Hemp, whey, or pea protein powder, which is best for you?

If you’re physically active, looking to up your protein intake, or consume a good number of media, you may have heard about protein powders. Protein powders are getting more and more popular as a supplement. You can buy protein powders online and in stores.

Bu when it comes to protein powder, which one should you be buying when there are tons of options on the shelf? 

What are protein powders?

Protein powders come in many different forms. Some of the most common protein powders are whey, soy, and casein. Hemp and pea protein powders are two plant-based options that are growing more in popularity as plant-based eating is on the rise. Whey is one of the most commonly used ones because it’s a water-soluble protein, meaning it dissolves in water, and is a complete protein. A complete protein means that it contains all nine of the amino acids essential for our body. Those on a vegan or plant-based diet may prefer protein powders such as soy, although soy doesn’t dissolve as easily in water. Hemp protein powder is another complete protein. Pea protein powder is high-quality and easily digestible. Pea protein powder is made from yellow peas. The cost of protein powders varies depending on brand and quality of ingredients. 

Who might want to use a protein powder

If you’re debating whether you should be using a protein powder or not, it may depend on your current food intake as well as your overall health goals! For those wanting to increase their protein intake, protein powder can help you to do so in a quick and convenient way. For individuals who are not easily able to consume a lot, such as those undergoing cancer treatment, protein powder can be an easy way to consume protein and calories without consuming too much volume. Lastly, protein powder is efficient for those on a busy schedule. 

Here at Pure Plates though, we believe that you should focus on consuming your nutrients from real, whole foods before focusing on supplements. Pure Plates provides you with plenty of high-protein options, and all of our meals contain protein as well! 

Some of our favorite protein sources are chicken, fish, beans, chickpeas, and yogurt. You can check out our chicken and turkey dishes here, our fish dishes here, and our vegetarian dishes here.

How to incorporate protein powders

Protein powders can be incorporated into your routine in a variety of ways. The most straightforward, (and obvious,) one is to mix protein powder with water. You can also add protein powder to a balanced smoothie!

 

Some of our favorite non-traditional ways to consume protein powder is to add it to yogurt, bake with it, or add it to oatmeal. This helps to increase your protein intake without having to consume a protein drink. 

Which protein powder is best 

While there is no one protein powder that is best for every individual, we do generally recommend choosing hemp or pea protein powder. These options are good sources of protein while also focusing more on plant-based eating. These can be incorporated whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a meat eater! If you want to go with whey and prefer whey over these sources, then we support you and your health goals. 

Should I be having a protein powder 

As we’ve mentioned, we don’t believe that every individual needs a protein powder. You can get most of your protein intake through real, whole foods, which Pure Plates creates for you! (And psst – we deliver it straight to your door too). We do realize, however, that this is a personal decision though, so it ultimately comes down to you and your health goals. If you’re wanting to incorporate a protein powder or need help choosing one, work with a dietitian or your healthcare provider to find a good fit for you. 

And don’t forget – Pure Plates offers high-protein meal plans that help you to meet your daily protein needs without having to second guess yourself!