Tag: Protein Supplements
Best Non-Dairy Protein Supplements To Build Muscle (Updated 2021)
These non-dairy, plant-based protein supplements are perfect to build muscle and boost weight loss.
When it comes to a protein supplement we all know we need one, but non-dairy and plant-based products are perfect for that lean protein source while still allowing us to build muscle and promote weight loss. The vegan lifestyle is more popular than ever and that means there are a lot more plant-based supplements on the market.
If you follow the vegan lifestyle then your reasons for avoiding dairy-based whey protein are obvious. But you don’t even have to be vegan to opt for a plant protein. For many people, it’s better on the stomach and ideal for those with dairy sensitivities in general. Now, many people may be skeptical about the completeness of plant-based protein sources. But you can rest assured; the products we’ve chosen contain complete protein sources.
This list of the Best Non-Diary Protein Supplements is perfect for all of your goals, whether it be to build muscle, promote weight loss, or continue to pack on that muscle with lean protein.
Best Non-Dairy Protein Supplements For 2021
Best Non-Dairy Protein Overall: National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep Vegan Protein
Calories
117
Protein
20.5g
Carbs
2g
Fat
3g
Sugar
0g
Flavors
Chocolate
Number Of Servings
20
National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep Vegan Protein is a premiere product from a company with a focus for bodybuilders to experience the true power of plant based nutrition while also boosting all of their physique goals. Designed to maximize gains while also reducing body fat, this protein has a high quality formula to reduce bloating and help digestion. A lean and clean protein, this will really work to enhance protein synthesis for optimal muscle building. With 20.5 grams of protein in each serving, this top tier vegan protein is sure to keep you full and seeing great gains with high-quality lean protein.
Pros
100% organic and naturally flavored
Designed for cleaner and faster absorption
From a reputable company who meets all standards
Cons
20 servings is a touch low
Only available directly from their website
Chocolate is the only flavor
Price: $40.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep here!
Best Vegan Protein Ingredients: Performance Lab SPORT Protein
Calories
100
Protein
20g
Carbs
2g
Fat
1.2g
Sugar
1g
Flavors
Chocolate
Number Of Servings
20
Performance Lab SPORT Protein comes in as one of the world’s cleanest and most effective protein powders around. Made with organic brown rice protein, it enhances strength, growth, and performance by performing as effective as whey while also being vegan friendly and a great lean protein source. The ultramodern design allows for quality, cleanliness, and taste with no added synthetic processing or flavors. Clinically shown to be as effective as whey, this protein will work to enhance all aspects of your performance while also supporting natural appetite control and weight management. Naturally flavored and sweetened, you can be sure this great tasting protein is only working for your benefit.
Pros
Good, clean formula
Organic and vegan friendly
Great ingredients and benefits
Amazing taste
Cons
Only uses single source protein
Chocolate is the only flavor
Only available directly from their website
Price: $59.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Performance Lab SPORT Pre here!
Best For Protein Amount: Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Organic Vegan
Calories
130
Protein
24g
Carbs
3g
Fat
2g
Sugar
2g
Flavors
French Vanilla, Chocolate
Number Of Servings
30
Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Organic Vegan is a 100% vegan and protein free of artificial flavors and sweeteners that is USDA Organic Certified. With a protein base ratio of 2:1 rice to pea protein, this packs a punch with 24 grams of protein that is easy on your digestive system. With 4 grams of fiber per serving, this protein will help you feel full longer for optimal weight control and management. Free of all artificial coloring, additives, and preservatives, this is one vegan protein you can trust from a company who prides themselves on transparent and honest labels. This is great for vegans but also anyone looking to really optimize their overall health with lean protein.
Pros
No artificial ingredients and transparent label
Very low carb and high protein
Easy on your digestive system
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their website
Price: $49.00
Click here for the best price
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Also, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Organic Vegan here!
Best Tasting Vegan Protein: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant-Based Protein
Calories
130
Protein
24g
Carbs
3g
Fat
2g
Sugar
0g
Flavors
Chocolate, Vanilla, Unflavored
Number Of Servings
19
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Plant Based Protein is a solid protein for immune support and muscle recovery while also aiding in muscle growth. Each serving has 24 grams of protein, 140 calories, 2.5g of fat, 6g of carbs, 2g fiber, and 1g sugar. The protein sources are pea, brown rice, and sacha inchi protein which is a rainforest seed loaded with good protein and amino acids. And there’s a healthy amount of B12 (cell health DNA health), iron (hemoglobin health), and Vitamin C (immune system health and antioxidant). There are no artificial flavors or sweeteners which make this a really great and clean vegan protein.
