What you need to know about protein powders

There are so many different protein powders available on the market. What’s the best one for you?

Whey protein is the most common protein powder and has a full amino acid profile, giving a complete source of protein to provide recovery and repair muscles. Whey is a dairy product and can be hard for the digestive system to process, especially if you are sensitive to dairy or lactose. It can cause abdominal cramping as well as diarrhoea, constipation and bloating-this is where vegetable proteins excel as an alternative to whey.

Most vege proteins are dairy free, gluten free, artificial flavour and colour free, preservative free, vegan, and low in carbs and sugar. They are also easier for the body to utilise and digest, and are alkaline.

There are a few different kinds of vege protein to consider:

Pea Protein

contains 9 essential amino acids, great for recovery just like whey, can lower blood pressure and flush toxins from kidneys. High in lysine (cold sore fighter), arginine and glutamine (gut repairer).

Brown Rice Protein

Contains 9 essential amino acids, also great for recovery, can help lower cholesterol and improve energy. High in calcium and iron B1, B2, B3, phosphorus and potassium.

The best of both worlds? Let’s blend them up together! Pea & brown rice protein blended together make a complete protein just like whey, as well as provide all the individual benefits of each in one.

Considerations

Some things to consider when picking your protein…

Always go organic-free of genetically modified vegetables, pesticides, fertilisers and chemical free.

Bio-fermented is nice-digestive enzymes have pre-digested your protein allowing you to reap the benefits with 98% absorption.

Sprouted just tops it off-this activates vitamins, minerals & proteins increasing availability by up to 30%. Sprouting is also thought to reduce the likelihood of triggering allergic responses.

Melissa is a qualified Medical Herbalist offering private consultations with individualised herbal tonics. She is trained in herbal medicine, supplements, nutrition, iridology, symptomology, lifestyle advice and testing.