Thinking of enhancing your nutrition with a protein powder? Our in-house nutritionist, Rick Hay, explains which one he recommends and why.
Choosing a protein powder can be confusing as there are now so many on the market - it’s a cliche, I know, but when it comes to protein powders they are not all created equal.
Having said that, I have been recommending Sunwarrior Plant Based Protein for many years now and I do so with ongoing confidence for many health reasons.
The range is USDA organic and it’s raw and vegan with no added sugar either which is a bonus.
It is gluten, dairy, and soy free also, which makes it a good choice if the system is allergenic or if inflammation is an issue.
One of my all-time favourites in the range that I recommend to athletes or to those who are exercising is Sunwarrior Warrior Blend - and to keep everything as natural as possible I recommend trying the Natural Flavour.
It has 20g of plant-based protein per serve.
The raw, vegan protein blend of yellow peas, goji berries, and hemp seed ensures the delivery of a full amino acid profile.
The yellow peas are rich in fibre and have the added benefit of being low calorie - they contain lysine, arginine, glutamine, leucine, isoleucine & valine to help with sports performance and muscle recovery.
They help to keep blood sugar levels steady and contribute to healthy digestive function also.
The Himalayan goji berries are full of antioxidants, vitamin C, and carotenoids. These nutritiously dense super fruits contain all of the essential amino acids also.
Vitamin C helps the body during times of stress - both physical and mental with the carotenoids helping to keep the immune system strong.
They have been used traditionally to keep energy levels up and as a health tonic to keep the immune system strong.
The hemp seeds are a complete protein source - they are easily digested and assimilated and are rich in fibre, chlorophyll, healthy fats and many vitamins and minerals including magnesium and iron.
Hemp seed is a complete protein source and contains chlorophyll for natural cleansing and essential fatty acids which help with hair, skin and nail health. Essential fatty acids also have a role to play in natural energy production, cognitive function and mood.
The Warrior Blend range also contains medium chain triglycerides from coconuts to help boost energy levels naturally.
They assist with mental energy and performance, reduce lethargy and fatigue and contribute to improved stamina.
MCT’s are also rich in branch chain amino acids to help with sports performance and the all important muscle recovery.
Together with 20g of raw plant-based protein per serve Warrior Blend also provides 5g of dietary fibre to help with feelings of fullness, 34mg of calcium to help with bone health as well as an energy and immune boosting 9mg of iron.
The delivery of quality plant-based protein to the system within 30 minutes of exercise helps with lean muscle development, fat burning and toning and for these reasons I recommend having a Warrior Blend Smoothie or Shake whilst working out or within 30 minutes of the completion of exercise.
Mix, shake, or blend 1 scoop with 250 - 300 ml of your favourite non-dairy beverage.
You could add some berries or a fruit and vegetable combo to the blend too, if you wanted to use it as a healthy breakfast or snack option.
It makes a delicious dessert too.