One of today’s most common sports nutrition supplements is the protein powders. These powders meet all your nutritional requirements and benefit the body in many ways. However, everyone has a unique lifestyle and dietary limitations, so not every protein powder will work. Thus, manufacturers have devised ways of offering whey powder from cow milk and plant-based powders.
Indeed, it becomes hard to make the right decision because of the availability of many opportunities. Nevertheless, what makes one choose whey protein vs plant protein is the liking or disliking of animal products. In this article, let’s look at the differences between plant based protein vs whey for overall health.
Why Do You Need a Protein Supplement?
Protein is one of the most essential requirements for your body. It benefits the body in numerous ways, such as:
- Repairing muscles
- Supporting weight loss
- Maintaining bone health
- Regulating hormones and enzymes
- Boosting the immune system
- Improving heart health
So, you need adequate protein for the proper functioning of your body. Hence, comes the dilemma of choosing between whey protein vs plant based protein.
Which is the Best – Whey vs Plant Protein?
People often feel that animal-based proteins are better than plant-based. However, in reality, both are excellent, and the one that suits your needs and dietary goals is the best for you. Both these proteins can be an excellent fit for people. Let’s understand and compare plant protein powder vs whey here:
Plant Protein
Plant proteins are suitable for vegetarians, flexitarians, and vegans. People once thought that plant-based proteins can’t help with muscle strength. However, you can get all amino acids in plant-based protein if you pair it with an adequate and balanced diet. This protein can support anyone who wants to live an active and healthy lifestyle.
This protein is sourced from soybeans, peas, brown rice, and hemp and is rich in vitamins, fibre, antioxidants, and minerals. Hence offering additional nutrients than just protein.
Whey Protein
Everyone, including flexitarians and lacto-vegetarians, can take whey protein. This is an excellent option to add extra protein to your diet. Besides, it is a reliable protein to take before exercise as it quickly digests and gets absorbed by the body. Simply put, amino acids can enter the bloodstream within an hour of drinking.
Besides, whey is naturally filled with BCAAs – branched-chain amino acids, particularly leucine, needed for muscle recovery. There are three kinds of whey protein powders:
- Whey protein concentrate- It has a lower protein percentage (70-80%) but high fat and lactose levels.
- Whey isolate- This protein powder undergoes more processing and hence has more protein percentage (90% or more).
- Whey protein hydrolysate – This form is pre-digested and indicates that it is partially hydrolyzed, a process required for the body to absorb protein. Hence, it is the fastest-absorbing whey powder.
Difference Between Plant Based Protein Powder vs Whey
For easy understanding, let’s look at a quick difference analysis between whey vs plant based protein powder:
- Whey protein is complete in itself. On the other hand, plant-based proteins may lack some of the essential amino acids and hence require a blend. For example, you may mix pea and rice protein powders to get all the essential amino acids.
- Whey proteins will always offer approximately the same amount of protein (depending on the brand). Plant-based can differ depending on the plant used for protein.
- Whey’s flavour is mild, and plant-based is nutty, earthy, and sometimes bitter.
- Plant-based proteins are eco-friendly, with less need for land, energy and water than whey protein.
Plant Protein vs Whey Protein for Weight Loss
When comparing whey protein vs plant protein to lose weight, it is always your choice. Both types of proteins help you achieve your goal of a lean body while losing fat, as they aid in weight control by keeping you full for a long time. If consumed the right way, the amino acids in these powders also assist in burning calories and losing body fat. Depending on your body needs and health preferences, you can choose the best one for you.
Conclusion
Whey protein vs plant protein, both have their advantages. Whey protein is excellent for muscle repair, building, and recovery because it can quickly absorb and have a complete amino acid profile. On the other hand, plant-based food is perfect for everyone with dietary restrictions. Therefore, the choice between whey protein vs plant protein depends on individual preferences and how your body reacts to them.
References:
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/whey-vs-plant-protein
- https://vibranthealth.com/blogs/blog/plant-based-protein-vs-whey-protein-how-does-plant-protein-stack-up#:~:text=Everyone%20needs%20protein%3A%20it’s%20a,minerals%2C%20antioxidants%2C%20and%20more.
- https://www.optimumnutrition.co.in/blog/whey-protein-vs-plant-protein-which-is-best