Pros
Solid ingredients and three lean protein sources
Packed with protein and health benefits
From an honest and transparent company
Cons
Amount per serving does get expensive
Slightly high in carbs
Price: $27.85
Click here for the best price
Best Pure Plant-Based Protein: Staunch Vegan Protein
Calories
130
Protein
24g
Carbs
3g
Fat
2g
Sugar
2g
Flavors
Organic Chocolate, Organic Vanilla
Number Of Servings
30
Staunch Vegan Protein comes from bodybuilder Calum von Moger’s supplement company Staunch which offers this great tasting, quality vegan protein. Offering 24g of protein per scoop, as well as 3g net carbs and 2g of fat, Staunch Vegan Protein is a vegan protein that you’ll want to add to your supplement stack. A mix of rice and pea protein along with natural organic flavors and organic stevia for sweetness. With two great flavors in chocolate and vanilla, this protein has a great profile everyone will love.
Pros
Clean protein and great taste
Good blend of rice and pea protein
Organic sweeteners is a plus
Cons
Price is okay
More flavors would be nice
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Staunch Vegan Protein here!
Non-Dairy & Plant-Based Protein Vs. Whey Protein
When it comes to the differences between vegan protein and whey protein, the evidence seems to point to them being fairly equivalent. When it comes to things like changes in body composition, weight loss, muscle growth, and recovery, both proteins seem to get the job done, which is great to hear. Other studies and ideas around these two seem to suggest that while plant-based proteins don’t offer any extra advantages, there are no disadvantages either (1), making this a very solid option for those seeking a non-dairy approach. This means you don’t lose out on any gains simply because you choose a non-whey product.
But one nutrient to be mindful of is B12 which is an essential vitamin for cell and DNA health. Plant-based diets often lack sufficient amounts so B12 fortified products are always recommended. Otherwise, supplementation is important if you cannot get enough through plant sources so that is something to keep in mind.
Benefits Of Non-Dairy Protein Supplements
Like all protein supplements, non-dairy proteins can pack you with all that protein while still giving you some plant-based love. The benefits of these protein supplements can greatly enhance your gains and offer the chance to see progress in your health and fitness journey.
Aid in valuable growth: We all seek that valuable muscle growth so look to non-dairy proteins to still achieve that much desired increase in strength and size.
Enhance recovery: Work to recover and support muscle recovery with fast-acting and effective protein sources to aid in growth and to bounce back faster.
Reduce digestive stress: Protein sources with whey tend to cause digestive stress in those sensitive so eliminate that bloated feeling and work to help yourself.
Promote weight loss: Don’t waste caloric space and work to lose or maintain that weight so your desired physique becomes reality.
Add variety to your diet: Non-dairy alternatives offer great vitamins and minerals to enhance your health and wellness so look to achieve proper nutrient intake with a great plant-based product.
Environmentally friendly: Use less water, fuel, and land than with animal proteins and be more environmentally friendly and ethical.
Key Sources Of Plant-Based Proteins
The many different plant-based sources of protein all have something unique to offer regarding their nutrient profile. We’ve listed the more common protein sources you’ll find in most supplements and all have great potential to build muscle, aid in weight loss, and boost your other top goals with a lean protein source.
Made from yellow peas, this source of protein is one of the more common ones. One study found no statistical difference between pea and whey protein regarding the muscle and strength-building benefits. Therefore, pea is a very viable source of protein, although it contains 8 out of 9 essential amino acids (2). And another study showed a decrease in blood pressure for both rats and humans when taking pea protein supplements (3).
Brown Rice
One study compared rice protein and whey protein by giving 24 young, resistance-trained males 48g of either source for 8 weeks along with a training plan (4). Well, there were no differences whatsoever, and both forms of protein elicited the same results. So, brown rice is a powerful protein source, although, it’s still one amino acid (lysine) short of being complete.
Soy is the most commonly used source of plant-based protein which comes from the soybean. Now, not all plant-based proteins are complete sources. But soy actually contains all nine essential amino acids which are the building blocks of human tissue (5). That’s why many prefer to have a soy source, plus there is also heart health, obesity, and even menopause benefits from consuming soy. Popular soy food items for vegetarians and vegans include tofu and Tempeh but soy is also a viable plant-based meat alternative (6).
