Vegan Protein

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food."
- Hippocrates

The two main factors that affect protein synthesis in cells are physical activity and the availability of nutrients. For athletes, nutrition plays a key role in determining their performance on the field.

Plant-based protein sources account for 65% of the world's supply of edible protein. Plant proteins are found in grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Smaller amounts can also be found in green vegetables. Additionally, hemp and algae are excellent sources of plant-based proteins.
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An Increasing Trend Among Athletes

In recent years, more and more athletes, such as Lewis Hamilton and Novak Djokovic, have announced that they follow vegetarian (lacto-ovo) or vegan diets for environmental, ethical, or health reasons.

With proper combination of plant-based foods, these diets can provide all the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed to enhance athletic performance.

Plants provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that enhance athletic performance. In terms of digestion, amino acid composition, and the presence of phyto-protective factors (such as phytoestrogens), plant protein sources can differ from animal-based ones.

Amino acids derived from plant proteins can be utilized for the synthesis of many bioactive compounds necessary for the normal structure and function of muscles.

Corn & Peas ✯ Soulmates in Nutrition

Corn and peas are like soulmates in the world of plant-based proteins, perfectly complementing each other to create a balanced and complete amino acid profile.

• Corn is rich in arginine, leucine, glutamine, and glutamic acid, but it lacks tryptophan and lysine.
• Peas, on the other hand, bring lysine to the table, filling the gap left by corn, while being slightly deficient in methionine.

Together, corn and peas are the perfect duo, forming a harmonious protein blend ideal for athletes striving for peak performance. Their synergy proves that when combined, they truly are better together.

Rice, being rich in methionine, is the perfect addition to the corn and pea combination. By including rice, the recommended amount of methionine is fully met, creating a nutritionally complete and balanced protein source.

High Quality protein

Plant-based proteins can contain all amino acids, but they are often deficient in certain amino acids. There are twenty amino acids (AA) linked by peptide bonds and arranged in various combinations and amounts. Nine out of these twenty amino acids are considered essential because the body cannot produce them, so athletes must obtain them through their diet.

Athletes need to consume the recommended daily amount of high-quality proteins as part of their diet.
Molecules that contain all twenty amino acids are considered high-quality proteins.
To ensure that all necessary amino acids are obtained from plants, specific food combinations are required.

Example: Combination of Legumes and Grains – Beans and Rice

Beans are rich in lysine, an amino acid that rice lacks. On the other hand, rice contains lower levels of lysine but is rich in methionine, an amino acid that may be present in smaller amounts in beans. By combining the two, they complement each other and provide a well-balanced amino acid profile.

To ensure a nutritionally complete diet, it is important to consult with a physician or sports nutritionist.

BCAA x Plant-Based

Leucine, isoleucine, and valine – the three branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) – make up approximately 50% of the essential amino acids in muscle protein.

• Leucine – Activates the muscle protein synthesis pathway. This role is crucial for the recovery of muscle fibers after training. Leucine can inhibit or stop the breakdown of muscle tissue, which may occur due to a caloric deficit during prolonged physical activity.
• Isoleucine – Plays a crucial role in muscle growth and recovery. It can also stimulate insulin secretion, helping maintain glucose homeostasis in the blood.
• Valine – Supports various biological processes, including cognitive functions. It plays a crucial role in muscle growth and recovery and can reduce muscle breakdown during physical activity. Additionally, valine can serve as an energy source during exercise.

Prolonged aerobic activity can deplete glycogen stores in muscles.
In such cases, muscles can utilize BCAAs as an energy source. Leucine, isoleucine, and valine can also reduce inflammation after physical activity.It is important to note that the effects of BCAA supplementation can vary depending on the dosage, duration of supplementation, type of exercise, and the individual characteristics of the athlete.When consuming plant-based proteins, it is essential to combine different food sources to ensure the intake of all essential amino acids.