Best Plant-Based Protein Powders for 2022

Jan 16, 2022

Finding the best plant-based protein powder in a sea of options can be frustrating. How do you know what ingredients it should and shouldn’t have? Here at The Health Beat, we like to empower our readers with the knowledge to confidently pick out the best products.

The Top 3 Ways to Choose a Plant-Based Protein Powder

1. Pea protein or sprouted brown rice are going to provide the highest branched-chain amino acids, while hemp protein powder will also provide a good amino acid profile along with other unique compounds. Vegan protein powders are usually based on these two ingredients.

Look for a complete amino acid profile with an emphasis on higher amounts of essential amino acids, especially if you are following a plant-based diet.

Amino acids are split into essential and non-essential amino acids. Your body makes the non-essential amino acids (although genetics reveal some of these are produced in lower amounts in some individuals), but you need to obtain the essential amino acids from your diet. These include histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. Combining these amino acids make a complete protein.

Whey is naturally high in all the amino acids and is naturally a complete protein. For plant protein powder, you want to look for higher amounts of the amino acids isoleucine, leucine, valine, lysine and tryptophan.

Isoleucine, leucine, and valine are the branched-chain amino acids required for healthy muscle. Lysine is often lacking in plants and plays an import role in collagen (skin and tendons), muscle tissue repair, production of L-carnitine for fat metabolism, as an anti-viral, and for the absorption of calcium. Tryptophan is the precursor to serotonin and melatonin, beneficial for mood and sleep.

best plant-based protein powder

 

best plant-based protein powder

As you can see, whey protein is superior when it comes to the branch chain amino acid profile and pea protein comes in second. Pure pea protein can be chalky and an acquired taste. To compromise between taste and profile, you will be happiest with a blend of different plants.

2. If you are female, you want a higher fiber profile. Fiber is more important for women than men because it is beneficial for increasing sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG on blood tests) to normalize estrogen levels and target delivery along with regulating daily elimination.

For men, too much fiber negatively affects SHBG levels and can lead to lower testosterone. For this reason, I recommend men use the lower fiber options for plant-based protein or grass-fed whey protein.

3. Third, it needs to taste good, mix well and be cost-effective. The major challenge companies face, is making a plant-based protein powder delicious, minimize grittiness and make it worth the expense. The common complaint is that the powder “tastes like dirt.”

The trick is how you prepare it because if you put plant protein in water, mix it with a spoon and expect it to taste like a milkshake, your morning will be ruined. Understand that reviews on taste are going to range drastically with plant-based protein powder.

I recommend making a smoothie with banana, cacao, berries, coconut water, nut or seed milk or kefir and your plant-based protein for the best taste. Add your own anti-inflammatory additions like ginger and turmeric if needed, and grind fresh flaxseed if you need more fiber.

The Top 3 to Avoid in Plant-Based Protein Powders

1. Avoid the usual suspects. When analyzing a label, you want to avoid the usual suspects like artificial colors, isolated soy protein, artificial flavors, and artificial sweeteners, food dyes, and synthetic folic acid. This isn’t as common in plant protein powders like it is in whey protein powders where you will often find artificial sweeteners like sucralose hiding out.

2. Avoid non-sprouted grains. If it contains grains they should be sprouted, and if brown rice is used you want verification that is cold processed without chemicals and low in heavy metals. Grains that have not been sprouted contain higher levels of phytic acid, which binds to calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, and copper.

For example, while quinoa is a good protein source, it is also high in phytic acid and should always be sprouted. Soy protein is also an example of high phytic acid and has traditionally been fermented.

3. Avoid ground flax seed that has been milled into a powder. First off, flaxseed is an amazing source of lignans and protective against estrogen-positive breast cancer. So what is the problem? Flax seeds contain high amounts of omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and low antioxidant activity. This increases the risk of oxygenation and rancidity once the seed is opened and exposed to oxygen for an extended period of time.

