Protein is a vital nutrient, often hailed as the building block of life. Yet, many of us may not fully understand its importance. In this article, we delve into the world of protein. We explore its functions, benefits, and why our bodies need it. We also shed light on organic and vegan protein powders. Particularly, we focus on options available in Australia.
Protein is made up of single amino acids, all of which have unique roles in the body. Amino acids act as substrates (the first ingredient needed) to make important neurological and metabolic pathways.
A deficiency in any amino acid can impact your mood, including affecting anxiety and depression, and also impact such things as your skin and collagen production!
.png)
Protein is one of the three macronutrients, alongside carbohydrates and fats.
It's composed of amino acids, which are the building blocks of our bodies.
There are 20 amino acids in total. Nine of these are essential, meaning our bodies can't produce them. We must obtain them from our diet.
Protein plays a crucial role in various bodily functions.
In essence, protein is vital for our overall health and wellbeing.
Understanding this can help us make informed dietary choices. It can also guide us in choosing the right protein supplements.
When we eat foods that are rich in protein, we supply our body with all the essential amino acids needed for our cells to function optimally. That’s right. Protein is not just about bodybuilding! It’s about health, and for many of us, especially women, we are not consuming adequate protein to meet our needs.
Additionally, if you exercise regularly and want to keep your muscles looking toned and feeling strong, consuming a protein drink made with natural protein powder within 15 minutes post exercise will ensure your body doesn’t ‘eat away’ at its muscle reserves to replenish what the workout used up.
Protein is fundamental for muscle repair and growth.
When we exercise, our muscles experience microscopic damage.
This damage triggers the body to repair and strengthen the muscles.
Protein provides the necessary amino acids for this repair process, promoting muscle growth and strength.
.png)
Protein plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance.
It provides the building blocks for hormone production, ensuring our body functions optimally.
Additionally, protein is essential for enzyme production.
Enzymes, which are proteins themselves, facilitate countless biochemical reactions in our body.
Proteins are made up of amino acids, the building blocks of our bodies.
There are 20 amino acids in total, nine of which are essential.
Complete proteins contain all nine essential amino acids in adequate amounts.
Incomplete proteins, on the other hand, lack one or more of these essential amino acids. It's important to consume a variety of protein sources to ensure you're getting all the essential amino acids your body needs.
The amount of protein we need varies based on several factors.
These include age, sex, physical activity level, and overall health.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is a good starting point.
Here's a basic guideline:
A general rule of thumb is 08. kg of protein per kilo of body weight. Increase that to 1.1 g protein/kilo body weight on days you are exercising. So, a person who weighs 70 kg would need approximately 56 grams of protein on a sedentary day, and 77 g on an exercise day. Some good protein sources include legumes and pulses like chickpeas and lentils, hemp seeds, edamame, tofu and other soy products.
Remember, individual needs may vary. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
.png)
If you’re not ensuring that you consume adequate protein sources at every meal and snack, there is a good chance you are not getting enough protein. If you follow a vegan diet, it’s even more important you’re careful to eat a good source of protein at every meal to ensure you meet your daily needs. No matter what diet or lifestyle you follow, you may wish to supplement with a protein powder like hemp protein powder, for example.
You can use a protein powder to add a protein boost to a range of healthy recipes like smoothies, power balls and other healthy baked goods. A protein powder is also great for those looking to get more protein in their diets to build muscle mass and support their gym gains.
Plant based proteins offer numerous health benefits.
They are often lower in calories and fat than animal proteins, while still providing essential nutrients.
In addition, plant based proteins are more sustainable and ethical, as they require fewer resources to produce and do not involve animal suffering.
Choosing plant based proteins, such as organic vegan protein powder, can therefore contribute to a healthier body and a healthier planet.
Organic protein powders are a healthier choice for several reasons.
Firstly, they are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic hormones often found in non organic products.
Secondly, organic protein powders, such as Australian vegan protein powder, are typically sourced and produced ethically.
Lastly, they often have a higher nutritional profile compared to their non organic counterparts.
