Better performance for improved hydration

Published: 2-May-2018

Regular exercise is good for us; but, during intense activity, dehydration can become a major issue, leading to altered reaction times and performance

Sustamine from Kyowa Hakko is a unique dipeptide of two amino acids — L-glutamine and L-alanine — that works on multiple levels and provides essential support when the body is under hydration stress.

Europeans like to exercise – a lot. It’s a big reason why sports nutrition is the fastest-growing consumer health category.

In a market once dominated by male bodybuilders and athletes, more women, active seniors and everyday exercisers want to stay fit as well as take safe, effective, long-lasting and easy-to-use products that boost energy while helping their bodies to recover faster.

A potent combination

Designed to assist with hydration, research suggests that Sustamine also supports the integrity of the gastrointestinal tract. Sustamine has also been shown to stimulate the immune system and may support immune health.

“Research suggests that Sustamine is absorbed more than 200% better than L-glutamine alone. This rapid absorption means that your body hydrates faster and improves performance,” said Oksana Ritchie, Kyowa Hakko’s European Marketing Manager.

“Sustamine works in synergy with other essential amino acids — L-leucine, L-isoleucine and L-valine — to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, promote muscle growth, enhance recovery and decrease muscle soreness when your workout is complete.”

Sustamine works on multiple levels to help rehydrate the body and sustain energy levels during exertion. It enhances performance and recover in three primary ways:

  • it enhances electrolytes and water absorption
  • it alleviates fatigue and increases time to exhaustion
  • it maintains the body’s glutamine balance.

Tried and tested

Drinking water or other beverages during exercise is important. Staying hydrated is another matter.

Sports drinks may help to replenish electrolytes and other minerals, but athletes and exercise enthusiasts need more to properly support recovery and overall performance.

In a double-blind, placebo study of 10 female basketball players, scientists found that those taking Sustamine made baskets nearly four times more often than players drinking water only or no fluids.

Another recent study showed that athletes who ingested 2 g of Sustamine took a longer time to reach exhaustion during a one-hour intense treadmill session.

“Most peptides have a strong bitter taste that’s difficult to mask. Sustamine is tasteless and doesn’t change the flavour of the finished product,” Ritchie said.

“Sustamine quickly dissolves in water or other liquids, is highly stable and is transparent when added to water.”

A safe choice

Consumers are turning more often to organic sports nutrition foods, beverage and dietary supplements. In addition, non-animal products that are suitable for vegans and vegetarians are gaining popularity amongst consumers.

Sustamine is approved as a Novel Food Ingredient in Europe and is the only self-affirmed GRAS L-alanyl-L-glutamine ingredient on the market.

It is manufactured in Japan using a patented fermentation process with no animal origin, making Sustamine suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

The ingredient is Kosher, allergen-free, GMP-compliant and made with no food additives, artificial flavours or preservatives.

Owing to its stability and solubility, Sustamine is a great companion ingredient in food supplements, nutrition bars, liquid food supplements and special medical foods.

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