Unveiling the Facts: A Comprehensive Exploration of Plant-Based Protein Safety
The straight answer to the Question “Is Plant Protein Safe?” is: Yes plant proteins are completely safe, and in some cases even better than whey and animal protein. Yes, these have a few constraints and that is, All the essential amino acids rarely come from one source, so a mix of two or more protein sources is required, for example, a mix of pea and rice, a mix of Almond and flaxseed, or a mix of Almond and garbanzo beans and so on. But to this later, let me first share with you the research and studies done on this subject so that the question “Is Plant Protein Safe?” can be answered.
Is Plant protein safe? Is it safe to consume? Please read the Comprehensive study.
In recent years, plant-based diets have gained immense popularity for their perceived health benefits and environmental sustainability. As more people shift towards plant-centric lifestyles, questions about the safety and efficacy of plant proteins have surfaced. In this comprehensive blog post, we will try and explain the safety of plant proteins, focusing on a unique blend composed of almond, flaxseed, and turmeric, after all Sheer MADness the natural Plant protein that is completely free of chemicals is primarily made of these ingredients.
Let us dig things deeper in regards to whether Is Plant Protein Safe? or Not?
Safety of Plant Proteins:
Plant proteins have always been a part of a balanced meal, all this confusion arises since there are few brands that use loads of chemicals to process the protein just to create “Plant Protein isolate” and “Plant Protein concentrate”. And even add more chemical additives, preservatives, etc. And due to these chemical-filled protein powders generally available in the market, all the confusion arises.
Always remember: “Your daily intake of protein will be the same whether it comes from animal or plant sources”.
Protein is a vital part of a balanced diet. It plays a role in most bodily functions, from cell repair and hormone production to muscle building and blood clotting. For the body to operate as it should, a person needs an adequate amount of protein from food.
Plants too provide the essential amino acids you need.
The quantity of protein is only half the truth, its quality plays a role too. We depend on the protein in food to get the nine essential amino acids our bodies need. While meat and milk source is a “complete” protein as explained earlier because they contain all the essential amino acids consuming a combination of two or more varieties of plant proteins provides the same result in a healthier package. Due to the presence of high fiber, numerous minerals, and vitamins, plant protein is not only considered safe but even more beneficial than protein sources from animals, and I have answered it numerous times. One must visit our page: What is Protein? , and read my blogs: Blogs on Food and Diet.
Research and Studies on Plant Proteins and their safety.
Title: “Dietary Protein Sources and the Risk of Stroke in Men and Women”
Reference: Hu, F. B., Stampfer, M. J., Manson, J. E., Rimm, E., Colditz, G. A., Rosner, B. A., … & Willett, W. C. (1999). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 69(2), 147-152.
This study explores the associations between protein sources and the risk of stroke, emphasizing the safety of plant-based protein sources in comparison to animal-based proteins.
Title: “Plant Proteins in Relation to Human Protein and Amino Acid Nutrition”
Reference: Millward, D. J. (1999). The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 70(3), 491S-498S.
The paper discusses the nutritional aspects of plant proteins in human diets, highlighting their safety and importance in meeting protein and amino acid requirements.
Title: “Nutritional and health benefits of dried beans: A review”
Reference: Mudryj, A. N., Yu, N., & Aukema, H. M. (2014). Canadian Journal of Plant Science, 94(3), 389-394.
This review focuses on the safety and health benefits of dried beans, a significant plant protein source, discussing their role in promoting cardiovascular health and managing chronic diseases.
Title: “Health effects of vegan diets”
Reference: Craig, W. J., & Mangels, A. R. (2009). The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 89(5), 1627S-1633S.
The study explores the health effects of vegan diets, which primarily rely on plant protein sources, emphasizing their safety and nutritional adequacy when properly planned.
Title: “Dietary protein and amino acids in vegetarian diets—A review”
Reference: Mariotti, F., Gardner, C. D., Lofgren, I. E., & Lifschitz, C. H. (2019). Nutrients, 11(11), 2661.
This comprehensive review delves into the safety and nutritional aspects of plant-based protein sources in vegetarian diets, providing insights into their adequacy and benefits.
While these studies may not explicitly address the safety of specific plant protein blends, they contribute to the overall understanding that plant proteins, when part of a balanced diet, are generally safe and associated with various health benefits.
For easy representation sharing a short video on Protein Safety.
Let us now understand what makes Sheer MADness even better in regard to Plant Protein’s Safety.
1) It is made up of Almond, Flaxseed, and turmeric as the main ingredients.
2) It is completely free of chemicals in any form.
3) Even the ingredients used for taste and flavours are natural like cardamom and cocoa.
4) High in fibers, vitamins Omega 3, and numerous micro minerals, and all naturally.
The list goes on and on.
Let me now break down the safety and benefits of at least the two major ingredients that constitute almost 70-75 percent of the blend.
Almond Protein’s Safety:
Almonds are generally considered safe for consumption and are associated with numerous health benefits. Research has consistently shown that almonds can be part of a healthy diet, providing a range of essential nutrients and promoting overall well-being. Here are some key findings from research on the safety of almonds:
Nutrient-Rich Profile:
Almonds are a nutrient-dense food, rich in monounsaturated fats, protein, fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin E), and minerals (including magnesium). These nutrients contribute to heart health, weight management, and overall nutritional balance.
