As its name implies, pea protein or pea protein isolate is made from ground organic green or yellow split peas from the Pisum sativum plant.
Pea protein, unlike other plant-based sources of protein, is classified as a high-quality protein since it provides all the amino acids needed by the body. Other plant-based sources, such as rice, do not have all of these. [1]
Amino acids serve as the body’s building blocks. While the body produces some amino acids naturally, others need to be acquired from food. These are called essential amino acids. [2][3]
Because of its high essential amino acid content, pea protein is often used as a base for meat-free alternatives such a veggie burgers and vegan mayonnaise. Its mild and neutral flavor also makes it a great vegan alternative to dairy products.
In addition, organic pea protein is one of the more easily digested plant-based proteins – right up there with soy protein and chickpeas.
How is organic pea protein made?
To make organic pea protein, peas from the P. sativum plant are first dried and then ground into a fine flour, before being mixed with water. The peas’ starches and fibers are then removed from the resulting mixture, leaving behind a paste of pure proteins mixed with a smattering of vitamins and minerals. [4]
This nutrient-rich paste is then dried and ground once again, until it’s turned into a fine power. This powder is packed and sold as organic pea protein isolate.
What makes pea protein healthy*?
Peas are some of the most nutrient-dense foods that you can consume. These legumes contain high amounts of vitamins A, K, C, B1 and B9. Peas also contain high amounts of dietary fiber, as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, iodine, magnesium, selenium, copper and manganese. In addition, peas are rich in natural antioxidants. [5]
It’s their high protein content, however, that really makes peas stand out.
Studies show that pea protein contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs to obtain from diet, which makes it a valuable source of high-quality protein. This puts it in stark contrast with other plant-based protein sources such as rice, which do not have the same amount of amino acids.
Just like its raw form, organic pea protein powder is also rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). This makes it a great supplement if you’re active or participate in intense workouts. [6]
In addition, what sets organic pea protein apart from other plant-based protein supplements is the fact that it’s highly bioavailable. This means that it is quite readily absorbed and used by the body.
Finally, organic pea protein is incredibly easy and gentle on the stomach
What health benefits can I get from organic pea powder?
With their high protein content and impressive nutrient profile, peas and pea powder can provide you with a number of health benefits.
Here are some of the benefits one can get from peas and organic pea protein powder.*
Organic pea protein supports a healthy cardiovascular system*
Organic pea protein contains high levels of BCAAs, which are known to promote a healthy heart.
In addition to these, organic pea protein also contains high amounts of flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin C. All of these compounds exhibit antioxidant properties that also support a healthy cardiovascular system. [7]
Studies have also shown that peas and organic pea protein are one of the richest sources of the amino acid arginine. This compound supports the body’s natural production of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that helps maintain healthy circulation and cardiovascular function. [8]
Organic pea protein supports normal muscle growth*
As mentioned earlier, organic pea protein powder provides you with high amounts of BCAAs and arginine, known for supporting recovery after physical exertion.
BCAAs make up more than 54% of muscle mass. They cannot, however, be produced by the body; as such, it’s important to get sufficient amounts from dietary sources. [9]
Meanwhile, arginine is also a key player in muscle growth. [10]
Organic pea protein powder supports sensible weight management plans*
Consuming protein rich foods, such as organic pea protein, can help you feel satiated, according to studies. [11]
When combined with a healthy diet and proper exercise, organic pea protein can be a valuable tool to support sensible weight management goals.
Organic pea protein powder promotes healthy blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range*
Organic pea protein powder has a relatively low glycemic index rating. Low glycemic foods usually take longer to digest, which allows them to support healthy blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range. [12]
Organic pea protein supports healthy energy levels and promotes optimal muscle recovery*
Studies have shown that inadequate protein intake can lead to low energy levels. This is why many athletes try to improve their energy levels by drinking protein-enriched smoothies while doing intense workouts. [13]
In addition to energy sustaining proteins, organic pea protein powder also contains essential minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Both of these are known to support healthy muscle recovery after a workout.
Where do you get organic pea protein?
With its many health benefits, it might be tempting to just get any pea protein product on the market. However, not all pea protein products are organic, nor do they all have the same amount of protein.
