How to choose the ideal vegan proteins
More and more people are interested in plant-based diets for a variety of reasons, ranging from environmentalism to animal welfare to personal health goals. Many others are increasing their consumption of plant-based foods while remaining omnivores.
Initially, protein supplement options were egg-based, then dairy-based (whey). Eventually, soy-based protein powders emerged. Unfortunately, these three protein sources are very common allergens. As a result, in recent decades, there has been an increase in alternative plant-derived protein powders, including peas, brown rice, hemp, pumpkin seeds, etc.
The main difficulty with vegan protein sources is that many of them are incomplete proteins. They are low in one or more key amino acids. Rice, for example, is low in lysine1, an essential amino acid necessary for collagen synthesis2 and the prevention of herpes simplex virus replication3. It is essential to consciously combine a few plant-based protein sources to ensure a balanced essential amino acid profile.
Digestibility can also be a challenge when consuming vegan protein powders from legumes like soy and peas. They are notoriously difficult to digest and can cause gas, bloating, or a "heavy" digestion.
With the goal of supporting the planet and the people who live on it, Botanica has developed its protein powder using only organic and non-GMO ingredients (including organic flavor!). Botanica uses three whole food protein sources: quinoa, brown rice, and coconut. The organic flavor includes tapioca, vanilla, cocoa (for chocolate only!), and monk fruit as a taste enhancer.
Quinoa IS a complete protein. However, the balance of amino acids, especially essential amino acids, is improved by mixing it with additional protein sources from brown rice and coconut.
Whole food protein powders offer the body much more than just protein. Since they are not heavily extracted protein isolates that only provide the protein found in the plant, whole proteins also provide fiber, fats, vitamins, and minerals from the original plant. In addition to offering a better nutritional profile than isolated proteins, whole food protein powders also help increase satiety (feeling full) thanks to fats and fiber. In turn, satiety is useful for blood sugar balance and weight management.
The brown rice protein used in Botanica's Perfect Protein is processed using enzymes to digest the abundance of carbohydrates present in the rice. This preserves the proteins, fats, fibers, and nutrients. Quinoa and coconut are also minimally processed to ensure that nature's benefits are present in the final product, while consciously creating a clean and digestible plant-based protein powder.
New and Improved Formula
The texture of vegan proteins is also an additional challenge. Botanica recently reformulated its Perfect Protein product to have a smoother and creamier texture (practice makes perfect, right?).
By slightly changing the coconut protein source and adding a small amount of organic acacia fiber, Botanica's Perfect Protein mixes more easily. The mouthfeel is more pleasant, and it is even easier to meet protein needs from organic plants!
Try Botanica's improved Perfect Protein powders in smoothies or creamy cereal bowls, or visit Botanica's Recipes for inspiration and ideas on how to incorporate these proteins into your diet. Enjoy!