Prohydrolase Protease Enzyme Blend
Also known as: ProHydrolase, Protease Enzyme Blend
Overview
ProHydrolase is a proprietary blend of protease enzymes formulated to enhance the digestion and absorption of protein, particularly from supplements like whey protein. It is designed to break down complex protein structures into smaller peptides and amino acids, facilitating their uptake and utilization by the body. Primarily used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts, ProHydrolase aims to improve amino acid bioavailability, supporting muscle recovery and growth. Research indicates that ProHydrolase can significantly increase plasma levels of essential amino acids, including leucine and BCAAs, post-exercise. While studies are limited, the available evidence suggests improved anabolic signaling and sustained amino acid availability. ProHydrolase is not a naturally occurring substance but a formulated product intended to optimize protein digestion and absorption.
Benefits
ProHydrolase enhances amino acid uptake from protein supplements, particularly whey protein. Studies show a significant increase in plasma leucine levels (33%) within 30 minutes of consumption compared to whey protein alone, with similar increases observed for BCAAs (32%) and essential amino acids (29%). These elevated amino acid levels are sustained for up to 180 minutes post-ingestion, indicating improved and prolonged amino acid availability. Research also suggests increased mTOR Ser2448 phosphorylation, a marker of anabolic signaling, at 1 and 3 hours post-exercise. These benefits are particularly relevant for athletes and fitness enthusiasts aiming to optimize muscle building and repair after workouts. The effect size for the increase in plasma leucine levels at 30 minutes was significant, with a difference of 57.8 mmol/L (95% CI: 20.0, 95.6) compared to the control group.
How it works
ProHydrolase functions by breaking down complex protein structures into smaller peptides and amino acids, thereby enhancing their absorption in the small intestine. This enzymatic action facilitates the digestion process, improving the bioavailability of amino acids. By cleaving proteins into smaller, more absorbable units, ProHydrolase allows for better absorption and utilization by the muscles. The primary target is the protein structure itself, which is cleaved into smaller, more absorbable units. This process interacts with the digestive system, specifically the proteolytic enzymes in the small intestine, to improve protein digestion and amino acid uptake.
Side effects
The available studies on ProHydrolase do not report any significant adverse effects. However, the sample sizes in these studies are relatively small, and long-term safety data are limited. There are no reported common, uncommon, or rare side effects associated with its use. Additionally, there is no evidence of drug interactions or identified contraindications. Given the limited research, caution is advised, particularly for individuals with pre-existing digestive issues or sensitivities. Further research is needed to fully assess the safety profile of ProHydrolase in diverse populations, including females, older adults, and individuals with specific health conditions. As with any supplement, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of ProHydrolase appears to be 250 mg per 26 g of whey protein, as used in clinical studies. The optimal dosage range beyond this specific dose is not well-defined. There is no established maximum safe dose, as studies have not investigated higher doses. ProHydrolase should be consumed immediately after resistance exercise, along with whey protein, to maximize its benefits. The enzyme blend enhances the absorption of amino acids by breaking down protein into smaller, more absorbable units. There are no identified cofactors required for the action of ProHydrolase. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and safety thresholds.
FAQs
How does ProHydrolase work?
ProHydrolase breaks down complex proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids, enhancing their absorption in the small intestine and improving amino acid bioavailability.
When should I take ProHydrolase?
It is recommended to take ProHydrolase immediately after resistance exercise, along with whey protein, to maximize its benefits for muscle recovery and growth.
Is ProHydrolase safe to use?
Available studies do not report significant adverse effects, but long-term safety data are limited. Consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
What results can I expect from using ProHydrolase?
Users may experience increased plasma levels of leucine, BCAAs, and essential amino acids, which can support muscle building and repair after exercise.
Is ProHydrolase a standalone supplement?
No, ProHydrolase is not a standalone supplement. It is designed to be used in conjunction with protein supplements like whey protein to enhance their digestion and absorption.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31978998/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 10 resistance-trained males found that adding ProHydrolase to whey protein significantly increased plasma leucine, BCAA, and essential amino acid levels at 30 and 180 minutes post-consumption. The study suggests that ProHydrolase enhances amino acid uptake and anabolic signaling following resistance exercise, but is limited by its small sample size.
- https://www.wholefoodsmagazine.com/articles/5114-study-enzyme-blend-prohydrolase-enhances-benefit-of-whey-protein – This article summarizes a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study that demonstrated ProHydrolase enhances the benefits of whey protein. The study highlighted that ProHydrolase significantly increased plasma leucine, BCAA, and essential amino acid levels, supporting the enzyme blend's efficacy in improving amino acid uptake and muscle recovery.
- https://nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com/enzyme-blend-prohydrolase-potentiates-amino-acid-uptake-166599 – This article discusses a study showing that ProHydrolase potentiates amino acid uptake. The research indicated that the enzyme blend significantly improved plasma levels of essential amino acids, suggesting enhanced protein digestion and absorption, which can be beneficial for muscle building and repair.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1050412/full – This research article focuses on HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors and is not directly relevant to ProHydrolase. It explores the pharmacological aspects of these inhibitors but does not provide information on the effects or mechanisms of ProHydrolase.
Supplements Containing Prohydrolase Protease Enzyme Blend

Women's Advanced Protein Cinnamon Bun
GNC Pro Performance AMP

Active Vanilla
GNC Women's Ultra Mega

Energy & Metabolism Vanilla
GNC Women's Ultra Mega

Energy & Metabolism Chocolate
GNC Women's Ultra Mega

Energy & Metabolism Chocolate
GNC Mega Men

Energy & Metabolism Vanilla
GNC Mega Men

Sport Chocolate
GNC Mega Men

Sport Vanilla
GNC Mega Men

Women's Advanced Protein Chocolate Cupcake
GNC Pro Performance AMP

Women's Advanced Protein Vanilla Ice Cream
GNC Pro Performance AMP

Energy & Metabolism Vanilla
GNC Women's Ultra Mega

Energy & Metabolism Chocolate
GNC Mega Men