Going plant-based isn’t easy. Everyone has different reasons to go plant based, be it ethical, environmental, economic, health or religious reasons. Vegan, vegetarian, plant-based, flexitarian, pescatarian; you define yourself.
There is a common misconception that all proteins are created equal – this is not the case. Protein sources are not equal in their ability to build or repair muscle:
Complete proteins are considered high-quality proteins and are commonly found in animal foods such as whey, eggs, fish, meat and cheese.
Incomplete proteins refer to proteins that are missing one or more of the nine EAAs, resulting in a lack of balance in the protein. Plant foods including beans, specific nuts and tofu are a couple of examples of incomplete proteins – eating them alone will not give all amino acids your body needs.
Complementary protein refers to two or more foods containing incomplete proteins that are combined together in a meal to form a complete protein. Grains and legumes are called complementary proteins because when you combine them, you get all of the essential amino acids.
Whilst it is entirely possible to survive and thrive on incomplete proteins in small amounts, there are some situations, such as sport, where plant-based foods alone don’t stack up. In any sport which requires strength and power, additional high-quality protein is required in your diet. The recommendation for athletes is between 1.2 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight.
A great way to include sufficient, high-quality protein in your diet is by using a plant-based protein shake such as Balance Plant Protein. A good-quality protein shake ensures that you conveniently get all of the amino acids your body needs in the right quantities.
Balance Plant Protein is a natural and vegan-friendly, smooth blend of pea protein, organic brown rice protein concentrate, chia protein and sacha inchi powder. With the inclusion of essential BCAAs, glutamine and digestive enzymes, this superior-tasting protein blend is scientifically developed to enhance your sports nutrition needs.
Balance Plant Protein is made in New Zealand using quality imported and local ingredients. Available in five great-tasting and versatile flavours, you can mix it with water, your choice of liquid, or add it to your favourite smoothie recipe. Balance Plant Protein can also be added to foods to boost your protein intake.
