One of the most common misconceptions about plant-based diets is that they are low in protein. However, the facts are quite different. Plant-based proteins not only provide the body with all the essential amino acids, but also offer a host of impressive health benefits.
Biological function of proteins
Regardless of the chosen diet, proteins are extremely important for the normal functioning of the body. They are a basic component of every cell and are used to build muscle, repair tissues, produce enzymes, hormones and a number of other biochemicals. What makes proteins even more important is that the body cannot store them in the form of reserves like fats and carbohydrates, so they must be constantly consumed with food.
The basic elements of proteins are organic compounds with an amino group, called amino acids. Twenty of them have biological significance for humans. They are called proteinogenic, because they build proteins in living organisms. The body can produce only eleven of them, known as non-essential. The remaining nine cannot be synthesized by the body and must be provided with food, which is why they are called essential or irreplaceable.
Features of plant proteins
Protein is found in all plant foods, with legumes and grains being the best sources. The most popular raw material for making plant protein powders, like this one, is yellow peas. Pea protein is complete, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It is also an excellent source of iron, a trace element that plays a key role in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide from the bloodstream.
Another valuable protein is rice protein. It is obtained from brown rice, which is allowed to sprout to increase its bioavailability and reduce the content of antinutrients (plant substances that reduce the body's ability to absorb nutrients), such as tannins and phytates.
The VegiDay ®Raw Organic Plant-Based Protein Unflavoured supplement also contains spirulina proteins, rich in iron, B vitamins and manganese, as well as quinoa, which is a good source of magnesium, iron and fibre.
Benefits of plant proteins
→ Safer for allergies and easier to digest – The plant-based version is suitable for people who find traditional whey protein powders cause bloating and gas. These problems are usually due to lactose – the milk sugar that causes flatulence in those with food intolerances. Although less common, lactose can cause skin problems such as acne and eczema, headaches and fatigue. Unlike whey, plant-based proteins are hypoallergenic and have very high bioavailability.
→ Stimulate metabolism – Due to their high fiber content, plant proteins take longer to be processed by the body than carbohydrates, fats, and most other animal foods. This not only activates but also stabilizes the metabolism to accelerate fat burning and help get rid of excess weight.
→ Maintain the body's pH balance – With their excellent alkalizing properties, plant proteins maintain the body's acid-base balance within normal limits. With their highly acidic nature, foods of animal origin, including protein powders, disrupt the pH balance and in an attempt to restore it, the body begins to extract valuable minerals from the bones.
Plant proteins are a rich source of minerals, including iron, and many vitamins. They also support the normal functioning of the digestive system, balance calorie intake, and limit the intake of harmful bacteria and enzymes, which are usually found in animal products.
Method of administration:
1 scoop (36.7 g) dissolved in 250 ml of water or your favorite drink (juice, smoothie) daily.
