The Ultimate Guide to Vegan Protein and Supplements
A little while ago, I set out on a mission to find the best vegan protein powders and supplements. I was searching for products that are the best in what they do, whether it’s providing lean protein, hydration, or essential nutrients or replacing a meal. I then sampled each product in various ways to determine the best way to consume each one as well as for whom each one is best suited. If you’re unsure about what vegan protein powder or nutritional supplement is for you, this is your guide.
Vega One Nutritional Shake
This Vega Protein powder added more flavor and texture to smoothies than the regular protein powder, but I thought it didn’t mix as well with plain water or nondairy milk. I made a smoothie with the vanilla powder, plain almond milk, and a frozen banana. I could definitely see it becoming my regular breakfast to go. This Vega Protein option is especially nice since it comes blended with omega-3, antioxidants, and super-green additives that supply 50 percent of your daily vitamins and minerals.
Blessed Protein
Blessed Protein carries a gluten-free, pea protein–based powder in three delicious flavors, which pack an impressive 23 grams of protein per serving.
Orgain
Orgain supplement shakes contain 21 grams of organic protein, 6 grams of fiber, and no added sugar. They even make a cold brew coffee with protein, so you’re getting those nutrients at the start of the day.
Nuzest
Nuzest packs pea protein and natural katemfe fruit sweetener into its powder, but that’s not all. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, probiotics, and enzymes are included for a more holistic form of nutritional support. You’ll be yelling, “No whey!” when you try Nuzest’s Clean Lean Protein. It is entirely vegan, has no sugar, and is a natural source of iron.
Ka’Chava
This shake is absolutely delicious. (I prefer the Vanilla flavor, but the Chocolate was good, too.) I could see myself drinking it just for the flavor. The best part of Ka’Chava is that it’s very thick in consistency, which makes you feel like you’re drinking a big rich smoothie without actually having to make one, and it actually keeps you full for several hours. If you have a fast-paced lifestyle and need a truly delicious meal substitute, this is what you’ve been waiting for.
Sprout Living EPIC
This reformulated version of the original protein powder includes a sizeable increase in the grams of protein, along with better taste and consistency. Try blending EPIC Original Protein with a banana, nondairy milk, and any other fruit you’d like for a refreshingly light and frothy meal replacement—it’s especially perfect for a breakfast on the go.
Sprout Living Simple Protein Pumpkin Seed
This product is made entirely of pumpkin seeds, which for those who don’t know, are incredibly nutritious. If you’re concerned about not only consuming cruelty-free products, but also eating as naturally as possible, this is a great option. It has a very light taste and would be delicious in a smoothie with banana and peanut butter.
22 Days Nutrition
This company uses organic pea protein, flax seed, and other whole ingredients to make its protein-charged products, which come in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and peanut butter flavors.
PlantFusion
My favorite thing about PlantFusion is how silky-smooth it is, which is perfect for anyone who usually has texture issues with protein powder. I found that the Chocolate flavor was very tasty and mixed well with the plant flavors.
VeganSmart
VeganSmart supplement shakes are available in four delicious flavors. The amino acids in this product create a complete protein, and will help to repair and build muscle.
PlantFusion: Complete Meal
I would highly recommend this option for anyone searching for more of a meal replacement than a basic protein powder. Instead of just protein, it simulates the nutrition of a healthy meal, with 15 g of complex carbs and 7 g of essential fats. The Chocolate Caramel smells and tastes like a little cup of heaven.
Sunwarrior
Chocolate has the best taste and consistency. This shake would be great for mixing into a smoothie or even just with some nondairy milk and a banana or other fruit.
Navitas Naturals
This hemp powder tastes fine alone or with a glass of soy milk, and it’s almost flavorless, except for a pleasant earthy undertone. If you already have a go-to smoothie that you make for breakfast or between meals, I would recommend adding several tablespoons of this hemp powder for extra protein and omega-3 fatty acids. If taste is an issue for you with other types of protein, give this one a try!
Puritan’s Pride
This protein supplement has a fine texture and mixes best with a blender ball. I’d suggest mixing it with a nondairy milk other than soy so that you’re getting nutrients from a mixture of sources. It would also be a good, simple option to take with you to the gym.
MRM Veggie Elite Performance Protein (Chocolate Mocha)
The taste of this supplement was really exceptional, and it mixed well with everything I tried it with. I even sprinkled in half a scoop with my oatmeal one morning, which in all honesty was a really great choice.
Philosophie Green Dream
I would definitely use the recipe on the package for a Green Dream smoothie (1 Tbsp. of the supplement, 1 cup of dairy-free milk, 1 cup of spinach, and one banana). The smoothie, which would be great for a breakfast on the go, was very delicious, and it feels really healthy and empowering to drink a whole cup of spinach!
Naturade Pea Protein
With a blender ball, the consistency is very light and frothy, so use it to follow up an intense gym workout. The flavor mixes great with vanilla almond or soy milk if you have it around, but it works just as nicely with water, too!
Other Supplements
Ultima Replenisher
This electrolyte drink is packed full of nutrients, without any added sugar. It truly tastes great, and I would suggest mixing different flavors together (like the Red Raspberry with the Lemonade). If you’re training for a race or doing lots of cardio, try this replenisher to stay hydrated. It’s also a great supplement to help prevent you from getting sick during the cold winter months.
Navitas Naturals Acai Powder
Although it doesn’t contain any protein, I would recommend adding this powder to a fruit smoothie or oatmeal for additional antioxidants and amino acids. It has a light, almost blueberry flavor that can be a very pleasant addition.
Navitas Naturals Cacao Powder
This unsweetened cacao powder is also a great choice for increasing antioxidants. I would recommend adding it to one of the chocolate protein powders on this list for additional rich chocolaty flavor that’s healthy!
Note: All samples were provided by the companies for an honest review.
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