.png)
When choosing an organic protein powder, it's important to read labels carefully.
Look for certifications such as non GMO and organic, which indicate high quality and ethical standards.
Australian vegan protein powder: quality and ethics
Australian vegan protein powder stands out for its quality and ethical standards.
These products are often sourced locally, supporting Australian businesses and ensuring high quality ingredients.
Natural protein powders, such as organic vegan protein powder, are derived from whole food sources.
In contrast, synthetic protein powders may contain artificial sweeteners and fillers, which can have potential health risks.
The environmental and ethical benefits of vegan protein powders
Vegan protein powders, like organic vegan protein powder, offer significant environmental benefits.
They require less water and land to produce compared to animal based proteins.
Moreover, choosing vegan protein powders supports animal rights, as no animals are harmed in their production.
Lastly, many vegan protein powders, especially those that are organic, are produced with sustainability in mind, further reducing their environmental impact.
.png)
Vegan protein powders are usually made from a pea and rice blend and often contain added vegetable enzymes to aid digestion. Another great plant based option is hemp protein powder.
Hemp Foods Australia makes some of the best vegan protein powder Australia as their hemp protein powder has a complete amino acid profile and is naturally full of minerals and vitamins.
Whether you’re vegan or plant based, or not, most people find vegan protein powders much easier to tolerate than whey (cows milk) protein, as so many of us have an intolerance (whether you know it or not) to dairy.
When looking for plant based protein powder in Australia, you’ll want to stay away from those that use artificial colourings and flavours. You should also note how the protein is sweetened.
Stay away from proteins that are overly sweetened whether with sugar or artificial sweeteners.
The best plant based protein powder in Australia is a protein powder that is minimally processed, contains only natural sweeteners and colours and is boosted with other beneficial nutrients like minerals, vitamins, enzymes and pro/prebiotics.
The demand for organic protein powder in Australia has grown significantly as more people look for natural and wholesome fitness products.
Incorporating organic vegan protein powder into your diet is simple and versatile.
You can add it to smoothies, oatmeal, or even use it in baking for an extra protein boost. It's a convenient way to ensure you're getting enough protein in your diet, especially if you're following a vegan lifestyle.
.png)
Here are our top picks for those looking for vegan protein powder Australia but don’t know where to start.
Macro Mike is the best vegan protein powder in Australia for those that usually hate the taste and texture of health supplements. Macro Mike founder Mike Kellett is both gluten and dairy intolerant. He saw a gap in the market when most of the vegan proteins he tried were gritty and flavourless. He set himself a goal of making the best tasting plant based protein powder. And he succeeded.
Macro Mike protein is smooth, tasty and available in a range of irresistible flavours. We’re talking peanut butter, cookie dough, and salted caramel.
Plus, Macro Mike protein is 100% natural, GMO free, gluten free, vegan and refined sugar free. You can use the Macro Mike range in smoothies and smoothie bowls but they’re also great for making things like protein brownies and pancakes.
Nutra Organics is another one of our favourite brands for hemp protein powder and some of the best plant based protein powder in Australia. Nutra Organics is an Australian family business that’s been providing organic, natural and clean health supplements since 1998.
Nutra Organics protein powder range includes something for everyone. There are family friendly protein powders like the Thriving Protein or there are beauty focused proteins like the Vegan Hemp Protein Berries. This hemp protein powder is formulated to help you achieve healthier hair, skin and nails.
All Nutra Organics proteins are all certified organic too, so you can be sure they’re free from any nasties like pesticides and other harsh chemicals.
Understanding the importance of protein and its benefits is key to a healthier lifestyle.
Choosing organic vegan protein powder not only supports your health but also promotes ethical and sustainable practices. It's a choice that benefits you, the animals, and the planet.
Simple instalment plans available instantly at checkout
Use your existing debit or credit card
No long forms, instant approval online
Pay fortnightly, enjoy your purchase straight away!
All your need is:
1) An Australian Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card; 2) To be over 18 years of age; 3) To live in Australia
To see Afterpay's complete terms, visit https://www.afterpay.com.au/terms
© 2024 Afterpay
