Garden of Life ORGANIC Plant Protein
Garden of Life - Organic Plant Protein Review
I know that a lot of people LOVE protein smoothies especially when on the go or trying to build muscle. The only issue with most protein powders is they are extremely processed and contain some questionable ingredients....and they taste like chalk! There is nothing worse than paying $20.00 plus for a protein powder that tastes nasty and is full of toxic ingredients.
Thankfully there are some companies that pride themselves in creating products using superior ingredients - and flavor. That is the case for Garden of Life’s Organic Plant Protein. As the name suggests this is a vegan product, meaning you will not find any whey protein or anything containing milk. This protein powder is a complete protein.
Ingredients
When it comes to packaged food or supplements I am a stickler for what is on the ingredients list. Because lets be clear, if you are consuming a product that builds your muscles (or has any health claim for that matter) but is toxic for you’re over all health, what's the point of consuming it?
As you can see here on the label all ingredients can be read easily except for the second set of ingredients. The RAW Enzyme Blend may sound confusing, however they are all non-toxic ingredients included in this powder to help your body properly assimilate the ingredients. Lastly, RAW Probiotic Blend are good bacteria for good gut health.
Lastly you can see that there are several vitamins and minerals, one of which I did not know the function of.
Molybdenum is classified as a metallic element and found widely in nature in nitrogen-fixing bacteria. It is essential in trace amounts for human, animal and plant health. In humans and animals, it serves mainly as an essential cofactor of enzymes and aids in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Humans need only very small amounts of molybdenum, which are easily attained through a healthy diet. Deficiency is very rare in humans. Source
The Taste
The package suggests using almond milk or rice milk but I did not have any on had on my first try so I used 8 oz of coconut water. The flavor is a mild coffee flavor, if you are into lattes I think you will enjoy. The coffee taste isn't over powering. It does not taste chalky at all, its suprizingly smooth with a slight stevia after taste. I honestly think this will taste even better using almond milk. I will be soaking some almonds to make some milk real soon!
On my second try I used coconut milk and water. The smoothie was still smooth but thicker consistancy, perfect for post workout recovery. Garden of Life Organic Plant Protein also comes in Smooth Vanilla and Chocolate and can be purchased on Amazon.com or your local Whole Foods or other health food store.
The Difference
So what’s the big deal? Why should you purchase a higher quality protein powder instead of going to GNC and picking up what every one else is using? The big deal comes down to superior ingredients. Like food, if you are going to consume it make it the best option out there.
This is a label from a popular protein powder that contains toxic ingredients. The company first lists the ingredients we are taught are “good” like millet, quinoa, buckwheat and chia. Then it goes downhill with the Acesulfame-potassium, Sucralose, Natural and Artificial Flavors (which could mean anything), dipotassium phosphate and I could go on. What I am trying to say here is this protein powder screams chemical sh*t storm and you should stay away from such.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, if you are in the market for a new protein powder that doesn't taste like chalk and grit, give this one a try!
