A sufficient daily protein intake is without a doubt one of the most crucial elements in muscle development and maintenance. It is also an absolute requirement for overall health. Many people who know this and are serious about gaining muscle and staying fit rely on whey, casein and egg protein powders. But did you know that these products have a greener counterpart called pea protein? What is pea protein and why is it my favorite source of muscle-building nutrients? Aside from the fact that it is the best vegan/vegetarian source of amino acids, it is also suitable for people who are intolerant to wheat and gluten. And it has so many amazing benefits many of us don’t know about.
1. Lactose-Free
People who are lactose intolerant cannot use dairy-based protein powders, such as whey and casein. Some prefer to use whey protein isolate because it has almost had zero lactose content, but the small amount it contains can still cause gassiness or bloating. Fortunately, pea protein has no lactose content.
2. Highly-Digestible
Whey is known as the most easily digested protein, but pea protein does not fall too far behind. Aside from the fact that drinking a pea protein shake will not make you feel bloated and gassy, its amino acids can be immediately absorbed and utilised by your body.
3. Hypoallergenic
Daily consumption of whey, casein, egg and soy protein can lead to an allergic reaction. These powders often have ingredients that can make some people nauseous and bloated after several weeks of regular use, which makes them intolerable. On the other hand, pea protein powder has no allergenic properties. Unlike animal-based protein powders, it does not trigger pre-existing allergies and has never been shown to cause intolerance.
4. High Protein Content
Pea protein has a richer amino acid profile than other plant-based protein sources. Many soy-based powders only have 10 grams of protein per scoop, but the best pea protein powders offer 15-25 grams, which is the same amount in high-quality dairy-based protein powders.
5. Low in Carbohydrates
Drinking pea protein shakes on a regular basis can help you maintain a low-carb diet. Each scoop contains fewer grams of carbohydrates than other dairy-based protein powders. Plus, it can also activate the release of hormones that can keep you feeling full.
6. Excellent Mixability
The high protein and low carbohydrate content of some powders are almost offset by the fact that they cannot be easily mixed after several rounds of blending or shaking. Pea protein does not share this problem, owing to the way it’s processed.
I don’t like peas, but after reading that it’s hypoallergenic, I’m sold! I’m practically allergic to everything so I try to find foods that will not trigger my allergies. Thanks for this.