Do Women Put On Weight With Plant Protein?

Plant proteins are likely not to be a cause for weight gain by themselves. However, in this article, we try to address the various elements that contribute to making plant protein. 

Whether women (or anyone) put on weight with plant protein depends on various factors, including their overall diet, lifestyle, and individual metabolism.

Plant protein itself does not inherently cause weight gain; rather, weight gain or loss is determined by the overall caloric balance and the quality of the diet.

Plant-based proteins can be a good option for those looking to maintain or lose weight because they are often lower in calories and saturated fats compared to animal-based proteins. Additionally, plant proteins typically come with various other essential nutrients and fiber that contribute to a balanced and healthy diet.

At the moment plant-based proteins are gaining popularity in the market mainly due to their ability to keep bloating low, and ensure higher fibre in the body. The makers of Gytree’s dual plant-based protein highlight how their product is weight neutral. Dr Sudhir, the scientific advisor to the product points out, “for your education and understanding, when used as a meal replacement may result in weight reduction.

However, if consumed in combination to meals at least 2 to 3 times a day may result in weight gain which may be healthy gain from lean mass rather than fat mass. Given our protein powder is recommended for a single serving per day, it is entirely weight neutral.”

Scientifically speaking, weight gain occurs when someone consumes more calories than they expend, regardless of whether those calories come from plant or animal sources. If a person consumes excessive calories from plant-based foods, such as sugary snacks, refined carbohydrates, or high-fat plant foods like nuts and avocados, they may still gain weight.

On the other hand, many studies suggest that plant-based diets can be effective for weight management due to their high fiber content and lower calorie density. Fiber helps promote feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight management.

For example, proteins fetched from brown are generally considered good for gut health. To make the powder form, brown rice is processed with enzymes that cause the protein and carbohydrates that make up the rice to separate. The protein is isolated, resulting in a protein powder. Here’s one option for a protein made from brown rice.  

It's essential to remember that individual responses to different diets can vary, so it's crucial to pay attention to your body's signals and adjust your diet as needed.

A balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, including plant-based proteins, combined with regular physical activity, is generally the best approach for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. If you have specific concerns about weight management or dietary choices, we always recommend consulting a registered dietitian or healthcare professional who can provide personalised guidance and support.

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