What To Look For In A Plant Protein Supplement?

What To Look For In A Plant Protein Supplement?

We get it, choosing a suitable plant-protein supplement can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many to choose from. 


Studies show that protein is an essential macronutrient that helps repair tissue, build muscle, and improve hormonal levels and enzymes. The benefits of supplementing protein are endless! 


You may choose to supplement your protein for a number of reasons including:

  • Convenience 
  • Quality
  • Cost
  • Dietary preferences 

Protein in the form of protein powder can be particularly useful; for those who are on the run, who train regularly, and for those that have dietary restrictions that may limit their ability to meet protein goals1. Supplementing protein can also aid in fat loss, how? Studies have found that consuming an increased amount of protein can lower body fat, speed up metabolic rate, keep lean muscle, feel fuller for longer and thus decrease calorie intake1. 


Protein supplements are recognised to achieve the following;

  • Increased muscle mass
  • Improved muscle mass retention 
  • Increased strength and performance 
  • Improved recovery 
  • Fat loss 
  • Body composition 

But how do you know which protein is the most effective? How do you choose the right protein supplement? Is plant protein the better option?


Here’s what to look for when looking for the right plant protein supplement….


  • Protein Quality / Type  
  • The quality of the plant protein you use is super important! Especially if you are interested in how it can assist with recovery, weight loss, muscle retention and growth2. The first thing to notice is whether the protein is derived from high-quality, organic sources. Also the protein breakdown profile. 


    Protein is made up of building blocks called amino acids; essential amino acids (EAA’s), non-essential amino acids, conditional amino acids, and branched-chain. Protein quality is a measure of a protein source’s ability to provide adequate quantities of the EAA required for protein synthesis2. Protein supplements with a complete protein source include all nine EAAs. If you want to see the best results from your protein supplement, look for an organic plant-based formula for the best quality! 


    When considering the ingredients of your plant-based protein supplement, be aware that many use cheap rice protein as a filler. Studies show that rice protein may be connected with heavy metal contamination.


    Protein Switch is a carefully selected blend to provide one of the best amino acid profiles possible! Protein Switch is highly nutritious as it uses smooth protein from organic sprouted pumpkin seed and sprouted watermelon seed. It also contains organic sprouted hemp seed protein as a complete source of highly digestible EAAs. 



  • Artificial Ingredients. 
  • Artificial additives and sweeteners have been shown in many studies to be detrimental to health and well-being, some say even toxic! Artificial sweeteners are placed in products to attract consumers; it is a food additive that duplicates the effect of sugar taste but significantly decreases energy3. These sweeteners spread toxins throughout the body which the body needs to work hard to eliminate. This process can cause significant weight gain, inflammation, hormone imbalances, poor sleep, brain inability, leaky gut, increased heart rate and hyperactivity. 


    What to look for? Look for protein supplements that are naturally sweetened with stevia and contain NO artificial ingredients! This eliminates crashes, hyperreactivity and weight gain. 


    Protein Switch comes in three delicious flavours. All are naturally sweetened with stevia and contain NO artificial sweeteners or sugars.


     

  • Digestibility
  • Improving gut health and consuming supplements that are friendly on the gut has become popular. In this day and age, we are more aware of the importance of good digestion and gut bacteria. It is important to make sure your protein powder has good digestibility; it needs to be absorbed properly and not cause any discomfort. In the past basic dairy-based supplements have been known to be harsh on the digestive system, which in turn can cause displeasing side effects


    Looking out for an organic, hypoallergenic, clean product like Protein Switch is an easy alternative! In addition to having clean/vegan ingredients, Protein Switch has an added DigeZyme blend. This is Switch Nutrition’s digestive enzyme blend, to aid and support a healthy gut microbiome. This allows the protein to be absorbed properly and increases digestibility!



  • Taste 
  • When picking a protein supplement, the taste is crucial. You should never have to settle for a protein supplement that tastes gritty and grainy. Technology has significantly improved the efficiency and productivity in food production; from planting and harvesting to packaging and manufacturing. Taste has grown and developed dramatically, ultimately changing people’s food consumption habits. 


    Protein Switch has three delicious flavours; Vanilla Bean, Choc Sea Salt and Peanut Brittle. It also contains no rice ingredients, which eliminates the gritty texture. 


    We are not the only ones who think it is the best plant-based protein! The Vegan Gym, whose mission is to help 1 million vegans get in the best shape of their lives, carried out an in-depth protein review of over 70 plant-based proteins. Their judgement was based on taste, texture, heavy metal testing, protein content, ingredients, cost, etc. Protein Switch came in joint 1st! See for yourself in our short clip or watch the full video with all the results.


    When looking for the perfect plant protein supplement for you and your family, consider these factors and you’ll find your match! Plant protein will do amazing things to your body, inside and out. It is important to enjoy it and be consistent! 


    At Switch Nutrition, we are certain Protein Switch will be your #1 plant protein supplement. Give it a try, and see what you think! If you don’t like it, we will guarantee your money back! 



    Feel the benefits of Protein Switch straight away! You can simply add it to your smoothie, into your oats or even by itself. Need some inspiration? 

    Look at our recipe suggestions: https://switchnutrition.com.au/blogs/recipes



    If you have any further questions about Protein Switch, please contact support@switchnutrition.com.au.



    Disclaimer: The above article is merely a guide and is in no way a recommendation or a treatment protocol for any health conditions or diseases. You should always consult with a qualified health care provider before changing your supplement, training or nutritional strategy. Supplementation should not be attempted by pregnant or breastfeeding women, anyone on prescription medication or children under the age of 15 unless advised by your qualified health care provider.



    References:

    1Admin (2021) Protein benefits and the role of protein supplementation: What is right for you?, Fit For Films. Available at: https://fitforfilms.com/educate/protein-benefits-and-the-role-of-protein-supplementation-what-is-right-for-you (Accessed: January 10, 2023). 

    2Protein supplementation (2015) Sports Dietitians Australia (SDA). Available at: https://www.sportsdietitians.com.au/factsheets/supplements/protein-supplementation/ (Accessed: January 10, 2023). 

    3Tandel, K.R. (2011) Sugar substitutes: Health controversy over perceived benefits, Journal of pharmacology & pharmacotherapeutics. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3198517/#:~:text=Besides%20its%20benefits%2C%20animal%20studies,are%20also%20noted%20in%20humans. (Accessed: January 10, 2023).