How to Find the Best Vegetarian Protein Powder
Protein powders aid in repairing and building muscle, reducing body fat, and sustaining energy. However, if you are vegan, lactose intolerant, or want to switch to greener sources of protein you may find yourself questioning if those options exist in the market.
Here is some uplifting, good news; yes, there are many vegetarian protein powders in the market. If you are looking for the best vegetarian protein powders, allow this guide to enlighten you.
Whey-based protein powders are the traditional go-to sources of supplementary protein. However, vegan protein powders are now upping the ante and giving the dairy-based formulations a run for their money. Along with a wholesome amino acid profile, the best vegetarian protein powder offer innumerable benefits such as the following.
• Plant-based proteins are more environment-friendly
• Since they are easier to digest, they are a blessing for lactose-intolerant.
• Some vegetarian protein powders offer higher levels of fiber and iron than their whey-based counterparts do.
Before finding the best vegetarian protein powder for you, let us bust a common and widespread myth. Vegan proteins are not good because they are not complete sources of proteins.
Yes, all animal sources of protein are complete proteins because they contain the full spectrum of essential amino acids. Single plant-based protein sources, on the other hand, are incomplete proteins, because most of the vegetarian sources only contain some of the essential amino acids.
However, in no way does this mean that vegetarian protein sources are not good. What it does mean is that one needs to be more consciously aware of the types of plant-based proteins one consumes in a day, in order to receive the complete amino acids.
Finding the Perfect Vegan Protein Powder
Begin by looking at the primary plant ingredient, e.g. pea, rice, soya, etc., as each offers its own pros and cons.
Pea protein
Touted as one of the best plant proteins, pea protein works just as well as whey for building muscle mass. Furthermore, it blends easily with liquids and is easily digested.
Brown rice protein
This source is well comparable with whey, in terms of muscle support. However, its chalkier texture does not make it suitable for your smoothies. Additionally, since rice sensitivities are rare, this could be a safe pick for those with any digestive issues.
Hemp protein
Although this source is slightly lower in protein content when compared to other plant-based sources, hemp protein makes up for it in the critical nutrients such as fiber, iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Soya protein
The earliest entrants in the vegetarian alternatives for protein sources, soya protein can be considered a veteran! It is a complete source of protein, contains BCAAs, and easily blends in liquids. Chug a jar of soya protein shake for the much-desired boost of energy and performance while exercising, as well as reduced fatigue post-exercise.
In Conclusion
All you need is to spend slightly more time in research, reading the labels, and knowing your body better and you will soon find the best vegetarian protein powder in your shopping cart.
No matter the source of vegan protein you choose, paying attention to the nutrition labels is a crucial step. Consider your personal goals when choosing a protein powder. If your goal is to lose or gain weight, the caloric content on the nutrition label should be your Bible.
The best vegetarian protein powder will offer a complete nutrition profile, packing in magnesium, B vitamins, zinc, and iron. At the same time, steer clear of known irritants, such as soy, if you have food sensitivities.
Truth be told, your protein supplement, like any other component of a healthy routine, should be personalized to your tastes and needs. There truly is no one-size-fits-all solution, but with the innumerable option on offer, you can rest assured that you will find your perfect match.