Investigating the Effects of a Novel Salmon-Derived Protein Peptide on Markers of Recovery From Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) impairs muscle function and subsequent performance. While research investigating the protective role of animal-derived protein is widespread, investigations into sustainable alternatives are lacking. The present study examined the effects of a novel, salmon-derived protein peptide (SPP) on muscle recovery. In a single-blind, parallel-design, 33 recreationally active adults (age: 23.9 ± 4.0 years, body mass index: 23.7 ± 4.0) were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (a) SPP, (b) whey protein, or (c) carbohydrate control. In addition to a controlled 1.0 g·kg body mass-1·day-1 dietary protein intake, participants consumed either 0.9 g·kg body mass-1·day-1 supplemental protein or isoenergetic carbohydrate for 4 days following EIMD (10 × 10 unilateral eccentric knee extensions). Maximal voluntary contraction, countermovement jump height, muscle soreness, thigh circumference, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase were assessed at baseline and +1, +4, +24, +48, and +72 hr post EIMD. Significant time effects were observed for all variables. Countermovement jump height was greater in the SPP versus carbohydrate groups at +72 hr and across all time points when pooling the two protein groups, creating a higher protein versus normal protein group comparison. There were no significant group effects for all remaining outcomes. High-quality protein supplementation >1.0 g·kg body mass-1·day-1 appears to have only a modest effect on the rate of recovery following EIMD, with a potential role in alleviating muscle damage, particularly in the later stage of recovery. Furthermore, the SPP supplement was not inferior to a high-quality protein source (whey protein), indicating that it may represent a sustainable and effective alternative for muscle recovery.