Companies who do use milled flax seeds might claim that flash pasteurization prevents oxidation. According to this study, “Pasteurized flaxseed milled under refrigerated temperatures (10 – 18 °C) did not exhibit any significant improvement in oxidative stability. Flaxseed pasteurization at 148 °C for 16.25 minutes using dry heat was found to be detrimental to the oxidative stability flaxseed once milled. “

The best way to consume flax seeds is to mill them fresh with a coffee grinder and add them to your shake.

What about hemp seeds for hemp protein powder? Hemp seeds are a good protein source, do not contain any phytic acid, are low in ALA, high in the antioxidants C, beta-carotene and vitamin E (including tocotrienols) to protect against rancidity, and are an incredible source of manganese, magnesium and GLA (excellent for female hormones). Vitamin E is used with fish oil and cod liver oil to keep it fresh.

What about chia seeds? Chia seeds are also actually higher in ALA than flax. This would make you think that chia would be more sensitive to oxidation than flax. However, chia seeds have high antioxidant activity and contain polyphenols, chlorogenic and caffeic acids, myricetin, quercetin and kaempferol that appear to help protect against rancidity.

In a study comparing chia to flax, chia had almost nine times more antioxidant capacity according to a FRAP assay.

I recommend keeping all plant-based protein that includes chia or hemp in the refrigerator to decrease oxidation.

Best Plant-Based Protein Powders

1.  Pure Food Plant Based Protein Raw Cacao

Cost: $2.50 per serving
Protein: 20 grams

Pure Food Plant-Based Protein uses organic sprouted brown rice protein, organic pea protein, organic hemp protein, organic mesquite powder, organic lucuma powder, organic vanilla bean, and organic stevia. It has a total of 20 grams of protein, rivaling whey protein. It is higher in sodium (258mg), so this is a good post-workout shake after losing some sweat.

The bonus feature of this formula is the inclusion of Bacillus coagulans (same strain in kombucha), mesquite powder, and raw cacao. Mesquite is a pod that grows in the desert and has been found to be an excellent source of fiber, minerals, and lysine. It also has a delicious flavor.

Raw cacao boosts the antioxidant profile and one study found that dietary flavanols from cocoa contribute to endogenous photoprotection (sun protection), improves dermal (skin) blood flow, hydration, and complexion.

Recommendation: Best for workouts that lead to sweat loss for men and women, especially out in the sun.

2. PROMIX Vegan Protein Powder

Cost: $0.98 cents a serving 
Protein: 25 grams

PROMIX does an excellent job with whey protein and vegan protein powder, and they give full disclosure of their latest testing on every product on their website. This one could easily tie for the #1 spot. If you are looking for a whey protein substitute, this is the closest you are going to find to the protein and amino acid profile of whey. 

Recommendation: For those looking for a plant-based whey protein substitute with a higher amino acid profile. 

3. mBreakfast by Crucial Four

Cost: $3.80 per serving
Protein: 12 grams

mBreakfast is a product I analyzed for months and tested on myself for a month. I spoke with Charles Barber, the founder of Crucial Four, and I was extremely impressed with his knowledge, approach, and sourcing of the product. Charles is the first person I would go to if I wanted to know where to get the most pristine, wild or organic ingredients. This is also why the doctors working with cancer trust him and his products.

The name Crucial Four represents the four missing food groups — superior herbs, medicinal mushrooms, algae, and biotic extracts. Since I am a major fan of wild ingredients and mushrooms, this had my name all over it.

The formulation contains a 5000-year-old South American medicinal base formula and 8 years of intensive wellness center practice with medical doctors and leading health experts. The protein blend contains hemp protein and brazil nut powder.

While it doesn’t use pea or brown rice for protein (it used to until they secured a brazil nut powder source powdered within a week of harvest with negligible aflatoxin), the blend of hemp and brazil nuts is sufficient in amino acids while providing a host of other nutrients.

This formula is more than a protein powder. Brazil nuts are known for selenium and ellagic acid (cancer fighters) and this is one of the few clean sources I have seen. It contains 12 grams of protein, 8.5 grams of fat and 21 grams of carbohydrates, making it closer to a nutrient-dense meal. It contains raw cacao, ashwagandha, maca, wild astragalus, pine pollen, colostrum, spirulina, cordyceps, reishi, chaga, turkey tail and maitake to name a few of the superfoods in this blend.

