Plant Protein Vs Whey Protein – Which Should You Choose?

By Kapiva Editorial

Want to know the secret to a longer life? Without much ado, we’ll let you in on the secret – Veganism. This plant-based dietary regimen is gaining immense popularity and is notably referred to as a ‘sustainable lifestyle.’ Due to its multiple health benefits, veganism has become the mantra of a longer, healthier life devoid of heart diseases, cancer, diabetic complications, and premature death.

Protein Sources For Vegans

Vegans face a common health concern – lack of rich protein from this “non-aminal” source diet. Thus, finding high protein vegan food becomes a challenging task, making them susceptible to protein deficiencies. Enter vegan protein powders. Vegans can regularly consume veggie protein powders to ensure a wholesome protein-rich intake. The nourishing veggie protein powder comprises a versatile range of plant-based ingredients such as soy, rice, pea, and hemp. Several brands may also furnish a mix of elements like stevia, fruit/veggie powders, and monk fruit for additional protein.

If you are looking to start your mornings with pure and rich protein then we strongly recommend Kapiva’s vegan protein powder. It contains the goodness of 26g of proteins, 4.97g BCAAs, 4.54g of Glutamic Acid, and 26 Vitamins and Minerals. This powder makes it a rich vegan protein source and minerals for those who don’t consume meat, eggs, and milk. Combined with an active lifestyle, workouts, and exercises this powder can accelerate your progress towards your weight loss milestones.

What Is Whey Protein?

Milk that we consume is essentially a combination of two main proteins – casein and whey.

Casein is a slow-digesting protein that is a rich source of essential amino acids that gives milk its unique health benefits. Casein is also the primary cause of lactose intolerance. On the other hand, whey is the watery by-product of the cheese-making process that separates from curd. Its low lactose content makes it suitable for people with lactose intolerance.

Whey protein, a mix of proteins isolated from whey, stimulates muscle protein synthesis and promotes the development of lean muscle mass. Revered by health freaks as a complete protein with all 9 essential amino acids, it is a preferred source of protein supplements worldwide. It is widely available in pre-mixed, powdered, isolate, etc., forms and many flavourful options.

Is Whey Protein Vegan? Is Whey Protein Vegetarian?

Whey protein is derived from animal milk. Is whey protein vegetarian? Well, there is no simple answer and is based on whether you term dairy products as vegetarian or non-vegetarian. Most dairy products are important sources of protein for most vegetarians. Is whey protein vegan? The simple answer – whey protein is NOT vegan.

What Are The Differences Between Plant Protein And Whey Protein?

Plant protein vs whey protein, which is better? Vegan Protein Powders, also known as plant protein, are fundamentally plant-based, lactose-free powders. In contrast, Whey Protein Powder is a mix of proteins in whey, a byproduct of cheese. The ingredient is also sold as a flavoured powder and is a rich source of protein Since the vegan veggie protein powder doesn’t contain milk products or eggs, it is low-carb and prevents the formation of fats. However, since cheese is high in carbohydrates, you consume a certain amount of carbs alongside proteins through whey protein. Thus, if you’re looking to lose weight and tone your body, proteins from a raw vegan diet may be an effective alternative for additional protein consumption.  Additionally, since whey protein powder is essentially a byproduct of processed milk, it is not suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. Whey protein powders can cause acne, increased weight, and bloating if not consumed in moderation. Difference between Whey Protein and Vegan Protein:

  Whey Protein Vegan Protein
Digestibility May contain lactose May contain soy, gluten, pea
Manufacture Procedures Animal-based Plant-based
Per Scoop Content 20g-30g or more 20g-30g or less
Food Sensitivities Varies Varies
Price Depends on brand Depends on brand
Difference between Plant Protein vs Whey Protein

What Happens When You Have Whey Protein Powder Every Day?

Whey protein is considered safe for daily consumption. How much is sufficient or safe depends upon your overall protein intake from other natural foods like eggs, meat, soy, peanuts, dairy products, etc., and the intensity and frequency of your workouts. 

Most people consume a scoop of whey protein at night to trigger the protein synthesis process and one after workouts to accelerate muscle recovery. One to two scoops 2-3 times daily is the norm if you are actively involved in strenuous workouts/sports. Vegetarians will need more, considering the shortfall in food sources. Consult with your dietician or physician to evaluate the proper protein dosage. They might recommend blood tests to determine your current liver and kidney function.

Check out how Kapiva’s Vegan Protein powder can help build muscle mass:

Summing It Up

It is a conclusive fact that obesity reduces life expectancy, so for this reason, we turn to fitness regimens, of which protein intake is a necessary component. Suppose you’re vegan and want to satisfy your daily protein needs. In that case, vegan protein powder is a natural, side-effect-free, easy-to-digest health and wellness food. You can find great-quality vegan protein powder in flavours like chocolate and mango that are a treat to the taste buds and major immunity boosters. Unlock effective weight loss and muscle gain by making vegan protein shakes your post-workout health beverage and combat fatigue and dehydration through natural ingredients, nutrients, and vitamins. 

FAQs

Q: Can we consume plant protein daily?

Plant protein is considered safe for daily consumption. How much is sufficient or safe depends upon your overall protein intake from other natural foods like eggs, meat, soy, peanuts, dairy products, etc., and the intensity and frequency of your workouts. 

Most people consume a scoop of plant protein at night to trigger the protein synthesis process and one after workouts to accelerate muscle recovery.

Q: What is the benefit of plant protein?

Plant protein is a high-quality, low-carb, fibre-rich, lactose-free natural source of protein.  It does not contain additional fat aiding in weight loss. The nourishing veggie protein powder comprises a versatile range of plant-based ingredients such as soy, rice, pea, and hemp.

Q: How much plant protein should you consume a day?

The ideal recommendation is 0.8 grams of protein/kg of body weight. This means about 56g of protein/day (less than two scoops) for men and 46g (one and a half scoops) for women. Keep your consumption to less than 2 grams/kg of body weight to reduce the risk of long-term health issues.

Q: Is plant protein better than whey protein?

Both whey and plant proteins have identical benefits for muscle hypertrophy, muscle recovery and providing energy. Whey protein has a slight edge due to its essential amino acid profile and is easier for the body to metabolise. Plant protein is low in carbs, high in fibre, and has a larger gamut of nutrients for overall health.

Q: Who should not take plant protein?  

Plant protein is extremely safe for daily consumption and has no reported side effects. But, like everything else, the key is moderation. Excessive and prolonged consumption of proteins overloads your liver that can cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, nausea, stomach discomfort, and even high levels of ammonia in the blood.

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Kapiva Editorial

We are a team of food scientists and Ayurveda experts at Kapiva. Our mission is to raise awareness and educate people on ancient principles and herbs found in traditional texts. We work together to develop the most comprehensive content on Ayurveda which is grounded in peer-reviewed, scientific research.