plant protein

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I have never been a big supplement person. However, protein powder has been a staple in my diet for as long as I can remember.  Why?  Two main reasons: its an easy way to consume a complete protein and it is a quick way to consume a complete protein.  When you finish a hard workout session one of the first things that sets in is hunger.  More importantly then settling an empty stomach is re-fueling your body with the right food!  Within 30 min. of a hard workout you should be consuming quickly digesting carbohydrates with a small amount of protein.  Your body will digest both the carbohydrates and protein best post workout in a liquid form.  Drum roll please... SMOOTHIES!  My favorite post workout fuel.  My smoothies usually consist of either water or homemade almond milk (recipe to come soon) as a base, un-sweetened acai smoothie packet, frozen or fresh fruit (mango, blueberries or banana usually) and a scoop of protein powder.

In the past year I have been using Hemp Protein powder.  Hemp protein contains all 10 essential amino acids and is very alkaline forming in your body.  However... the texture and taste in my smoothies was just not cutting it.  I had also been reading that the combination of pea protein isolate and rice protein was the best in terms of absorption and digestion.  Pea protein is absorbed easily and full of amino acids.  Rice protein is high in iron and potassium.  I recently discovered Lifetime's Life Basics Plant Protein.  It is a combination of pea, rice and hemp protein!  And it contains Chia seed (high in omega fats)!  Not only does it contain all of the ingredients... but it tastes good!  almost too good.

Plant proteins are easy to digest and are alkaline forming in the body.  The Life Basics Protein has 22 grams of protein in 1 scoop!  Here are more details from the company:

Life basics® Plant Protein is an easy-to-digest, energy-boosting protein source for vegetarians, athletes, or anyone seeking a superior-quality protein source they can use every day*. Rich in omega 3-6-9 essential fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, Life’s Basics® Plant Protein features the following groundbreaking vegetarian protein profile:*

• Pea Protein Isolate - Brimming with vital biological value and balanced nutrition, pea protein isolate is highly regarded for its ease of absorption. Pea protein isolate is also well-utilized by the body and is not deposited as fat. Packed with amino acids, pea protein isolate may offer benefits for healthy weight management and peak athletic performance.*

• Rice Protein Concentrate - This complex carbohydrate delivers a broad profile of amino acids, in addition to naturally possessing essential nutrients like thiamin, iron, phosphorus and potassium. Life’s Basics® Plant Protein stays true to nature, using only the most sophisticated, cutting-edge methods to extract its high-quality rice protein concentrate.*

• Organic Manitoba Harvest Hemp Protein - A balanced, complete source of vegan protein containing all 10 essential amino acids, hemp has achieved “whole body superfood” status for its far-reaching health-promoting properties. Hemp’s soluble fiber may help to promote healthy digestion, while its essential fatty acids have been shown to help support overall well-being.*

• Chia Powder - This exciting superfood was a staple for Incan, Mayan and Aztec cultures for it endurance-boosting and medicinal properties. Today, health-conscious masses have rediscovered chia’s power to support peak vitality! Chia’s soluble fiber absorbs more than 12 times its weight in water, which may help to promote a feeling of fullness, prolong hydration, and enhance endurance – perfect for anyone on a healthy weight management and exercise regimen.*

To your health,

C