Recommendation: If you are looking for very high-quality ingredients and a complete meal shake, this one is worth the price. If you have any food sensitivities, check the label on this one first.

4. Genuine Health Fermented Vegan Proteins

Cost: $1.25 per serving
Protein: 15 grams

This is a fermented protein powder that was recently brought to my attention by a client. It is from Canada and uses non-GMO fermented pea protein and brown rice protein, and a fermented blend of hemp seed, quinoa sprouts, mung bean sprouts, spirulina, and alfalfa protein. It is sweetened with stevia and Lo Han Guo.

Recommendation: This should be an easier formula to digest if other plant-based formulas have bothered your stomach.

5. Dr. Mercola Vegan Protein Powder

Cost: $1.46 per serving
Protein: 12 grams

This is a unique blend of pea protein, hemp, chia, chlorella and potato in the concentrate form. Chlorella boosts the tocotrienol, tocopherol, and carotenoid profile, while potato protein increases the BCAA total. Acacia, inulin (prebiotic), bamboo and apple provide different types of fiber to help diversify gut bacteria, which may increase fat loss. Enzymes are also added to improve digestion. Stevia and Lo Han Guo are used to sweeten it.

Recommendation: For those partaking in light to moderate exercise for weight loss, wanting grain-free and needing higher fiber. For many serious athletes, protein levels are going to need to be higher. Or you can boost it by adding protein-rich ingredients to a shake.

6. Sunwarrior Warrior Raw Protein Blend

Cost: $1.12 per serving
Protein: 17 grams

This product uses a blend of organic pea, hemp, and goji berry protein. The other ingredients include organic vanilla flavor, organic guar gum, sea salt, organic stevia extract and organic whole ground coconut.

Along with 17 grams of protein, it has 4 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, 0 grams of sugar and a good amino acid profile. This is formulated with sufficient branch chain amino acids while also being low in glutamic acid. This may be beneficial for those who are sensitive to higher levels of glutamic acid (glutamate).

If you eat a predominately plant-based diet, your taste buds will most likely be acclimated to the flavor. If you are new to plant-based protein, I would try a different product on this list first.

Recommendation: Light to moderate exercise, or as a light breakfast smoothie.

7. Garden of Life RawFit Organic

Cost: $2.64 per serving
Protein: 28 grams

This formula is high in plant-based sprouted protein (28 grams) and contains 6 grams of fiber, 4 grams of carbohydrates, 120mcg of chromium, 350mg of magnesium and 1,000IU of vitamin D. It also contains the adaptogen ashwagandha, enzymes and two strains of probiotics.

This protein powder is marketed for weight loss, but I would market this towards athletes engaging in intense training. Blending this with a banana and other fruit would give you a very substantial breakfast or post-workout shake for heavy workouts. Be aware that taste may be a factor for this one and if you are picky, it probably won’t work.

A few years ago Garden of Life RawFit tested high in lead, cadmium, and tungsten due to the brown rice protein. However, they responded with a swift and rigorous change to sourcing and testing to ensure purity in their present formula.

Recommendation: This is a heavy hitter for athletes working out 5-7 times a week.

How this could be improved: There are only 10 servings per container, and this should be increased to at least 15 servings.

PhytoVest

PhytoVest is the first software program to analyze micronutrient, phytonutrient, mycochemical, and probiotic intake from your diet and supplementation. The resulting analysis we generate for each customer is customized with diet and supplement recommendations based on your goals including reversing aging, skin cancer prevention, eye health, cognitive performance, breast health, prostate health, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, and more.

Free to The Health Beat community for a limited time. Check out a sample report here!

82 Comments

  1. Rachel

    Thanks. Very helpful.

    Reply
    • Shelley Steger

      I have been using Bodylogix Natural Whey protein for a couple years, also have used the isolate. After reading a few of your articles, I’m concerned i may not be using a good product. Can you please let me know what you think? Thank you so much!

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson M.S.

        Hi Shelley,

        You are all good! Looks like a high-quality product.