Chia seeds are the richest plant source of omega 3 fatty acids which are necessary for heart health and cell membrane health. However, chia seeds contain the plant-based fatty acids linoleic and alpha-linolenic (ALA) which are not sufficient alone. We also need plenty of the fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (7). Chia also has plenty of protein and fiber too, while containing all nine essential amino acids. But research also suggests chia seeds can stave off illness which is enough reason alone to include them in your diet (8).
Other Potential Plant-Based Protein Sources
Hemp: Has moderate levels of protein but is packed with fiber for a real boost to digestive health.
Sunflower Seed: A new form, it has BCAAs to offer the benefits of quality protein and is combined with others to optimize effectiveness.
Pumpkin Seed: High in antioxidants, it also contains good protein and fats with many other essential vitamins and minerals.
Sprouts: Highly nutritious and are popular for their protein content and many essential amino acids.
How We Choose
When it comes to choosing a great non-dairy protein source, we look to many options to really boost your gains. For this list, we sought the best products in a number of categories including quality of the product, reputation of the brand, effectiveness of the ingredients, and the price. Your product and the brand representing it should be a reflection of what you want to put into your body. These companies on this list work hard to produce great products to boost all of your gains. With top tier ingredients that are GMO-free, these powders are effective and will work to boost all areas of your muscle growth, recovery, weight loss needs, and lifestyle changes. We know how expensive a protein supplement can be so we sought to find the best products at the right price. You can still have a top ranked powder without totally breaking the bank.
FAQ Section
What is the best non-dairy protein?
National Bodybuilding Co. Full Prep Vegan Protein. This protein is a premiere product with the true power of plant based nutrition while also boosting all of their physique goals. Designed to maximize gains while also reducing body fat, this protein has a high-quality formula to reduce bloating and help digestion. A lean and clean protein, this will really work to enhance protein synthesis for optimal muscle building so you build muscle effectively.
Are organic protein powders better to use than non-organic?
Like anything, those that are organic don’t use pesticides or anything involved with the actually processing. Organic products may have better nutritional value so it is best to consider that and look for a powder you know is GMO-free and can enhance your goals to build muscle and promote weight loss.
Can I use a vegan protein powder if I’m not vegan?
Plant-based and vegan protein powders can be used by anyone. For those with dairy sensitivities, or for those who just want to avoid dairy, a non-dairy protein is a great option for you to still get all the benefits of a lean protein without the potential stomach problems or discomfort. Plus, added benefits like being GMO-free are great for your overall health.
Will I lose out on gains if I use a plant-based powder over whey?
Plant-based powders tend to have similar traits to those whey products so you will not lose any gains. For those looking to build muscle and aid in those weight loss goals, while also enhancing recovery, you can’t go wrong with a non-dairy and lean protein.
Wrap Up
Non-dairy and plant-based proteins are great sources of lean protein to help build muscle and aid in your weight loss goals. While whey protein tends to be more popular, there are a host of reasons why someone would use a vegan protein as opposed to a whey product. With similar benefits and no real obvious disadvantages, having a non-dairy protein in your diet can add variety and shake things up for the better. Check out a good plant-based protein powder today and see what it can do for all your goals.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Lynch, Heidi; Johnston, Carol; Wharton, Christopher (December 1, 2018). “Plant-Based Diets: Considerations for Environmental Impact, Protein Quality, and Exercise Performance”. Nutrients. 10 (12). doi:10.3390/nu10121841. ISSN 2072-6643. PMC 6316289. PMID 30513704.
Babault, Nicolas; Païzis, Christos; Deley, Gaëlle; Guérin-Deremaux, Laetitia; Saniez, Marie-Hélène; Lefranc-Millot, Catherine; Allaert, François A. (2015). “Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein”. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 12 (1): 3. doi:10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5. ISSN 1550-2783. PMC 4307635. PMID 25628520.
Li, Huan; Prairie, Natalie; Udenigwe, Chibuike C.; Adebiyi, Abayomi P.; Tappia, Paramjit S.; Aukema, Harold M.; Jones, Peter J. H.; Aluko, Rotimi E. (September 28, 2011). “Blood pressure lowering effect of a pea protein hydrolysate in hypertensive rats and humans”. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 59 (18): 9854–9860. doi:10.1021/jf201911p. ISSN 1520-5118. PMID 21854068.
