How To Choose A Plant Protein Powder in 3 Simple Steps

With such a wide variety of products on the market, learning how to pick a plant protein powder can be a daunting process. After all, there are plenty of protein supplements - and with attractive packaging and self-proclaimed superiority, it makes it difficult to distinguish the best product for you and the best product "in the universe". 
 
So how do you choose a plant protein powder that tastes good and can provide quality ingredients to help you achieve your goals? The good news is that it’s not rocket science. Choosing a plant protein powder is easy once you understand what ingredients are best for your needs. 
 
Check out our 3 step guide to help you choose a plant protein powder that's best for you. 

Step 1. Read the Label 

When it comes to choosing or comparing protein supplements, reading the ingredient list and nutrition panel is essential as it provides the most valuable and accurate information on the packaging. Here’s a few things to look for when picking a plant protein powder. 

Check The Nutrition Panel 

1. How much protein is there per serve? To absorb the most amount of protein per serve, you should be looking for a value between 25 - 35g. 

2. Does the supplement contain gluten or fillers that can cause bloating? People sensitive to gluten should avoid protein powders with ingredients such as Maltodextrin (wheat derived) or oats to prevent bloating, flatulence and gastrointestinal discomfort. Always check to see if the label states Gluten Free. 

3. How many carbohydrates does the product contain? The amount of carbs a protein powder has should align with your own fitness goals. Plant protein powders will naturally contain more carbohydrates than dairy based protein. A good way to measure the value of the product is comparing the carbs to protein.

4. How much sugar does the product contain? When it comes to sugar, less is best - particularly for protein powder. When choosing a supplement, aim for a product with a lower sugar content and free from artificial sweetners such as sucralose. 

5. What’s the RDI of Iron and Zinc you’re getting per serve? Many people on plant-based diets are prone to iron and/or zinc deficiency. If you're concerened about the your levels, check the nutritional panel for the recommened daily intake each serve provides. 

6. What does the amino acid profile look like? Using a single form of plant-based protein won't provide you with a complete source of protein and will be missing key amino acids. Instead, try a mixed plant protein source of grains and beans to ensure you’re receiving all the essential amino acids - including Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Valine, and Histidine.

Helpful Ingredients to Look For

1. Digestive enzymes and probiotics can help to support digestion and maximise absorption.

2. Look for any additional vitamins, minerals, or superfoods listed that could benefit you. 

3. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, or coconut MCTs are ideal healthy-fat sources. 

4. Less is more. Look for a product that includes a small selection of key ingredients rather than a long list of ingredients that are micro dosed.

Ingredients To Avoid 

1. Avoid fillers such as Inulin or Maltodextrin listed individually at the top of the ingredient list. These ingredients are used as a cheap filler to  bulk out the formula. Each ingredient listed should be providing nutrients and benefits. Instead, pay for quality ingredients that serve a purpose.

2. Avoid artificial sweeteners and flavours. Opt for products containing natural flavours and sweeteners such as Monk Fruit, or Steviol for low calorie alternatives. 

3. Avoid soy protein isolate if possible. Soy Protein Isolate is highly processed, chemically treated, and possibly genetically modified with high pesticide use. Consumption of this food may cause hormonal disturbances and thyroid dysfunction in some people.

Step 2. Determine Your Goals

Now that you know what to look for on the packaging, the next step is to identify your goals to help you choose which protein formula will help you achieve them. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle mass, support muscle recovery, or increase your daily intake of protein, there is a protein powder for you.

Protein to asist with weight management 

For weight loss, protein is an important tool that shouldn’t be overlooked. It assists by increasing metabolism while controlling appetite - helping to burn fat while retaining muscle. 

Phyto Fire Protein powder is thermogenic and metabolic boosting - formulated to help burn fat while promoting lean muscle growth. The key ingredients used to make Phyto Fire Protein effective are Acetyl L-Carnitine, Green Coffee Bean, Guarana, and Matcha Green Tea. These ingredients work together to help boost metabolism, control appetite and assist your body to use stored fat to produce energy. 

Find more information on this product here.

Protein to help build muscle 

Protein powders are often used for their ability to build muscle. They do this by providing a stream of amino acids for the body to absorb, which is then believed to trigger muscle generation - though this effect can only be achieved with a regular exercise routine. 

For muscle building, a balanced ratio of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats is required.

Natural Mass Protein by PranaOn is the World's first mass gainer made completely from clean, plant-based ingredients, with the optimal ratio of macro and micronutrients to fuel the body's ability to recover, repair, and rebuild after intense exercise. It contains 45g of simple and complex carbohydrates, 30g of 3 plant-based sources of protein, 10g of healthy omega fats from coconut MCT's and flaxseeds, creatine, glutamine, and branch-chain amino acids. 

Find more information on this product here.

Protein to improve performance 

Looking for ways to kick your sports performance up to the next level? Plant protein powder can help by supporting the muscle recovery process to get you back into the gym sooner. 

This Power Plant Protein is PranaOn's best selling and award-winning product. It's the all-rounder, everyday protein blend to support fitness enthusiasts. It contains 30g of protein per serve, all 9 essential amino acids, adaptogens, coconut MCTs, digestive enzymes, and probiotics. 

Find more information on this product here. 

Protein suitable for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and children

Step 3. Sample The Range 

Multi Packs are available in the Phyto Fire Protein, Natural Mass Protein, Power Plant Protein and Plant Protein Bars - click here for more information.