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As people age, their bodies gradually enter the aging process, and the physiological functions and immunity of the elderly decline. During this process, the elderly have an increasing need for protein, but due to weakened digestive function, the body’s protein utilization rate is low, making them more susceptible to various diseases. Therefore, compared to protein, the elderly need small molecule peptides more to maintain their health.

01. Physiological characteristics and protein requirements of the elderly

The physiological characteristics of older adults mainly include a slowed metabolism, decreased immunity, and declining physiological functions. These characteristics lead to different nutritional needs compared to younger people, especially a higher need for protein. Protein is an essential component of human cells and tissues, participating in processes such as growth, repair, and metabolism. Due to the decline in bodily functions, older adults require more protein to maintain normal metabolism and physiological functions.

02. The problem of protein utilization in the elderly

Although older adults need more protein, their weakened digestive system leads to lower protein utilization, making them more susceptible to various health problems. Reduced gastric acid secretion and pepsin activity, coupled with decreased intestinal absorption, further reduce protein utilization in the elderly. Additionally, declining kidney function causes the accumulation of protein metabolites, further burdening the kidneys.

03. Advantages of Small Molecule Peptides: Compared to proteins, small molecule peptides offer more significant advantages in the elderly. Small molecule peptides are short-chain peptides composed of 2-10 amino acids, exhibiting high biological activity and bioavailability. They can be directly absorbed by the intestines and enter the bloodstream without the aid of digestive enzymes, rapidly providing nutrients. Furthermore, small molecule peptides possess various biological functions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects, contributing to improved health in the elderly.

The main functions of peptides include promoting hepatocyte regeneration, combating lipid peroxidation, scavenging free radicals, and regulating the endocrine system. Containing carboxyl and amino groups, they can promote hepatocyte regeneration. The small molecular weight of peptides facilitates absorption and digestion by hepatocytes, providing nutrition for the repair of damaged hepatocytes. They can also penetrate into hepatocytes, stimulating DNA synthesis and thus promoting regeneration and scavenging free radicals.

Peptides can also protect mitochondrial membranes and endoplasmic reticulum from damage by harmful chemicals, thereby scavenging free radicals and regulating the endocrine system. As people age, they often lack bioactive peptides, leading to endocrine system imbalances. Peptide supplementation can improve the endocrine system and alleviate various discomforts experienced by the elderly, such as insomnia, weight loss, and generalized edema.

Peptides can repair the gastric mucosa and liver. After absorption and circulation, supplemented peptides can accumulate in cartilage, promoting bone formation and strengthening collagen structure in low-calcium environments, thereby increasing bone strength and preventing osteoporosis.