For a long time, the protein powder market was quite limited. It was largely focused on milk-based supplements – such as whey protein – and didn’t offer many other options. Yet, over the past few years, the market has expanded its focus, and, in turn, it continues to grow exponentially.
One main reason for this growth was the introduction of plant-based protein powders. Noting that many consumers were shifting their preferences to vegan and vegetarian diets, fitness brands started catering to this new demographic. One of the more popular vegan proteins that has recently been making a name for itself is pea protein powder.
Pea protein powder is an excellent alternative to milk-based protein powders. Though, despite its recent rise in popularity, many people still don’t know what health benefits this vegan protein offers or why it’s such a good supplement.
While it is used as a replacement for whey protein, pea protein is similar to its milk-based counterparts as they offer many of the same benefits. Specifically, it’s shown that both pea and whey protein are equally as effective for muscle gain and strength. Likewise, pea protein is just as useful for decreasing post workout recovery times. Both of these proteins also help increase satiety, which can help promote weight loss as you’ll feel fuller for a longer period of time.
As a standalone supplement, this protein also offers a variety of other health benefits. Pea protein is a great way of boosting your iron levels, which is vital if you’re recovering from an illness or if you don’t get enough iron in your general diet. One serving of a pea protein powder contains about 2.85mg of iron (35% of the RDI for men, 15% of the RDI for women).
Studies have also indicated that this plant-based protein could also support heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. Evidence points out that pea protein can reduce cholesterol levels by decreasing fat production and increasing cholesterol uptake into cells.
This protein powder is full of essential amino acids, which are necessary to support your general health. While it does have the label of being an ‘incomplete’ protein, this does not mean that it’s inferior to other types of protein powder. Alongside using pea protein, add some seeds and grains into your daily diet for a decent intake of all nine essential amino acids.
Finally, pea protein powder is ideal if you have a sensitivity towards dairy or lactose, or if you’re simply trying to reduce your personal carbon footprint. If you’re looking to purchase pea protein, make sure you’re choosing a pure, clean product from a brand that’s transparent about their ingredients.
Try out the following recipe for a delicious, healthy, and nutritious smoothie:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of non-dairy yogurt (or Greek yogurt if you’re not plant-based)
- 1/3 cup non-dairy milk (or cow’s milk)
- 1/2 cup blueberries (frozen)
- 2 scoops of Naked Pea
- ¼ tsp. vanilla extract
Start by adding the blueberries, milk, and scoops of Naked Pea to a blender and mix for a few seconds. Then add in the yogurt and vanilla extract, and blend until the mixture is combined. Enjoy!