Plant-Based Protein Benefits

Most people are familiar with the importance of getting enough protein in their diet. Still, not everyone realizes that animal proteins aren't their only choice. Plant-based proteins may be just what you need if you're lactose intolerant or have other dietary restrictions. Additionally, the best plant-based protein benefits provide nearly all the amino acids you need without any meat products for anyone leading a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.

Vegan-Friendly Protein Source

Replacing regular protein with vegan-friendly proteins can be a great way to get more healthy and leaner, especially if you do not consume dairy. Protein helps you feel full longer and provides long-lasting, all-natural energy. Many people who choose plant-based protein shakes are vegan, vegetarian, or lactose intolerant. Vegan-friendly proteins can increase their protein intake quicker than relying on vegetables.

If you're lactose intolerant, you can't eat cheeses and other dairy products that are great protein sources. While you can consume more meat to increase protein intake, that's not as healthy as supplementing with plant-based protein sources. 

Additionally, the best plant-based protein benefits involve reducing weight and improving health. However, getting all your protein in daily can be challenging if you're only relying on fruits and vegetables. There are different amino acids in plants compared to animal proteins. 

Manage Blood Sugar Levels

Managing glucose levels is a challenge for many people. The standard Western diet, which has been the norm for decades, consists of a high intake of processed foods and carbohydrates.     This diet can result in blood sugar spikes followed by dips that leave you feeling hungry again soon after eating. It's also not the best if you don't want to cook or have time to prepare meals with fresh ingredients. 

However, some alternatives will help keep your blood sugar levels steady while providing nutrients and protein without additives. These include plant-based proteins like beans and legumes and whole grains such as quinoa instead of rice or bread made from white flour.  

Take a look at some of the best plant-based proteins benefits. They fuel energy and help reduce weight. Check out some of the options to add to your weekly meal plans.

Chia seeds are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are especially beneficial to heart health. Chia has been shown to reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and protect against heart disease and diabetes. 

Lentils have a low glycemic index, meaning they produce smaller blood sugar spikes than rice or baked potatoes. In addition, lentils boost heart health by providing fiber that reduces LDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.

Quinoa is gluten-free and provides an excellent source of protein, which is a crucial component for building and repairing muscle tissue. It also provides essential amino acids, making it a perfect choice for vegetarians that want to keep their protein intake high without eating meat or other animal-based products.

Green peas are low in calories and provide a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. As a plant-based protein source, green peas can be added to soups, salads, or pasta dishes to replace meat. The best part is that they take less than 30 minutes to prepare.

Promote Weight Loss

In the past, we’ve been told that beef is a great source of protein and will help you maintain a healthy weight. But these days, experts are telling us to look elsewhere for our protein needs. And one of the best places to find it may be in your local grocery store or natural food market. You can get plant-based proteins from soy products like tofu and tempeh, nuts like almond butter, seeds like sunflower and pumpkin seeds, and beans eaten on their own or used for cooking things like chili. 

But that's not all. There are plenty of reasons to eat plant-based protein shake or bar instead of meat. For example, if you have a high cholesterol level or high blood pressure, you might want to switch to lower fat protein sources like beans and tofu. Or maybe you're looking for how to boost your weight loss efforts. 

By replacing red meats with plant-based proteins, you'll reduce the amount of saturated fat in your diet, which will benefit your heart and help you stay at a healthy weight. If you're looking for how to get enough protein in your diet overall—no matter why—this is a great place to start.

Reduced Risk of Disease

Numerous studies have shown too much red meat in your diet can increase the risk of certain diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer. A 2015 study concluded,

"It is concluded that recommendations for the consumption of unprocessed red meat and particularly of processed red meat should be more restrictive than existing recommendations."

A 2020 blog post by Harvard Health Publishing adds to the conclusion by pointing out that you don't need to eat to meet daily nutritional requirements. Protein encourages muscle growth and vitamin B-12, which is necessary to make red blood cells. 

The appeal might be that you can achieve your necessary protein needs with two, three-ounce servings per day. Whereas with plant-based choices, you need to consume more throughout the day. Dr. Hu, the chair of the Department of Health at Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health, explains, 

"You can get the same amounts — and in some cases even more — from poultry, fish, eggs, and nuts, and as well as by following a plant-based diet."

Plant-Based Protein Shakes are the Ideal Afternoon Snack

Do you find yourself in an afternoon slump around the same time daily? The best plant-based protein benefit is it can kick you right out of that funk. A vegan shake doesn't contain whey, and unlike caffeine, it will boost your energy levels for a few hours without causing a crash. These taste good, with chocolate and vanilla flavors, and you can mix them with milk, water, or even yogurt. 

Get Plant-Based Protein Benefits From Extend Nutrition Bars & Shakes

The benefits of plant-based protein are not to be overlooked. Extend Nutrition offers plant-based protein shakes that contain 20g of protein, 1g of fiber, 140 calories, and zero added sugars. Not only is it an excellent source of protein for anyone that's lactose intolerant, but it's also the ideal solution for people leading a plant-based lifestyle, such as vegans and vegetarians.

Additionally, it can also help anyone manage their diet by providing all-natural sources of nutrients, fiber, and protein necessary for meeting healthy weight loss goals over time. If you're in the market for a high-quality whey or plant-based protein powder that tastes great, Extend is here to serve your needs! With Extend Nutrition as your partner, we'll ensure that every step on your journey towards health is well taken care of because we know how much better life feels when we feel good.