        Reply
  2. Emma Rouski

    Absolutely love your articles. Always so helpful, informative and non biased. I wouldn’t take advice of anyone else now! Keep up the great work and thank you for keeping us so well informed 🙂

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Thanks Emma!

      Reply
  3. Michelle

    How about Vega one?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Michelle,

      VegaOne uses milled flax seed, so it isn’t one I currently recommend.

      Reply
  4. Cannelle

    Hi Alex,
    Thank you for yet another great article. Looking for a healthy protein powder for my husband for muscle gain. Are any of those good? Definitely not for weigh loss.
    Thank you 🙂
    Cannelle

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Cannelle,

      Thanks for the feedback. His overall diet and training regime will make the biggest difference for muscle gain. Since he will want to increase his protein intake, a protein powder over 20 grams is going to be the best choice. Using a banana, kefir, and a nut butter in the shake would be a good way to get more calories. The PureFood Protein could be used, but I recommend grass-fed whey protein for guys who may have trouble putting on muscle. Here is the article on whey protein. http://paleoedge.com/best-and-worst-whey-protein-powders/

      Reply
  5. Karla Metzdorff

    Hi! I have been looking for a great plant-based protein shake. I work out 4 times a week and trying to maintain my muscle. I read the article above and was so excited to try nutiva. It sounded like a powder that would work for me. I presently use Vega but your article frowns against use of milled flax seeds. I didn’t know that was an issue. Nutiva is organic, non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, soy free, has good probiotics and enzymes, and no artificial flavors. So what is the problem…you failed to mention the added sugar…dextrose and the silicon dioxide. Artifical sweetners and perservatives!! So should I go for that or have milled flax seeds? Which would you choose? Or, is there something else out there that provides what Nutiva provides without all the artificial ingredients and no milled flax seeds? BTW, Sun Warrior looks good but goji is a no-no. Help please!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Karla,

      Dextrose is glucose, not an artificial sweetener. Silicon dioxide is silica, a natural element that prevents clumping and not a preservative. So the claim that there are no artificial sweeteners and artificial preservatives is correct. Nevertheless, it is true that the “no added sugar” claim on their label isn’t entirely accurate, but the small amount of glucose isn’t something I would be concerned about either. I will add this note to the article.

      However, I just added a new one called mBreakfast, which is a very high-quality superfood blend. This might be what you are looking for. If not, let me know and we will find a fit.

      Reply
      • Karla Metzdorff

        Thank you so much for the recommendation. I will look into that product. I did email Nutiva about the dextrose and silicon dioxide. They had no comment but referred me to their Hemp products. So I did take a look. Looked good except is not labeled as soy free, although saw no soy in ingredients and only had 15 grams of protein. I’m so confused.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Karla,

          The hemp protein powders shouldn’t have any soy. They are usually just pure hemp.

          Reply
  6. Nick Williams

    Hi Alex,
    Great articles, very informative. I’m looking for a post cross-fit and endurance workout plant protein powder. Can’t do whey because of a casein allergy. More for recovery than building muscle anyway.

    Wondering if you’ve come across Orgain, Organic Protein Powder?

    Thanks again!

    Nick

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Nick,

      Yes, I did analyze Orgain. I think it is a clean product, but the combination of erythritol, acacia gum, guar gum, inulin, xanthum gum combined with the fiber of chia and hemp makes me wonder how well people are breaking this down. It would be helpful to hear from more people here how well they digest it.

      Reply
      • Nick Williams

        Okay, thanks Alex!

        Reply
  7. Judy

    Hi Alex
    I use Orgain Organic Protein + Greens vanilla. Tried it from Costco. I, my 12 yr old son and my husband all use it and nobody has had any digestive issues. I am sensitive and working through sensitivities to gluten and dairy in addition to recovering from a minor bout of diverticulitis inflammation. So far no issues. Is there anything else in the Orgain products we should be concerned about? Thank you!
    Judy

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Judy,

      No, but I do think that is a lot of fillers for one product. Glad to hear that you haven’t had any issues.

