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Soy protein powder is rising in popularity as a dairy free, plant-based protein powder. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for a whey protein alternative that doesn’t break the bank. In this article, we’re diving into the benefits of soy powder for your health and the best soy protein powder to choose.
What is soy protein?
Soy protein is a protein removed from legumes called soybeans. The process creates soy isolate, which you can turn into protein powder.
Is soy protein good or bad for you?
There are multiple advantages of using soy, alongside aspects that you may want to take into consideration, (which we’ll address in this article).
Benefits of soy protein
Soy protein is excellent for your health. Here are some of the best soy protein benefits:
Bursting with plant-based protein
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Protein is necessary to build and repair muscle, fortify bones, and strengthen your heart. It also provides elasticity to cells for bouncy skin and helps synthesise keratin, which makes up hair strands.
Although soy free whey powder is high in protein, it can contain a high percentage of fat. The good news is that soy isolate protein powder is high in protein with a very low amount of saturated fat. Soy based protein powder is also low in carbohydrates, making it a great protein source if you follow a ketogenic diet.
Grape Tree Soy Protein Powder contains a whopping 90 grams of protein per 100 grams. So, even a small amount can instantly elevate your protein levels.
Aids weight loss
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The high protein content and low saturated fat percentage make soy protein beneficial for weight loss. It keeps you full for longer by slowly releasing energy, without consuming excess lipids. Soy protein shakes for weight loss can also decrease insulin resistance, so the body is able to process and remove glucose without it building in your bloodstream.
Better for the planet
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Soy has the lowest carbon footprint compared to animal based alternatives, including whey protein powder, which produces double the greenhouse emissions. This is because soy needs less land and water to grow compared to looking after animals. Vegan soy protein is also cruelty-free.
Valuable source of nutrients
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Soy doesn’t just provide protein, it also has a wealth of nutrients that benefits your body. It’s incredibly high in iron, a mineral which is vital for energy. Iron helps transport oxygen around your bloodstream so it can reach essential organs like your heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and brain.
Soybeans are rich in potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6. Not only are these vitamins and minerals great for more energy, they help improve your sleep-wake cycle. Also known as the circadian rhythm, the sleep-wake cycle is when your energy levels rise throughout the day to make you feel alert, and drop in the evening for a better sleep.
Drawbacks of soy protein
Soy is not for everyone and you may prefer to stick to other plant based alternatives. Below are some issues you may experience when consuming soy isolate protein.
Can cause digestive issues
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Soy protein comes from legumes, a fibrous plant source that can be difficult for some people to digest. This is especially true if you currently have a low fibre diet. Digestive issues include stomach cramping, bloating, and excess gas.
If you don’t consume much fibre, but want to try soy protein, incorporate it slowly into your diet. Try a small amount at first and see how your body reacts before increasing your intake.
May provide the body with too much oestrogen
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Soy mimics the hormone oestrogen, which is naturally higher in women than men. Too much oestrogen can cause a hormonal imbalance, creating mood swings, weight gain, and tiredness. Overconsumption of the plant-based protein can also manifest as irregular periods. However, soy’s ability to replicate oestrogen may alleviate symptoms of menopause, which is when oestrogen levels decline.
Negative effects of soy are usually only triggered by consuming an excessive amount of soy protein, without enough variety to your diet. An overload of oestrogen from soy is unlikely, and overall it’s proved very beneficial for health and wellbeing.
Not suitable for soy allergies
Some people have a soy allergy, and consuming the bean can cause an upset stomach. It could also make you feel more sluggish and sleepy rather than energised. If you have a soy allergy but still want plant based protein, try a dairy and soy free protein powder. You can find a list of options later in this article.
The best soya powder
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When choosing a soy protein, look for one that’s high in protein and low in sugar and saturated fats. You can buy bulk soy protein with Grape Tree, which has 0% sugar and only 2 grams of fat. Use the powder to make a soy protein drink or bake into cakes for a protein increase.
How to use organic soy protein powder
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The neutral flavour of soy means it’s easy to add to products and skyrocket your protein intake. Below are some of our top suggestions:
- Soy based protein shakes - Soy milk is an excellent dairy alternative that still provides plenty of protein. Add soy to shakes alongside other nutrients like oats, berries, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.
- Make vanilla soy protein powder - Soy is a great base to make any flavour protein powder you’d like. Add vanilla essence for vanilla soy or try strawberry extract, lemon juice, or raspberry essence for a fruity flavour.
- Soy porridge - Porridge, or oatmeal, makes a fantastic, fibre-fuelled breakfast to keep you going until lunch. Combine oats and milk, then mix in soya protein powder for an even more energising breakfast. You may want to add a little water to ensure the mixture is loose enough.
Soy free protein powder alternatives
Boost your body with Grape Tree’s organic soy protein
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Incorporating more protein into your diet is an excellent way to stay fit and healthy, and soy is an excellent place to start. Check out Grape Tree Soy Protein Powder for a 90 gram per 100 gram protein boost today.
