I’ve been vegan since 2018, and I’ve got some pretty good vegan recipes up my sleeve to help me stick to a healthy, balanced diet. And yet I still struggle to consume enough high-protein vegan foods every day.
There are hundreds of others in the same position – especially those with active lifestyles. Taking lean meats off the menu makes it harder to get the amount of protein you need each day, so I sometimes have to find my protein source from somewhere other than food.
Thanks to the 600,000 vegans in the UK, health vendors have invested in the production of vegan protein powders to meet our needs. Unfortunately, not all of these options are of the high quality that you’d expect. Here’s everything you need to know to choose a high-quality, nutritious, tasty vegan protein powder to add to your daily routine.
Where do vegans get protein?
There are hundreds of high-protein vegan foods available to meet our nutritional needs. These include legumes like lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, tofu and tempeh. Quinoa, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and green vegetables also contribute to protein intake.
Since a well-balanced vegan diet should incorporate a variety of these protein sources to ensure adequate essential amino acids and overall nutrition, it’s not always easy to incorporate these into your diet – especially if you’re on a budget or short on time to cook fresh meals.
Supplementing Protein
It’s easy to associate protein powders with bodybuilding and bulking, but vegan protein powders offer a convenient and effective way for vegans to supplement a plant-based diet with high-quality vegan protein. Although a bulking or bodybuilding vegan diet will undoubtedly benefit from vegan protein powders, so will most vegans.
Vegan protein powders are derived from sources like peas, rice, hemp, or a blend of plant-based ingredients and offer a concentrated and easily digestible source of vegan protein. They can be easily incorporated into smoothies, shakes, baked goods, and other recipes, making it simple to boost protein intake.
Many vegan protein powders are fortified with essential nutrients, enhancing their nutritional value. By using vegan protein powders strategically, vegans can optimize their protein intake, support their fitness goals, and maintain a well-rounded, plant-based lifestyle.
Protein Source Variety
One of the great advantages of vegan protein powder is the diverse range of sources available. Look for vegan protein powders that combine different plant-based sources such as pea, rice, hemp, chia, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, or a blend of all. A mixture of vegan protein sources ensures a more complete amino acid profile, which is essential for muscle recovery and overall health.
Natural Ingredients
Opt for vegan protein powders made from natural ingredients without artificial additives, sweeteners or preservatives. Some vegan protein powders may contain fillers and chemicals that can have adverse side effects. Reading the ingredient label ensures the product aligns with your dietary preferences and goals.
Sugar and Sweeteners
Be cautious of added sugars and artificial sweeteners, as they can impact blood sugar levels and may not be conducive to a healthy diet. Stevia, monk fruit extract, or coconut sugar are great alternatives for those who prefer a sweetened vegan protein powder.
Fortified with Nutrients
The best vegan protein powders are enriched with additional nutrients like vitamins, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids. These can be highly beneficial for those who use vegan protein powders as a meal replacement or to supplement specific nutrient needs.
Taste and Texture
Taste is crucial when it comes to enjoying your protein shake. Read reviews and try sample sizes before committing to a large tub of vegan protein powder. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so finding a flavour you enjoy is key to incorporating it into your daily routine.
Find out which vegan protein powders we rate the highest here.
Price and Brand Reputation
When choosing the best vegan protein powder, look for reputable brands known for producing high-quality plant-based products. Reading customer reviews and seeking recommendations from friends or fitness experts can help make an informed decision.
The Best Vegan Protein Powder
When choosing your next vegan protein powder, consider your nutritional needs, taste preferences and budget. By focusing on protein sources, nutritional content, natural ingredients and other crucial factors, you can find a vegan protein powder that’s not only delicious but also supports your health and fitness goals.