What is the best paleo protein powder?
If you are looking for the best paleo protein powder, you have come to the right place. In this article, you will learn how to find a paleo-friendly protein powder so you can easily increase your protein intake without upsetting your stomach. This article was written by Jack Schrupp and Brittany Adelman, RDN.
Protein powder and the paleo diet
What is the paleo diet?
The paleo diet is all about eating like our ancestors ate 10,000 years ago – during the Paleolithic era. In a nutshell, it stresses eating whole foods over processed ones. Paleo-friendly foods include meat, fish, eggs, seeds, nuts, fruits and vegetables.
If you insist on avoiding processed foods altogether, then protein powder is not an option. If you are willing to compromise somewhat on what constitutes “processed food,” however, then there are a few paleo protein powder options, including collagen protein powder, egg white protein powder, and almond protein powder.
What are the benefits of the paleo diet?
Given all of its dietary restrictions, you might be wondering: why would someone ever follow the paleo diet?
The paleo diet can be appealing to individuals seeking to alleviate symptoms associated with chronic illnesses, digestive issues, and autoimmune conditions by eliminating potentially inflammatory foods. Athletes and health enthusiasts also choose paleo for its focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods, which can support physical performance and recovery. Other benefits of the paleo diet include:
–Enhanced weight management: By prioritizing low-carb, high-protein foods, the paleo diet can support weight management by increasing satiety. Protein is the most satiating nutrient, meaning it keeps you feeling full for longer than fats and carbs.
–Improved digestive health: By eliminating processed grains and refined sugars and prioritizing minimally-processed whole foods, the paleo diet can improve gut health. Some may even experience relief from digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and indigestion.
–Balanced blood sugar and improved energy levels: The paleo diet, because it naturally limits carbohydrate intake and prioritizes foods rich in protein and fiber, can minimize fluctuations in blood sugar. This leads to fewer energy crashes and more sustainable energy throughout the day.
–Better skin health: The elimination of processed foods and refined sugars from your diet can often lead to clearer, healthier skin by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, two common culprits behind skin issues like acne and eczema.
It is important to keep in mind that there is no such thing as a “one-size-fits all” diet, so paleo may or may not be right for you. For personalized nutrition advice, it is recommended that you consult a registered dietitian.
What is the importance of protein?
Eating protein-rich foods is foundational to the paleo diet. It is also essential for overall health and well being.
Dietary protein provides your body with the essential building blocks for muscle repair and recovery, helping you get the most out of exercise. It is also essential for hormone production and regulation, helping you manage everything from stress to metabolism.
Protein even plays an important role in supporting your brain health. The amino acids found in dietary protein serve as precursors to neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that facilitate communication within the brain. By eating enough protein, you support cognitive health, focus, and mental clarity.
Understanding the benefits of protein is one thing, but getting an adequate amount throughout the day can pose a challenge. This is where paleo-friendly protein powder comes in. Keep reading to learn more.
Is protein powder paleo?
Finding a protein powder for the paleo diet is hard because 99.99% of protein powders are not paleo. For starters, most protein powders are made with either whey, soy, or pea protein, none of which are paleo. Whey protein comes from milk, and soy and pea protein come from legumes. Milk and legumes are not allowed on the paleo diet.
The real reason why most protein powders are not technically paleo, however, has nothing to do with the type of protein. Save for a handful exceptions, most protein powders are not paleo because they are made with protein concentrates or isolates. Protein sources like these heavily-processed ingredients are stripped of everything but the protein. They were absolutely not on the menu during the Paleolithic era, and cannot be part of a Paleo diet.
Another reason why most protein powders are not compatible with the paleo diet is that they contain added ingredients like emulsifiers, thickeners, flavors, and sweeteners. Food additives like these, including natural flavors and natural sweeteners like stevia, are not paleo.
Here is a list of the most common food additives in protein powder:
acacia fiber, acacia gum, acesulfame potassium, artificial flavors, ascorbic acid, aspartame, calcium carbonate, carrageenan, cellulose gum, dextrin, dicalcium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate, erythritol, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, inulin, locust bean gum, maltodextrin, mono- and diglycerides, ‘natural’ flavors, rice bran extract, rice dextrin, rice hulls, rosemary extract, silica, silicon dioxide, sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, soluble corn fiber, soy lecithin, sucralose, sunflower lecithin, tocopherols, tricalcium phosphate, xanthan gum, xylitol, zinc oxide
Why collagen, egg whites and almonds?
Here are a few reasons why we use collagen, egg whites, and almonds in our paleo protein powders.
1. Collagen, egg whites, and almonds are allowed on the paleo diet. They are excellent sources of paleo protein, each with its own unique health benefits.
2. Egg whites are minimally-processed. Of all the dietary protein sources used to make protein powder, egg whites require the least processing. All that is required to turn an egg white into protein powder is pasteurization and dehydration.
3. Almonds are delicious. Unlike plant protein concentrates and isolates, which have been stripped of everything (fats, carbs, etc.) but the protein, almonds do not have a gritty texture or chalky aftertaste.
4. Collagen is easy to digest. Our collagen protein powder is made with bovine collagen peptides, which are very tiny pieces of cowhide. Because they are already broken down, collagen peptides are easy to digest and absorb.
