There is a misconception that has been circulating for quite a while that plant-based protein powder is lacking in overall protein quality, flavor, and benefits. That is absolutely false, and we’re going to dive deep into this subject to show just how important plant-based protein can be as well as its ability to provide some fantastic health benefits.
It’s no secret that protein helps build and repair our body – especially muscles, bones, and skin. Plant-based protein can be considered the building blocks for fit and healthy muscles and other tissues in the body. There are many people who are switching to a plant-based protein powder which we will look at below.
The Benefits of a Quality Plant-Based Protein Powder
So, what are the reasons behind the surge of plant-based protein powder sales? Let’s find out!
Easy Absorption
Plant-based protein powder is much easier to break down, process, and then be absorbed by our body when compared to whey protein. This is mostly applicable for sprouted plant protein.
All in all, while plant-based protein powder may have a lower bioavailability score when compared to whey, it is still very bioavailable. What it means is that our body can more easily break down and process the protein source, which can help improve the growth of cells and repair lean muscle tissue. Plant-based protein is also ideal for those who suffer from bloating, food intolerances, slow metabolic rate, and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).
Weight Loss
It is commonly known that consuming protein-rich foods and protein supplements makes people feel fuller for a longer period of time, which also applies to any plant-based protein powder. In addition, plant-based protein powders tend to contain more fiber than other protein powder sources.
What exactly does all of this mean? When you feel full and are satiated, you tend to eat smaller portion sizes and snack less frequently, which can result in the ability to more easily maintain a healthy weight. Hence, plant-based protein powder helps in weight loss.
Many studies have confirmed that plant-based protein might reduce weight and total fat mass in people who are suffering from obesity.
Source of Iron
It is true that red meat is an excellent source of iron, but one might not know that pea protein powder is almost as effective as red meat. There is 35% of your daily requirement for iron in one serving of pea protein powder.
What is more interesting is that the same serving size of animal-based protein has nearly 0% of your iron requirement.
What this means is that you would need to consume an excess of red meat to reach the same level of iron intake – which really would not be feasible. In addition, you are also (depending on the serving size) probably getting more protein when consuming a pea protein powder.
Good for the Gut
Plant-based protein powders are fantastic for the regulation of your body from the inside-out. Unfortunately, not many people think about what’s going on inside their bodies and only focus on what they can see in the mirror.
When you look at plant-based protein sources, they have a special gut profile that has fewer disease-causing irritants and organisms when in comparison with other whey protein products.
Hence, this helps keep your gut healthy and keeps inflammation away. Poor gut health can lead to many health problems such as fatigue, anxiety, depression, hormonal issues, etc. If you want to put yourself in a better position to avoid these issues, consider switching to a plant-based protein powder.
Bioavailability
This is an interesting one. Plant-based proteins have upwards of 80% digestibility depending on the source. While lower than it’s animal-based alterative which comes in around 90%, this is still adequate and can still yield some great results and benefits.
Bioavailability is the percentage or scale of rating to which your body can use specific protein sources.
Depending on the amino acid profile, our bodies absorb some proteins better than others. Every protein source contains various sets of amino acid profiles, and some of them are higher as compared to others.
Lower Risk of Side Effects
Whey protein is known for building muscles, but it may cause some serious side effects such as allergies. It can also cause bloating or gastric issues for people who are lactose intolerant.
Plant-based protein powder, on the other hand, can be great for such people who can’t digest whey or milk-based protein sources. It is also a great choice for people suffering from gluten allergies.
Most plant-based protein powders do not have gluten in them, and they are hypoallergenic, unlike other protein powders.
Full of Fiber
One of the most significant reasons why a plant-based protein powder is good for your body and health is because it is full of fiber. Plants are massively fibrous.
There are two types of fibers – soluble and insoluble. Insoluble fiber helps your digestive system run smoothly, whereas soluble fiber can help keep you full after your meal.
Go for a much more natural option with plant-based protein powder. Whey protein can be a great meal replacement option to keep you full while losing weight, but plant-based protein powder can keep you full naturally. It may also keep you healthier and leaner.
