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Potato Protein

Also known as: Potato protein concentrate, Solanum tuberosum protein, Potato protein

Overview

Potato protein is a plant-derived protein extracted from the tubers of *Solanum tuberosum*. It is emerging as a valuable alternative to animal proteins in nutritional supplements, particularly for those seeking plant-based options for muscle support and appetite modulation. While research is still developing compared to more established proteins like whey or soy, initial studies, including randomized controlled trials, indicate its potential to stimulate muscle protein synthesis and influence satiety. It is also notable for containing Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2), a component believed to contribute to its appetite-regulating effects. This protein offers a promising option for individuals looking to enhance their protein intake with a sustainable, plant-based source, with a good amino acid profile suitable for various dietary needs.

Benefits

Potato protein offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in muscle protein synthesis and appetite regulation. For muscle protein synthesis, a randomized, double-blind controlled trial demonstrated that 30 grams of potato protein concentrate significantly increased mixed muscle protein synthesis rates in healthy young males, both at rest and after resistance exercise. The effects were comparable to those observed with 30 grams of milk protein (whey/casein), suggesting its efficacy as an anabolic protein source. For appetite regulation, Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2), a component within potato protein, has been shown to be effective. A 20-week randomized, placebo-controlled trial in overweight/obese adults found that PI2 supplementation increased circulating levels of cholecystokinin (CCK), a key satiety hormone, leading to reduced sensations of appetite. While a systematic review indicates that animal proteins might have a slight edge for muscle mass gain, the anabolic response to diverse plant proteins, including potato protein, is considered promising and comparable under specific conditions, making it a viable plant-based alternative.

How it works

Potato protein functions primarily by providing a complete profile of essential amino acids, which are crucial for stimulating muscle protein synthesis. These amino acids activate the mTOR pathway, a key regulator of muscle growth, in a manner similar to animal-derived proteins. Additionally, a unique component of potato protein, Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2), plays a significant role in appetite modulation. PI2 works by inhibiting certain digestive enzymes, which in turn leads to an increase in the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a gut hormone known to signal satiety to the brain. This dual mechanism allows potato protein to support both muscle anabolism and appetite control, with its amino acids being effectively absorbed and metabolized, yielding plasma amino acid profiles comparable to milk protein.

Side effects

Current research indicates that potato protein ingestion and Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2) supplementation are generally well-tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported in the reviewed studies. Clinical trials, including those lasting up to 20 weeks, have not identified common or serious side effects in healthy adults or overweight/obese populations. There are no known drug interactions or contraindications documented in the existing literature, suggesting a favorable safety profile. Based on available evidence, potato protein appears safe for consumption by healthy individuals within the studied dosages. However, as with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing conditions or those taking medications should consult a healthcare professional before use, although specific warnings for potato protein are not currently highlighted.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for potato protein varies depending on the desired effect. For stimulating muscle protein synthesis, a dose of 30 grams of potato protein concentrate per serving has been shown to be effective, based on randomized controlled trial data. This dosage is comparable to the amount of milk protein used to achieve similar anabolic responses. For appetite modulation, specifically through the action of Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2), a dosage of 150 mg twice daily, taken before meals, was effectively used in a 20-week clinical trial. For muscle synthesis, post-exercise ingestion is optimal to maximize anabolic effects. For appetite control, pre-meal dosing is recommended to leverage the satiety-inducing properties of PI2. While no maximum safe dose has been definitively established, the dosages used in clinical trials were well tolerated, suggesting a good safety margin for typical supplemental use.

FAQs

Is potato protein as effective as whey for muscle building?

Yes, a study showed that 30g of potato protein increased muscle protein synthesis rates in young males similarly to 30g of milk protein, indicating comparable effectiveness for muscle building.

Can potato protein help with weight loss?

The Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2) component in potato protein may aid weight loss by increasing the satiety hormone CCK, which can reduce appetite and support weight management efforts.

Is potato protein safe for long-term use?

Current evidence from trials lasting up to 20 weeks indicates that potato protein and its components are well-tolerated and safe for healthy adults, suggesting good long-term safety.

Does potato protein contain all essential amino acids?

Yes, potato protein is considered a complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids necessary for human health and muscle synthesis.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9390237/ – This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of 30g potato protein versus 30g milk protein on muscle protein synthesis in 24 young males. It found that both proteins significantly increased muscle protein synthesis rates, with no significant difference between the two, suggesting potato protein's comparable anabolic potential.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7049780/ – This 20-week randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 52 overweight/obese adults examined the effect of Potato Protease Inhibitor II (PI2) on appetite and weight. It demonstrated that PI2 increased cholecystokinin (CCK) levels and reduced appetite sensations, although it did not lead to significant weight loss differences between groups.
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/83/7/e1581/7954494 – This systematic review compared the effects of plant versus animal proteins on muscle mass and strength. It concluded that while animal proteins might offer a slight advantage, plant proteins, including potato protein, show promising anabolic effects, highlighting the potential of diverse plant-based protein sources.