS

Acutely, WP increased MPS by a mean ± SD 0.017 ± 0.008%/h in the feeding-only leg (Rest) and 0.032 ± 0.012%/h in the feeding plus exercise leg (Exercise) (both P < 0.01), whereas CP increased MPS only in Exercise (0.012 ± 0.013%/h) (P < 0.01) and MPS was greater in WP than CP in both the Rest and Exercise legs (P = 0.02). Longer-term MPS increased by 0.063 ± 0.059%/d in Rest and 0.173 ± 0.104%/d in Exercise (P < 0.0001) with WP; however, MPS was not significantly elevated above baseline in Rest (0.011 ± 0.042%/d) or Exercise (0.020 ± 0.034%/d) with CP. Longer-term MPS was greater in WP than in CP in both Rest and Exercise (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Supplementation with WP elicited greater increases in both acute and longer-term MPS than CP supplementation, which is suggestive that WP is a more effective supplement to support skeletal muscle retention in older women than CP.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03281434.

Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training with Protein Supplementation on Muscle Mass And Strength in Older Men

Blood flow restriction (BFR) training has been shown to induce favorable changes in muscle mass and strength with a considerably low training load (20 - 30% 1RM). However, it has never been evaluated if an additional post-exercise protein supplementation enhances the effects of this training regimen. Thirty healthy older men (60.1 ± 7.6 years) were enrolled in the 8-week intervention and randomly allocated to one of the following groups: low-load BFR training with protein (collagen hydrolysate) supplementation (BFR-CH), low-load BFR training with placebo (BFR-PLA), or a control group without training, but with protein supplementation (CON). Muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), muscle strength, circulating reactive oxygen species and IGF-1 were measured before and after the intervention. Muscle CSA increased in both BFR-CH and BFR-PLA groups by 6.7 ± 3.2 % (p < 0.001) and 5.7 ± 2.7 % (p < 0.001) respectively. No significant changes were observed in the CON group (1.1 ± 1.7 %, p = 0.124). Evaluation of isometric strength (p = 0.247), insulin-like growth factor 1 (p = 0.705) and the production of reactive oxygen species (p^t1 = 0.229; p^t2 = 0.741) revealed no significant interaction effect but a significant long-term time effect (p < 0.001). Our results demonstrate that BFR training is an effective alternative for increasing muscle CSA in older men. Although there was a trend towards greater muscle mass adaptations in the BFR-CH group, these findings showed no statistical significance. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm these results.

Prolonged Collagen Peptide Supplementation and Resistance Exercise Training Affects Body Composition in Recreationally Active Men

We aimed to determine the effects of long-term collagen peptide (CP) supplementation and resistance exercise training (RET) on body composition, strength, and muscle fiber cross-sectional area (fCSA) in recreationally active men. Fifty-seven young men were randomly and double-blinded divided into a group receiving either collagen peptides (COL, 15 g/day) or a placebo (PLA). Strength testing, bioimpedance analysis, and muscle biopsies were used prior to and after an RET intervention. Food record protocols were performed during the RET intervention. The groups trained three times a week for 12 weeks. Baseline parameters showed no differences between groups, and the external training load and dietary food intake were also similar. COL showed a significant increase in fat-free mass (FFM) compared with the placebo group (p < 0.05). Body fat mass (BFM) was unchanged in COL, whereas a significant increase in BFM was observed in PLA. Both groups showed significant increases in all strength tests, with a trend for a slightly more pronounced effect in COL. The fCSA of type II muscle fibers increased significantly in both groups without differences between the two groups. We firstly demonstrated improved body composition in healthy, recreationally active men subsequent to prolonged CP supplementation in combination with RET. As the observed increase in FFM was not reflected in differences in fCSA hypertrophy between groups, we assume enhanced passive connective tissue adaptations in COL due to CP intake.

Significant Amounts of Functional Collagen Peptides Can Be Incorporated in the Diet While Maintaining Indispensable Amino Acid Balance

The results of twenty years of research indicate that the inclusion of collagen peptides in the diet can lead to various improvements in health. According to the current protein quality evaluation method PDCAAS (Protein Digestibility-corrected Amino Acid Score), collagen protein lacks one indispensable amino acid (tryptophan) and is therefore categorized as an incomplete protein source. Collagen protein displays a low indispensable amino acid profile, yet as a functional food, collagen is a source of physiologically active peptides and conditionally indispensable amino acids that have the potential to optimize health and address physiological needs posed by aging and exercise. The objective of this study was to determine the maximum level of dietary collagen peptides that can be incorporated in the Western pattern diet while maintaining its indispensable amino acid balance. Iterative PDCAAS calculations showed that a level as high as 36% of collagen peptides can be used as protein substitution in the daily diet while ensuring indispensable amino acid requirements are met. This study suggests that the effective amounts of functional collagen peptides (2.5 to 15 g per day) observed in the literature are below the maximum level of collagen that may be incorporated in the standard American diet.