Normally, people from their childhood are aware of the existence of the macronutrient called protein. In the meantime, the body uses protein to form muscles and bones and repair them in injury or damage. Its building blocks, amino acids, are also used to synthesize enzymes and hormones essential for the function of all the systems in the body.
Furthermore, protein can be used as the body’s energy source, making it essential even in a vegan diet. Fortunately, vegan protein powder can be an excellent cruelty-free supplement for anyone needing an extra boost for bodybuilding or for those who are sensitive to animal-based protein powders.
The plant-based protein powder is for vegans and individuals diagnosed with digestive problems and dairy allergies. This article will now provide you with the different types and sources of this vegan powder:
- Soy Protein Powder
Soy powder is a complete source of protein. It is also high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which support the growth and strength of the muscles in the body.
The plant contains some beneficial compounds that can help in lowering the body’s cholesterol levels. Additionally, studies show that protein isolate has anti-cancer properties.
- Pea Protein Powder
Many vegan protein powder options are composed of this allergen-free pea powder. Thus, it is a better option for individuals with soy allergies. It is also made from yellow split peas and can contain up to 80% protein content. In addition, the powder contains all the nine essential amino acids but is low in methionine.
Moreover, pea protein is rich in leucine, isoleucine, and valine – the three essential BCAAs. These three play a significant role in helping to fuel up the working muscles and in the synthesis of protein for muscle repair.
A study in 2019 found that pea protein was just as effective in strengthening body composition, strength, performance, and muscle gains as whey protein. Numerous studies also concluded that pea protein might help you feel satiated or full and lower your blood pressure.
- Brown Rice Protein Powder
Brown rice powder is relatively easy to find and inexpensive. It is easily digestible and doesn’t cause an allergy, so it can also be a soy protein substitute. However, it is not a complete protein. It is low in the essential amino acid lysine, so adding other protein powders to your drink is recommended to get all the amino acids. Moreover, the product is compatible to combine in shakes or smoothies plus is also gentle on digestion.
Research also stated that brown rice protein powder contains a good amount of BCAAs, which help in muscle tissue formation and rebuilding, especially after gym training.
- Hemp Protein Powder
Hemp protein is derived from cannabis plant seeds. Still, most companies cultivate a breed that only contains trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and won’t give you that ‘high.’ Moreover, It boasts up to 80% protein and is highly efficient at restoring protein levels after a workout.
It has a lower protein content and is also scarce in lysine, but it has a higher range of other nutrients like zinc, fiber, magnesium, iron, and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These elements are responsible for the immune system and heart health benefits you can get from the plant, especially in lowering your blood pressure.
