BENEFITS OF PLANT BASED PROTEIN
There could be many reasons why people prefer to follow a plant-based diet. Most common reasons include: health concerns, allergies, reducing environmental impact, animal rights advocacy, and personal beliefs. Due to the popularity of plant-based diets, the demand for vegan protein sources has increased dramatically.
While everyone knows protein is important for any diet, some people such as athletes and bodybuilders, have a particular interest in the quality and quantity of protein in their diet as they are looking to maximize their muscle growth and repair.
Plant-based proteins not only support muscle growth but have other associated benefits which can make them an important part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Even if you’re not following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, you might find you still benefit from incorporating vegan protein powder into your routine.
Before discussing some of the key benefits of plant protein, it’s important to understand what it is...
WHAT IS PLANT BASED PROTEIN?
Plant-based protein refers to the protein found in plant foods. All whole plant foods contain some amount of protein, but certain plants contain higher levels. Legumes (chickpeas, black bean, lentils, soy and soy products etc.), nuts and seeds are commonly viewed as higher protein plant foods. Whole grains also contain a fair amount of protein. Fruits and vegetables typically contain the least amount of protein, but there are higher-protein vegetables.
Vegan protein powders harness the power of plants by sourcing different amino acids from plant-based sources and converting them into a convenient single-source powder. This can be useful for those that want to easily increase their protein intake, such as needing to meet specific fitness goals.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PLANT BASED PROTEIN?
MUSCLE GROWTH & RECOVERY
Muscle is made up of two types of filaments called actin and myosin which are both proteins. For protein to be created, it requires the “building blocks” known as amino acids. For the body to repair muscle damaged by physical activity, and to create new muscle, it must have enough of the different amino acids needed to form the proteins in muscle tissue. Consuming protein from plant-based sources provides us with the necessary amino acids to support muscle growth and repair.
AIDS IN WEIGHT LOSS
Plant protein is a metabolism booster. Because it takes longer to digest than animal-based protein, processing it in the digestive system burns more calories. Plant-based proteins tend to be lower in total calorie content than whey protein.
MACRONUTRIENT BONUS
Plant protein powder is more nutrient dense than dairy protein powder. Many plant-based protein powders contain antioxidants, vitamins, nutrients, and omega-3 fatty acids.
INCREASES FIBER INTAKE
Plant-based protein sources not only have the benefits of providing essential amino acids and micronutrients, but also contain the important macronutrient fiber. Dietary fiber, also known as roughage, is a type of carbohydrate that is found in all plants. Any plant-based food source, from fruits and vegetables to the numerous varieties of wholegrains, contains fiber. It is important to eat enough fiber daily as it is known to support digestive health and reduce the risk of gut inflammation.
BETTER DIGESTION
Digestive and gut health is key to optimal health. If you have a dairy allergy or or even a slight intolerance then plant protein is perfect for you. But even if you’re not allergic to dairy, you might enjoy plant-based protein powder because it generally digests more easily than dairy. Many people struggle to digest milk proteins like casein and whey.
Now there are several supplements that support gut health as well as eating strategies to optimize digestion, but a great habit to start to further aid with gut support is rotating proteins. In other words, try not to consume the same type of protein everyday. Switching up your protein sources can potentially help minimize the development of adverse food reactions and sensitivities that can result from diet repetition, not to mention that variety in your nutrition plan yields a more diverse intake of nutrients.
While you might have a go-to protein powder that you’re used to, it’s best to take a break once in a while and switch it up. Incorporating a vegan option is beneficial for many, as it may not be something you regularly consume if you’re a meat eater.
BOTTOM LINE
Whether you prefer an eating style that is omnivorous or plant-based, using vegan protein powder can offer convenience and specific benefits to your nutrition plan. Not only can consuming plant protein be more beneficial to the environment but it is also a great way to increase levels of essential amino acids, fiber, and micronutrients in your diet.
Plant protein sources are often lower in calories and fat than animal-based ones, as well as being higher in fiber and micronutrients. This means consuming plant-based protein within a healthy, balanced diet can be beneficial for weight loss as it helps to reduce caloric intake and increase the daily nutrient profile in one’s diet. Whether you are working towards specific fitness goals or just want to improve your overall health, the benefits of plant protein can help you to achieve this.
