Whey Protein vs. Plant-Based Protein

Which Protein is Better for Your Health and Fitness Goals

The battle of which protein powder is good and helps you reap the maximum gain to reach your fitness goals, is subjective. Generally, everyone's body type and lifestyles are different, as are their dietary habits; therefore, when it comes to whey protein vs. plant-based protein, it is based on personal preference.

Finding a suitable whey protein may involve some trial and error. You must make an informed decision by considering your goals, dietary needs, quality, allergens, and reviews and seeking expert advice. We hope this write-up brings you closer to the protein scoops that are apt for you. 

The selection of protein sources generally depends on individual dietary restrictions and preferences, such as being vegan or lactose intolerant. But when selecting a protein powder among plant or whey, the following things should be considered before you opt for one:

Which One Has Complete Protein?

Answer: Whey protein

Whey protein is the complete protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids the body cannot produce and must obtain from the diet. These essential amino acids are necessary for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, immune system function, and the production of hormones and enzymes.

Plant-based proteins are not considered complete proteins because they lack one or more of the essential amino acids. However, different plant-based protein sources, such as beans, rice, tofu, and quinoa, are combined to get complete proteins. For some, it may be a task they want to avoid engaging in their busy lives. 

P.S: If you are not vegan or lactose intolerant and do not, as such, suffer from digestive issues, you may go with whey protein if getting complete protein is your consideration. 

Which One Has More Protein Per Scoop?

Answer: Mostly whey protein 

The ones who take their fitness goals a bit more seriously are particular about their daily protein intake. The amount of protein per scoop is generally higher in whey protein than most plant-based protein powders. It depends mostly on your specific brand and type of protein powder. 

P.S. If more protein per scoop is your game plan, check for good brands like IN2 and compare the protein level of whey and plant proteins for the right decision. 

Which One Is Better For Losing Weight?

Answer: Both, in their own way

Both whey and plant protein can supplement even weight loss when consumed as part of a balanced diet and exercise routine.

Whey protein helps to support weight loss by keeping you fuller for longer, leading to a calorie deficit, thus resulting in overall weight loss. 

Regularly consuming whey protein helps you transform body composition by increasing lean muscle mass and reducing body fat.

If you are vegan or lactose friendly, you will mostly be opting for plant-based proteins, and they are a good option for weight loss as they have a low-calorie count. They are sustainable proteins that support weight loss. They are loaded with additional health benefits, such as fiber and antioxidants, which may aid in weight loss.

P.S. No single food or supplement can cause weight loss. Weight loss requires a comprehensive approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, healthy lifestyle habits, and dedication. 

Which One Is Ideal For Muscle Building? 

Answer: Mostly both, but the higher preference is for whey protein

Protein-rich food or protein powders support weight loss in the following ways:

• Supply the necessary building blocks, i.e., protein, to repair and build muscle tissue.
• New muscles are built with muscle protein synthesis. The amino acids in protein powders, particularly the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), stimulate muscle protein synthesis and promote muscle growth.
• Protein powder aids in muscle recovery after intense exercise by speeding up recovery time and reducing muscle soreness.

As we know, whey proteins have the complete amino acid profile, i.e., the nine essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle tissue. It makes it a far better option for faster nourishment of all proteins to the sore muscles for a quicker MPS rate and faster recovery. 

Plant-based proteins are also suitable for muscle building, but you may have to create a blend of more than two-three plant proteins as no plant-based protein powder has the complete set of amino acids. 

P.S. Both types of protein can help you build muscle, and the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. 

Which One is More Value For Your Money? 

Answer: It entirely depends on the brand you are choosing, so choose wisely.

In general, plant-based protein powders are more expensive than whey protein powders. The primary reason is that plant-based protein powders are often more complex and require more processing to extract the protein from the plant source. The makers of plant-based protein powders add more ingredients such as fiber, probiotics, or superfoods, which can increase the price. 

Whey protein powders are often less expensive as they are derived from a common byproduct of the dairy industry. 

The crux of every one's value for money ultimately depends on their individual needs and preferences. Have dietary restrictions such as lactose intolerance or a vegan or vegetarian diet, then irrespective of the cost, plant-based protein powders may be a better option for you. Whey protein powders are a suitable choice for anyone and everyone who is looking for a quick and affordable protein source. 

Before we rest the debate of Whey Protein vs. Plant-Based Protein, let us understand different protein requirements. 

Protein Requirements

Children: Children between the ages of 1-3 years require about 13-19 grams of protein daily. Children between the ages of 4 and 8 need about 19-34 grams of protein daily.

Adolescents: Adolescents between the ages of 9-13 years require about 34-52 grams of protein per day, and adolescents between the ages of 14-18 years require about 46-62 grams of protein per day.

Adults: Adults require about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. It means a person weighing 68 kg (150 lbs) needs about 55 grams of protein daily.

Pregnant and lactating women: Pregnant and lactating women require additional protein to support the growth and development of the fetus or baby. Pregnant women and lactating mothers should aim for about 71 grams of protein per day.

Now that we know the varied protein requirements depending upon age and gender. Let us discuss its sources; depending upon one's eating choices, these are the protein sources available. 

Protein powders are a great way to supplement the required intake.

Animal-based proteins:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Fish (e.g., salmon, tuna, cod)
• Dairy products (e.g., milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Eggs

Plant-based proteins:

• Legumes (e.g., lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans)
• Nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, chia seeds, hemp seeds)
• Grains (e.g., quinoa, brown rice, oats)
• Soy products (e.g., tofu, tempeh, soy milk)
• Vegetables (e.g., spinach, broccoli, peas)

Protein powders:

• Whey protein isolate
• Casein protein
• Plant protein 

Besides the facts mentioned above, it is entirely on you to choose between Whey or Plant protein as per your fitness and health goals.