Today we take a look at the main differences between animal-based and plant-based protein shakes, as well as offer an additional selection of natural shake recipes that can incorporate your protein of choice.
Diet restrictions and allergies
A plant-based protein shake is the best option for most people with restrictive diets or food allergies. The exception are those who are allergic to any natural element contained in the base of the plant (such as coconut, for example).
A plant-based protein shake is best for people with the following dietary restrictions or allergies:
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Celiacs, Gluten Intolerance or Wheat Allergy
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Allergy to eggs
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Milk allergy or lactose intolerance
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vegetarians and vegans
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caloric restriction to lose weight
Digestibility
Humans are naturally designed to eat plants, which means our digestive systems are better able to do this compared to animal-based proteins. While the meat can be easily digested, humans were never meant to consume the milk of other animals, and in fact, they are the only species that does. If you want something that is highly digestible, without causing serious stomach issues, you should go for plant-based protein.
Ease of mixing
Plant-based protein shakes tend to mix more easily, although this varies depending on the exact brand and formula you choose. While it’s a seemingly small benefit, many consumers have expressed frustration with how difficult it is to mix animal-based protein shakes.
Bonus: natural smoothie recipes
These natural shake recipes work best with a plant-based protein powder, but can also be used with an animal-based one, if that’s what you’ve decided to use. Each of these makes a perfect breakfast or healthy dessert that will help those on muscle training programs get the calories they need each day. Each recipe is suitable for two people.
1: Peanut Butter Banana
Ingredients:
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1.5 scoops of your favorite chocolate protein powder
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3 bananas
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2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter
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2 cups of almond milk
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1 tablespoon organic honey or organic maple syrup
2: Berry Delight
Ingredients:
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1.5 scoops of your favorite vanilla or strawberry protein powder
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½ cup sliced strawberries
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¼ cup blueberries
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¼ cup blackberries
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1.5 cups of almond milk
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1 tablespoon organic honey or organic maple syrup
3: peach protein
Ingredients:
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1.5 scoops of your favorite vanilla protein powder
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1 cup peeled and diced frozen organic peach
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1.5 cups of almond milk
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1 tablespoon organic honey or organic maple syrup
4: Make your own!
To make your own recipe, simply follow the guidelines below to ensure proper thickness. Combine the following:
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1.5 scoops of your favorite protein powder (any flavor)
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1-1.5 cups of your favorite fruits or vegetables (spinach is a good vegetable choice)
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1.5-2 cups of liquid (almond milk, water, coconut milk, skim milk, ice cream, etc.)
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1 tablespoon sweetener (honey, maple syrup, fruit juice, etc.)