By: Matt Weik, BS, CSCS, CPT, CSN
For years MuscleSport Lean Whey has been leading the industry with not only a protein powder that was properly formulated to maximize results but one that had people flocking to it thanks to the unique, gourmet flavor profiles. For a while now, people have been asking us to formulate a plant-based protein powder. To say it’s been a long time coming would be an understatement. But before we get into Plant’d, let’s dive deeper into why we created our very own plant-based protein.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper and explore the benefits of using a plant-based protein powder and why it may be the right protein source to suit your individual wants and needs. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just someone looking to add more plant-based protein to your diet and get away from whey, this article will explain it all.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor or nutritionist before making any changes to your diet or nutrition plan.
Planted-Based Protein Is on the Rise
Plant-based diets, such as vegan and vegetarian, have become insanely popular in recent years, with more and more people looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, improve their overall health, or simply try something new to see how their body reacts.
But one common concern people have about a plant-based diet is whether they’ll be able to get enough protein. Fortunately, there are plenty of plant-based protein sources available, from beans and lentils to nuts and seeds. And for those who need an extra boost, plant-based protein powders can be a convenient and effective way to meet their protein needs.
The Reasons Why You May Want to Use a Plant-Based Protein
A plant-based protein is a type of protein that comes from plants, as opposed to animal-based proteins like meat, dairy, or eggs. Whey protein, beef protein, and egg protein have been the craze for many years, but those who follow a plant-based lifestyle really never had anything specific for their needs.
Plant-based protein sources like legumes (beans, lentils, and peas), nuts and seeds, grains (like quinoa and barley), and even some vegetables (like spinach and broccoli) have been used in many plant-based protein powders out on the market.
There are a few reasons someone might want to use a plant-based protein supplement over something like a whey protein powder. Below are a few of the reasons:
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You follow a vegetarian or vegan diet
People who don’t eat meat, dairy, or eggs need to find alternative sources of protein in order to meet their daily protein needs and requirements. Plant-based proteins are a great option for vegetarians and vegans, and some plant-based protein sources are even complete proteins with a full amino acid profile.
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You have dietary restrictions
Some people may be allergic to or intolerant to certain animal-based proteins (like lactose in dairy products that can be found in whey protein), which can make it difficult to get enough protein from those sources. Plant-based proteins can be a good alternative in these cases. Even mild cases of lactose intolerance can lead to digestive issues and discomfort, which is why a plant-based protein would be ideal for the individual.
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You’re looking for more sustainable protein sources
Animal agriculture can be resource-intensive and have a significant impact on the environment. Plant-based proteins, on the other hand, can be a more sustainable protein source and for those who live a lifestyle where they turn to environmentally-friendly products for themselves and their family.
The Benefits of a Plant-Based Protein
Unless you’re completely disconnected from the world around you, you’ve probably witnessed many people turning to plant-based protein powders (and food) as a convenient and effective way to meet their daily protein requirements and skip products that contain animal-based ingredients.
While whey protein has always been the king of the protein powder world, plant-based protein is coming on strong and has many health benefits listed below.
1. Complete Protein Source
One of the biggest concerns people have about using and incorporating a plant-based diet into their lifestyle is getting enough protein. However, many plant-based protein powders are a rich source of complete protein, which means they contain all the essential amino acids your body needs. Some examples of complete plant-based protein sources include pea protein and brown rice protein (two of the most common sources that provide a complete amino acid profile).
2. Easily Digestible
If you can’t properly digest whey protein, or you’re allergic or have an intolerance, switching to a plant-based protein could solve this issue. Plant-based protein powders are often easier to digest than animal-based protein powders. This is because plant-based proteins are naturally lower in fat and lactose, which can be difficult for some people to digest. Additionally, plant-based protein powders are often free from common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten (although some plant-based protein supplements contain soy).
3. Supports Muscle Growth and Recovery
Plant-based protein powders are an excellent source of muscle-building protein that can help repair and rebuild torn-down muscle fibers due to intense and grueling training sessions. Studies have shown that plant-based protein powders can be just as effective as animal-based protein powders for building muscle mass and improving athletic performance. Many people have previously knocked plant-based protein in the past, saying it won’t help with muscle growth and recovery, but that was with inferior plant-based protein sources that did not contain a complete amino acid profile.
4. Lowers Cholesterol
If cholesterol levels are a concern of yours, making the switch to a plant-based protein may be beneficial. Plant-based protein powders are often low in saturated fat and can help lower cholesterol levels. This is particularly beneficial for those with high cholesterol or a family history of heart disease and want to keep their cholesterol under control and in a normal and healthy range. That’s not to say that whey causes high cholesterol, but plant-based protein is known for containing less than other protein sources available.
5. Environmentally Friendly
When you compare whey protein to something like plant-based protein powders, the latter are generally more sustainable and environmentally friendly than animal-based protein powders. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. Choosing plant-based protein powders can help reduce your environmental impact if that is something you care about.
6. Versatile
Plant-based protein powders can be used in a variety of recipes, from smoothies to baked goods. They can also be added to oatmeal, yogurt, and other foods to boost their protein content. Adding a plant-based protein source to your snacks and meals can help vegans and vegetarians hit their daily protein requirements more easily.
Not All Plant-Based Protein Supplements Are the Same
Now for some points of differentiation. The truth is not all plant-based protein powders are created equal. Some supplements are “plant-based,” but only due to their ingredients. Many lack key elements that help promote health and prevent deficiencies and nutrient gaps.
MuscleSport Lean Way Plant’d is an innovative plant-based protein that isn’t your standard plant-based protein you’d find on a shelf or online. It utilizes the same gourmet flavors you’ve come to love with our award-winning Lean Whey and even includes our world-famous Fat Metabolizing Matrix of ingredients to help optimize your body’s fat metabolism.
Taking things even further, Lean Way Plant’d took years to develop because we wanted to ensure every box was checked when it came to the profile. For instance, many vegans are deficient in vitamin B12, and therefore we added this crucial nutrient to the formula. We care about overall health, which is also why we added fiber to the profile.
And to separate Lean Way Plant’d from the other plant-based protein supplements, we utilized three key plant-based protein sources — pea protein isolate, brown rice protein concentrate, and the novel Sacha Inchi (a superfood from Peru that is loaded with protein, fiber, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants) that separates our formula from the rest.
With Plant’d, you won’t experience the naturally unpleasant taste that typically comes with plant-based protein supplements, nor will you get that gritty texture that turns many off.
People are already raving over this plant-based protein, and we’re confident you’ll have the same experience. Try MuscleSport Lean Way Plant’d today and find out what a plant-based protein should look and taste like.