Plant Based Protein Powder

Plant based protein powder is a convenient and effective alternative to its widely researched counterpart, whey protein. Boasting zero animal products, including dairy, meat and eggs, plant based protein is the perfect solution for those who lead a vegan lifestyle, have digestive issues or dairy intolerances, or simply want to reach their health and fitness goals without having to forgo their nutritional preferences. So, what’s all the hype about plant based protein powder? When it comes to your health and performance, your dietary requirements and personal preferences shouldn’t stop you from having access to a diverse range of high-quality protein sources. As the building blocks of muscle, protein consumption is essential for cell growth and repair, and for those living an active lifestyle, it’s simply a necessity for reaching your goals - whether it be weight loss, muscle gain or simply a faster route to muscle repair. At Australian Sports Nutrition, we’re home to a wide range of fibrous and antioxidant-rich plant based proteins with a list of benefits that go well beyond just muscle recovery and growth.

When to use plant based protein powder?

While plant based protein may be sourced and extracted differently to animal protein sources, the intended use and timing is virtually the same as any other protein powder. Yet, the question still remains - when is the best time to consume plant based protein powder? Put simply, it depends on your health goals - whether it be to build muscle, lose weight or to improve your overall health and fitness. If you are consuming plant based protein to assist with weight loss, it’s best to consume a protein shake in-between your larger meals. Following a high-protein diet is one of the most effective solutions for fat loss as protein helps to raise your metabolism, while simultaneously curbing your appetite due to its satiating nature. If you are consuming a plant based protein for the purpose of building muscle, the key is to consume more protein than your body will naturally break down during resistance or weight-based training. Consuming your plant protein powder should take place during your ‘anabolic window’, which is said to be within 15-60 minutes post-exercise. Although recent studies suggest that the anabolic window may be larger than previously suggested. If you train in a fasted state (i.e first thing in the morning prior to consuming food), it’s best to prioritise consuming your protein shake right after exercise to avoid muscle breakdown. What is the ‘anabolic window’? Simply put, the anabolic window refers to the period of time following your workout, whereby nutrient intake is most beneficial and effective. During an intense training session, the body needs to replenish the energy stores used throughout the workout, as well as repair damaged muscle tissue. As such, post-workout, your muscles are most susceptible to nutrient uptake and act like a sponge in absorbing key proteins, vitamins and minerals. In turn, this is said to assist with the repair and recovery of muscles.

Which plant-based protein powder is best?

Whether you are vegetarian for ethical reasons, dietary requirements, or you simply prefer the taste of plant-based proteins, there is a wide selection of premium quality plant-based protein powders to suit various goals, preferences, requirements, and taste buds. At Australian Sports Nutrition, we strongly believe that everyone deserves access to top-tier protein sources, irrespective of their dietary requirements or preferences. It’s for this reason that we are home to some of the best quality plant based protein powders on the market. From PranaOn Power Plant Protein, Macro Mike Vegan Protein+ and Evolve Pea Protein to Amazonia Raw Slim & Tone, Body Science Clean Vegan Protein and Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Plant Protein, you certainly won’t be short on choice with Australian Sports Nutrition’s wide-selection of plant protein powders. To answer the question simply, there is no correct answer for which protein powder is best as it depends on your body type, goals, preference and requirements. However, here are a few of our best sellers:

• PranaOn Power Plant Protein - Power Plant Protein is a vegan and vegetarian-friendly formula that is free from GMOs and nasty fillers. Loaded with quality raw, sprouted and fermented proteins derived from pea and rice protein, PranaON Power Plant Protein offers an optimal muscle repairing and building ratio of amino acids to ensure your efforts in the gym are equally matched in your downtime.
• Evolve Pea Protein - Evolve Pea Protein is a 100% natural vegan formula that is dairy, lactose and gluten free for optimal muscle growth and recovery. Evolve Pea Protein is a fantastic alternative to whey protein, either for those seeking an alternative due to dietary requirements or personal preference, as it contains a similar amino acid profile, in addition to a smooth, easy-to-mix and easily digested shake.
• Body Science Clean Vegan Protein - From boosting your inner wellness and promoting optimal gut health to supporting muscle recovery and growth, Clean Vegan Protein is a 100% plant-based, clean and gluten-free protein formula derived from pea protein isolate and brown rice protein. Containing no added sugars, artificial colours, flavours gums or fillers, BSc Clean Vegan Protein’s 100% clean formula is jam-packed with simple, organic and nourishing ingredients to ensure your body is fuelled by only quality goodness. In terms of the timing and the quantity of protein consumed, it’s no secret that people who exercise regularly require more protein to support muscle growth and repair. Likewise, try consuming your protein spaced out throughout the day so your body has a sustained supply of protein and doesn’t enter a catabolic state, whereby it uses muscle as a source of fuel.