Benefits of proteins of plant origin compared to those of animal origin

Today we look at the main differences between animal and plant-based protein shakes, and offer an additional selection of natural shake recipes in which your chosen protein can be incorporated.

Dietary restrictions and allergies

A plant-based protein shake is the best option for most people with restrictive diets or food allergies. The exception are those who are allergic to any natural element contained in the base of the plant (such as coconut, for example).

A plant-based protein shake is best for those with the following dietary restrictions or allergies:

• Celiac disease, gluten intolerance or wheat allergy

• Allergy to eggs

• Milk allergy or lactose intolerance

• Vegetarians and vegans

• Calorie restriction for weight loss

Digestibility

Humans are naturally designed to eat plants, which means that our digestive systems can do this better than animal-based proteins. While meat can be easily digested, humans should never have consumed the milk of other animals and, in fact, they are the only species that does. If you want something that is highly digestible, without causing serious stomach problems, you should go for plant-based proteins.

Ease of mixing

Plant-based protein shakes tend to blend more easily, although this varies depending on the exact brand and formula you choose. While it’s a seemingly small benefit, many consumers have expressed frustration at how difficult it is to mix animal protein shakes.

Bonus: Natural Smoothie Recipes

These natural smoothie recipes work best with a plant-based protein powder, but can also be used with an animal-based one, if that’s what you’ve decided to use. Each of these is a perfect breakfast or healthy dessert that will help those on muscle training programs get the calories they need every day. Each recipe is suitable for two people.

1: peanut butter and banana

Ingredients:

• 1.5 scoops of your favorite chocolate protein powder

• 3 bananas

• 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter

• 2 cups of almond milk

• 1 tablespoon organic honey or organic maple syrup

2: Berry delight

Ingredients:

• 1.5 scoops of your favorite vanilla or strawberry protein powder

• ½ cup strawberries, sliced

• ¼ cup blueberries

• ¼ cup blackberries

• 1.5 cups of almond milk

• 1 tablespoon organic honey or organic maple syrup

3: peach protein

Ingredients:

• 1.5 scoops of your favorite vanilla protein powder

• 1 cup frozen organic peach, peeled and diced

• 1.5 cups of almond milk

• 1 tablespoon organic honey or organic maple syrup

4: Make yours!

To make your own recipe, simply follow the guidelines below to ensure proper thickness. Combine the following:

• 1.5 scoops of your favorite protein powder (any flavor)

• 1-1.5 cups of your favorite fruits or vegetables (spinach is a good vegetable choice)

• 1.5-2 cups of liquid (almond milk, water, coconut milk, skim milk, ice cream, etc.)

• 1 tablespoon of sweetener (honey, maple syrup, fruit juice, etc.)