5 Benefits of Pea Protein Powder
What is pea protein powder?
Pea protein powder is effectively exactly what it sounds like – protein obtained from peas in powder form. It’s made by drying and grounding peas into a fine powdery flour, mixed with water and removing the starch. This process leaves the pea protein with all its vitamins and minerals.
Peas are a legume that is naturally rich in protein and completely plant-based. Pea protein powder is a great alternative for vegans and for those who want to add more of this nutrient into their diet.
Pea protein powder is also usually dairy-free and soy-free, making it very easy for people with common allergens to dairy or wheat. As pea protein powder is plant-based it’s also much kinder to the environment, as it requires less water and energy to grow.
The benefits of pea protein powder
1. Pea protein is an excellent source of iron.
Iron is an essential mineral that serves an important role in the function of the human body. Its job is to help transport oxygen through the blood. Those who are iron deficient may be susceptible to anaemia, which may cause fatigue, brittle hair and nails, and more.
Women are particularly prone to iron deficiency, especially due to our menstrual cycle. Meaning that women require more iron than their male counterparts. Free Soul protein powder provides 43% of daily iron per serving.
2. Pea protein is a rich source of lysine.
Protein contains essential amino acids that are needed for the optimal function of the body. Your body is unable to make nine essential amino acids, meaning that this can only be obtained through consumption of foods. One of the amino acids that the body cannot produce is lysine, which is used to build connective tissues in our bodies, in our skin and bones.
3. Pea protein is easy to digest.
Peas are a legume, which typically contains very high fibre and starch making it difficult to digest and may cause gas and bloating. However, the process of making pea protein powder isolate removes most of the fibre and starch that would cause discomfort. This makes pea protein powder more easily digestible.
4. Pea protein has a low glycemic index.
A glycemic index is a number attached to foods which help to determine how quickly the body is able to digest it and turn it into glucose and energy. Foods with a low glycemic index mean that it would take longer for the body to digest.
This is ideal as it keeps blood sugar levels even, instead of causing an insulin spike. Foods with a low glycemic index are able to provide your body with more sustained energy for longer periods.
5. Pea Protein Is Great For the Heart
Pea protein could be your heart's new best friend. While the research is mostly from animal studies, it suggests that pea protein could help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Not bad, right?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pea protein made from?
Pea protein is created from yellow peas, which are part of the legume family. First, the peas are harvested and dried, then ground into a fine flour. To isolate the protein, the fibre and starch components are removed.
The remaining concentrated protein is further purified and then dried, resulting in pea protein powder.
This plant-based protein source is popular due to its hypoallergenic nature, digestibility, and high content of essential amino acids.
How long does it take to digest pea protein?
There's no hard and fast rule, but usually, it can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours to fully digest proteins like those found in pea protein.
The exact time can vary based on what else you've eaten and individual metabolic rates.
But the good news is, pea protein is known for being pretty easy on the stomach.
Is pea protein good for you?
Pea protein is not just good, it's great for you. The benefits of pea protein are plentiful. It's plant-based, so it's an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans, or anyone looking to diversify their protein sources.
It's loaded with essential amino acids that your body needs but can't produce on its own.
Plus, it's hypoallergenic and easy to digest. However, like anything else, it's all about balance. So, make sure to mix it up with other proteins and nutrients too for a well-rounded diet.
**At Free Soul, your well-being is our priority, and although we pride ourselves on our expertise in women's health and wellbeing, it is important to acknowledge the individuality of each person. Features published by Free Soul are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease, or replace the advice of your GP. We always recommend consulting with a healthcare provider if you encounter any health concerns, and we’ll always be here to support you so you’re never alone on your journey.