Joy, Jordan M; Lowery, Ryan P; Wilson, Jacob M; Purpura, Martin; De Souza, Eduardo O; Wilson, Stephanie MC; Kalman, Douglas S; Dudeck, Joshua E; Jäger, Ralf (June 20, 2013). “The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance”. Nutrition Journal. 12: 86. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-12-86. ISSN 1475-2891. PMC 3698202. PMID 23782948.
Boston, 677 Huntington Avenue; Ma 02115 +1495‑1000 (August 6, 2018). “Straight Talk About Soy”. The Nutrition Source. Retrieved August 18, 2019.
Montgomery, Kristen S. (2003). “Soy Protein”. The Journal of Perinatal Education. 12 (3): 42–45. doi:10.1624/105812403X106946. ISSN 1058-1243. PMC 1595159. PMID 17273351.
“Essential Fatty Acids”. Linus Pauling Institute. April 28, 2014.
Boston, 677 Huntington Avenue; Ma 02115 +1495‑1000 (March 19, 2018). “Chia Seeds”. The Nutrition Source.
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate Review
This ultra-pure and micro-filtered whey protein is great for providing the building blocks for athletic performance and strength.
Product Overview
A good protein powder is essential when it comes to building muscle and working on recovery and finding a good whey isolate is a must for those looking to pack on that lean muscle while also working on trimming down. Since protein plays a vital role in growing, repairing, and maintaining muscle, a protein supplement is that must have post-workout product to really boost all areas of your gains. Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is a great isolate with clean and effective ingredients to really get your gains to where you want them to be.
Choosing between a whey isolate and whey concentrate can sometimes be a difficult one. What it comes down to are your end all goals for what you want most out of your training routine. For those looking to bulk up and really put on some strength and size, a whey concentrate may be a wise choice for you. However, for those who want to keep on that lean muscle and start to cut, a whey isolate can be a solid choice for it filters out excess carbs and fat to leave you with a pure protein supplement. With Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate, that is exactly what you get.
Shop at Swolverine
Swolverine is a lifestyle brand designed for endurance athletes and those always staying active. With products designed to fuel athletic performance, elite athletes and those seeking a goal flock to Swolverine for their top of line products and supplements. They live by the belief that everyone can optimize their athletic performance and human potential through transparency and honest products including those with proven ingredients and effective doses. As an honest and hard working company, Swolverine is there is to improve your human potential, and your athletic performance is just one piece of that larger mission.
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate Highlights
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is an ultra-pure, cold-pressed, and micro-filtered protein powder designed to be rich and creamy so it not only helps your gains, but is enjoyable in the process. With whey being the building blocks for athletic performance and strength, this is sourced from grass-fed American cows and is free of recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH). With awesome benefits like increasing strength, optimizing recovery, building more muscle, and boosting athletic performance, this protein supplement will give you the most when it comes to providing the best for all your gains.
This whey isolate consists of 26g of protein with a great ratio of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to assist with all your muscle growth and recovery needs. A great addition to this formula are digestive enzymes which are great for maximizing the rate of absorption to help optimize muscle growth and repairing that needs to take place. With four great flavors, this protein is perfect for boosting your post-workout routine.
Ingredients
Whey Protein Isolate: A more filtered form of whey, the filtration process has eliminated the excess carbs and fat found in this protein. This is great for muscle growth, recovery, and working to help with weight loss goals as you seek to cut (1).
Papain: A powerful digestive aid used to improve digestion while also working to reduce inflammation.
Protease: Enzymes to help digestive proteins and allow your digestive tract to function properly and effectively (2).
Other Ingredients
Dutch Alkalized Cocoa Powder, Natural & Artificial Flavor, Xantham Gum, Sucralose
Calories
110
Protein
26g
Carbs
2g
Sugars
1g
Servings Per Container
30
Serving Size
1 Scoop
Flavors
Vanilla, Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, Mint Chocolate Chip
Best Way To Take
Mix one scoop with 8 oz. of water or beverage or choice before, during, or after your workouts.
Price, Flavors, Effectiveness For Swolverine Whey Isolate
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is that protein supplement you need to help you build, rebuild, and recover to get the most out of your gains. With 30 servings per container, one scoop will pump you with this ultra-pure, rich, and creamy protein to really boost your workouts.
This protein comes in four great tasting flavors of Vanilla, Chocolate, Honey Cinnamon Peanut Butter, and Mint Chocolate Chip so you never have to worry about the taste getting old.