The best part about our paleo protein powders is the variety. With three different sources of protein to choose from, and both flavored and unflavored varieties, there is something for everyone.
drink wholesome is the best paleo protein powder
We make the best paleo protein powder because we use a short list of simple ingredients free from food additives, dairy-based proteins, and protein concentrates and isolates.
egg whites, coconut, vanilla, monk fruit
the alternative:
Protein Matrix Comprised of (Whey Protein Concentrate, Whey Protein Isolate, Calcium Caseinate, Micellar Casein, Milk Protein Isolate, Egg Albumen, Glutamine Peptides), Polydextrose, Sunflower Creamer (Sunflower Oil, Corn Syrup Solids, Sodium Caseinate, Mono- and Diglycerides, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Soy Lecithin, Tocopherols), Natural and Artificial Flavor, MCT Powder (Medium Chain Triglycerides, Nonfat Dry Milk, Disodium Phosphate, Silicon Dioxide), Lecithin, Cellulose Gum, Salt, Yellow 5, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, Papain, Bromelain
Note that instead of using protein concentrates or isolates, we use whole food protein sources like collagen, egg whites, and almonds. Simple protein sources like these are easy to digest and absorb. They also each bring a unique set of digestive benefits to the table.
Collagen has been shown to reduce bloating and improve digestive symptoms. Almonds are rich in prebiotic fiber and improve the composition of your gut microbiome. Egg whites are alkaline, meaning they balance the pH levels in your gut, and promote the growth of good gut bacteria.
Our customers thus experience fewer digestive issues with our paleo protein powder than with any other type of protein supplement. Order samples to see for yourself.
How to safely follow a paleo diet – tips from a registered dietitian
If you are currently following a paleo diet or interested in starting one, you want to make sure you are doing it safely. Here is what a registered dietitian recommends doing:
- Go slow! Transitioning to a paleo diet is a significant lifestyle change that should not be rushed. Instead of diving in headfirst, take it slow. Spend some time planning out your dietary changes, considering how meal planning and grocery shopping might differ from your current habits. Removing food groups gradually can make the transition feel more manageable and sustainable.
- Monitor for nutrient deficiencies. As you make the switch, be vigilant about monitoring for nutrient deficiencies. Since the paleo diet involves cutting out several food groups, you may need to supplement certain nutrients to ensure you are meeting your body’s needs. Paleo-friendly protein powders can also be a convenient way to boost your protein intake and fill in protein gaps in your diet.
- Make sure you are eating enough. One common pitfall to avoid is undereating. Drastic dietary changes can disrupt your eating patterns and make it harder to make food choices or plan for meals. Be sure to eat enough to fuel your body properly and avoid any negative impacts on your metabolism.
- Check in with your relationship with food. The restrictive nature of the paleo diet can inherently lead to feelings of deprivation or guilt. Remember to approach food with mindfulness and self-compassion, and seek support if needed to maintain a healthy relationship with eating.
- Get creative! Experiment with different recipes to keep the paleo diet fun and interesting. This is hugely important for finding long-term success.
- Allow for personalization and flexibility. Recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the paleo diet. Make your dietary choices based on your personal needs and dietary preferences. Allow for flexibility in your eating habits and do not feel confined by strict dietary rules. You can still reap the benefits of a paleo diet without feeling like you have to adhere to a rigid set of guidelines.
By implementing these recommendations into your paleo journey, you can be sure to optimize your nutrition and support your health goals, all while maintaining a safe and healthy relationship with food.
What are some of the best ways to use paleo protein powder?
Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate paleo-friendly protein powder into your diet.
Berry Almond Paleo Protein Bowl
Ingredients:
-1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
-1/2 cup spinach
-1 serving drink wholesome unflavored almond protein powder
-1/2 banana
-1/4 cup almond milk
-toppings: sliced banana, shredded coconut, chia seeds, nuts
Instructions:
In a blender, combine frozen mixed berries, spinach, almond protein powder, banana, and almond milk. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with sliced banana, shredded coconut, chia seeds, and nuts for added texture and flavor.
Paleo Protein Zucchini Bread
Ingredients:
-2 cups grated zucchini
-2 cups almond flour
-3 servings drink wholesome unflavored almond protein powder
-3 eggs
-1/4 cup raw honey
-1/4 cup melted coconut oil
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-1 tsp baking powder
-1 tsp cinnamon
-pinch of salt
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with coconut oil. In a large mixing bowl, combine grated zucchini, almond flour, almond protein powder, eggs, honey, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the zucchini bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy a slice as a nutrient-packed breakfast or snack option!
Paleo Protein Chocolate Avocado Pudding Recipe
Ingredients:
-2 avocados
-1/4 cup cacao powder
-1/4 cup drink wholesome unflavored egg white protein powder
-1/4 cup raw honey
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-pinch of salt
-toppings (optional): sliced strawberries, chopped nuts, shredded coconut
Instructions:
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocados, cacao powder, egg white protein powder, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste the pudding and adjust sweetness as needed by adding more honey if needed. Transfer the pudding to serving bowls and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before eating. Once chilled, top the pudding with sliced strawberries, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or your favorite toppings. Serve and enjoy!
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. drink wholesome is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
