Debunking negative connotations about plant-based protein

 

There are numerous negative connotations and associations surrounding plant-based protein. For example, I have heard things like they are less effective for muscle building, less nutritious, or even deemed as incomplete for lacking certain amino acids. Through research, I have come to find that these are, in fact, not true. Today, I will be debunking many myths in the gym community that help you make a more informed choice about what you put into your body!

 

·     Myth 1: “Less Effective for Muscle Growth”

 

One of the most persistent myths in the fitness world is that plant-based proteins are inferior to animal-based proteins when it comes to muscle growth. For one, I know this isn’t science-based, but more so a stereotype they associate with plant-protein. A plant-based diet is what vegans practice, with a low protein intake, and they are generally on the slimmer side because they don’t prioritize muscle growth, they just know its benefits! You don’t have to be a vegan to reap these benefits, further meaning you can keep all your gains and possibly be the biggest in your gym lol. This usually happens when people don’t care to understand something, so they accept the misinformation spread in the community. I don’t exclude myself; we are all victims of this and for this reason, we all ought to practice more caution.

The main thing spread is that only whey or other animal-derived proteins can support muscle synthesis and athletic performance. However, research has consistently shown otherwise. When consumed in adequate amounts, plant-based proteins are just as effective as their animal-based counterparts in promoting muscle growth and recovery. In fact, studies demonstrate that consuming high-quality plant proteins post-exercise can stimulate muscle protein synthesis on par with whey protein.

More athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts are making the switch to plant-based protein as the misinformation is being called out! They are continuing to see gains without sacrificing performance. The key lies in consistency and making sure you're getting the right amounts of protein and essential nutrients. You should really make the switch today, I mean it won’t hurt.

 

 

·     Myth 2: “Plant protein isn’t as nutrient dense.”

 

Another common misconception is that plant proteins are less nutritious than animal proteins. While animal proteins may be more concentrated sources of certain nutrients, plant-based proteins bring a unique set of benefits to the table, many of which animal proteins simply can't offer. Based on science and research I’ve done; I am very convinced that plant-based proteins are more nutritious than animal-based proteins in certain ways. If you think about it, there’s got to be a reason our parents were so adamant about telling us, “Eat your veggies.” Now I’m not going to be the person to go off the deep end and become vegan, it’s just not my thing. However, I think we should level the playing field by seeing vegetables just as nutritious or more (in different avenues) than meats.

Hear me out: plant proteins often come with added nutritional bonuses such as dietary fiber, antioxidants, essential vitamins, and minerals. These compounds not only support muscle function but also promote long-term health by reducing inflammation, aiding digestion, and improving heart health. See what I mean? This isn’t stuff they tell us about. Well, maybe I’ll take that back as I reminisce on dozing off in my high school nutrition class. But nonetheless, we’re here now and we have got to take advantage of this information.

Additionally, organic plant-based proteins are typically free from antibiotics, hormones, and GMOs. This makes them a cleaner, more sustainable choice for individuals looking to prioritize both their health and the health of the planet. Still considering making the switch? How could you not want to save your planet? I’d better never see you celebrate Earth Day again, and I mean it! If you’re still on the fence, maybe this third myth debunked will help.

 

 

·     Myth 3: “Plant-based proteins lack BCAAs (Amino Acids.)”

 

Perhaps the most misunderstood topic when it comes to plant-based protein is the notion of “incomplete” amino acid profiles. While it's true that not all plant-based sources contain all nine essential amino acids in a single serving, this doesn’t mean they are insufficient.

With the right combinations or formulations, plant proteins can easily provide the full spectrum of essential amino acids, including the crucial BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids)—leucine, isoleucine, and valine—which are vital for muscle recovery and growth. Picture these like the big 3, and guess what? We have them in our powder.

At ELAV8, our plant-based shake is carefully crafted to include all three BCAAs, along with eight essential vitamins that directly support lean muscle development and accelerated fat loss. We formulate with intention, so you get a complete nutritional profile without compromise. Check us out by clicking “all products” at the top of this blog page!

  

Conclusion

The bottom line is we should all rethink what we know about protein. The more people dig into the truth found in research, they convert their source of protein to plant-based. While doing this, you will see that the negative connotations out there aren’t as true as they seem! In our blogs at ELAV8, we seek to spread awareness and truth regarding nutrition so you may take care of your body for both now and in the long run. Check out our blog titled “Nutrition” to uncover more facts in consolidated articles just like this one!

 

I hope this blog helped you, and if so, leave a comment about what stood out the most to you in this article. Blessings to you, and until next time, my friend!

 

Written by Zaire Wyman