FAQs About Plant-Based Protein
What is Plant-Based Protein Powder?
A plant-based protein powder contains no animal ingredients - it is free from meat, dairy, eggs, fish or other proteins sourced from animals. Vegan powders are plant extracts, commonly from rice, soy, hemp, peas, beans, grains and nuts (Berue, S. 2012).
Berue, S; Vegan Protein Powder Supplements of High Biological Value, Journal of Renal Nutrition, Volume 22, Issue 4, 2012, ISSN 1051-2276, https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2012.03.005. Accessed 17 August, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S105122761200101X
Berue, S; Vegan Protein Powder Supplements of High Biological Value, Journal of Renal Nutrition, Volume 22, Issue 4, 2012, ISSN 1051-2276, https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2012.03.005. Accessed 17 August, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S105122761200101X
Are Plant Proteins Safe?
In 2018, a report from a non-profit organisation called the Clean Label Project caused a stir when they said they found heavy metal contaminants in US-based vegan protein powders. Though this may cause concern, you should know that most brands do heavy metal testing and can produce a certificate of analysis. At Australian Sports Nutrition, we source only reputable brands with a history of quality products. All protein powders, including plant-based proteins, are considered safe for consumption when used in moderation.
We advise you to always check with your medical practitioner before starting a new supplement regime. We also welcome you to consult with us to ensure we can assist with your individual dietary needs.
We advise you to always check with your medical practitioner before starting a new supplement regime. We also welcome you to consult with us to ensure we can assist with your individual dietary needs.
Is Plant-Based Protein Healthy?
Plant proteins are a fantastic alternative for a natural antioxidant boost to meet your protein needs without consuming meat, dairy, fish or eggs. When used in moderation as a supplement to a healthy lifestyle, vegan proteins can assist you in building muscle mass, prevent muscle loss, and support a healthy metabolism. (Mawkish, A et al. 2021)
Aside from the concentrated protein extracted from plants, you'll get the added benefit of extra fibre and nutrients for a well-rounded diet. To cover your nutritional bases as a vegan or plant-based eater, you need prior planning. Plant-based proteins can help you meet your needs conveniently and cost-effectively.
Mawkish, A.; Nishisaka, M.M.; Talbott, C.K.; Reaves, S.K.; Kristo, A.S.; Sikalidis, A.K. Comparison of Whey Versus Almond Protein Powder on Nitrogen Balance in Female College Students; The California Almond Protein Powder Project (CAlmond-P3). Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 11939, accessed 17 August, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182211939
Aside from the concentrated protein extracted from plants, you'll get the added benefit of extra fibre and nutrients for a well-rounded diet. To cover your nutritional bases as a vegan or plant-based eater, you need prior planning. Plant-based proteins can help you meet your needs conveniently and cost-effectively.
Mawkish, A.; Nishisaka, M.M.; Talbott, C.K.; Reaves, S.K.; Kristo, A.S.; Sikalidis, A.K. Comparison of Whey Versus Almond Protein Powder on Nitrogen Balance in Female College Students; The California Almond Protein Powder Project (CAlmond-P3). Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 11939, accessed 17 August, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182211939
Do Plant-Based Protein Powders Work?
There is a common fear that plant-based protein powders cannot match whey due to their amino acid profile. Thankfully for those who are allergic or intolerant to dairy or wish to avoid it, this is not the case. Most vegan protein powders combine a variety of sources to help you obtain the amino acid profile necessary for muscle growth. (Babault, N et al. 2015)
Your plant protein works as a supplement, not to replace all meals. You will see the best results when you use it in combination with your tailored diet and exercise program. As with all forms of protein, the point is to ensure you meet your protein requirements, no matter your goal. If you want to preserve or build muscle mass, having enough protein in your diet is a must, especially when you exercise regularly.
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
Your plant protein works as a supplement, not to replace all meals. You will see the best results when you use it in combination with your tailored diet and exercise program. As with all forms of protein, the point is to ensure you meet your protein requirements, no matter your goal. If you want to preserve or build muscle mass, having enough protein in your diet is a must, especially when you exercise regularly.
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
What Are the Benefits of Plant-Based Protein?
Plant-based protein will help you with weight loss, muscle gain, sports performance, and overall health. You'll have a delicious way to meet your protein needs, plus the added benefits of plant-based nutrition to help you fill dietary gaps. Our plant proteins contain natural antioxidants to help you thrive, plus fibre to help keep you regular. Many plant proteins contain natural sweeteners and offer added benefits such as prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes for a happy tummy. (Berue, S. 2012)
Berue, S; Vegan Protein Powder Supplements of High Biological Value, Journal of Renal Nutrition, Volume 22, Issue 4, 2012, ISSN 1051-2276, https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2012.03.005. Accessed 17 August, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S105122761200101X
Berue, S; Vegan Protein Powder Supplements of High Biological Value, Journal of Renal Nutrition, Volume 22, Issue 4, 2012, ISSN 1051-2276, https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jrn.2012.03.005. Accessed 17 August, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S105122761200101X
Is Plant-Based or Whey Protein Better?
