, by Sandesh Prasannakumar, 8 min reading time
With the increasing number of people turning to vegan diets, there is always a need for more and better sources of vegan proteins. Too many people especially fitness and body building enthusiasts protein supplements are very important so that they can be able to have their daily requirement of proteins. This article is focused on the Indian vegan protein supplement market and gives tips on how to select a vegan protein supplement of superior quality for one’s own intake profile.
The Importance of Protein in a Vegan Diet
Protein is one of the macronutrients that the body needs to perform all essential functions and is involved in building and repairing muscles. For instance, for those who run a vegan diet that excludes the use of animal products, it is essential to incorporate foods that are rich in protein. Even though it is obvious that natural products, such as lentils, chickpeas, quinoa and tofu are rich in protein, supplements can be used to complete a diet.
Key Considerations for Choosing Vegan Protein Supplements
When selecting a vegan protein supplement, there are several factors to consider to ensure you are getting a high-quality product:
- Protein Source
- Common Sources: Vegan protein powders often come from sources like peas, rice, hemp, soy, and quinoa.
- Complete Proteins: Ensure the supplement provides all nine essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Some plant proteins may lack one or more essential amino acids, so blends are often used to create a complete protein profile.
- Natural Ingredients: Look for products with minimal, natural ingredients, free from artificial additives, preservatives, and sweeteners.
- Non-GMO and Organic: Non-GMO and organically sourced ingredients are preferable for quality and environmental reasons.
- Protein Content: Check the protein content per serving. A good vegan protein powder should provide at least 15-20 grams of protein per serving.
- Other Nutrients: Some supplements are fortified with vitamins and minerals, which can be beneficial, especially for vegans.
- Flavor Options: Many vegan protein powders come in various flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and berry. Choose one that suits your taste preferences.
- Mixability: The powder should mix well with water or other liquids without forming clumps.
- Certifications: Look for third-party testing and certifications that ensure the product is free from contaminants and meets label claims. Certifications like NSF Certified for Sport, Informed-Choice, and USP are reputable.
Popular Vegan Protein Supplements in the Indian Market
Here are some high-quality vegan protein supplements available in India that meet the above criteria:
1. Oziva Plant Protein
- Source: Pea protein, brown rice protein, and moringa.
- Features: Contains 23 grams of protein per serving, free from soy and gluten, and includes essential vitamins and minerals.
2. MyFitFuel Plant Pea Protein Isolate
- Source: 100% pea protein isolate.
- Features: Offers 24 grams of protein per serving, free from dairy, soy, and gluten. It is also non-GMO and free from artificial sweeteners.
3. Plix Strength Vegan Protein
- Source: Pea protein isolate and brown rice protein.
- Features: Contains 25 grams of protein per serving, enriched with superfoods like spirulina and flaxseeds. It is also free from gluten and soy.
4. Kapiva Vegan Protein
- Source: Pea protein and brown rice protein.
- Features: Provides 18 grams of protein per serving, includes digestive enzymes for better absorption, and is free from artificial preservatives.
5. Nutrabay Pure Series Vegan Protein
- Source: Pea protein isolate.
- Features: Offers 23 grams of protein per serving, non-GMO, and free from gluten and dairy. It is also unflavored, making it versatile for various recipes.
Tips for Using Vegan Protein Supplements
Incorporating vegan protein supplements into your diet can be seamless with the right approach:
- Post-Workout Shakes: Mix your protein powder with water, almond milk, or coconut water for a quick post-workout recovery shake.
- Smoothies: Add protein powder to your favorite fruit and vegetable smoothies for an added protein boost.
- Baking: Incorporate protein powder into your baking recipes, such as muffins, pancakes, and cookies, to enhance their nutritional value.
- Oatmeal and Porridge: Stir protein powder into your morning oatmeal or porridge for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Soups and Stews: Add unflavored protein powder to soups and stews to increase their protein content without altering the taste.
Conclusion
With the increasing variety of high-quality vegan protein supplements available in the Indian market, meeting your protein needs on a vegan diet has never been easier. By considering factors such as protein source, ingredient quality, nutritional content, taste, and third-party testing, you can find a supplement that supports your health and fitness goals. Whether you're an athlete, bodybuilder, or simply looking to maintain a balanced diet, incorporating vegan protein supplements can provide the necessary support for your dietary needs.
For all your protein and supplement needs, visitGenetic Nutrition!
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