Every cell in the human body contains protein! There are over 10,000 types of protein found in everything from your organs, to your bones, muscles, skin and hair. Protein plays a key role in the production and maintenance of cells in our bodies and are vital for good health along with beautiful hair, skin and nails.

Protein is made up of over 20 different amino acids. Our body does not store amino acids, they are either made from scratch or by modifying existing amino acids. Nine of these 20 plus amino acids are considered ‘essential’. Essential amino acids are not made by the body, and therefore must be obtained through your diet. When you consume sources of protein, the body breaks this protein down into amino acids which are then used for natural body functions such as tissue building and repair.  Protein is also a key building block of collagen, with proline, lysine and glycine required for collagen creation.  Without adequate levels of protein, our beauty can definitely be compromised with skin that is less plump and firm, brittle nails and hair which is thin or falls out more frequently than normal.

The Natural Academy of Medicine recommends that adults consume a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein for every kg of body weight per day. Protein deficiencies can lead to growth failure, loss of muscle mass, decreased immunity and can weaken the heart and respiratory system! Consuming adequate protein in your diet (with vegan protein sources such as beans, lentils, chickpeas and grains) as well as supplementing with a protein powder can help to provide your body with all essential amino acids required for optimal building and repair.

There are so many different types of protein supplements on the market, and choosing the right one can be quite a daunting decision! The two key types of protein powder includes whey and plant-based protein.

Plant-based protein

Plant-based protein is exactly what you think it is – protein derived from plants! There are many different sources of plant-based protein, which are often combined to produce a protein supplement with a complete essential amino acid profile. Types of plant-based proteins include:

Pea Protein – made from yellow split peas and is packed full of isoleucine, valine and leucine - three essential amino acids needed for muscle growth.

Brown Rice Protein – is gentle on the gut and easy to digest. Brown rice protein has a naturally high nutritional ratio of protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. This protein however is lower in lysine and cannot be considered a complete protein on its own.

Hemp Protein – is high in omega 3 and 6, and is a wonderful source of zinc, magnesium and iron! 

Whey protein powder

Whey protein is sourced from dairy, and is extracted from the liquid part of milk during the production of cheese. Once it has been separated during cheese production, whey is heavily processed to become what we recognize as Whey Protein. Whey proteins generally contain the complete essential amino acid profile.

Plant-based vs Whey Protein – Why the vegan option is just as good (if not better)

Both plant-based and whey proteins are effective in facilitating fat loss, muscle growth and repair, and building strength! Both proteins also have the ability to deliver the body a complete essential amino acid profile. Whey is a complete protein on its own, while plant-based proteins can become complete when combined. For example, a combination of pea protein and brown rice protein will create a complete protein, providing all nine essential amino acids.  

While both proteins are equally effective in this sense, there are quite a few reasons why plant-based protein reins out on top and why we prefer to use it in our products:

Digestion – plant-based proteins are less likely to cause an inflammatory response to the digestive system vs their whey counterparts, and are often boosted with digestive enzymes to facilitate digestion. Easier digestion also means better absorption, and therefore faster delivery of these essential amino acids to your cells.  

Fuller for longer – plant protein is metabolised slower than whey protein, and has been shown to keep you fuller for longer.

Clean – Whey protein doesn’t have a great taste naturally, so is typically mixed with artificial flavours and sweeteners. If you are after a natural and clean protein, opt for plant-based!

Sustainable – producing plant-based proteins is far less taxing on the environment than whey proteins, and uses far fewer natural resources. If the health and sustainability of the planet is a concern, plant-based proteins are the way to go!

Extra nutrients – Plant proteins are abundant in fibre and antioxidants, which whey protein and other animal derived protein sources are low in or lacking completely.

Complexion Protein +

Plant-based pea and rice protein powder, with added complexion benefits.

Complexion Protein+ contains highly bio-available plant-based protein, along with skin loving superfoods and nutrients designed to support healthy collagen formation, tissue building and repair, and deliver essential minerals for beautiful and radiant skin. 

This vanilla flavoured protein powder provides: 

Support for healthy collagen production – A blend of organic brown rice and sprouted pea protein provide a complete amino acid profile. Combined with zinc and vitamin C rich superfruits, this formula provides the body with building blocks to support healthy collagen production.

Connective tissue building & repair – Complete pea and rice proteins provide support for healthy tissue building, muscle support and repair.  

Protection – Australian natives abundant in Vitamin C provide co-factors required for healthy collagen synthesis whilst also protecting existing collagen.

Enhance your natural radiance –  Rice Peptides, vegan Hyaluronic Acid, Red Marine Algae and organic Tremella Mushroom enhance your natural radiance and make you feel more confident in your skin.