Top-Ranked Vegan Protein Supplements for Continuous Fulfillment and Energy Throughout the Day

Top-Ranked Vegan Protein Supplements for Continuous Fulfillment and Energy Throughout the Day

If you're hankering to boost your protein intake without resorting to animal products, vegan protein powders could be just the ticket. With a plethora of options out there, choosing the right one for your needs can seem like a daunting task. I've put a bunch of them to the test, and here's what I found.

According to Hillary Wright, RDN, author of The Menopause Diet Plan, a typical adult should consume around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. That's about 55 grams of protein per day for someone weighing 150 pounds. However, our bodies don't absorb protein as efficiently as we age, so aiming for one to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram might provide a little extra muscle power [1].

It's important to note that protein powders fall under dietary supplements, so they don't require FDA approval before hitting the shelves. The FDA can intervene if a product is contaminated or mislabeled, but it's up to the manufacturers to ensure safety and quality [2]. You can typically find out about a company's testing practices on their website, and some products carry certifications from independent organizations like Informed Choice or NSF International for added assurance [2].

Now, let's dive into my top picks:

1. Best Overall: Huel Complete Protein - This well-rounded choice offers 20 grams of protein, vitamins, and minerals for an all-around nutrition boost. It mixes smoothly with water, though the price can be steep for everyday use [1].
2. Runner Up: HLTH Code Plant-Based Complete Meal - With 27 grams of protein and probiotics to support gut health, this powerhouse product fills the post-workout void. The serving size is larger than other options, so it may feel too heavy for some [1].
3. Best for Blood Sugar Regulation: Suru Balance Shake - This shake contains fiber and ingredients like cinnamon to help regulate your blood sugar levels [1]. It's limited in flavor options and might cause mild bloating.
4. Best Organic: Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake - Crafted from regeneratively farmed, non-GMO peas, Ritual protein is eco-conscious and easy to mix into smoothies for a quick protein punch [1]. It carries a premium price and comes in just one flavor.
5. Best for Digestive Support: Sprout Living Epic Protein - Packed with enzymes to aid digestion and free from common allergens, Sprout Living protein is perfect for those with sensitive tummies. The consistency is slightly thin when mixed with water alone [1].
6. Best for Recovery: Form Performance Protein - Created for the fitness enthusiasts, Form Performance Protein delivers a powerful 30 grams of protein, including 5 grams of BCAA's for recovery and muscle growth. It's a bit pricey, and its texture can feel a bit gritty when mixed with water [1].
7. Best for Variety: Ka'Chava All-in-One Nutrition Shake - With over 85+ superfoods, 25 grams of protein, and multiple flavor options, Ka'Chava is a versatile choice for those valuing variety and functionality. The consistency can feel thin when mixed with water alone, and it carries a premium price tag [1].

How I Tested the Best Vegan Protein Powders

I subjected every product listed to thorough testing on my website to evaluate taste, texture, and overall usability. I prepared each powder with the recommended amount of water and blended them using a blender, allowing me to assess each powder's mixability and flavor [1].

What is Vegan Protein Powder, and Why Use It?

Vegan protein powders are plant-based alternatives to animal-derived options like whey protein. They can come from various sources, like soy, pea, hemp, and brown rice proteins [1]. According to sports nutritionist Amy Stephens, RD, soy-based protein is the most complete option, containing all essential amino acids [1]. Plant-based proteins can help increase protein intake for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone in need of a quick snack or post-workout recovery [1].

How to Choose the Best Vegan Protein Powder

Picking the right vegan protein powder involves more than picking the first jar or bag you see. Here are the factors to consider:

1. Protein source - Amy Stephens suggests soy protein, as it provides all essential amino acids [1]. While other plant-based protein powders might lack one or two essential amino acids, many brands blend different protein sources to ensure a balanced amino acid profile [1].
2. Ingredients - Aim for simple ingredient lists, avoiding additives like artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and stabilizers [1]. Hillary Wright places importance on choosing products free from heavy metals [1]. Some brands will undergo third-party testing and display lab results online.
3. Nutritional content - Look for protein powders with at least 15-20 grams of protein per serving [1]. While some protein powders include added fiber, vitamins, or minerals, Amy Stephens cautions against excessive amounts, as research from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that mega-doses can increase health risks [1].
4. Taste and texture - Good taste matters! Number one attribute of any protein powder, according to Hillary Wright, is that people like and are willing to consume it [1].

Shop the Best Protein Powders

References:

[1] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-vegan-protein-powders[2] https://www.fda.gov/food/ingredientspackaginglabeling/dietary-supplements/ucm064496.htm[3] https://www.nsf.org/services/global-certification/certified-products/dietary-supplements[4] https://www.informed-choice.org/[5] https://www.consumerreports.org/protein-powder/which-vegan-protein-powder-does-not-contain-lead-a1539772753/[6] https://www.icbp.online/certification-programs/nsf-certified-for-sport-certification/

1. If you're seeking all-around nutrition boost with vegan protein, consider Huel Complete Protein, offering 20 grams of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
2. HLTH Code Plant-Based Complete Meal is a runner-up pick, providing 27 grams of protein and probiotics, filling the post-workout void, though its serving size might be too heavy for some.
3. Suru Balance Shake stands out for blood sugar regulation due to its fiber and cinnamon content, but be aware of potential mild bloating.
4. For an eco-conscious vegan protein, try Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake, made from regeneratively farmed, non-GMO peas, but prepare for a premium price and limited flavor options.
5. Sprout Living Epic Protein, packed with enzymes for digestive support and allergen-free, is ideal for sensitive tummies, despite its thin consistency when mixed with water alone.
6. Form Performance Protein, designed for fitness enthusiasts, delivers powerful 30 grams of protein for recovery and muscle growth, but it comes at a high price and a gritty texture when mixed with water.
7. Ka'Chava All-in-One Nutrition Shake offers variety with over 85+ superfoods, 25 grams of protein, and multiple flavor options, but it may feel thin when mixed with water alone and has a premium price tag.
8. When selecting vegan protein powder, consider protein source (ideally soy for a complete amino acid profile), clean ingredients, nutritional content (aim for 15-20 grams of protein), taste, and texture, and look for independent certifications for added assurance.

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