Your choice of protein powder may depend on whether you prefer animal-based whey protein powder or a plant-based powder. Protein powders are among the most popular nutrition supplements on the market. To accommodate different dietary restrictions and lifestyles, many manufacturers provide both whey protein powder - derived from cow’s milk - and plant-based alternatives. With so many types of protein powders available, Titan Rise Power you may wonder if any specific type is superior and which one suits your needs and preferences. This article compares plant-based and whey protein powders to help you decide which one is best for you. There are many similarities and differences between plant-based and whey protein powders. Most whey protein powders are isolated from whey, a milky liquid byproduct from cheese making. Once the liquid has been collected, carbohydrates, fat, water, and other components are removed. The remaining protein is then spray-dried into a powder. Since whey protein powder is made from cow’s milk, it contains a milk sugar called lactose.
Due to processing differences, whey protein isolate contains less lactose than whey protein concentrate. Plant-based protein powders are derived from various types of plants - commonly brown rice, pea, soy, and hemp. Depending on the brand, a powder may be made from one type of plant or a combination of plants. Since they’re made entirely from plants, plant-based protein powders don’t contain dairy or lactose, which makes them a good option if you follow a vegan diet or are lactose intolerant. Typically, whey and plant-based protein powders contain similar amounts of protein, with the average product providing 20-30 grams per serving. Whey protein powder is considered a complete protein since it contains all nine essential amino acids - the building blocks of protein. It also contains leucine, isoleucine, Titan Rise Power and valine, which are branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) important for muscle building. The protein content of plant-based protein powder depends on which plant it’s made from. Plant-based powders typically contain fewer BCAAs than whey powders.
Plus, only soy protein powder is considered complete. Conveniently, some manufacturers combine multiple plant proteins in their products to ensure they contain all essential amino acids and BCAAs. Ultimately, the best way to know if a protein powder contains a good amount of protein - 20-30 grams per serving - and an optimal combination of amino acids is to read the nutrition label. Whey protein powder contains lactose, a common food sensitivity. Opting for whey protein isolate can lower the amount of lactose per serving but may still lead to stomach upset, bloating, and gas if you’re highly sensitive to lactose. Plant-based protein powders contain varying ingredients. Some types contain the common allergens soy and gluten, so read labels carefully and select products specifically labeled soy-free and/or gluten-free if needed. Some plant-based protein powders - especially those containing pea protein - can cause bloating and cramping if you have irritable bowel syndrome or are sensitive to FODMAPs. If you have food sensitivities, a good way to find out which protein powder is right for you is to simply try out a selection and keep a food and symptom diary.
This can help you identify and keep track of any side effects that arise from using different products. The prices of plant-based and whey protein powders largely depend on the brand. In general, you can find either type with similar pricing. Still, products that are advertised as organic, keto, or paleo or have other specialized qualities often come at a higher cost. Also keep in mind that the serving sizes of some plant-based protein powders, such as hemp, are larger than others, such as pea. Thus, you’ll use more powder in less time, which can increase the overall cost. If you’re looking for a cheaper plant-based option, choose one with a similar serving size to whey products. To build muscle, you need to engage in strength training and consume enough protein that contains all essential amino acids and BCAAs. Whey protein isolate is considered the gold standard for muscle growth, as it’s a complete protein, contains a high amount of the BCAA leucine, and is absorbed the quickest.