Protein plays a vital role in our diet, benefiting weight control, immunity, and muscle function, among other things. Protein powders are convenient way to increase your protein intake. While there are various types of protein powders available, plant-based protein powders offer unique benefits. Here are ten such benefits to consider.
Cholesterol-Free: Plant-based protein powders, such as pea, hemp, or soy protein powders, are cholesterol-free, unlike animal-based protein powders. Dietary cholesterol can increase your blood cholesterol levels and raise your risk of heart disease.
Dairy-Free: Plant-based protein powders are also dairy-free, making them a great choice for individuals who are lactose intolerant or follow a dairy-free diet. Animal-based protein powders, such as whey or casein, contain milk-based ingredients that may cause digestive problems.
Not Acidic: Consuming too much acidic food, particularly meats, can lead to lower bone density over time. Plant-based proteins are generally considered alkaline, which can help counterbalance high acid levels from other foods and improve the overall acidity level of the body.
Complete Amino Acid Profile: While some plant-based proteins are incomplete and lack a few essential amino acids, soy and pea protein powders are complete, containing all the nutrients you require. For example, NOW Soy Protein Isolate and NOW Pea Protein are excellent sources of complete amino acids.
Reduced Long-Term Health Risks: Long-term animal protein consumption has been linked to higher risks of kidney and liver disease. On the other hand, consuming plant-based proteins does not seem to raise the risk of chronic ailments.
Natural Fiber: Dietary fiber found only in plants. Plant-based protein powders are an excellent source of this nutrient, which can improve digestive health, support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, and stabilize blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Nutiva Hemp Protein Powder is a good source of dietary fiber.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Plant-based protein powders, such as hemp protein, contain unsaturated fats that can contribute to heart health. On the other hand, animal-based proteins may contain saturated fats, which raise the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Immunity and Energy Support: Iron is essential for maintaining normal immune function and healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen in the body. Plant-based protein powders are rich in natural iron sources, making them an ideal choice for those looking to boost their energy and immunity levels.
Phytonutrients: Plant-based proteins contain phytonutrients, which are absent in animal-based proteins. Soy protein isolate is an example of a plant-based protein that provides phytoestrogens.
Better Absorption: Plant-based proteins are more bioavailable, making it easier for the body to absorb and use the nutrients.
Easy to Use: Netrition offers various plant-based protein powders that can be quickly mixed into water or a preferred beverage. You can use an unflavored option or choose a flavored protein powder. You can then use the unflavored powder in pasta or vegetables or add flavored protein powder to beverages, yogurt, cottage cheese, or smoothies.
When searching for a protein source, plant-based protein powders are an exceptional choice. They are cholesterol-free, dairy-free, and alkalizing, with a complete amino acid profile. Additionally, plant-based protein powders can offer natural fiber, phytonutrients, and heart-healthy fat sources. To be clear, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements, and there are no specific claims made about any products. People with medical conditions should discuss protein powders with a licensed medical practitioner. Keep in mind that individual results may vary.
