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If you are on the lookout for the ideal protein powder, you are likely overwhelmed by the number of options available in the market. One of these options is the power-packed pea protein powder. Now if you are like most people, you must be wondering how the humble pea could possibly compete with the animal-derived protein powders like whey. You are not at fault here, although these legumes may appear tiny, they are actually a protein powerhouse with countless health benefits. Due to this fact, more and more athletes are including pea protein as a regular part of their diet. Numerous nutrition companies have introduced pea protein isolate in their product range.
Now. that you know what the pea protein hype is all about, let’s take a closer look into how pea protein is made and some of the amazing health benefits it offers.
What is Pea Protein?
Pea protein powder is made by extracting proteins from yellow peas. You will be surprised to know that pea protein powder has almost the same amount of proteins per serving as the most commonly used whey protein powder. Therefore, it offers the same benefits in terms of muscle-building. Additionally, since it is hypoallergenic and vegan, it is suitable for all kinds of people compared to other protein powders that do not offer this benefit.
Pea protein powder is usually consumed by adding it to shakes and smoothies for a power-packed protein punch. However, you can also add it to oatmeal, rice cereal, waffles or muffins. If you are looking for a great pea protein powder to include in your diet, you can buy turmeric protein.
Health Benefits of Pea Protein
Pea protein powder has several health benefits:
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High-quality protein
Peas are 90% protein, making them a high-quality source of protein that is rich in amino acids. In fact, the pea protein contains all of the nine amino acids that our body extracts from our diet. These amino acids allow our bodies to perform their functions effectively. Pea protein is full of arginine in particular, which is essential for a healthy heart and blood flow, resulting in improved health overall.
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Rich in iron
Iron is essential for our body as it helps in transferring oxygen to different parts of the body through our blood. Any deficiency of iron can result in anemia, which causes breathing problems and fatigue, among other problems.
Iron comes from both animal and plant sources, but its excessive intake from animal-based sources can cause serious health problems. Thus, plant-derived iron is considered an essential mineral to include in your diet. Pea protein can be an excellent way to meet your body’s plant-based iron requirement.
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Free of saturated fats and cholesterol
We all know how bad saturated fats are for our health. They can significantly raise our cholesterol levels and thus, it is always best to limit your intake of saturated fats as much as possible. Animal products and related proteins come with saturated fats, and if you need to watch your cholesterol levels, pea protein is a great alternative to consider. It is naturally free of saturated fats and will provide you the required nutrients while keeping your cholesterol in check.
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Great for muscle-building
Branch chain amino acids make up a significant proportion of muscle mass. Therefore, they are essential to include in your diet if you wish to build muscles. Whey protein is normally considered the best protein powder for this purpose due to its high branch chain amino acid content. Nevertheless, pea protein contains almost the same amount of these amino acids and studies have shown that pea protein is just as effective in promoting muscle thickness as whey protein.
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Easy to digest
If you are worried that peas are hard to digest and are a potential gassy food, this isn’t the case with pea protein powder. Peas do contain high amounts of starch and fiber which makes them hard to digest, but most of this starch and fiber are lost in the process that is used to convert them into powder. Consequently, pea protein powder does not cause any digestion problems. Since the proteins in peas are easily digestible, the body is able to access them quickly and utilize them right away, providing you an instant energy boost after your workout.
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Helps with appetite control
Pea protein is a low-calorie food that does not contain the unhealthy saturated fats found in animal proteins and meat products. Owing to its high-protein content, it also has the ability to keep you feeling full for a longer time. You are less likely to have cravings for unhealthy snacks after having a drink or meal that contains pea powder. This makes it a useful option for those looking to control their diets and lose weight in the process.
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Free from allergens
Pea protein does not include any of the top food allergens such as nuts, fish, eggs, cow milk, soy or wheat. It is free from allergens and most people can easily include it in their diet without having to worry about it causing an allergic reaction. Those who cannot have dairy due to allergens can easily consume meals and drinks made with pea protein powder.
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Better in taste than other protein powders
Those who have ever had a drink or meal that includes pea protein powder will tell you that it has a sweet, nutty flavor and a less grainy texture compared to other protein powders. Many agree that it tastes better than other protein powders. When you include it in your diet using the right combination of ingredients, you are very likely to develop a liking for it.
Final Word
Plant-based food sources seem to have significantly grown in popularity over time and this applies to protein powders too. Thanks to its dairy-free, gluten-free, hypoallergenic, and vegan properties, pea protein is a great option for a variety of diets. Whether you are looking to build some muscle or simply include more protein in your diet, pea protein is a delicious and nutritious way to do it. It is about time you try out this power-packed supplement for yourself to discover the health benefits it offers – you will not be disappointed.
