As people become more aware of healthy eating and environmental protection, the demand for plant-based proteins continues to grow, and pea protein and pea peptides have become two options that have attracted much attention. Both are derived from peas, but their extraction methods and nutritional characteristics are different.
Pea protein
The star of plant protein
Pea protein is a protein extracted from yellow or green peas. It is rich in high-quality amino acids and is a plant-based protein known as a “complete protein”. Compared with other plant proteins, such as rice protein or hemp seed protein, pea protein is very popular in the fitness circle because of its high content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which is particularly beneficial for muscle repair and growth.
Features of pea protein:
Complete amino acids: Pea protein provides all 9 essential amino acids for the human body and is a complete source of protein.
High digestibility: Pea protein has a very high digestibility, which is easy for the body to absorb and utilize.
Hypoallergenicity: Compared with whey protein or soy protein, pea protein has almost no allergy risk and is suitable for people with lactose intolerance and those who are sensitive to soy.
Versatility: Pea protein can be easily added to milkshakes, protein bars, baked goods and vegetarian meat substitutes, with both taste and nutrition.
Pea peptides
More efficient absorption and functionality
Pea peptides are extracted from pea protein through enzymatic hydrolysis technology, and the molecules are smaller, so they are called “small molecule peptides”. This form of protein is not only easy to digest and absorb, but also has higher bioavailability, enters the blood faster, and quickly provides nutrition to the body, which is particularly suitable for recovery after exercise.
Advantages of pea peptides:
Rapid absorption: Due to its small molecule structure, pea peptides can be absorbed faster by the body and quickly repair muscle tissue after exercise.
High bioavailability: The structure of peptides makes it easier for the body to fully utilize it than general proteins.
Diverse functions: Studies have shown that pea peptides are not just a simple protein supplement, they also have additional health benefits such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and regulating intestinal flora.
Less digestive burden: Compared with traditional proteins, pea peptides put less burden on the digestive system during absorption, and are suitable for people with weak gastrointestinal function.