Protein is such an important nutrient that our body needs. It helps in building muscles, repairing tissues, and maintaining healthy skin and hair. Yet, most people don't eat enough protein, especially on courses of traditionally dieting, as in India.

Enter protein powders: A quick and easy ways to add more protein into your daily routine. Easy to use, versatile, and of many types. But why would you want or need to use them? Let's get into exactly what protein powder is and why it matters.

Consequently, many of us think that protein supplements are only for bodybuilders or people who spend much time in the gym. That is a big myth. Actually, all people need protein regardless of their fitness goals or activity level. Though bodybuilders and athletes indeed require more protein to repair muscles and build strength, the need for protein goes far beyond the gym.

The Importance of Protein in our Everyday Life

The reason every human needs proteins, even though they are not working out, is because proteins are the building blocks of one's muscles, tissues, skin, enzymes, and hormones. It is very important in immune function, metabolism, and even wound healing. 

According to ICMR, the average adult needs 0.8g of protein per kilogram of body weight. This will represent the minimum required to keep the muscle mass going, repair of tissue, and the body functions in a healthy state. Among people who do not have enough protein, the symptoms that are usually experienced are fatigue, slow metabolism, weakened immunity, and poor recovery after being sick or after having exercise.

Most people don't think that such everyday activities as walking, lifting things, or just maintaining posture require protein to fix minor muscle damage and other losses in tissues. Whether you are a career professional, a student, or a homemaker, your body still requires a dependable supply of protein for optimal functioning.

Furthermore, with age, one naturally loses muscle mass within the body and hence requires protein in high levels to maintain strength and prevent diseases like sarcopenia. This is not specifically for gym-going people, but anybody who wants to live a healthy and balanced life.

Protein Deficiency in Indian Diets

The daily dietary intake of 0.8-1g protein per kg of body weight is recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research. The simple truth, though, is that research shows 80% of Indians do not get enough protein in their diet. Deficiencies in proteins may lead to loss of lean muscle mass, fatigue, and increased recovery time post-workout. Most people hardly know that they are protein-deficient. For example, a typical vegetarian diet in India, which often relies on carbohydrates like rice and chapati, may lack sufficient protein sources unless carefully balanced with dals, beans, and dairy products. People seem to think they get adequate protein from sources such as dal (lentils) or paneer (cottage cheese).

These foods are great sources, but more often than not, they aren't enough. Traditional protein powders have become very valuable in filling these gaps, especially for those who remain more active or wish to build muscle.

Traditional Protein Powders: Are They the Best Option?

When you think of protein powders, you probably think of whey protein. Whey is a by-product of milk and has been popular for many years. It's especially common in the fitness world. But whey protein isn't for everyone. Here's why:

1. Digestive Issues

Whey comes from dairy. So, many people, especially those with lactose intolerance problems, cannot properly digest the substance. This might cause bloating, gas, or even discomfort after having whey protein shakes.

2. Allergic Reactions

Animal-based protein powders may cause allergic reactions. These include skin rashes, inflammation, and digestive issues for some people. Such reactions render the traditional protein powders unsuitable for many.

3. Additives and Chemicals

Most of the mass-produced protein powders will contain artificial sweeteners, preservatives,  artificial flavors, emulsifying agents, and maltodextrin. While they do provide protein, they also introduce unwanted chemicals into your system. Over the long term, these additives, such as thickeners, stabilizers, anti-caking agents, and synthetic colorings, can make them less healthy options.

4. Acidic and Inflammatory

Certain animal-based protein powders are acidic in nature. In other words, they inflame the body-in fact, doing the opposite of what one would want-and delay recovery.

5. Environmental Impact

Animal-based proteins, such as whey, possess a greater carbon footprint and consume a lot of water and energy to produce. Whey involves you contributing to environmental stress.

The Plant-Based Protein Powder Revolution

Luckily, there's a better way around this: plant-based protein powders are on the rise, not only healthier but much better for the environment. One popular option happens to be Alpino's Supernatural Peanut Protein Powder in Dark Chocolate.

Let's take a closer look at why plant-based protein powders, especially Alpino's-are raising the bar.

Benefits of Plant-Based Protein Powder

• Easy to Digest
  Plant-based proteins are always easy on the stomach. Alpino's protein is from peanuts, hence soft and lightweight with no disturbances in the gut, also without bloating or gas. This will make it a perfect option for people who are lactose intolerant or have sensitive stomachs.

