A healthier life
Choosing the right protein can be confusing. There are so many different options for protein powders available on the market, so it makes sense if you’re left with a lot of questions about which one is right for you.
As a Registered Dietitian, I often recommend protein powders to my clients, and both pea protein and whey protein are some of my favorites.
Just like I would explain to my clients, this article will explain to you the benefits of both whey and pea protein, and will hopefully give you some clarity on which is best for you.
Pea and Whey Protein: My Go-To Recommendations
As a nutrition professional, my clients often turn to me for advice when choosing supplements. I never recommend products that I don’t fully support myself. As a matter of fact, Naked Pea protein and Naked Whey protein are two of my most common recommendations.
These two products offer a comprehensive blend of nutritional density and versatility. Regardless of your nutrition goals, consuming adequate protein is a vital piece of the nutrition puzzle across the board. There are so many people falling short of their protein needs on a daily basis.
However, with the addition of an easy and versatile protein supplement like Naked Pea or Naked Whey, my clients have a much easier time of reaching their goals.
Naked Pea and Naked Whey: What Makes Them Great Protein Options
I love recommending these products because they’re more than just a protein powder – rather, they’re products that commit to purity and quality. So when you consume them, you’re not just supporting your own health, but you’re also supporting a system that supports the farms and the planet.
I feel great about recommending both because they have a superior amino acid profile, they’re easy to digest and highly bioavailable, and there is significant research to support their use.
Naked Pea is especially exciting for a dietitian like me because it really only contains one ingredient: pea protein extracted from yellow split peas grown in the US and Canada.
This makes it the perfect choice for those who may have an issue with digesting a dairy protein. In fact, just like Naked Pea, Naked Whey also comes in an unflavored variety that contains only one ingredient: whey protein from pasture raised, grass-fed cows.
Further, I love that both Naked Pea and Naked Whey contain no artificial sweeteners or sugars added. Both also come in different flavors like vanilla or chocolate that have only three ingredients, with a mild taste fit for adults, so my clients have the option to choose the one they like best.
1. Amino Acid Profile: The Building Blocks
When choosing a protein, it’s important to ensure that it contains all essential amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and there are nine that are considered essential, meaning we must get them from food or supplements.
Luckily, both whey and pea protein have a great amino acid profile. While pea protein is slightly low in one amino acid called methionine, it’s highly likely that someone would get plenty of methionine in their diet so there is no need to be concerned about the marginally low amounts in pea protein.
Consuming adequate, high-quality protein is necessary for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Therefore, it’s important to choose protein options that contain all amino acids so you can be sure you’re giving your body what it needs.
2. Digestion and Bioavailability: Maximizing Nutrient Absorption
Have you ever wondered why some proteins leave you feeling bloated, while others don’t?
This often comes down to how well the protein is digested and absorbed in your body. Both whey and pea protein are easily digested if they do not have artificial ingredients added. This significantly minimizing the chances that you’ll feel bloated and uncomfortable after consuming them.
Plus, because they’re both easy to digest, your body can more efficiently absorb and utilize the nutrients.
However, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to dairy or lactose, choosing pea protein is a better option than whey.
3. Research Backing: The Scientific Stamp of Approval
As a registered dietitian it’s important to uphold a certain standard of medical practice. One of these standards is providing evidence-based care. This means that it is only acceptable to make recommendations based on practices that are supported in research.
Sure, recommendations are great, but as a dietitian I’m always going back to see what the research says on any given topic. Pea and whey proteins have a solid scientific foundation supporting their benefits. Numerous studies highlight the positive impact of incorporating these proteins into your diet.
Quality Matters: Not All Proteins Are Created Equal
Keep in mind that not all proteins are created equal, and it’s important to know what to look for so you can decipher between a low-quality protein supplement and an optimal, high-quality product.
Low-Quality Proteins from Unknown Sources
It’s important to always have a good understanding of where your food comes from – and supplements are no different. Sure, you can reach for any low-quality protein on the shelves at the store, but chances are you won’t know where the ingredients are coming from.
However, with Naked Pea and Naked Whey, you can be rest assured that Naked Nutrition makes it very clear to consumers where their supplements are coming from. For example, the peas in Naked Pea are from raw yellow peas grown in both the United States and Canada. Naked Whey sources whey from small dairy farms in the U.S. where the cows are grass-fed without any antibiotics or growth hormones.
If you don’t know where your protein is coming from, you might be risking your safety, and the supplement may not be as effective. It’s always a good idea to stick to reputable brands and products to ensure you’re putting the good stuff into your body.
Fillers and Additives Can Impact Digestion
Some protein powders contain extra ingredients such as fillers, stabilizers, or artificial sweeteners. All of these additives can negatively affect digestion and overall health.
When it comes to a healthy digestive system and flourishing gut microbiome, additives like sucralose or certain gums can impair the gut lining, in turn leading to leaky gut and inflammation.
Opt for products that are simple and clean and free of any additives to best support your health and well-being.
Excessive Sugar
Now, whenever I’m recommending a new product to any of my clients, I’m often considering taste at the top of the priority list. No one wants to feel like they have to drink a supplement that they hate the taste of.
If people don’t actually enjoy the taste of something, chances are it’s not a habit that will stick. But that’s the main problem with most brands – artificial sweeteners or sugars are added to mask the taste of the protein. It’s good for company profits but turns something that should be healthy into a supplement that I can’t recommend in good faith.
So I advise my clients, let your protein be protein without unnecessary sugar.
Added sugar not only adds calories but can also contribute to energy crashes and hurt your progress in achieving the body you want.
Instead, choose protein powders with little to no added sugar. The key with Naked proteins is to blend them with your favorite fruit and other ingredients of your choice. Bananas, blueberries, strawberries, kale, spinach, apples – create the flavor you want and get the nutrition you need while not compromising your diet and long-term goals.
What to Look For in High-Quality Pea and Whey
Now that we’ve navigated the things to look out for, let’s focus on what to look for in high-quality pea and whey proteins. Naked Pea and Naked Whey are two fantastic examples that embody the protein powder qualities you should look for when choosing a protein supplement.
Naked Pea and Naked Whey Are Clean and Effective
Naked Pea and Naked Whey are two of the cleanest and most effective options when it comes to protein powders.
Sourced from trusted farms, helping to nourish healthier people and a healthier planet.
The minimal, clean ingredients allow for a potent and effective protein supplement, regardless of if you choose Naked Whey or Naked Pea.
Why Naked Pea and Naked Whey Are Different From Other Products
Naked Pea and Naked Whey stand out not just for what they contain but for what they don’t. Neither product contains any artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners – which makes it really easy for me to recommend as a Registered Dietitian.
The company behind the products, Naked Nutrition, is committed to shortening the steps between their farms and the consumer. They also ensure that every product is independently third-party tested for heavy metals to ensure the utmost safety.
Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Protein Game with Naked Protein
Choosing the right protein for your diet is a game-changer. Pea and whey proteins, especially when opting for premium options like Naked Pea and Naked Whey, offer a clean and effective way to meet your nutritional needs.