Health Ranger Select Organic Pea Protein Powder is made from non-GMO peas and contains 80% protein per serving. It is USDA Organic certified, Kosher-certified, vegan and gluten free.
It has also been laboratory tested for heavy metals, microbiology and glyphosate. It contains no gluten, melamine, additives or fillers.
How do I use organic pea protein powder?
Organic pea protein powder such as Health Ranger Select Organic Pea Protein Powder has a mild, neutral flavor. This makes it easy to add it to just about any food item you can think of.
Want to give your favorite workout drink an extra protein kick? Try adding a tablespoon or two of organic pea protein powder to it. Want to make your breakfast smoothie bowl a bit more filling? Mix in some organic pea protein powder before blending everything in your food processor.
Aside from the options mentioned above, you can also use organic pea protein powder in the following manner: As a healthy additive to baked goods, as an ingredient for hearty soups and even as an ingredient in non-dairy frozen desserts.
With that said, here are some recipes featuring organic pea protein powder that you can try:
RECIPE: Protein-Packed Fruit and Nut Granola
A filling and satisfying cereal blend, this easy recipe brings together the wholesome goodness of organic, rolled oats with the refreshing tartness of organic blueberries and the creamy richness of almond butter and cashews. [14]
This can be eaten as a healthy breakfast or as a delicious on-the-go snack.
PS: As this recipe takes some time to make, you can choose to prepare this over the weekend.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup organic, raw almond butter
- ¼ cup Health Ranger Select Premium Raw Manuka Honey
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free organic vanilla extract
- 2 cups organic, steel-cut rolled oats
- 3 Tablespoons Health Ranger Select Organic Pea Protein Powder
- ¼ cup Health Ranger Select Freeze-Dried Organic Whole Blueberries
- 1 cup Health Ranger Select Organic Raw Cashews, chopped
- ⅓ cup Groovy Bee® Organic Raw Cacao Nibs
- 1 teaspoon organic ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon Health Ranger Select Pink Himalayan Salt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325 F.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stir almond butter and honey together until fully combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Remove from heat and add oats, organic pea protein powder, freeze-dried organic blueberries, cashews, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well and use a spatula to ensure that all of the oats are well coated.
- Spread the granola mixture over a baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven, stir to break into small clumps, and bake for another 8 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and the mixture is crispy.
- Let cool completely before adding the organic cacao nibs.
- Once cooled, transfer the granola to a storage container.
PS: The granola will still be slightly soft when it comes out of the oven, but it will eventually firm up as it cools.
RECIPE: Vegan Chocolate “Milkshake”
If you’re looking for a refreshing treat that’s a bit on the sweet side, this rich and creamy vegan chocolate “milkshake” may be perfect for you.
Made from a delicious and classic combination of frozen bananas and organic cocoa powder, this rich and luscious smoothie packs a powerful protein punch thanks to pea powder, making it the perfect sweet post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup prepared Groovy Bee® Organic Instant Flax Milk Powder
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 organic Medjool date, pitted
- 2 Tablespoons Health Ranger Select Organic Cocoa Love
- 1 Tablespoon Groovy Bee® Organic Raw Cacao Nibs
- ½ teaspoon alcohol-free organic vanilla extract
- 3 Tablespoons Health Ranger Select Organic Pea Protein Powder
- 1 cup ice cubes
Directions:
- Combine the prepared flax milk, banana, Medjool date, cocoa powder, organic cacao nibs, vanilla, and organic pea protein powder in a high-speed food processor and blend until completely smooth.
- Add the ice into the mixture and keep blending until the smoothie is thick and creamy with a milkshake-like texture.
- Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Organic Pea Protein is an excellent source of protein for anyone looking for plant-based protein sources. Not only does it come with the essential amino acids that the body needs, it also provides a number of benefits when it comes to maintaining energy and supporting sensible weight management goals
Do you know of any other ways that organic pea protein powder can support your health? Do you know other recipes that use organic pea protein powder? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Share this article with your friends and tell us how organic pea protein powder positively impacted your overall health and wellness!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any diseases.