• High in Protein
  With 24g of protein per serving, Alpino's protein powder should be able to keep you building muscle, recovering from a session, or just keeping your nutrition in check. It offers a complete amino acid profile, essential for muscle growth, recovery, and overall bodily functions. 

This includes all nine essential amino acids, such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine (which are Branched-Chain Amino Acids or BCAAs), critical for protein synthesis and muscle repair. Additionally, it contains lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and histidine, making it a well-rounded source of protein for vegetarians and those with plant-based diets.

• Rich in BCAA
  Branched-Chain Amino Acids, or simply BCAAs, are important for muscle recovery. The Alpino formula contains 5.1 grams of BCAA; hence, it is ideal for athletes or any person who desires to recover faster from working out.
• No Added Sugars or Fillers
  Unlike most protein powders, there is no added sugar in Alpino's formulation. It keeps intake as clean as possible and focused on what really matters: protein. Moreover, it is gluten-free and non-GMO for added food safety.

• Sustainable & Eco-Friendly
  Plant-based proteins are better for the environment. With Alpino, one is not only making a healthier choice for the body but an even healthier choice for the environment. It will have a lesser carbon footprint in production compared to animal-based proteins.

• Great Taste
  Most plant-based protein powders taste bland or chalky to many people. Not Alpino's Supernatural Peanut Protein Powder. It is smoothened, rich, and with that lovely chocolate flavor, it is a pleasure with every scoop. Mostly helps people stick to their healthy diet for longer.

Here's how you can use peanut protein to help in healthy weight gain:

Smoothies Packed with Protein: Mix peanut protein powder into frozen bananas, oats, almond milk, and a tablespoon of peanut butter to achieve a calorie-heavy smoothie packed with healthy fats and protein. This is an ideal way to add calories when taken for breakfast or even immediately following exercise.

Power Oats: Add a scoop of peanut protein powder to your morning oatmeal. Add nuts and seeds with honey as an extra topping for added calories and better nutrition; this is one of the most effective and easiest ways to increase your daily calorie and protein intake.

Energy Bars: The peanut protein energy bars are made through a mixture of peanut protein powder, dates, oats, and nut butter. In turn, the bars are easy to carry with and provide a quick source of high protein to help you meet your weight gain goals throughout the day.

Alpino’s Protein Powder can be utilized in weight loss and for living a healthy life:

Improves Metabolism: Thermogenesis properties of protein allow the human body to burn more calories while digestion and assimilation take place.

Suppresses Appetite: It will keep you full for longer, hence snacking will decrease, and your diet will be successfully followed.

Maintains Muscle Mass: While shedding weight, protein helps in the preservation of muscles so that your fat is reduced, not the muscles.

Low-Calorie, High-Protein Options: Can be used in smoothies, oats, or snacks for a healthy and calorie-conscious protein boost.

No Added Sugars or Fillers: Clean ingredients keep calories and additives low for better weight loss.

Blood Sugar Level Regulated: Its low-glycemic formulation maintains the level of blood sugar, thus helping avoid sudden crashes and cravings.

How Alpino is Changing the Game

Alpino's plant-based protein powder is more organic and natural for one's intake of protein. However, it is not all about the infusion of proteins. Alpino is changing the face of the industry by being concerned with other important aspects that revolve around transparency, holistic health, and efficacy. Here's what Alpino does:

• Transparency: What goes into the making of your protein powder is the exact thing you will find inside the package. No hidden ingredients
• Holistic Health: Shying away from artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and fillers, Alpino takes care of your health for needs apart from muscle recovery.
• Sustainability: Alpino's commitment to plant-based proteins means a far lower environmental cost than is associated with the usual line of protein powders.

The Verdict: Why Plant-Based?

Traditional protein powders, such as whey, are convenient. However, they generally bring with them a good deal of luggage in the forms of potential digestive issues and allergic reactions that keep the more health-oriented people from indulging in them. Plant-based protein powders can offer someone all of the benefits of protein without the negative side effects.

Alpino's Supernatural Peanut Protein Powder is the perfect example of what plant-based proteins can achieve: easily digestible, full of nutrients, and good for the environment. If all that goodness wasn't enough, it tastes amazing.

Are you looking for a cleaner, healthier alternative to up your intake of protein? It's time for the switch.

Time to make the switch? Browse Alpino's full range of products here and start fueling right!