      Reply
  8. Brian

    I have been a long time fan of Vega Clean protein. In fact I like most of Vega’s products. Im surprised there was no mention of them here. But a great article none the less.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hey Brian,

      The Vega Clean protein is a good product, but I’ve received feedback that people don’t like the taste. I didn’t include the All in One product because they used milled flax seed. I use to rotate the Vega Sport protein when I was doing heavier training. They changed the formula of that one recently that altered the taste and I’ve seen a lot of people unhappy with it. So if the taste of the Vega Clean works for you, I think it is a solid product.

      Reply
  9. Theresa

    I have discovered your website and it’s fantastic. I’ve been using Garden of Life grain free protein powder. How do you feel about this product? I’ve been staying away from stevia or any kind of sugar. Also is there any article about pre menopause or menopause. I’m going to be 50 soon and I have been experiencing some hot flashes and aches on the joints. I started cutting out spices and using turmeric and cumin capsules which helps. Thanks Theresa

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Theresa,

      Thanks for the feedback! I think that the Garden of Life Grain-Free protein looks okay from an ingredient standpoint, but I don’t understand why they used stevia and erythritol. Too sweet for me and I think the stevia makes it sweet enough. So if you are trying to avoid stevia, this may not be a fit.

      I haven’t written any articles about menopause, but here is one from my other nutrition practice: Menopause Article

      Reply
  10. Patrick

    Hi Alex,

    What do you think about the vegan protein powder from Pro Mix Nutrition? The unflavored version has no additives whatsoever and they seem to be a pretty reputable company. I’m debating on what vegan protein to buy since I have recently not been able to stomach whey anymore and the price per serving for the Pro Mix is the best I have seen. Your thoughts on the product?

    https://promixnutrition.com/products/vegan

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Patrick,

      Yes, it is a good one. It is just pea and rice, so the taste is a little bland. As long as you don’t mind that, it is a quality product.

      Reply
  11. Bridget

    I am a 64 year old vegetarian who does moderate exercise and am looking for a vegan protein supplement. What would you recommend? I have come across Canadian Protein: Can you please comment on their brown rice protein powder and pea protein powder? I was thinking of mixing them 50/50. Thank you for this most informative website!!!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Bridget,

      You’re very welcome! Very nice of you to say. The Canadian Protein pea protein looks fine. The brown rice protein isn’t sprouted, so I would pick a sprouted brown rice protein. The first protein on this list (Pure Plant Protein) combines both pea protein and sprouted brown rice protein.

      Reply
  12. Jennifer

    Great article, Alex! Do you have any recommendations for pregnant women? Forgive me if you already addressed this and I missed it. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jennifer,

      Are you asking in terms of plant-based protein powders or general recommendations for pregnant women? There is a lot of great information for pregnancy on my prenatal article. If you are wondering about plant-based protein powder, there is one listed that includes all the prenatal vitamins at the bottom of that article.

      Reply
  13. Marius

    Tahnk You for a great pointers, maybe you’ll write something about meal replacements or protein bars?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Marius,

      You are welcome. The meal replacement and protein bar category changes rapidly and is pretty saturated. I think I see at least a few new bars on the shelf every month. I’ll see what I can do!

      Reply
      • Marius

        thx, I wonder if you can replace most of the food with them.

        Reply
  14. Sabrina Peng

    Hi Alex, I can’t find Garden of life Rawfit in iherb for Singapore. But this is available. What do you think?
    Check out this product I found on iHerb.com.
    Garden of Life, Raw Organic Protein, Organic Plant Formula, Chocolate, 23.4 oz (664 g)
    http://www.iherb.com/pr/44133?code=MLP736

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Sabrina,

      The Garden of Life Raw Organic Portein looks solid to me. I would say go for it.

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Thao Le,

      This formula uses isolated soy protein and wheat protein. That is a pretty allergenic combination and hard on the digestive system. Soy should only be consumed in the fermented form (miso, tempeh, natto) because it contains a lot of problematic compounds in the raw and isolate form. Wheat should definitely not be isolated as a protein and this is the first time I have seen that. It doesn’t look like either one is organic. If they aren’t, both are sprayed with glyphosate (Round-Up), which a potent toxin.

