Plant Based Protein

What is plant-based protein powder?

Plant-based proteins powders are isolated protein sources made from plants! You may be thinking “no whey”! But, if you’re sensitive to dairy or lead a vegan lifestyle then listen up! You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers (and delicious options to boot)!

Plant-based protein supplements typically come in powder form and include isolated plant proteins or blend of a few. Dietary preferences and how much additional protein you’re looking to add to your routine will influence the type of plant protein you choose. Here are a few options to fit your plant-loving lifestyle:

Soy Protein

Made from soybeans, soy protein powders contain all nine essential amino acids. As one of the most popular plant-based proteins options, soy has been also been linked to supporting heart health.

Pea Protein

Pea protein powders are made by grinding dried yellow peas into a fine powder. Isolated pea protein boasts a high amino acid profile, including muscle supporting leucine. Hemp protein – another complete plant protein, made by grinding pressed hemp seeds into a fine powder. Slightly lower in protein content vs soy and pea, hemp makes up for it with more fiber and the benefit of heart-healthy fats.

Rice Protein

Made by isolating protein from various types of rice, including brown, white and wild rice.

Plant Protein Combinations

Products containing a blend of plant-protein sources from the list above are becoming more common. What’s nice about these blends is that by combining a variety of sources, it balances out the strengths and weakness of varying essential amino acid profiles providing a broad range of nutrients and a major boost of protein.

How to use plant-based proteins?

Plant protein powders are a convenient (and delicious) way to boost protein intake. A favorite foundational supplement among athletes, plant protein powders provide nutrients for muscle growth, recovery, and repair. Perfect for pre-and post-workout and anywhere in between.

Don’t let all the benefits to athletes fool you into thinking that protein supplements are only for bodybuilders. Protein helps keep you feeling fuller longer, AND it supports the maintenance of lean muscle mass, making it an excellent addition to any healthy routine. You can mix it with dairy free milk or water in a shaker cup for a super-simple dose of protein or get creative by using it in smoothies, protein pancakes, oatmeal, or protein bites. The options are endless.

No matter your goal or flavor preference, there are so many options to choose from in the world of plant proteins. Trust the experts at GNC to help you Live Well with our incredible selection of high-quality plant protein products.