Unlocking the Potential of Bioactive Peptides: Sources, Mechanisms, Health Benefits, and Applications
Bioactive peptides Bioactive peptides are short chains of amino acids that have positive biological effects in the body beyond their nutritive value of proteins. These peptides are usually inactive within the parent protein sequence and can be released during digestion or food processing. They play important roles in various physiological functions and have potential health benefits. This article discusses some key aspects of bioactive peptides including their sources, mechanisms of action, and health impacts. Sources of Bioactive Peptides Bioactive peptides are derived from food proteins through enzymatic hydrolysis. Common protein sources that release bioactive peptides include: Milk proteins: Caseins and whey proteins present in dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt. Enzymatic hydrolysis of these proteins produces various bioactive peptides with beneficial effects. Meat proteins: Hydrolysis of muscle proteins from meat sources like bovine, porcine and poultry meat releases