      Reply
  15. Thao Le

    Thank you Alex for your informative comment.

    Reply
  16. Steve

    Thanks for the great info on plant based protein powders

    Reply
  17. Christina Culver

    Hi would you take a look at Arbonne Vanilla Protein Shake made with pea protein? There is a chocolate one too.

    Reply
  18. Lisa

    I’m trying to find a list of natural plant based protein powders that make a complete protein (like a sprouted rice/pea blend) have BCAAs, and NO Stevia as I cannot stand that after taste and it seems to be in almost every plant based protein powder! I’d even prefer it be made with a small amount of coconut sugar to avoid that chemical after taste of Stevia. This is a very difficult search!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lisa,

      You are right! It is very hard to find any plant-based protein without stevia. Your best bet would be to try to find pure pea isolate and sprouted rice powder on its own and blend them.

      Reply
  19. archa mehta

    Hi Alex..how do you know if your body needs protein supplement..apart from your other meals..say if tou workout moderately for 4 times a week..

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Archa,

      A general rule of thumb would if you are repairing from your workouts in appropriate time, meaning you are not experiencing excessive soreness or muscle fatigue. If you are struggling to build muscle, this may also be an indication of needing more protein. You can also do the math based on grams, which I have outlined here: https://thehealthbeat.com/sports-nutrition-101-protein/

      Reply
  20. Lee

    Hi Alex, thank you very much for your information! What protein powder would you recommend for my mum? She is 69 years old, with high blood pressure and taking amlodipine 10mg, and having severe varicose veins with venous ulcer on her leg. Also, which protein powder could you recommend for my dad at 74 years old with scoliosis? Thank you so much!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lee,

      I think any of the plant protein powders #1-5 are a great choice for those ages.

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lee,

      It is best when the brown rice is sprouted, but I think this is a fine product to use for any age.

      Reply
      • Lee

        Thank Alex for your advice. But the pea protein is in pea protein isolated form and the pea and brown rice are raw form. What do you think about these? Thanks a lot.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Lee,

          Yes, the other products listed in this article have superior forms of pea protein and brown rice if you have access to these. If not, the product you inquired about would be considered “okay” since it doesn’t have any harmful additives or artificial sweeteners.

          Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi CC,

      Thank you for sending this article. Heavy metal contamination exceeding healthy levels is becoming a real problem and it is a reflection of what is happening to our environment. It is impossible to avoid heavy metals altogether from plants, which will vary based on the soil and type of plant. Arsenic is higher in apples and rice, and cadmium is higher in cocoa beans. The levels will also vary across different geographical locations.

      It can become a much bigger issue when we consume apple juice, rice powder or cocoa powder because the heavy metals are more concentrated if they were higher to begin with. This is the second time Garden of Life has made this list for one of their products. They were also just purchased by Nestle, which doesn’t give me a lot of faith in them moving forward. I highly recommend requesting a certificate of analysis from any company selling plant-based protein you are interested in purchasing. I will be conducting another request from the companies listed in this article to ensure the heavy metals are exceedingly low.

      Reply
  21. Maddy

    Can protein powders be used in a toddlers diet? My 2.5 year old doesn’t do well with lentils, milk, eggs, quinoa, green beans, or dried beans. I’m having a hard time trying to work protein into his diet. He eats yogurt, nuts, most vegetables and fruits. We eat a vegetarian diet.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Maddy,

      I would be hesitant to use plant-based protein powders with small children in light of the recent findings of how many of these products had elevated levels of heavy metals. You can find plant-based protein powders that have been tested to be low, but I would play it safe. Whey protein would be a better choice. However, you want to careful not to use it as a meal replacement because toddlers can start to get very picky and only want the protein shake. It is used best as an addition to a meal.

      Reply
  22. Anna

    I am intrigued and impressed with your articles! What are your thoughts on the Juice Plus protein? I have a few acquaintances who sell it, but most of the research they report is initiated from the company.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Anna,

      Can you send me a link to the exact one you are thinking of?

      Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Anna,

          Thanks! You are correct in that a lot of their research is initiated by the company, which you should be skeptical of. Second, some of their conclusions are also questionable. This product uses isolated soy protein, which isn’t a protein I would recommend using. Soy is best consumed in the fermented form (miso, tempeh, natto), however, even then, there may be genetic differences between cultures in the response to soy. It also uses cane sugar as the first ingredient, cyanocobalamin (poor form of B12) and maltodextrin (can spike blood sugar).

          Reply
  23. Nadira

    What would you recommend for chronic constipation I been having it for almost 25 years I want something that’s going to give me a smooth running digestive system if that’s possible

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Nadira,

      It really depends on the cause. There is a product called Movement by Chakrafood that you may want to look into, which is essentially fermented enzymes. Magnesium citrate, probiotics and fiber are all things that help prevent constipation.

      Reply
  24. Marty

    Hey Alex;
    You ever look into Schinoussa fermented chlorella protein? it is popular with many of my plant-based colleagues here in Canada. The ingredients are:
    Fermented Chlorella protein, Organic Spirulina, Organic Chlorella, Organic E3live, Organic White Mulberry, Curcumin 95%, Enzyme protease, flavour (depending on the product).

    It has 23g of protein per 35g serving plus a rather impressive nutritional assay and, as a bonus, 2.5mg of Lutein and 1.5mg of Zeaxanthin per serving.

    Reply
  25. Marty

    Thanks Alex. Interesting point, and never really thought of it from the perspective of someone who might not have worked up to such a dose or established a really clean baseline for diet and lifestyle before using. Those reviews definitely are concerning! I wonder if they are taking it with food?

    As a related note, I have been drinking fermented beer root powder and spirulina (about a tsp) most days for the last few weeks. And even as someone who is pretty “clean” to start with, in the beginning I noticed detoxification like effects with my skin. But that has since passed with some sauna sessions and continued use of spirulina.

    You experimented with either of those algaes in your own routine?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Marty,

      I’m not sure if they consumed it on an empty stomach, but even so, it would still make me cautious.

      I’m assuming you meant fermented beetroot powder, not beer? Unless there is a fermented beer powder now on the market. Seems a little less fun :). I have experimented with chlorella, spirulina, and E3 live. I’ve found that certain mushrooms, herbs, and minerals seem to be more compatible for me.

      Reply
  26. celine

    Thank you Alex for your instructive articles. My son is 17 years old and since 3 years he has 2 hours training 6 times a week plus rowing regatta every 2 other week. He needs to perform all the time, but in the meantime he is exhausted and need to help his muscle because recently he has the feeling no matter what he is exhausted.
    can you help us to find the right protein to boost he body and mental?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Celine,

      My nephew is 15 and is a rower, so I’m very familiar with the demands! I’ll outline some key strategies to follow that has allowed him to perform continually at a high level. You will need to determine the total caloric load based on the goal weight.

      *5 meals a day with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fat, and fiber (aim for about 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight)
      *A whey protein shake at 9pm (or approximately 2 hours after dinner) with kefir or nut milk, banana and peanut butter (I recommend whey over plant protein due to the higher amino acid content for rowers. Let me know if you would prefer plant-based)
      *Electrolytes before, during and after training: See a recommended list here.
      *8.5 to 9.5 hours of sleep per night (critical for recovery. The earlier the bedtime the better)

      Let me know if you have any other questions.

      Reply
  27. Jon

    Hi Alex,

    Absolutely great site! I came across it yesterday and have been all over it. I among everyone else appreciate the amount of effort and supporting details you put into your articles to help people make their lives better! I will definitely pass your information on to everyone I know who are interested in a healthy lifestyle. I am potentially in the market for a new plant protein. I currently use Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant Based Protein and Vega Sport Protein for after workouts and use Garden of Life Meal Replacement for times when it is hard to make a lunch. Do you have any thoughts on those products for after workouts and a meal replacement? Also do you feel that I would be better served by the products you listed above?

    Thank you for your time and thank you for all that you do!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jon,

      Thank you for spreading the good word!