Heart Health:
Numerous studies have investigated the cardiovascular benefits of almonds. Research suggests that incorporating almonds into the diet may help improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL cholesterol levels, which is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
Blood Sugar Control:
Almonds have been studied for their potential role in blood sugar control. Some research indicates that almonds may help stabilize blood sugar levels, making them a suitable snack for individuals with or at risk of type 2 diabetes.
Weight Management:
Several studies have explored the impact of almonds on weight management. Despite being energy-dense, almonds may contribute to satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight maintenance.
Antioxidant Properties:
Almonds contain antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants play a role in reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage.
Gut Health:
Almonds, as part of a diet rich in fiber, may contribute to gut health. Dietary fiber supports regular bowel movements and helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
Nut Allergy Considerations:
While almonds are generally safe, it’s crucial to note that they are tree nuts, and individuals with tree nut allergies should avoid them.
Flaxseed Protein’s Safety:
Flaxseeds are commonly recognized as a nutritious food with potential health benefits, and research suggests that they can be safely incorporated into a balanced diet. However, it’s important to note that individual responses to foods can vary, and moderation is key. Here are some key findings from research on the safety of flaxseed consumption:
Rich in Nutrients:
Flaxseeds are a good source of essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid), fiber, lignans, and various vitamins and minerals.
Heart Health:
Research indicates that the omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds may contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation. These factors are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
Digestive Health:
The soluble and insoluble fiber content in flaxseeds supports digestive health. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements, helps prevent constipation and contributes to healthy gut microbiota.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Lignans, present in flaxseeds, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may contribute to reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Blood Sugar Control:
Some studies suggest that flaxseeds may have a positive impact on blood sugar levels, potentially benefiting individuals with or at risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cancer Prevention:
The lignans in flaxseeds have been studied for their potential role in cancer prevention, particularly in hormone-related cancers such as breast cancer. However, more research is needed to establish conclusive evidence.
Safety Concerns:
In general, flaxseeds are considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, there are certain considerations:
Whole flaxseeds may pass through the digestive system undigested, so ground flaxseeds or flaxseed oil may be preferred for better absorption of nutrients.
A Point to note in regards to Is Plant Protein Safe? for Humans:
As with any dietary change, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions or concerns.
So we see that Natural Plant Protein powders from Sheer MADness are completely safe and in fact rich in various nutrients. And since the products are completely free of chemicals in any form, making it the best natural plant protein.
Conclusion on the topic “Is Plant Protein Safe?”
In summary, plant proteins, when introduced mindfully, are completely safe as long as the person consuming it is not allergic to the ingredients the plant protein contains.
Now, here are Few Facts before I finish:
These are the same lines from my book “Great Health Comes from Exercise & Nutrition”
a) Everyone is an individual, so what suits me, may or may not suit the next person.
b) If a person has a medical condition, a doctor’s advice and prescribed medication will only help.
c) While buying any protein powder from the market read the labels carefully, and Watch out for various codes, and words like Anti-caking agent, and INS 551( Also known as Silicon dioxide), All these are Laboratory made chemicals, and although approved by regulatory bodies think twice, will you consume a spoon of Silicon dioxide? And Silicon dioxide is just one product, there are numerous others like BHA ( Butylated hydroxyanisole ), BHT ( Butylated hydroxytoluene ) and the list of lab-made chemicals goes on and on with various codes, that we generally ignore.
Hence read the labels especially the ingredients list of the product before buying.
If you are interested in buying chemical-free Natural vegan Protein powder, Health drinks for kids or our delicious but chemical-free Energy bars and Protein bars shop @ Sheer MADness.
One can also buy our Products From Flipkart, Jio Mart or ONDC in India.
d) Exercise is the key to fitness, we should always keep in mind that exercise and nutrition are two sides of the same coin and always go hand in hand. So only nutrition will not help you attain any goals till it is not supplemented with Exercise.
e) Excess of anything is wrong, it can be the best nutrient-filled superfood, but one should consume only recommended quantities.
f) Regarding health, fitness, and nutrition, remember that Rome was not built in a day. Your discipline and consistency is the key.
g) It’s not only Exercise and protein that builds muscles, there are numerous other factors like a healthy gut, numerous macro and micronutrients, your body type and DNA, the amount of rest the body gets, the lifestyle an individual lives, and on and on it goes. Out of all these, exercise and nutrition are within our control, and one should focus on these two primary aspects.
h) For More benefits related to Vegan Protein Powder, I will request you to read the Post: Muscle Growth to Health, Plant Protein Powders are the future.
i) To clear any doubt related to the topic of “Protein” I would request you to read my post “Protein, Everything you should be aware of.”
j) And the most important part: Nothing is better than a balanced meal.
Article by Chef Ashutosh Awasthi.
Disclaimer: Our products are a source of HEALTHY NUTRIENTS and COMPLETELY FREE OF ANY ADDED CHEMICALS.
We do not claim to cure any medical condition.
The information provided is informational, and we do not claim to diagnose or treat a person with any specific medical condition.