4 Common Myths about Plant-Based Proteins, Debunked

There's no denying that plant-based proteins are becoming more popular each year. In fact, about 6 out of 10 Aussies are interested or have tried plant-based meat products. But what exactly are plant-based proteins? And are they healthier than animal-based proteins? 

Plant-based proteins are proteins that come from plants. This includes proteins from beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Unlike animal-based proteins, plant-based proteins are low in saturated fat and cholesterol and are a good source of fibre.

Given the benefits of plant-based proteins, there are still a lot of myths surrounding plant-based proteins. Here are four common myths about plant-based proteins, debunked: 

Myth 1: Plant-Based Proteins Are Incomplete Proteins.

When it comes to protein, there are a lot of misconceptions out there. One of the most common is that you can only get complete proteins from animal sources. This simply isn't true! There are plenty of plant-based foods that contain all the essential amino acids your body needs to function properly. 

Some plants are better sources of specific amino acids than others. For example, grains and legumes are good sources of the amino acid lysine, which is important for tissue growth and repair, and helps the body absorb calcium. Nuts and seeds, on the other hand, are an excellent source of methionine, another essential amino acid, and helps the body produce enzymes and hormones.

Myth 2: Plant-Based Proteins Are Not as Bioavailable as Animal-Based Proteins.

Another common myth is that plant-based proteins are not as bioavailable as animal-based proteins. This simply isn’t true. Plant-based proteins are also just as bioavailable as animal-based proteins. This means that your body can absorb and use plant-based proteins just as well as it can absorb and use animal-based proteins.

Some plant-based proteins are more bioavailable than animal-based proteins. For example, the protein in soy is more bioavailable than the protein in beef.

Myth 3: You Can’t Build Muscle with Plant-Based Proteins. 

The last myth that a lot of people think is that plant-based proteins can build muscles. This myth is simply not true! You can build muscle with plant-based proteins just as easily as you can with animal-based proteins. 

In fact, some plant-based proteins are even better for building muscle than animal-based proteins. For example, the protein in soy is more efficient for building muscle than the protein in beef. 

Myth 4: You Need to Eat More Plant-Based Protein to Get the Same Amount of Protein as from Animal Sources.

There is a common misconception that in order to get the same amount of protein from plant-based sources as from animal sources, you need to eat more plant-based protein. This is simply not true.

While it is true that animal sources of protein are generally more concentrated than plant-based sources, you can easily get the same amount of protein from plants with a little planning. For example, a 3-ounce serving of chicken breast contains about 27 grams of protein, while a 1-cup serving of cooked lentils has about 18 grams of protein. So, if you eat a cup of lentils along with a half-cup of rice (2.2 grams of protein), you'll get the same amount of protein as you would from the chicken breast. 

Of course, there are some plant-based proteins that are more concentrated than others. Soybeans, for example, are a very good source of protein, with a 1-cup serving providing 28 grams. But you don't need to eat soybeans at every meal to get enough protein. A variety of plant-based foods can provide the protein you need, so long as you eat enough calories overall.

Conclusion

Plant-based proteins are just as good as animal-based proteins and even more. There is no need to worry about getting enough protein from a plant-based diet. With a little planning, you can easily get all the protein you need from plants. 

If you're looking for a nutritious way to fuel your body, look no further than Purpose Nutritions. We offer a variety of plant-based proteins and other nutrition supplements to help you reach your fitness goals. Our products are designed to support your body and help you stay energized throughout the day. Let us help you fuel your body for success! Check out our products today!