Protein (protein) contained in carbonated protein drink “GUTEN” (GUTEN) explained

Carbonated Protein Drink

Our carbonated protein drink GUTEN contains a lot of protein from non-animal sources. When most people hear the word “protein,” they think of muscles. In reality, however, a balanced diet with a suffieicnt amount of protein actually means much broader health benefits.

We would like to briefly explain about such protein, the proteins contained in “GUTEN” and their roles on this page.

Protein

To begin with, what is protein? If you look up protein in a dictionary, you will find the word “Protein" or "Egg White" In other words, in Japan, egg white is often used as synonymous with Protein.

Protein plays a very important role. Protein is the building block of muscles, organs, skin, and hair. Therefore, it plays an important role in building the body. Bodybuilders and muscle trainers need protein for bodybuilding, or muscle building. Therefore, they take protein in powder form or in drinks as an easy way to obtain protein.

Protein does not stop there. In addition to building the body, proteins also produce hormones, enzymes, antibodies, blood, and other substances that support human activity. Proteins are therefore of vital importance to the human body.

Each can of GUTEN contains 10 grams of such protein. This makes it a high-protein beverage (see note).

(Note) According to Japanese food labeling regulations, the term “high protein” may only be used for products that contain at least 8.1g of protein per 100 kcal. GUTEN contains 10 g of protein per 54 kcal, which is equivalent to over 18g per 100 kcal.

Protein and amino acids

What “GUTEN” contains is protein, but to be precise, it is protein in the form of 5 different amino acids. What may be confusing here is the relationship between protein and amino acids. In fact, protein is composed of amino acids. To put it simply, they are the building blocks of the body's cells. Protein is a long chain of amino acids that the human body first splits into the different amino acids, which are then used by the body for various purposes.

There are 20 such amino acids. Five of these are contained in GUTEN.

Essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids

There are 20 types of amino acids, but they are divided into two major groups: essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids.

Let's start with the non-essential amino acids. 11 of the 20 amino acids are non-essential amino acids. These are amino acids that can be synthesized in the body, and it is not necessary to take a large amount of them. However, since they are necessary for the body and the amount your body can synthesize is much below the neede amount, supplementing the necessary amount is important.

On the other hand, there are nine types of essential amino acids, none of which can be synthesized in the body. Therefore, they must be ingested through food.

Incidentally, GUTEN contains 4 non-essential amino acids and 1 essential amino acid. Therefore, by taking GUTEN, you can consume both essential and non-essential amino acids.

Amino Acids in GUTEN

GUTEN contains 5 types of essential and non-essential amino acids. The essential amino acid is lysine (lysine). The non-essential amino acids are alanine, glycine, proline, and arginine. Here is a brief explanation of the roles of the amino acids in GUTEN.

Alanine (non-essential amino acid)

Alanine helps the liver function and promotes the breakdown of alcohol. It also plays an important role in the generation of energy and is used as a material for synthesizing sugar necessary for the body due to its sweet and umami taste.

Glycine (nonessential amino acid)

Glycine accounts for about one-third of collagen and supports skin elasticity and firmness. It is abundant in the brainstem and spine, and acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

Proline (nonessential amino acid)

It is one of the amino acids used as a raw material for collagen, which makes up skin and other tissues. Proline is one of the most important amino acids as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) that brings moisture to the skin.

Arginine (non-essential amino acid)

It supports energy production in the body and is greatly involved in human vitality. It supports the development of vigorous and healthy physical strength.

Lysine/lysine (essential amino acid)

They are responsible for the production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, and are involved in the repair and growth of body tissues. It also promotes the conversion of fat into energy and is recommended for weight loss. And when taken with arginine, it is expected to reduce stress and anxiety in people with high subjective levels of mental stress and anxiety.

GUTEN, the delicious protein/amino acid drink

GUTEN” contains a large amount of protein/amino acids, which are beneficial for the body. Although GUTEN is such a health-conscious drink, we are also particular about its taste. GUTEN is made with Chardonnay juice from Italy and a hint of grape vinegar.

Reference: e-Health Net, a health information website by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare