Chances are you’ve heard of vegan protein powder or read some piece on its rather amazing health claims. The profile of Vegan Protein Powder and Proteins has been on a steady incline for the past few years. I set out on a mission to figure out what the best vegan protein powder and proteins would offer.
I combed through many products that are superb in what they do for instance providing lean protein, replace a meal, hydration and provide essential nutrients or lean protein.
Until recently animal-derived Whey protein was King in the list of protein sources, only after research revealed the ugly side of Whey protein, then enters Organic vegan protein powder.
Vegan protein shakes are completely dairy-free, vegetarian-friendly formulated protein sources from plant origin e.g. seeds, fruits, and veggies. They are supposedly meant to contain all of the 9 essential amino acids. Some of the popular Vegan protein supplements sources include Soy Protein Isolate, White Hemp protein, Sunflower protein, Pea protein Isolate and Brown rice protein.
Vegan protein shakes is not only good non-dairy protein powder, they are also cruelty-free as no animal is killed to get their protein. But every plant source is GMO-free and every care is taken to make them hypoallergenic, gluten-free and easily digestible and absorbable in the gut of an individual.
Apart from proteins, vegan protein supplements are rich in phytochemicals that act as an antioxidant and they have plenty of natural dietary fibers, minerals, and vitamins. Organic vegan protein powders are low in fats and sugars which make them better than any other protein supplement before it. It is the best alternative dietary protein supplement for champions.
Who Should Take Organic Vegan Protein Powder?
There is a whole range of Vegan Protein powders in the dietary supplement market created for different groups of individuals. Vegan proteins shakes are great for anyone looking for the following;
- Athletes
- Busy professionals
- Students
- Pregnant moms-on-the-go
- Weight loss enthusiast.
Generally, Vegan protein supplements deliver proteins and essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs the most.
Benefits and Effects of Vegan Protein Powders:
Fiber-Friendly
Vegan protein supplements contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, the insoluble fiber makes our digestive system work perfectly well. Meanwhile, the soluble fiber makes us feel full and happy after meals. Compared to whey protein which lacks in fibers, Vegan protein supplements score highly.
Ethical and Environmental Advantages
Most organic vegan protein is derived from non-animal sources, which means no killing of animals. Vegan proteins create less waste than animal protein, large livestock farms create large waste and generate more greenhouse gasses that pollute the environment.
Non-Allergic Ally
Vegan protein powders are hypoallergenic, that is less likely to cause adverse allergic reactions. In comparison to animal-based Whey protein which contains gluten and artificial fillers. Vegan protein is a much safer choice for people who suffer allergies.
Lower in Cholesterol and Saturated Fats
Most animal proteins like whey powder are high in cholesterol and saturated fatty acids. Plant-based Vegan protein powders are lower in cholesterol and saturated fats that are culprits in causing cardiovascular disease that may lead to death, instead plants have safer alternatives known as plant sterols.
Perfect Weight Loss Agent
Certain fats, from coconut, are saturated and may aid in weight loss. Vegan protein shakes that contain coconut also contain healthy saturated fats. Thus Vegan protein powder for weight loss must be low on fats and carbohydrates.
No Growth Hormones and Antibiotics
Whey protein we get comes from livestock that has been treated with Antibiotics and hormones, this trickle-down effect is realized in the whey protein powder having up to 3 times more antibiotics and hormones, that can be harmful. Vegan Protein powder has no hormones and antibiotics, most are derived from GMO-free plant stocks.
Rich Mix of Vitamins and Minerals
Vegan protein powder has more variety of nutrients. It packs extra vitamins and minerals, as most of us do not eat enough fruits and vegetables, vegan protein powder provides a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Disadvantages of Vegan Proteins:
Lack of Vital Nutrients
Most vegan protein powders may lack some vital nutrients not found in plants such as Vitamin B12, Zinc, Iron and Omega-3-Fatty acids, thus a vegan may need to supplement them from other sources. Creatinine which is responsible for rapid muscular growth may be taken in as supplements.
Harmful Additives
Vegan Protein supplements are blended with artificial sweeteners like Erythritol that causes a severe headache and raises blood pressure which may be harmful to the users. Artificial flavors and fillers may cause cancer tumors.
Soy Protein
This protein is found in some vegan protein shakes, it has an anti-nutrient called Phytic acid which binds with nutritionally available Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc, and Copper creating an artificial deficiency of these nutrients. Soy protein contains plant estrogens that are known to inhibit hormone action. It affects the production of testosterone in men reducing libido and causing gynecomastia, a condition in which the breast tissues enlarges in men.
Final Thoughts
Most vegan enthusiast promotes the use of Vegan protein powder on a new scale both on the internet blogs and TV shows. Besides the hype, true Vegan protein has numerous advantages than Whey protein, though there is a downside to it.
Most vegan protein powders lack vital nutrient components only found in Diary derived Whey protein powders and thus must be supplemented separately. It is prudent to consult a medical professional before starting off on Vegan Protein Supplements.
