Protein powders are usually considered to be popular supplements for bodybuilders and athletes. So here we come with the four best plant protein which is best for women.
However, a common misconception around the use of protein powders is that they are not fit to be used by women or those looking to lose weight.
As I said, it's a misconception.
Protein supplements are as safe for women as they are for men. In fact, some protein powders are made specifically to be used by women.
Some plant-based proteins are the most effective for women looking to build lean muscle mass or lose fat. And the best part is, you can easily take them with on-the-go meals, even when you're super busy.
What' is plant-based protein powder?
Plant proteins are the type of proteins that are found in and extracted from plants. Some of the common types include pea protein, rice protein, hemp protein, etc.
Plant protein powders are made by using any or all of these plant protein isolates as the base ingredient.
Without further ado, let's now get to know about the top 4 types of plant-based protein powders for women.
Plant-Based Protein Powders for Women
1. Pea Protein
Peas, both green and yellow, are highly nutritious, containing about 8g of protein in each cup (160g). 1
Pea Protein powder is made by grinding dried, yellow peas. It is a good protein choice for vegans and those who are lactose intolerant. Since it's hyperallergic, women with food allergies or sensitivities can also consume it without any harm.
Depending on the concentration, pea protein powder can be a very good source of protein, including many essential amino acids (BCAAs) required by the body.
Some studies show that pea protein powders can be more effective than whey and other variants for building bicep muscles. Moreover, it can help lose weight by reducing hunger and keeping you full for long. 2
For instance, Vegan Pro pea protein powder helps increase lean muscle mass and lose weight by burning calories in women. It is the best tasting vegan protein with an excellent source of omega-3/omega-6 acids along with fiber because of the addition of organic flaxseed.
2. Hemp Protein
Hempseed is another good source of protein. Each serving (30g) of hemp seed is said to have about 11g of protein, which is 22% of DV (Daily Value).
Hemp protein powders are made from the seeds extracted from the hemp plant.
Hemp protein has a very rich content of many beneficial nutrients, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Diets with a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 acids are said to reduce heart disease and cognitive decline risk in women. 3
Besides these, hemp protein is also rich in fiber, magnesium, iron, healthy fats and potassium, making it suitable for health-conscious women.
3. Mixed Plant-Based Protein
Protein is present in a wide variety of plants, vegetables and fruits. When a protein powder is made by mixing two or more varieties of plant proteins, it may just contain the best of both worlds.
Common protein sources used for making mixed plant protein powders include flaxseed, hemp seed, rice, pea protein, quinoa, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, among others.
4. Brown Rice Protein
Brown rice is a plant product that is consumed by vegetarians all over the world as a healthy and energetic food option. But, not many people are aware of the use of brown rice for making protein powders.
Because of the high protein content in rice powder, it's a wonderful source for building muscle mass and increasing strength in women.
References:
(1) Self Nutrition Data (e.d.). Nutrition Facts of Peas From https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2521/2
(2) Pub Med (e.d.). Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. From https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25628520
(3) PMC (e.d.). Omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive function in women from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2826215/![]