Plant proteins (for vegetarians and vegans)

Plant Proteins

Plant protein encompasses various non-animal protein sources with different characteristics. They provide pure protein or combine different proportions of protein with other nutrients, without adding fat or cholesterol.

Among the nutritional products containing 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 protein; pea proteins, a high-quality source of protein, 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 the perfect ally when it comes to incorporating a nutrient into our diet that allows us to improve our athletic performance and overall health. The high quality of the raw material—peas and yellow peas—guarantees maximum absorption and spectacular results.

Why is it recommended to buy pea protein?

We are looking at a supplement that helps with three fundamental aspects of training. First, it promotes collagen formation, thereby supporting the health of the bones, tendons, skin, and connective tissue. If these parts of our body are healthy, we can then begin to think about intense training that sculpts and shapes our body. On the other hand, pea protein has a satiating effect, which prevents us from feeling hungry when burning energy and thus turning to high-calorie foods that undo the work we put in with so much effort to stay in shape.

Ultimately, as far as athletic performance is concerned, pea protein facilitates muscle recovery, so you will feel that you can train again sooner than before.

Properties of Isolated Pea Protein

If you want to obtain the maximum benefit from this nutrient, it is advisable to purchase it in isolated form, which will give you access to the following advantages:

• free from cholesterol and lactose
• free from genetically modified components
• hypoallergenic
• suitable for people with celiac disease
• suitable for people with soy intolerance

BCAAs in pea protein

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

Does pea protein have any contraindications?

Like any protein, protein extracted from peas can also cause side effects, so it is recommended to follow the suggested dosage, consult a specialist when consuming it, and pay attention to the accompanying diet, since carbohydrates cannot be missing from a substantial protein intake. On the other hand, if you suffer from kidney or liver problems, it is advisable to take this supplement under the supervision of a professional. Finally, we should always remember that its isolated form guarantees greater purity and digestibility.

Soy Protein

Why consume soy protein? Because among plant-based foods, soybeans are the legume that provides the most protein, making them a strong competitor to animal-based protein, such as meat and whey.

In addition to being a great aid when we seek to increase our muscle mass naturally, based on quality nutrients, soy provides invaluable support for health, especially cardiovascular health, since it contains minimal saturated fat and no cholesterol.

Why is soy protein recommended?

The first thing we should mention when asking what soy protein is used for is that it is a highly nutritious food. Its contributions of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, and phenolic acids, among many other nutrients, make it the queen of the plant world. Among the benefits of soy protein, we highlight its value for physical activity, since it is the ideal complement to the diet of anyone who has made fitness their way of life.

When should you take soy protein?

If you are looking for rapid recovery of muscle fibers so that muscle growth is fast and well-defined, it is best to take a dose at the end of your training session, especially if it involves weightlifting. As for the amount, an intake of approximately 30 grams per day is recommended.

Other Sources of Plant Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient for anyone who trains, since the formation of lean muscle mass depends on its presence in the body. The debate is whether we should choose animal- or plant-based proteins. The truth is that both have advantages and disadvantages. As for the reasons for choosing complete plant proteins, in addition to providing fewer lipids than meat, they contain isoflavones, which prevent the formation of prostate and breast cancer.

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

• Semolina: within the world of cereals, there is a tendency to overlook semolina, which provides 13 grams of protein per 100 grams. If you want to obtain its gluten-free version, simply choose rice semolina, which is rich in carbohydrates and also protein, but in a lower percentage than wheat semolina.
• Garlic: it is ideal to consume a clove of this vegetable, which has so many beneficial properties. Do not hesitate to use it to season your meals, since its strong flavor can eliminate the need to use salt in foods, thereby doubling the benefits of garlic for the cardiovascular system.
• Peanuts: with 26 grams of protein per 100 grams, peanuts rank at the top of the nuts when it comes to providing this vital nutrient. When using them as a snack, for which they are ideal, it is important not to overdo it, since they contain many calories.
• Chocolate: great care must be taken when consuming chocolate, since the protein comes from the cocoa, which excludes chocolate substitutes that have become so fashionable. The good news? Authentic chocolate is not a forbidden food; rather, it is recommended for maintaining high energy levels, something essential for training with strength and determination.
• Plant Protein Supplements: we can always turn to our lifesaving supplements, which spare us the burden of consuming ingredients found in plant foods that are not as beneficial as the proteins themselves.