If you’re one of the many people that have a difficult time digesting dairy-based casein and whey proteins, you’re probably familiar with the plant based alternatives. Fitness buffs and vegans alike turn to plant based proteins like hemp, almond, pea, and brown rice to build muscle, repair tissue, and bolster their daily protein intake.
With so many options on the market, we asked nutritionist Amanda Carneiro of Raw Fitness and Nutrition in Los Angeles to give us the scoop on what to look for. Here are her tips for choosing the best plant based protein powders.
Simple is best
Before buying anything always check out the ingredients. “When fillers are added to the supplement, you’re not getting as much protein as you should for the volume you’re consuming,” Carneiro says. That means anything that’s not actually the protein source, is extra calories you don’t need.
Complete proteins aren’t everything
Complete proteins—think meat, collagen, eggs, and dairy or hemp, chia, quinoa, and soy for vegans—contain all the essential amino acids that your body needs to build healthy muscles and tissue. However, Carneiro says they’re not a deal breaker. “As long as you’re getting different types of proteins during the day I think you’re good,” she explains. Consider other sources, like almond, pea, and brown rice protein if you can find ones with minimal ingredients. Look for sprouted options, which can be easier on your digestion.
A new clean protein powder
We’re thrilled to announce that our newest product Unflavored Almond Protein Powder only has one ingredient—whole California Grown Almonds. We don’t need to add any sweeteners or flavorings to cover up its taste. We think it’s delicious on its own or blended post-workout smoothie, without any of the bitter flavor or gritty texture of other protein sources. Each serving (two scoops) contains 21 grams of high-quality protein and produces a smooth 8 oz. drink. The almond’s naturally occurring Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) and detoxifying, antioxidants cysteine and methionine are both preserved in our manufacturing process. Order it online today or find it up at the Vitamin Shoppe!