Alpha Lactalbumin & Sports Nutrition

What is alpha-lactalbumin (Alpha-Lac), and why is it gaining popularity in sports nutrition?

Alpha-lactalbumin (alpha or alpha lac) is one of the main protein fractions naturally occurring in milk. Alpha is the most abundant protein fraction in human milk and the second most abundant fraction in bovine milk. It is naturally high in the essential amino acid tryptophan, as well as providing the unrivalled essential and branched chain amino acid composition whey protein is renowned for. . Research has shown alpha-lactalbumin to be effective in improving sleep and cognitive performance.

In a recent study in female rugby players, consumption of a pre-sleep shake over the course of the competitive season was found to significantly reduce the time taken to get to sleep (Gratwicke et al, 2022).

Are there emerging trends in Alpha-Lac applications for overall health and wellness?

Alpha-lactalbumin is naturally high in tryptophan, a precursor for melatonin, which promotes serotonin synthesis in the body. Serotonin is key in the sleep-wake cycle, mood and also plays a role in satiety. Tryptophan, 5-HTP, melatonin and serotonin supplements are already popular choices for consumers wanting to promote their feelings of well-being, enhance positive moods and boost their sleep. . It is estimated that 50–70 million U.S. adults suffer from a sleep disorder and the level of anxiety and stress has increased since the pandemic across the globe.

Alpha-lac provides a naturally occurring source of tryptophan, along with high quality protein, and scientific research has shown supplementing diets with alpha-lactalbumin can help:

With consumers  looking to nutrition and supplements to support their health and wellbeing now more than ever, alpha-lac can help products stand out in their category.

 

 

How can Alpha-Lac enhance the performance and effectiveness of sports nutrition products?

Alpha-lactalbumin offers product formulators an easy-to-use ingredient that provides functional health benefits. Bedtime protein products that support recovery overnight are a staple of many athletes diet, and alpha fits perfectly here. It can be used alone (or in combination with a more traditional casein ingredient), it could help optimize sleep as well as amino acid delivery overnight.

 

How can Alpha-Lac be integrated into functional nutrition products beyond sports?

Beyond ready-to-mix (RTM) sports nutrition products, alpha-lactalbumin can be used in a wide range of applications. Alpha Lac could be incorporated into ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, bars, and snack foods that aim to offer a functional benefit in addition to great taste. It gives the benefits of tryptophan alongside high quality whey protein, to help satisfy consumer demand for high protein products.

 

What potential innovations and product developments are on the horizon for Alpha-Lac in sports nutrition?

 Alpha lac comes as a dry, white powder that is easy to handle and formulate with. Subsequently, R&D professionals have the flexibility to explore a wide range of products and applications that could benefit from alpha-lactalbumin.

 

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