If you are vegan or following a loosely plant-based diet, you will understand the struggle when it comes to consuming enough high-quality protein throughout the day. Research shows removing lean meat and fish from your diet can make it difficult in terms of trying to increase your muscle mass or maintaining your body composition. The good news is there are more and more plant-based protein powders coming into the market.

The importance of Protein

Protein is the fuel our bodies need to stay healthy and working correctly: it is critical in helping our bodily process of transporting energy and carrying oxygen throughout our blood. Further, protein is necessary in all stages of life: it helps us to grow and develop throughout our childhood and teenage years, whilst being an essential macronutrient in each and every diet throughout our lifetime.

The benefits of Plant-Based Protein

Plant-based proteins provide many layers of beneficial factors for our bodies. Essentially, they are the building blocks for healthy muscles and tissue, and can aid in weight loss (if it is a target). Typically, these proteins are lower in calories and fat content, whilst being superior in terms of fibre and essential nutrients, when compared to animal products. Similarly, plant-based proteins do not contain some of the less-healthy elements found in animal based products, such as saturated fats, cholesterol, and other irritants that can cause digestive issues.

What to look for in a Plant-Based Product

Simply put: it’s necessary to find a product that will meet your protein requirements as effectively as possible. The most efficient way to do this? Choose a product that contains all nine essential amino acids, such as our Love Shake Vegan Protein Powders. For example: Whilst rice proteins are higher in amino acids such as cysteine and methionine, pea protein is high in lysine. It’s important to opt for a protein that is rich in micronutrients too, such as Pea Protein, which is high in iron, calcium and Vitamin E for example. Less is more when it comes to additives and artificial ingredients, so be sure to check the label for a well-rounded understanding of the product. Our protein formula is a combination of both Pea and Rice Protein, with a total combination of 19 amino acids, making it a superior product amongst its competitors.

What to avoid in a Plant-Based Product

Quality ingredients are at the crux of any well-made protein powder. Usually, the fewer ingredients there are on the list, the better. Although, this can sometimes jeopardise the taste of the product, so it can be tricky to achieve. In saying this, some companies will douse their products in artificial colours and sweeteners to make up for the gritty texture and bitter taste. Try to avoid products with sweetening ingredients such as: sucralose, coconut sugar, brown rice syrup, agave and aspartame. In turn, look for products that contain natural sweeteners, such as stevia (take a look at the back of our products for our ingredient list.. You may be happily surprised).