If you’re someone who prefers their food to be organic, free-range, and hormone-free, you might be interested in trying a vegan protein shake instead. Made from plant-based proteins like hemp, rice, or beans, and fortified with a vitamin E source and antioxidants, a vegan protein shake can help reduce your carbon footprint and support a more eco-friendly way of eating.
Drinking these shakes can help with weight loss, as you’ll see from this list of the best vegan protein shakes on the market. Take a look and find out why these drinks are becoming so popular:
The Growing Popularity Of Plant-Based Protein
People are starting to care more about what they put into their bodies, and the food industry is starting to respond by creating plant-based proteins. These products don’t come with the animal-related nutrients that animal products have, which makes them a much safer and more cost-effective alternative for those who are concerned about their health.
The growing popularity of plant-based proteins can be attributed to a number of factors. On the one hand, the food industry is moving towards offering more vegan-friendly products (more on that later), but on the other, people are learning more about the negative effects of animal products on the environment (zooplankton overpopulation, methane emissions, etc.).
However, to enjoy the many benefits of these vegan proteins, you have to be sure to buy them from a trusted brand; otherwise, you run the risk of buying something that is either not vegan or made from cheaper, less appealing materials.
The Many Nutritional Benefits Of Plant-Based Proteins
Let’s take a look at the many nutritional benefits that plant-based proteins have to offer, shall we?
- High-quality protein
- Faster Digestion
- More Enzymes
- More Absorption
- Lower Cholesterol
- Improved Nutritional Value
These proteins are high-quality because they are either isolated from plants or are less likely to be contaminated by chemical substances (like additives or preservatives) than their animal-derived counterparts. This makes them a better choice for those who are looking for food supplements that are high in protein and low in fat and carbohydrates.
When we take a closer look at the nutritional value of proteins, we see that they can be broken down into two categories:
- Essential Amines
- Non-Essential Amines
Essential amines are the building blocks of life, and they cannot be produced by the human body. These nutrients are required by the body in small amounts, and they cannot be replaced by other nutrients.
Non-Essential amines, on the other hand, are compounds that the human body can produce itself. These nutrients, although not vital for the body’s function, can be easily replaced by dietary supplements.
As we’ve established, plant-based proteins have many advantages over animal products, and one of the reasons why people are turning to them is because of their nutritional content. Let’s take a look at each type of plant-based protein in more detail, shall we?
Hemp
Hemp is one of the most popular plant-based proteins on the market today. This natural product is known for its long list of nutrients and phytochemicals, including:
- Vitamins – A, C, and E
- Proteins
- Fibers
- Minerals – Calcium, phosphorous, and potassium
There’s also a fantastic source of natural Vitamin E here, which is great for preventing heart disease and cancer. This popular plant product is high in both minerals and vitamins and is a great addition to anyone’s diet. The fact that it comes from a renewable resource makes it a much more sustainable option as well.
Rice
Rice is a cheap and easy way to feed the world, and for good reason. Not only does it provide people with one of the most abundant sources of nutrients, but it’s also one of the most efficient natural foods. Let’s examine the nutritional content of rice and what makes it a fabulous option for vegans:
- Protein
- Fibers
- Vitamins – A, C, and E
- Minerals – Iron, phosphorous, and potassium
Rice contains more iron than any other commonly eaten food, and it’s very bioavailable. This makes it a great option for anyone who is looking for natural alternatives to traditional red meat. However, since it’s a plant product, vegans and vegetarians must stay away from rice unless they are aiming for a health advantage. This is because the starch in rice can be broken down into simple sugars that the body can easily absorb, resulting in increased insulin levels and subsequent weight gain.
Beans
Beans are among the most popular plant-based proteins on the market today. This type of food offers many advantages to people who are looking for vegan alternatives. Let’s examine the many nutritional benefits of beans, shall we?
- Protein
- Fibers
- Vitamins – A, C, and E
- Minerals – Iron, phosphorous, and potassium
These products can be easily digested by the human body, which means they provide your body with the necessary nutrients more quickly. This, in turn, helps with weight loss since your body does not have to break down complex carbohydrates to get the nutrients it needs.
If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to cow’s milk, you can’t go wrong with beans. They are extremely versatile and can be incorporated into any dish or meal to provide different textures and tastes. They are easily digested by the body, so they provide quickly absorbed nutrients that boost the body’s health.
Thanks to their high-quality protein content, beans are a great choice for people who are on weight-loss protocols. Not only does it provide a nutritious option for those who are restricted by dietary restrictions, but it can also reduce cholesterol and promote digestive health.
How To Select The Best Vegan Protein Supplements
If you’re someone who is looking for the best vegan protein supplements, you have to be careful not to buy expensive products that are not worth it. It’s important to find a good balance between affordability and quality, and you can do this by selecting the right products from reputable brands.
To learn more about purchasing high-quality vegan supplements, check out these articles: