What Is Pea Protein?

I’ve heard so much about pea protein. But what is pea protein? I think it’s simply a plant based powder made out of peas. It’s usually used to increase the protein content in smoothies and shakes.  It’s also used in some packaged foods like veggie burgers, vegan mayo and a subsitutute for dairy in some ice creams.  Pea protein is made from extracting the powder from green and yellow split peas.  The peas are the same ones used to make split pea soup.  Pea protein is a healthy alternative to whey protein and other animal derived powders. There are also several other types of powders such as soy protein, rice protein, and hemp protein.

 

The pea is most commonly the small spherical seed or the seed-pod of the pod fruit Pisum sativum. Yes, peas are a fruit because they have a seed.

 

Benefits of Pea Protein

There are many benefits to pea protein. The list below can help you determine if pea protein can help you in your everyday life. It’s always best to eat a well-balanced healthy meal each day but when that is not possible be sure to supplement. Supplementing with pea protein can provide great benefits as you can see in the list below.

• Contains all essential amino acids
• High in fiber
• High in iron and calcium
• High in protein and carbs
• Plant based
• Low in fat
• Aid in muscle growth
• Aid in heart health
• Gluten free
• Dairy free
• Promotes kidney function
• Balances blood sugar levels
• Naturally vegan
• Rich in arginine

 

According to Wikipedia, Arginine, also known as l-arginine, is an α-amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. It contains an α-amino group, an α-carboxylic acid group, and a side chain consisting of a 3-carbon aliphatic straight chain ending in a guanidino group. In a nutshell, it helps the body build protein and is found in pea protein.

Branched chain amino acids is a group of three essential amino acids known as valine, isoleucine and leucine. It’s helpful to take in order to boost muscle growth and enhance exercise performance. You can consume branched amino acids in the following foods: corn, chickpeas, lentils, brown rice, baked beans, lima beans, beef, chicken, fish and eggs.

=>>Be aware pea protein is not for people with gout due to the purines<<=

=>>Always consult a doctor when taking supplements<<=

How to choose a pea protein powder

Choosing a pea protein can be overwhelming because there are so many choices. It’s important to choose a good quality pea protein so that you know you are getting the best nutrients. I tend to focus on choosing an organic based pea protein but it’s also a good idea to read reviews. If you are shopping online check the ingredients and choose the pea protein powder with the least amount of unknown ingredients in the list. Pea protein can be purchased from vitamin stores, organic grocery stores and online stores such as Thrive Market. Thrive Market is a membership based grocery store that delivers healthy organic selections directly to your front door. Try it today by clicking here.

I’ve also found pea protein in the following products from yoursuper.com: Skinny Protein Mix, Muscle Power Mix, Plant Collagen Mix, and Chocolate Protein Powder. I use Plant Collagen and I really like mixing it into my coffee every morning. I feel good and my skin health is so improved! The added benefit of pea protein is great to start my day. Try it today by clicking here. You can also read more about healthy powders in my article what is plant collagen by clicking here.

=>>Always buy organic<<=

=>>There are no side effects<<=

Also be sure to check out my other article What is Moon Balance by clicking here!

Nutritional Facts about Pea Protein

According to healthline.com, research shows pea protein is one of the more easily digested plant-based proteins just behind soy and chickpeas. I always suggest buying organic. Pea protein powders offer a variety of nutritional benefits.

In general you can find the following in 2 scoops of powder: Calories 80, Protein 15 grams, Carbs 1 gram, Fiber 1 gram, Total fat 1.5 grams, Sodium 230 mg, Iron 5 mg

DIY Basic Pea Protein Powder

It is possible to make your own pea protein powder. I will outline the steps here.

• Step 1: Gather 2 cups of dried yellow peas, fresh filtered water, paper towels, large bowl, large baking sheet, blender, and mason jar with lid.
• Step 2: Rinse dried yellow peas under running water inside a colander. Check that there are no rocks or clumps of dirt.
• Step 3: Soak the yellow peas overnight making sure they are completely covered with water. Cover with plastic wrap for at least 8 hours. After soaking drain the peas and rinse well with running water. Peas will expand over the 8 hours as they soak.
• Step 4: Sprout the peas next by placing them on a wet paper towel and then laying another wet paper towel on top to cover them. Add plastic wrap and leave in the bowl for 24-48 hours or until they sprout. Store the bowl at room temperature during this process.
• Step 5: Dry the pea in the oven on a baking sheet at 115F for 12 hours. Peas are done when they are crunchy.
• Step 6: Once the peas are dry pour them into a blender until they turn to a powdery consistency.
• Step 7: Store in a mason jar with lid on.

Below is a video about pea protein and how it’s made:

I hope this information helps you understand more about what is pea protein?  I’m so glad that it is in so many products that I like to buy. Have you tried pea protein? Please share in comments below your experience with pea protein products.

 

Check out my article on Hemp Protein

 

 

 

 

 

 

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