Pros
Ultra-pure, cold-pressed, and micro-filtered
Source from grass-fed American cows
Digestive enzymes to maximize absorption
Great flavors
Cons
High in price
Does contain sucralose, albeit a small amount
Price: $52.99
Featured Swolverine Athlete
Richard Essig
Richard Essig is a CrossFit coach and athlete who uses Swolverine products to boost all areas of his performance so he can be the best. As someone who has been into fitness for quite some time, his passion became clear and, while finishing school and working, he still decided to try his hand at coaching. Swolverine products are exactly what Essig needs to power him through the day and allow him to continue to thrive as he seeks all of his goals. By promoting their products, he seeks to help others achieve their own respective goals as well.
Check out our list of the Best Protein Powders for more great protein supplements here!
Overall Value
Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate is a great protein supplement to tackle all your growth, recovery, and weight loss needs. With clean and effective whey, mixed with BCAAs and digestive enzymes, this supplement is everything you want as you try to build, rebuild, and recover fully. Swolverine seeks to make products that all consumers will love and that will work for all of their health and fitness goals. What you are really getting is a great whey isolate with effective ingredients and flavors from a company who cares about their consumers. Try Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate today and see what this protein supplement can do for you.
Try Swolverine Whey Protein Isolate Here
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Swolverine, Richard Essig Instagram and Envato
References
Devries, Michaela C.; Phillips, Stuart M. (2015). “Supplemental protein in support of muscle mass and health: advantage whey”. (source)
Goodman, Barbara E. (2010). “Insights into digestion and absorption of major nutrients in humans”. (source)
Protein Powder Supplement Comparison – Which Type To Choose?
Introduction
In this article, we will talk about protein powders. You already know that you should up your protein intake and train hard if you want to build more muscles. Back in the day, choosing used to be easy, as we only had whey. However, there are so many different kinds of protein powders today, it is becoming increasingly challenging to decide which one to take. This article will give you essential information about different protein types, which will help you with decision making. Let’s go!
First Things First: Protein Powder Purity
We will get into different protein sources later, but let’s first tackle one thing they all have in common, which is powder purity. Based on the amount of pure protein compared to everything else in the powder, we have protein concentrates, isolates, and hydrolysates.
Concentrate
Back in the day, there was a massive difference between concentrates and isolates, but you can expect the best concentrates to have more than 80% of protein, with rest coming from carbs and fat. Considering the price, concentrates are the best option for most people who are just looking to add some muscle mass and don’t mind the extra calories coming from other sources.
Isolate
Protein concentrate that goes through more filtering becomes protein isolate. Every good protein isolate has 90% of protein or more, with the best ones going to 95%. Protein isolates are the best option for people looking to cut, or those who are carefully monitoring their diet, for example, those following a keto regimen. They are more expensive than concentrates, though.
Hydrolysates
Hydrolysates are isolates that are processed with enzymes, which improves their absorption, which means they end up in your muscles more quickly. They are the purest protein form, but also the most expensive.
Blends
We also have blends, which mix proteins from different sources. However, you need to be careful with these, as they are often the tool companies use to trick consumers. So, for example, if you buy a concentrate and isolate blend, that is basically a concentrate. And if you purchase blends of different protein sources, read the label carefully. Companies will usually use the lowest quality protein to fill up the content. And whenever you see “proprietary blend” on a label, it is probably best to avoid the supplement, as you never know exactly what’s in there.
Must read:: Whey Protein Explained: Isolate, Concentrate and Hydrolysate
Animal Protein Powders
The Reign King: Whey Protein Powder
Whey always was, and still is the best protein powder. Whey is derived from milk, in the process of making cheese. The liquid is later processed, and we get whey protein powder. What makes whey the best protein powder supplement is its composition as it is a complete protein source, containing all nine amino acids. Furthermore, it is highly bioavailable, which means our body is able to use most of it, which is a problem with some other protein sources. Whey protein is also highly satiating, which means it will keep you full for longer, helping you stay on your diet plan if you drink protein instead of snacking. Another benefit of whey is that it is one of the most widely spread protein sources, with many manufacturers making quality whey supplements. Whey is nothing new and is one of the most budget-friendly protein powder options.
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Casein: Whey’s Closest Cousin
So if whey is the king, casein is the king’s brother, as it is also derived from milk. But there is one major difference, as casein is a “slow” protein. What that means is that casein protein doesn’t get absorbed immediately. Instead, the amino acids are released into the bloodstream over a prolonged period, giving your muscles a more steady protein supply. Lifters like to use casein before bed, in order to “stay anabolic” during sleep. That’s why it is a good idea to take casein alongside whey. But, if you compare the two directly, whey is a better option, so if you can only take one, pick whey, mainly because they are both milk derivates.
