How to Find the Best Protein Powder Without Pea Protein
📌 Overview and Key Takeaways
This is a Nutrition Coach’s guide on how to find the best protein powder without pea protein.
Discover how to meet your protein needs without pea protein.
Protein Powder Without Pea Protein
Why Might Someone Want to Avoid Pea Protein?
Pea protein powder is an ultra-processed protein source.
It might contribute to digestive issues, and is notorious for having a chalky aftertaste.
Some brands are also high in sodium (300mg+ per serving) and high in purines, which break down into uric acid and might worsen gout in susceptible individuals.
Does Pea Protein Cause Digestive Issues?
Pea protein powder might contribute to digestive issues for some people.
It is made from green or yellow split peas, which are naturally high in protein, but do not contain enough protein by weight to be used as a protein shake or powder as is, so they require further processing.
To turn peas into protein powder, peas must be stripped of nearly everything but the protein, including the fiber and other natural compounds that help your body break them down.
For this reason, some people might experience digestive issues when they consume pea protein powders.
It is worth adding that some pea protein powders contain oligosaccharides (fermentable carbohydrates), which can cause bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort – especially in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Why Does Pea Protein Have a Chalky Aftertaste?
Many pea protein powders have an unpleasant chalky aftertaste because pea protein concentrates and isolates have been stripped of nearly everything but the protein.
Note that many companies try to mask this chalkiness with gums and other additives, which might not be something you want to add to your diet every day.
Research suggests that ultra-processed ingredients like these can alter makeup and function of your gut microbiome (North Clin Istanb, 2020).
Why Are Some Pea Protein Powders High in Sodium?
Some pea protein powders are high in sodium.
In fact, certain popular brands contain over 300 milligrams of sodium per serving.
Pea protein powders can be high in sodium because they are made from pea protein concentrates and isolates, which are often produced using a salt solution.
This matters because consuming too much sodium might contribute to high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for stroke and cardiovascular disease (Circulation, 2021).
Why Are Some Pea Protein Powders High in Purines?
Compared to many other plant-based protein sources, peas are relatively high in purines.
When your body breaks purines down, it creates uric acid, a waste product.
High levels of uric acid in the blood might contribute to gout, a form of arthritis marked by painful inflammation in the joints (Lancet, 2021).
Summary
More and more people seem to be looking for protein powder without pea protein.
Some simply do not like the chalky aftertaste; others do not like how pea protein makes them feel.
Whether you are looking for a better tasting alternative, or you have specific dietary concerns related to pea protein, you have come to the right place.
Keep reading to learn about the best protein powder without pea protein.
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What Is the Best Pea-Free Protein Powder?
There are many alternatives to pea protein powder.
If you are looking for a plant-based option, I highly recommend almond protein powder.
Almond protein powder is made from whole almonds, which are roasted, milled into a paste, pressed to remove most of the oil, and ground into a fine powder.
Unlike many pea protein powders, almond protein powder does not have a chalky aftertaste.
Many people also find it easier to digest.
Order Samples to see for yourself.
Sources
- Northern Clinics of Istanbul (North Clin Istanb). Food additives and microbiota. 2020.
- Circulation (Circulation). 2021 Dietary Guidance to Improve Cardiovascular Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. 2021.
- Lancet (London, England) (Lancet). Gout. 2021.
Editorial Guidelines
This article was written by a Certified Nutrition Coach and reviewed by a Registered Dietitian. We rely on peer-reviewed research and trusted medical sources, and regularly update our content to ensure accuracy and clarity.
Frequently asked questions
Who Is Drink Wholesome for?
Drink Wholesome makes protein powder for sensitive stomachs, GERD, IBS, and other gut issues. It’s suitable for most food sensitivities, including lactose intolerance, and won’t cause side effects like bloating, constipation, and reflux.
Why Is Drink Wholesome Good for Sensitive Stomachs?
Drink Wholesome is the best protein powder for sensitive stomachs because it’s additive, dairy, and gluten-free. It’s also made from minimally-processed protein sources like egg whites and almonds. Other protein powders are made from ultra-processed protein concentrates and isolates, which look nothing like real food.
What’s the Difference Between Protein Powder and Meal Replacement Powder?
Drink Wholesome makes gut-friendly Protein Powders and Meal Replacement Powders. Protein powder is high in protein and low in everything else, whereas meal replacement powder contains fats, carbs, fiber, and protein because it’s intended to replace the nutritional value of a balanced meal.
What’s the Difference Between Almond, Collagen, and Egg White Protein?
We make three types of stomach-friendly Protein Powder: Collagen Protein Powder, Egg White Protein Powder, and Vegan Almond Protein Powder. As long as you get protein from a variety of sources, any type of protein can help you meet your total daily protein needs. In other words, for someone with a balanced diet, there is no advantage to consuming one type of protein over another. Order Samples to see which type you like the most.
Ask Nutrition Coach
If you’re wondering which Drink Wholesome product is best for you, ask our Certified Nutrition Coach. For personalized medical advice, consult your healthcare provider.
High Protein Blueberry Pancakes
PREP TIME
5 min
COOK TIME
5 min
SERVES
2
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Drink Wholesome
- ⅓ cup flour
- 2 egg whites
- ¼ cup plant milk
- 1 tbsp nut butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 cup blueberries
Instructions
In a blender, combine the egg whites, milk, ¼ cup blueberries, and almond butter. Pour the mixture into a small mixing bowl and add the protein powder and flour. Whisk until smooth. Pour ⅓ cup batter onto a heated and greased (or non-stick) pan to form pancakes. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes. This recipe makes 4-5 pancakes. Then, in a small saucepan, heat ¾ cup blueberries and the maple syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes. Plate the pancakes and spoon blueberry jam on top.
Author(s)
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