Sacha inchi protein
Also known as: Sacha Inchi, Inca peanut, mountain peanut, Sacha Inchi Protein, SIP, protein hydrolysates from Plukenetia volubilis seed protein isolate, Plukenetia volubilis L.
Overview
Sacha Inchi Protein (SIP) is a plant-based protein derived from the seeds of Plukenetia volubilis, a plant indigenous to the Amazon rainforest. The protein is extracted from the seed meal after the oil has been removed. It is primarily used as a high-quality protein source in dietary supplements and functional foods, with emerging research exploring its potential benefits for metabolic health and gut microbiota modulation. SIP is characterized by its rich essential amino acid profile, notably high in arginine (up to 22.98% of total amino acids), making it a nutritionally valuable plant protein. While preclinical studies show promising results regarding its effects on lipid metabolism and gut health, human research is still in early stages, consisting mainly of small trials. The overall evidence base is considered moderate, limited by the absence of large-scale, long-term human randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews.
Benefits
Sacha Inchi Protein has demonstrated several potential benefits, primarily in animal models. Preclinical studies indicate that SIP supplementation can significantly alter fecal metabolomics, leading to improved lipid metabolism. It has also been shown to modulate gut microbiota composition by decreasing the *Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes* ratio and reducing harmful bacteria such as *Actinobacteriota* and *Desulfobacterota*, while simultaneously increasing beneficial bacteria like *Faecalibaculum* and *Dubosiella*. These findings suggest potential benefits for intestinal health and overall metabolic regulation. While these effects are promising, they are currently based on mechanistic and animal data, and human clinical significance remains uncertain. There is no robust human data to quantify effect sizes or identify specific population benefits. The time course of benefits is not well characterized, with animal studies typically reporting effects after several weeks of supplementation. Further human research is needed to confirm these benefits and their clinical relevance.
How it works
Sacha Inchi Protein primarily exerts its effects by modulating key metabolic pathways and influencing gut microbiota composition. In animal models, SIP has been shown to alter lipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, and general amino acid metabolism. Its interaction with the body largely centers on the gastrointestinal tract, where it influences the balance and diversity of gut bacteria. While the specific molecular targets are not fully elucidated, the observed changes in gut microbiota, such as a reduction in the *Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes* ratio and shifts in specific bacterial populations, suggest a direct impact on gut health. These microbial changes, in turn, can influence systemic metabolic processes. Although direct human data on absorption and bioavailability are lacking, animal studies indicate good digestibility and utilization as a protein source, suggesting its amino acids are readily available for metabolic processes.
Side effects
Sacha Inchi Protein is generally considered safe based on available animal studies and limited human use, with no major safety concerns reported in the literature. There are no common (greater than 5%), uncommon (1-5%), or rare (less than 1%) side effects reported. No significant drug interactions have been identified, and there are no known contraindications for its use. However, it is important to note that comprehensive safety data, especially for long-term human consumption, are currently lacking. Specific population considerations, such as use in pregnant or lactating women, children, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, have not been studied, and therefore, caution is advised in these groups. As with any new supplement, individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Sacha Inchi Protein into their regimen, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
The optimal and minimum effective dosages for Sacha Inchi Protein in humans have not yet been established. Animal studies have utilized varying doses, but direct human equivalents are not defined. Similarly, a maximum safe dose for human consumption has not been determined. There are no specific timing considerations or recommendations for its intake; it can be incorporated as a protein source in meals or supplements. Sacha Inchi Protein is available as a protein isolate or hydrolysate, but current evidence does not suggest the superiority of one form over another in terms of efficacy. Its absorption is likely similar to other plant proteins, with studies indicating favorable digestibility and amino acid profiles. No specific cofactors are identified as necessary for its absorption or efficacy. Due to the limited human data, individuals should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional when considering Sacha Inchi Protein supplementation.
FAQs
Is Sacha Inchi Protein superior to other plant proteins?
Current human evidence does not definitively show superiority over other plant proteins. While animal studies suggest unique benefits for gut microbiota and metabolism, these findings need to be confirmed in humans.
What are the expected benefits of Sacha Inchi Protein?
In animal models, it has shown potential to improve gut microbiota composition and lipid metabolism. Human benefits are still speculative and require further research.
Is Sacha Inchi Protein safe for long-term use?
It appears generally safe in short-term animal studies, but long-term human safety data are currently lacking. No major side effects have been reported.
How should I take Sacha Inchi Protein?
There are no specific timing recommendations. It can be consumed as a protein source in meals or as a supplement, similar to other plant-based proteins.
Can Sacha Inchi Protein help with weight loss?
While animal studies suggest benefits for lipid metabolism, there is no direct human evidence to support its use for weight loss. Its role as a high-quality protein source may contribute to satiety.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10959099/ – This preclinical animal study investigated the effects of Sacha Inchi Protein (SIP) on gut microbiota and metabolomics in mice. It found that SIP altered fecal metabolomics, improved lipid metabolism, and beneficially modulated gut microbiota by decreasing the *Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes* ratio and increasing beneficial bacteria, suggesting potential for metabolic and gut health.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10675584/ – This review article summarized the health benefits of Sacha Inchi (whole seed/oil), noting positive effects on dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in animal and limited human studies. While not specific to the protein, it provides context for the plant's overall health potential.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/13/2045 – This study focused on the optimization of Sacha Inchi protein hydrolysates. It demonstrated the feasibility of producing these hydrolysates with potential functional food applications, highlighting the technical aspects of protein extraction and modification, but did not include efficacy data in living organisms.
Supplements Containing Sacha inchi protein
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