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Look No Further, Unless…
So whey is the best protein powder option, and casein is its perfect partner. A premium fast+slow protein, like a one-two punch, right? Well, not for everyone. Both whey and casein are proteins derived from milk, which is a problem for some people.
First, milk is an animal product, which makes these two proteins a big no-no for vegans. The same goes for the egg, beef, or any other protein powder that comes from animal sources. Second, people who are lactose-intolerant might have issues digesting proteins that come from milk. Even though you can try with isolates and hydrolysates which should not contain any lactose, you might find whey/casein problematic to digest. If that is the case, but you still want to up your protein intake, you will have to turn to plant protein sources.
Must Read:: Do Bodybuilding Supplements Really Work?
Plant Protein Powders
Hemp Protein
Hemp is an easy to absorb plant protein which is rich in fiber, but also healthy, unsaturated fats. What’s more, those fats have an excellent omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which is incredibly healthy. Because this protein is rich in fiber, it has a positive influence on the digestive tract, but also sugar levels, helping you stay full for longer. But, the hemp protein has one major issue, as it is lacking one of the essential amino acids, lysine. Therefore, you either opt for a protein blend or eat lysine-rich foods alongside your hemp powder, such as avocados or tomatoes.
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Pea Protein
Pea protein powder is rich in BCAAs, amino acids popular among bodybuilders. It also has very high protein content, and our body is able to utilize it to a great extent. Also, pea protein is also a good source of fiber, which means it is terrific for digestion. And it is hypoallergenic, which means it is safe for most people. Similarly to hemp protein, the pea protein is deficient in one essential amino acid, this time methionine. To correct this, you can include some methionine-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, or even rice protein powder.
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Brown Rice Protein
Similarly to hemp, brown rice protein doesn’t contain much lysine, which means you need to combine it with other foods or protein sources. But, it has many muscle building and health benefits, giving you a reason to choose it as your go-to plant protein source. What makes rice a good option is that it is well-tolerated by many people, as it is hypoalergenic. Because pea protein is hypoallergenic too and has lycine, it is ideal to take rice+pea protein, if you want to have a “perfect” plant protein blend.
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One To Avoid: Soy Protein Powder
When you look at the soy protein contents, it seems like a vegan gym bro’s best friend, especially when you consider the price tag, as it is one of the most budget-friendly protein sources. When you compare it to other plant proteins that usually lack some amino acids, soy protein is a complete one, giving you all that your body needs. While it doesn’t beat whey, it is a better protein source than casein. But, there are some significant issues with soy.
First, all soy available in the Western world is GMO. Yes, all proteins are not exactly whole foods, but knowing that the one you drink is 100%, GMO might be an issue for some. However, most meatheads reading WhatSteroids site don’t care too much about staying natural, they only care about gains, so who cares about GMO if soy powder is protein-packed, complete, and incredibly cheap, right? Wrong.
The major issue with soy is that it contains phytoestrogens. When ingested, these compounds act like estrogen in our body and can potentially negatively affect testosterone levels too. For most meatheads, this is a huge red light. Raising estrogen levels can cause enlarged breasts, and we all know that steroid users often have issues with gynecomastia, even without consuming soy.
Conclusion
That was the most essential information about different kinds of protein powders you need to know. To summarize:
If you are looking to gain weight and are not competing, protein concentrate is your best option, considering the price.
If you are looking to cut, go for isolates, as they contain almost no carbs and fats.
Also, if you are an athlete, competing, or have a big budget, go for hydrolyzates, as they are most easily digestible.
Be cautious about blends, as they are often extremely low-quality, read the labels.
Sources:
Not vegan? Then, whey is your number one choice, ideally combined with casein.
Vegan, or lactose-intolerant? Your best option is probably pea protein but ideally combined with brown rice protein, as those two give you all the necessary amino acids.
Avoid soy protein as it contains phytoestrogenes, which can mess with your hormone levels.
Of course, protein that you eat from real foods matters too, and you should always try to maximize it, using supplements to SUPPLEMENT your nutrition, not to replace it. And care about micronutrients too, like fiber, vitamins, minerals, as they often get overlooked by gym bros, who only care about protein/fat/carb ratio. That’s it guys, read our other articles if you want to learn about each protein kind in deatail or any additional gym-related information.
Stay strong!
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