Living as a vegan athlete doesn't have to be hard if you add plant-based supplements to your diet. While meat is usually the most common source of protein for omnivores, for those of us who prefer a little less murder with our consumption, here's a peek at the best plant-based supplements for living a vegan lifestyle. And hey, even if you're not vegan, these are all great options for adding more protein or probiotics to your diet.
1. Plant-Based Protein Powder
Protein is the building block of amino acids, which are essential to a healthy life. Meat, dairy, and eggs are often sources of animal protein, but did you know you can get every bit of protein you need from plant sources?
Plant-based protein powders come from a variety of different sources, including peas and legumes, brown rice protein isolate, hemp protein, and even pumpkin powder protein. You'll want to read the ingredients label on the supplement you're considering to make sure it's not loaded with added sugars, artificial flavors, or a thickener like xanthan gum, guar gum, or lecithin.
2. Plant-Based BCAAs
Branch chain amino acids (BCAAs) are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle since there are nine essential amino acids. You cannot survive without essential amino acids, and traditionally, most of these are derived from animal sources.
However, there are some companies producing plant-based vegan BCAA supplements derived from corn and soy. Corn is usually favored in these products because it's not as much as an allergen as soy. It's important to note if you have a soy allergen, you should know whether or not the BCAA you're considering is derived from corn or soy.
3. Plant-Based Vegan Protein Bars
Getting enough protein in your diet as an on-the-go vegan can be rough, which is why plenty of companies are now producing vegan protein bars. These protein bars can replace the post-workout protein shake if you're in a hurry so you can get your nutrients without having to slow down.
Most bars contain at least 20g of protein that is derived from sources like hemp seed, which also includes Omega 3s.
4. Plant-Based Pain Management
Athletes are increasingly turning to the benefits of cannabidiols for pain management in their post workout routines, too. CBD Oil is a non-psychoactive by-product from cannabis production that doesn't generate the "high" feeling found in other cannabinoids like THC.
Research studies have shown that CBD may help reduce pain, have some anti-inflammatory properties, and could help relieve general discomfort from an intense workout. That sure beats popping some of those prescribed painkillers for your knee injury.
5. Plant-Based Priobiotics
Vegans may have problems with their digestion since many of the probiotics that are found in dairy products are off limits to us. But did you know there are plenty of plant-based foods that are loaded with probiotics to complement your diet?
If you're having trouble with digestion and think adding probiotics to your diet would help, consider sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, soy milk, kombucha, or other plant-based supplements for your dietary regimen. All of these foods are high in probiotics and can help even out your gut bacteria.