3 Reasons You Want No Sugar Plant Based Protein Powder
Protein powders are a popular way to build muscle, recover from workouts or simply add more protein to your day. But not all protein powders are created equal. One of the most...
Protein powders are a popular way to build muscle, recover from workouts or simply add more protein to your day. But not all protein powders are created equal. One of the most important things to check is whether it contains added sugar. Here are three reasons a no-sugar plant-based protein powder is worth choosing.
1. Less added sugar in your day
Added sugar is common in protein powders, especially flavored ones, and it adds up fast if you have a shake every day. The American Heart Association links high added-sugar intake with obesity and heart disease risk, and suggests most women keep added sugar to about 100 calories a day (around 25 grams) and most men to about 150 calories a day (around 37 grams).1
A powder with several grams of added sugar per scoop can eat up a real chunk of that before breakfast is over. Choosing one with none keeps that budget free for the foods you actually love.
2. You control the sweetness
With a no-sugar base, you decide what goes in. Blend in a banana, a handful of berries or a date if you want it sweeter, and you get fiber and nutrients along with the sweetness.
One thing to watch: "no sugar" often means a sweetener has taken its place. Read the full ingredient list so you know what you're getting. Some people prefer to skip stevia or erythritol. Our Optimal Plant Protein uses monk fruit instead.
3. A lighter footprint for the planet
Plant-based proteins are also a win for the environment. A large analysis of global food systems found that plant proteins like peas generally have a much smaller environmental footprint than animal proteins, including lower greenhouse gas emissions and land use.2 Choosing a plant-based protein powder is one easy way to make your diet more sustainable.
The bottom line
A no-sugar plant protein powder helps you cut added sugar, lets you control the sweetness, and is easier on the planet. When you shop, check the "Includes Added Sugars" line on the nutrition panel and the full ingredient list. Our sugar-free protein powder guide explains what "sugar-free" and "no added sugar" actually mean on a label.
Our Optimal Plant Protein has 26 grams of organic pea and brown rice protein, 0 grams of sugar and just 4 ingredients, with no dairy, soy, stevia or seed oils.
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