What is Pea Protein?
November 17, 2021
Pea protein is a high-quality plant-based protein, as well as a great source of iron! It is known for aiding muscle growth, weight loss, and even heart health. The rising popularity of this supplement is due to it being one of the most hypoallergenic protein powders, as it contains no gluten, dairy, or soy. It’s also very easy to digest and won’t cause bloating- a common side effect of other protein powders.
Many people don’t know it, but there is actually a lot of protein-packed into a pea. The process for extracting this protein is done by grinding the peas into a powder, and then removing the starch and fiber, to leave a highly concentrated pea protein isolate.
What are the benefits of pea protein?
1. Weight Loss
Pea protein can be very beneficial, particularly if you’re looking to lose weight. In fact, a 2020 study by The American Society of Nutrition found that consuming a high-protein breakfast containing pea protein helped to increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation. Additional research also showed that pea protein matches dairy-based proteins, in its ability to help you feel fuller for longer!
2. Increases Muscle Mass
A 2015 study, published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, proved that pea protein was just as effective as dairy-based proteins at increasing muscle thickness after resistance training. It is suggested that the muscle-boosting benefits are due, in part, to the high quantities of L-arginine in pea protein, which is actually found in higher concentrations than in other protein powders. L-arginine is an amino acid that sends a signal to our muscle cells which encourages the release of growth hormone, aids in fat metabolism, builds lean muscle mass, and increases our body’s ability to burn fat.
3. Supports Heart Health
If maintaining or improving heart health is your goal, pea protein is a great choice! Animal studies have proven pea protein’s ability to combat the effects of hyperextension. This means pea protein has the ability to lower blood pressure. Additionally, pea protein has demonstrated an ability to decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. One animal study showed that pea protein effectively lowered both of these markers for cardiovascular disease, over the course of three weeks.
4. Blood Sugar Stabilization
All-natural protein powder supplements like pea protein can be beneficial when it comes to maintaining normal blood sugar levels. This can help reduce sugar cravings and boost satiety. Which can cause you to feel more full, and allow you to eat less.
Where can I find pea protein at MRC?
Introducing our new Plant-Based Metashake Chocolate! This is a delicious, nutrient-rich, meal replacement drink packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and vegetables. While the MRC Meta-Shake is not new, it has been reformulated to contain pea protein, versus its original whey protein formula.
With the new and improved Meta-Shake being added to our product line, we now offer three different sources of proteins in our supplements; pea protein, whey protein, and hydrolyzed gelatin. We are so excited to be able to offer all three because we know that all of our clients can have varying needs when it comes to nutrition. Additionally, rotating the types of protein powders that you use is a great strategy to make sure your body consistently benefits from each one, as much as possible. Give this plant-based protein a try today!