Whey Protein vs Plant-Based Protein

Protein is an important nutrient for a healthy body, whether it is Whey Protein or Plant Protein. Protein nurtures bones, cartilage and blood also play a vital role in tissue growth and repair. 

When we talk about exercise, Protein performs three crucial jobs – repair, maintain and grow. During the workout, one intentionally breaks down muscles and protein helps repair and build them back. 

Protein can be consumed in different forms like lean meats, eggs, plant-based and as protein supplement powder. You should know the pros and cons of both plant protein and Whey protein before consuming it. 

What is Plant Protein and Whey Protein?

Plant Protein

It is the protein derived from the plants. Not all the plant-based protein versions are the same as Whey proteins. The most common plant proteins are pea, seeds, rice, hemp and soy. 

Whey Protein

The whey protein powder is made from milk. When we make cheese curds from the milk, the leftover liquid after separating from the milk to make the curd. The leftover liquid is used to make the Whey Protein Powder. 

Difference between Whey Protein and Plant Protein

  • Digestion

Whey Protein is a good-to-go option. But if you are lactose intolerant, avoid using whey. It might cause bloating, gas or discomfort all thanks to lactose. It is digested quickly and repairs & builds muscles. 

Plant-based protein is gluten-free, allergens free and are easily absorbed by the body. Plant proteins include hemp, pea, rice, seeds and quinoa. It is the main source of protein for vegans and vegetarians. 

  • Nutrients

To build muscles and for any good workout program, whey protein should be your choice. Whey Protein powder is filled with all the required nutrients. Also, it has a low-calorie value. But whey protein consists of artificial sweeteners and high saturated fat. 

Pea Proteins are more natural. The plant protein powder is made of ingredients like vitamins, nutrients, omega3 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is made from less processing. But, the plant-based protein powder contains a high carbohydrate quantity. Go for Whey Protein isolate, if you want to shed some pounds. 

  • Recovery and Muscle Building 

Whey protein offers all the nine amino acids needed for muscle growth. 9 amino acids in a protein make it a complete protein. If you want to make muscles and lose weight, whey protein is your product. However, whey protein doesn’t have a great taste. 

Pea protein increases muscle thickness as effectively as whey protein. Combined with other ingredients like quinoa and hemp, plant-based proteins can offer a good number of amino acids.

  • Effect on Environment

Whey protein is a way for manufacturers to reuse unwanted waste. When factories make yoghurt and cheese, they discard the whey as waste. Instead of wasting it, they turn it into protein powder. 

Plant-based proteins are environment friendly and help to protect the environment through organic farming. The plant protein powder process nourishes the earth and supplies the required minerals and water.