Plant proteins (for vegetarians and vegans)

Plant Proteins

Plant protein includes various non-animal protein sources with different characteristics, providing pure proteins to the diet or combining different proportions of protein with other nutrients, without adding fats or cholesterol.

Among nutritional products with plant proteins, we find rice proteins, which are sodium- and cholesterol-free and very easy to digest; soy proteins, one of the richest sources of plant proteins; pea proteins, a high-quality source of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and fiber; as well as other plant proteins with high nutritional value, such as spirulina and plant protein blends.

Pea Protein

This dietary supplement is a perfect ally when it comes to incorporating a nutrient into our diet that helps improve sports performance and overall health. The high quality of the raw material—the yellow peas—ensures maximum absorption and spectacular results.

Why is pea protein recommended?

This supplement helps in three fundamental aspects of training. First, it promotes collagen formation, which supports the health of bones, tendons, skin, and connective tissue. When these parts of our body are healthy, we can start thinking about intense training that sculpts and shapes our body. Additionally, pea protein has a satiating effect, preventing hunger during energy burn and avoiding the consumption of high-calorie foods that can undermine the hard work we do to stay fit.

Finally, regarding sports, pea protein facilitates muscle recovery, so you will feel ready to train again sooner than before.

Properties of Isolated Pea Protein

To get the maximum benefit from this nutrient, it is recommended to acquire it in its isolated form, which offers the following advantages:

• free of cholesterol and lactose
• free of genetically modified components
• hypoallergenic
• suitable for celiacs
• suitable for those with soy intolerance

BCAAs in Pea Protein

Pea protein is very rich in essential BCAA amino acids, nutrients indispensable for muscle formation and recovery, but which our body cannot synthesize on its own. For this reason, it is essential to consume them through diet or, better yet, through supplements that ensure the exact dose.

Are there any contraindications for pea protein?

Like all proteins, pea protein can also cause side effects, so it is recommended to follow the recommended dose, consult a specialist before consuming it, and pay attention to the accompanying diet, as carbohydrates are necessary when taking significant amounts of protein. Additionally, if you have kidney or liver problems, it is advisable to take this supplement under professional supervision. Lastly, always remember that its isolated form guarantees greater purity and digestibility.

Soy Protein

Why consume soy protein? Because among plants, soybeans are the legume that provides the most protein, strongly competing with animal proteins such as meat and whey.

Besides being a great aid when looking to naturally increase muscle mass with quality nutrients, soy also offers invaluable support for health, especially cardiovascular health, as it contains minimal saturated fats and no cholesterol.

Why is soy protein recommended?

The first thing to mention when asking what soy protein is for is that it is a highly nutritious food. Its content of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, and phenolic acids, among many other nutrients, makes it the queen of the plant world. Among the benefits of soy protein, we highlight its role in physical activity, as it is the ideal complement to the diet of anyone who has made fitness their lifestyle.

When to take soy protein?

If you seek quick recovery of muscle fibers for fast and defined growth, it is best to take a dose after your training session, especially if it involves weightlifting. Regarding quantity, a daily intake of approximately 30 grams is recommended.

Other Sources of Plant Proteins

Protein is an essential nutrient for anyone who trains, as lean muscle mass formation depends on its presence in the body. The debate is whether to choose animal or plant proteins. The truth is both have advantages and disadvantages. One reason to choose complete plant proteins is that, besides providing fewer lipids than meat, they contain isoflavones, which help prevent prostate and breast cancer.

We want to surprise you by telling you there are more sources of this protein, which is present in the following foods rich in plant proteins:

• Semolina: In the world of cereals, semolina is often overlooked, yet it provides 13 grams of protein per 100 grams. If you want a gluten-free version, simply choose rice semolina, which is rich in carbohydrates and also contains protein, though less than wheat semolina.
• Garlic: It is ideal to consume a clove of this vegetable with many properties. Don’t hesitate to use it to season your meals, as its strong flavor can eliminate the need for salt, doubling garlic’s benefits for the cardiovascular system.
• Peanuts: With 26 grams of protein per 100 grams, peanuts top the list of nuts when it comes to providing this vital nutrient. It is important not to overconsume them as a snack, despite being ideal for that purpose, because they are calorie-dense.
• Chocolate: Be very careful when consuming chocolate, as the protein comes from cocoa, so chocolate imitations that have become trendy do not count. The good news? Authentic chocolate is not forbidden; it is recommended to maintain high energy levels, which is essential for training with strength and determination.
• Plant Protein Supplements: We can always turn to our lifesaving supplements, which free us from consuming ingredients found in plants that are not as beneficial as the proteins themselves.