NOW Pea Protein Is a Suitable Plant-Based Protein Alternative to Whey

pea protein as alternative to whey protein

Maybe you’re plant-based or vegan.


Maybe you’re just interested in switching from traditional whey protein to something less likely to trigger your acne flare-ups… 


Whatever the case, pea protein offers an affordable alternative that is totally non-allergenic and highly bioavailable. While most people refer to it as an “incomplete” protein because it lacks a large amount of methionine, this can be easily obtained from other food sources (beans, tofu, lentils, nuts, fish, red meat, and greens).


We wouldn’t consider it an issue worth fretting over, especially when a high intake of methionine is associated with increased homocysteine production (an amino acid linked to heart disease and high cholesterol). 


In any case, NOW’s Pea Protein offers a rigorously tested vegan option — free from heavy metals, contaminants, and GMOs. 


Let’s dive into why we love their product so much and are proud to carry it at Healthy Planet! 

Pea Protein vs. Whey: Key Benefits and Differences

The major pain point most whey protein users express is digestibility — gas and bloating. 

Pea Protein is Allergen-Free

If you’re lactose intolerant, most whey proteins do naturally contain this common allergen, along with gluten via cross-contamination


As an added downside, very few options are minimally processed. Ideally, they should only contain “whey protein” as the main ingredient and some natural flavouring from vanilla extract or cocoa powder.

 

Unfortunately, plenty of them sweeten their product with additives like stevia, sucrose, or xylitol – in addition to fillers like dextrose or maltose. All these ingredients can cause issues for those with sensitive stomachs. 

Protein Content & Amino Acid Breakdown

  • Whey protein is made from milk by-products — isolated from “whey,” typically during the cheesemaking process. 
    Most whey proteins contain lactose. Whey and pea protein both amount to about the same calories per serving, but whey protein contains just slightly more protein per gram. 

A typical serving (30g scoop) contains 25-30g of protein versus pea protein at 20-25g for the same size scoop. 

 

  • Pea protein is derived directly from peas, is plant-based (NOW pea protein is always vegan) and is lactose-free. It’s typically isolated from the protein of yellow split peas. Compared to other “plant-based proteins” like brown rice, it’s traditionally low in heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and lead. 

While pea protein contains slightly less protein per gram serving, it does contain more minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, and manganese. It has a comparable amount of calcium and potassium. It contains fibre content for a healthier gut and slower digestion, while whey protein does not (unless it’s added in). 


Animal proteins are thought of as being “more easily absorbed” compared to plant-based. 


This is true. 


Animal protein has a more anabolic effect and is more rapidly absorbed. However, countless studies have reaffirmed the health benefits of plant-based protein compared to animal protein over the last several decades.


It’s clear that for long-term health, plant-based protein is the better choice


Why? 

Plant Protein Is Associated With Better Health

Conversely, a high intake of animal protein (especially from red meat) is associated with worse health markers (including diabetes and heart disease).


A professor at Harvard proclaimed that “plant proteins are not complete” is a myth. People do not need to eat complementary proteins during the same meal (like rice and beans) as long as they get a variety naturally throughout the day. 


While a higher intake of animal protein was associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, diabetes, and elevated liver enzymes — plant protein was not. It was associated with improved cognitive performance, especially in older age.  

 

Disclaimer

This blog does not intend to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health-related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this blog should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The claims made about specific products throughout this blog are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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