One thing that all bodybuilders have in common is the need for protein. Protein helps to build muscle, lose weight, and boost workouts. But what if you don’t eat animal products?
There are plenty of vegan protein powders on the market made from peas, soybeans, hemp seeds, rice milk, or other plant-based sources that provide a complete amino acid profile. This article provides an unbiased review of the 12 best vegan protein powders available on the market today!
Animal proteins, take a seat: The greatest vegan protein powders are just as effective at increasing your workouts, aiding with weight reduction, and stimulating muscular development as any other form.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying to expand your plant-based diet, these protein powders will keep you energized throughout your next workout—and they’ll even aid in the recovery process.
There’s no shortage of vegan protein sources to explore, from hemp to peas, soy to brown rice. Although the protein content in whey powder is somewhat greater than that found in plant-based versions, adds Amy Shapiro, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., a New York-based nutritionist, the latter has its perks.
Not all plant-based protein powders are created equal when it comes to flavor, components, and quantity of protein. Here’s how to discover the best protein powder for you.
Table of Contents
How to choose the best vegan protein powder?
First – is it vegan? You want to avoid whey, casein, and other animal-based proteins. Also, you can check the list of ingredients if there are milk products in them.
Second – is it plant-based or rice protein only? Many popular brands offer both options but they differ in price and quality mostly.
Third – how much protein does it offer? You want at least 15g per serving. The most popular brands have a minimum of 20-25g with some even going up to 30 or 40 grams in one scoop.
The last thing you need to consider is quality and taste. Most plant-based proteins are naturally sweet so that shouldn’t be a problem. But if you are not used to sweet protein powders, go for the unsweetened kind or try it with fruit and other healthy ingredients that will balance out the taste.
What ingredients should I look for in a vegan protein powder?
Vegan protein powders are made from a variety of plant-based sources, including peas, brown rice, and soy. While all vegan proteins will offer a complete amino acid profile (the building blocks for muscle), not all have the same taste or texture as whey.
First – is it gluten-free? Some people prefer to avoid gluten in their diets for a variety of reasons, and some people may not even know that they fall into the gluten-avoidance category. So check to make sure your protein powder doesn’t contain any hidden sources of its sneaky little friend.
The second thing you should look out for is added sugars – especially if you’re using them as part of a weight-loss plan. Most vegan protein supplements are sweetened with stevia or monk fruit extract, which offer a sweeter taste without adding any calories. If you’re looking for something more indulgent – go for chocolate-flavored plant-based powders instead of vanilla!
Most importantly though is the type of protein itself and how it’s processed. You want to be sure that your protein powder is made from natural ingredients and has been processed in a way that ensures its amino acids are not damaged (and therefore provide less benefit).
The final thing you should look for when choosing the best vegan protein supplement is added vitamins. Some companies will add vitamin B12, riboflavin, iron, or fiber.
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Are you excited to add more protein to your diet? These are the best vegan protein powders. You can buy them online.
Amazing Grass Protein Superfood
Orgain Organic Protein Powder
Naked Pea Protein Powder
Bob’s Red Mill Soy Protein Powder
Hemp Yeah! Hemp Protein Powder
Pure Food Plant-Based Protein Powder
KOS Organic Plant Protein Powder
Garden of Life Organic Plant-Based Protein
Ora Organic Vegan Protein Powder
Vega One All-in-One Shake
EarthChimp Vegan Protein Shake
Orgain Keto Protein Powder
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