At Australian Sports Nutrition, we believe in supporting your fitness goals with your dietary requirements and personal preferences in mind. Plant-based and whey proteins both offer vital benefits for muscular development and overall wellness. With an extensive range of proteins, we recommend you try a few different ones to find the flavour and texture you enjoy the most. You will get the best results from your protein powder when you use it consistently, so finding one that satisfies your taste buds and that you look forward to every day is essential! (Babault, N et al. 2015)
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
Is Plant-Based Protein Easier to Digest?
The digestibility of your plant protein comes down to your make-up. Some customers find whey options challenging to digest and therefore opt for a vegan or natural option. Others find that their body prefers whey. If you have a known allergy or intolerance to dairy, we advise that you explore our plant-protein options. (Babault, N et al. 2015)
Please note that plant proteins vary significantly in ingredient profiles, so always check the label if you are susceptible to allergens (Macro Mike contains peanut protein, for example). If you are unsure what is suitable for you, consult our expert staff, who can guide you to the right decision.
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
Please note that plant proteins vary significantly in ingredient profiles, so always check the label if you are susceptible to allergens (Macro Mike contains peanut protein, for example). If you are unsure what is suitable for you, consult our expert staff, who can guide you to the right decision.
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
Is Plant-Based Protein Good for Building Muscle?
Your body needs protein to survive and thrive. It’s an essential macronutrient. Your body doesn't produce some amino acids, so you need to find them through your diet. This is when supplementation can come in handy.
If muscle growth is your goal, plant-based protein can help. When training hard, your muscles need adequate protein to repair and get bigger. Using a plant-based protein with a comprehensive amino acid profile gives you what your body needs to get to the next level. Always pair your protein with a structured exercise and eating program to see the best results. (Babault, N et al. 2015)
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
If muscle growth is your goal, plant-based protein can help. When training hard, your muscles need adequate protein to repair and get bigger. Using a plant-based protein with a comprehensive amino acid profile gives you what your body needs to get to the next level. Always pair your protein with a structured exercise and eating program to see the best results. (Babault, N et al. 2015)
Babault, N et al. 2015, 'Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein', National Library of Medicine, accessed 17 August 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25628520/
Can Plant-Based Protein Cause Acne?
There are no reports of plant-based protein causing acne. Due to its plant-derived nature, you're less likely to break out on this type of protein. Acne is a condition that is often due to many factors. Plant-based protein is generally easier for your body to digest and contains nutrients that can support overall skin health.
Can Plant-Based Protein Powder Cause Bloating?
Plant proteins are considered easy to digest. If you are experiencing bloating, take stock of what else you are eating alongside your protein powder. Ensure you have enough milk or water with your protein as the powders contain fibre, which requires extra liquid consumption. You may also be sensitive to a particular ingredient, so try a variety of protein powders if this is the case for you.
If you are recently switching to a plant-based diet, you may find that bloating occurs. Bloating due to this switch often passes with time, but it's wise to go easy on the fibre to help your body adjust. When in doubt, always consult with your health professional.
If you are recently switching to a plant-based diet, you may find that bloating occurs. Bloating due to this switch often passes with time, but it's wise to go easy on the fibre to help your body adjust. When in doubt, always consult with your health professional.
Does Plant-Based Protein Make You Gain Weight?
If your goal is weight loss, Plant protein will not make you gain weight if you eat in a calorie deficit. If fat loss is your goal, having enough protein in your diet is key to supporting the preservation of muscle mass while you diet. A plant-based protein will only make you gain weight when you eat in excess. Thanks to the fibre content, you may find that you're fuller for longer when you use your vegan protein.
If muscle gain is your aim, a plant protein can help you increase size and weight when used in a calorie surplus. Your muscles need protein to grow, so plant protein is a perfect way to get extra calories and protein conveniently.
If muscle gain is your aim, a plant protein can help you increase size and weight when used in a calorie surplus. Your muscles need protein to grow, so plant protein is a perfect way to get extra calories and protein conveniently.
Is Plant-Based Protein Powder Good for Weight Loss?
Your plant protein can assist you with weight loss goals when you use it together with a calorie deficit. When you consume fewer calories than your body needs to maintain weight, you'll find the scales going down.
A plant-based protein can help you preserve muscle during this time, as weight loss often comes with a decrease in fat and muscle. Using your plant protein can support your muscles which helps you achieve a 'toned' look. Plus, a delicious vegan protein shake is a convenient way to support your diet and helps to curb that sweet tooth that can lead to overeating!
A plant-based protein can help you preserve muscle during this time, as weight loss often comes with a decrease in fat and muscle. Using your plant protein can support your muscles which helps you achieve a 'toned' look. Plus, a delicious vegan protein shake is a convenient way to support your diet and helps to curb that sweet tooth that can lead to overeating!