      Garden of Life has become a contradictory company in my opinion, and I have conflicting thoughts about them. On the outside and from the label, it looks like they are doing everything right. They are always front and center in health food stores. Yet, there has been some controversy with their sourcing, which happens with giant companies that need a large supply chain. Yes, heavy metals are naturally in the soil and therefore our food. But, plant-based protein powders are concentrated versions of these plants (especially rice) and therefore you have to be more careful with sourcing due to concentrated amounts of metals that can occur. People have also been more skeptical of them since Nestle bought them a few years ago. I would always ask for a 3rd party COA of their products. As a meal replacement, mBreakfast is pretty hard to beat for quality and nutrient density, and is still cheaper than most meals.

      I have used Vega in the past and I had this product listed on the best list many years ago. Then, they made a formula change that a lot of people disliked. It looks like they have improved it again and I’ll need to do some more digging about where they are sourcing their ingredients now, and what is being used for their natural flavors. This formula also contains bacillus coagulans, which you were inquiring about with your other post. I like the unique protein blend, and that it includes tart cherry and alfalfa protein.

      Reply
      • Jon

        Hello Alex I wanted to get your thoughts between Whey vs Plant protein and in your opinion what is the overall healthier option for the long run? As you are aware that plant everything is having its run at the moment and I wanted to get your thoughts on as far as protein which direction you would go? No side issues etc just straight up Whey vs Plant? Also is there any other factors that would in particular lead you one way. Me personally I am debating between the best whey protein you suggested versus the best plant protein you suggested. Thank you!

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Jon,

          I’m going to throw collagen protein in the mix as well because I think it is an important third consideration. Here are my thoughts:

          Removing any potential issues, I think whey protein is going to be superior to plant protein. For the aging athlete (over 35), I think collagen protein is actually going to be superior if there are muscle injuries or joint issues, but this isn’t to say that both whey and collagen can’t be used.

          The main argument is the superior amino acid profile of whey, the reduced risk of concentrated heavy metals that can be found in plant-based protein (although 3rd party testing can help you rule out the products to avoid), the glutathione boost of whey, and the absence of any nutrient blocking factors.

          Reply
  28. Jon C

    Hey Alex,

    What do you think about PROMIX’s Vegan Protein Powder? I currently take their Whey and I know you really like that one however I am thinking about switching to a plant protein and wanted to get your thoughts on theirs and if it would crack your top 3 list that you listed above. I am trying to decide on one.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hey Jon,

      This looks like a good product. I’ll update this article to include it. What I like about PROMIX is that they are very transparent about their purity testing results. They have it available on their website for every product.

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Jon,

      If the goal is to try and get a comparable substitute for whey protein, I would go with the PROMIX Vegan Protein Powder.

      Reply
  29. Jon

    Thank you. If you had to chose one the Promix or Pure Food Plant-Based Protein which one would you choose? I have it narrowed down to both. Thanks!

    Reply
  30. Jon

    Thank you! Now for transitioning from Whey to Plant protein do you suggest that anything else should be taken or will the Plant Protein be sufficient for fitness? I just know that Whey is the optimal protein powder for working out. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      No, this is totally sufficient. Just focus on maintaining a good diet and you are good.

      Reply
      • Carlos

        Thoughts on 1st phorm product vegan power pro?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson

          Hi Carlos,

          The protein profile looks good, however, there are a couple of reasons I wouldn’t choose this one. The first reason is due to the use of cereal grasses in the formula. I recently wrote an article about why I think cereal grasses are best avoided here: The Best Greens Powders without Cereal Grasses

          The second reason would be that I would want clarity on what is being used for the natural flavors. When flavors are used like “iced oatmeal cookie,” I’m a little suspicious of what is being used because they often won’t disclose it.

          Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Justine,

      Of course! It looks like the Ritual product is just a plant-based protein with added choline bitartrate. There’s nothing else really standing out that makes it a postpartum powder. We have a discussion going in the comments section on a prenatal article here on why phosphatidylcholine should be used instead of choline bitartrate, and also why fish oil should be taken with choline. My opinion is that you would be better off using a regular plant-based protein powder and adding a separate phosphatidylcholine supplement if you are not getting enough dietary choline.

      Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *