One out of every two protein powders purchased today is a whey-based protein powder.This includes whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. The cost of whey protein continues to rise as the popularity of GLP-1 medications and the importance of protein hits the media waves. The demand for protein from large consumer package goods and foodservice companies (like Starbucks) it is putting a strain on the supply chain driving up the costs.
A new human clinical study published in Nutrients (February 2026) confirms that formulations containing 50mg of AstraGin® from Nuliv Science increases the absorption of whey protein, significantly accelerates gains in muscle strength, and supports improved gut barrier integrity compared to placebo. The use of AstraGin® also aids in healthy aging with older individuals. In theory, one could consume less grams of protein per serving if it contains 50mg of AstraGin® to achieve similar results than those who consumer a higher amount of protein per serving. To simplify that, users might be able to extend the life of a protein tub longer thus getting more value out of it as the costs continue to rise.
The study focused on three separate age groups: 18–25, 26–59, and 60–80 years. Each age group was split, with ½ the group supplementing with AstraGin and the other half of the group supplementing with a placebo. The results of the study confirmed that the use of 50mg of AstraGin® when combined with whey protein significantly increases amino acid absorption, specifically branch chain amino acids. Branch chain amino acids are three of the nine essential amino acids that are significant for muscle recovery, repair and growth.
Leucine’s primary role is to trigger muscle protein synthesis (MPS). Leucine is the “on switch” for muscle building. Leucine helps prevent muscle breakdown during training or calorie deficits.
Isoleucine’s primary role is energy regulation and glucose uptake. Isoleucine supports endurance and recovery by aiding the muscles in absorbing glucose for fuel during exercise.
Valine’s primary role is muscle endurance and fatigue reduction. Known as the “fatigue fighter” valine supports overall muscle repair.
The immediate impact of supplementing with AstraGin®, per the study published in Nutrients, with whey protein lead to an increase of 6.7% of Valine and an increase of Leucine by 3.62% over a placebo group. The longer term impact was supplementing with 50mg AstraGin® significantly increased the absorption of valine by 14.07%, leucine by 8.34%, and isoleucine by 6.33% compared to placebo. By increasing amino acid absorption, you are effectively aiding in muscle repair, recovery and potential growth.
Although the study confirms that the use of 50mg AstraGin® with whey protein does in fact increase the absorption of amino acids, it also translated that into real life performance results. In just four weeks users of the AstraGin® group experienced and increase in grip strength by 5.20% (vs. just 2.44% in the placebo group) and muscle mass by 0.85% (vs.0.68% in the placebo group).
AstraGin® has been known for its gut health benefits. This study confirmed that when combining AstraGin with whey protein users experienced a 13.01% reduction in blood zonulin levels, a biomarker for intestinal permeability (sometimes referred to as "leaky gut"), compared to a 0.9% reduction in the placebo group. Whey does not directly lead to increasing zonulin, however if you have previous symptoms such as issues with lactose or dairy, issues digesting whey or issues with additives such as sweeteners, the consumption of whey may indirectly lead to increases in zonulin, which AstraGin® may aid in reducing.
A notable results occurred in the older age group of 60–80 years. This group experienced a 12.74% increase in total essential amino acid absorption. This may have potential to support nutrient delivery in formulations to help with healthy aging.
Although this study was conducted specifically on the use of whey protein, the results proved AstraGin® supports the absorption of essential amino acids. Combining 50mg of AstraGin® with other forms of protein (plant or animal based) may bode similar results.
As supply continues to diminish and prices sky-rocket, looking for a formula that contains 50mg of AstraGin® may be beneficial as a consumer as may experience a better value than a traditional protein without the use of AstraGin®.
