Hands down, the #1 question a vegan is asked is, “Where do you get your protein from?” Though this may sound like a bonkers question, the truth is, plant-based proteins are good for your gut, and they go a long way in giving your body the nutrients it needs for performance and recovery (amen!).
To delve deep into this, we reached out to Kripa Jalan, the founder of Burgers To Beasts — a platform that started as a creative outlet to share her personal expertise from her advanced education in Nutrition from Harvard, firsthand experiences with a troubled food relationship, and the passion to help individuals create meaningful and lasting changes in their lives.
Jalan believes that whether it’s due to one’s religious or environmental beliefs, or just out of love for our pawsome pals, more and more people are hopping on board the vegan bandwagon. And while the topic of protein almost inevitably pops up, it’s even more important for women to stay in the know, given that they lose muscle at a faster rate as they age, as compared to men.
Ahead, five protein-rich vegan superfoods to add to your list, stat.
1. PEAS
A member of the legumes family, Peas are a storehouse of protein, fibre, iron, and phosphorus. By adding bulk to meals, they promote a feeling of fullness by delaying digestion.
Our must-try vegan pick
For the girl on-the-go, this pea and brown rice-based protein powder is just what you need to keep your metabolism going. It’s made from natural antioxidants and digestive enzymes and instead of artificial sweeteners, this formula relies on herbal stevia for its sweetness. While the taste is oh-so-chocolaty, we love the fact that it aids in controlling blood sugar and maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Nykaa recommends: Plix The Plant Fix Strength Vegan Post Workout Chocolate Flavour Protein Powder 1Kg
2. SPIRULINA
Comprising about 60% to 70% protein by weight, spirulina provides all the essential amino acids to the body. Evidence also shows that your body can use this protein more efficiently, making it one of the best plant protein sources in the market.
Our must-try vegan pick
So lean and so clean! Powered with an impressive blend of 20 wholesome greens including spirulina, this powder helps maintain a healthy digestive system and promotes a complete detox. It helps repair and build your muscles, all while encouraging healthy tissue in bones, skin, and hair. Mix a scoop in your post-workout smoothie for a berrylicious kick that will keep you satiated for hours.
Nykaa recommends: Kapiva Ayurveda Green Superfoods - Berry (Protein Rich Nutrition)
3. NUTS
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews and pistachios are not only rich in minerals, vitamin E and healthy fats, but they’re also high in protein.
Our must-try vegan pick
Don’t judge a book by its cover. It’s what’s inside that counts. Loaded with the good stuff (whey, casein and dry fruits), this guy checks all the boxes of a hardworking protein powder. Unbelievably delicious, it helps gain muscle and strength while losing fat, so you can train harder and longer. Add 3 tablespoons to warm milk and shake thoroughly for a jolt of energy anytime, anywhere.
Nykaa recommends: Purayati Natural Dry Fruit Whey & Milk Protein Powder - 1 Kg
4. HEMP
With its roots in the Cannabis plant family, Hemp powder is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, fibre and 20 amino acids (including the nine essential ones for a healthy immune system).
Our must-try vegan pick
Made from organic Hemp, milled down to create a fine powder, this superfood vegan protein is a godsent for muscle building, sustained energy and recovery to support your active lifestyle. A keto-friendly staple, it houses a clean blend of greens, fruits and veggies for core muscle growth. Plus, it can be added to almost anything, like hot and cold shakes and baked foods (we’re thinking cookies!).
Nykaa recommends: Big Muscles Plant Based Superfood Vegan Protein
5. SEEDS
Sunflower, chia, flax and pumpkin seeds are all rich in both protein and minerals. They vary by type and some are nuttier in flavor whereas others are more sweet and neutral tasting.
Our must-try vegan pick
Get the best of all worlds with this power-packed assortment of protein combo. It contains antioxidant and mineral-rich chia seeds, omega-3 acids-rich Flax seeds, Vitamin E-rich sunflower seeds, omega-6 acids and iron-rich pumpkin seeds. Sprinkle them over your breakfast cereal or blend a spoonful with your mid-meal shake to calm those hunger pangs on a healthy (and a guilt-free) note.
Nykaa recommends: Sorich Organics Chia- Sunflower- Pumpkin and Flax Seeds Combo
PS: Though proteins are the holy grail to build muscle, they’re not the be-all and end-all of good health. As Kripa Jalan says, “You are not what you eat, but what you digest and absorb. Excess protein is eventually stored as glucose, which converts to fat. So, while there isn’t a good one-size-fits-all approach to consumption, it’s just essential to not overdo it."
