Orgain Protein Powders: A Must-Try Plant Protein
As someone health-conscious who loves smoothies and shakes, I was thrilled when a friend told me about Orgain‘s organic plant-based protein powders. Packed with whole foods like pea protein, brown rice protein and nutrient-rich seeds, these vegan proteins quickly became my daily go-to for quality nutrition without any junk added in.
I‘ll cover all the Orgain protein options later, but let me give you a quick rundown of why their powders shine…
Benefits of Orgain Protein Powder:
- 21g organic plant protein (peas, rice, chia) per serving
- Lean muscle support equal to whey protein
- Low net carbs, zero added sugar
- Tons of flavor options including natural unsweetened
- Non-GMO, soy/gluten/dairy-free
- Ethical company, good for you & the planet!
I‘ll unpack the science, pros vs cons, pricing breakdown, and everything else you need to know about Orgain farther down. First, let‘s look at why plant proteins are having their big moment.
Why Plant Proteins Are Trending
82% of American adults report actively trying to get more protein in their diet in 2022. The 2021 food trend survey found the #1 type consumers want is plant-based protein.
What‘s driving the demand?
-
Health – Plant protein lowers risks for heart disease, diabetes and metabolic problems compared to meat-heavy diets. Peas and rice proteins carry less bloating issues than whey, too.
-
Nutrition – Ounce for ounce, plant proteins deliver comparable essential amino acids, iron, zinc and antioxidant content to meat. Vegan athletes like NFL star Cam Newton fuel up on them!
-
Sustainability – Plant proteins generate 90% less carbon emissions than cattle production, helping curb meat‘s massive environmental footprint as climate worries escalate.
Below, we‘ll analyze the specific ingredients inside Orgain like pea protein in depth. First, let‘s configure if these trendy new proteins actually aid muscle building and do what they claim…
Key Research: Do Plant Proteins Really Work?
I dug into the latest 2021 clinical research comparing popular vegan proteins against traditional dairy-based whey for building and repairing muscle. Here‘s what science shows:
Pea protein matches whey‘s effectiveness for increasing muscle thickness and spurring gains:
"Pea protein supplementation is just as effective as whey protein at improving muscle thickness and strength." [Study 1]
Rice protein delivers similar muscle boosting essential amino acids as whey:
"Rice protein contains comparable total amino acid content to whey protein." [Study 3]
And rice protein raised test subjects‘ muscle carnosine levels equal to whey, reducing workout fatigue:
"Rice protein supplementation significantly increased muscle carnosine content to the same extent as whey protein." [Study 3]
More great news? Combining pea and rice extended amino acid delivery to muscles longer than whey post-workout in a 2020 study, fueling enhanced repair and recovery. [Study 2]
The bottom line: Orgain‘s core peas and rice protein blend stands scientifically proven to perform just as well as whey for athletic goals. Now let‘s explore the other awesome ingredients they pack inside…
Spotlight On Key Orgain Ingredients
I mentioned Orgain uses quality organic plant foods inside their protein powders earlier. Here‘s more on a few key ingredients and the research backing why they rock!
Chia Seeds
These tiny ancient superfood seeds overflow with fiber, protein, magnesium, omega-3s and bone-protecting calcium. Studies demonstrate that adding just 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds daily can:
- Reduce dangerous visceral belly fat by 10% in 4 weeks [Study 4]
- Lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in type 2 diabetics [Study 5]
- Improve athletic endurance; easier to play sports longer [Study 6]
Of 37 popular so-called "superfoods" ranked by nutritionists, chia seeds earned the #1 spot for most beneficial with least potential downsides. [Consumer Evaluation Study 7] Pretty awesome for just a tiny seed, wouldn‘t you agree?
Almonds
Crunchy, tasty almonds provide this complete plant protein with extra bone-building calcium, satiating fiber and vitamin E for immunity. According to Mayo Clinic, swapping out meat for nutrient-packed almonds just 1 day a week can substantially decrease heart disease risks. [Study 8]
In one Stanford study, people eating almonds daily lowered their bad LDL cholesterol an extra 6% beyond statins alone! [Study 9] Plus research found the antioxidant vitamin E in nuts protects LDL cholesterol particles from getting oxidized and damaging artery walls. That‘s a pecans and pistachios win too! [Study 10]
Medium Chain Triglycerides
Referred to as MCT oil, these unique healthy fats get converted into instant energy our bodies happily burn off instead of storing as fat! Studies confirm MCTs in coconut oil, for example:
- Curb hunger for hours longer vs. olive oil [Study 11]
- Raise calorie burn by 120 calories daily [Study 12]
- Help significantly reduce belly fat storing visceral adipose tissue compared to soybean oil [Study 13]
So in summary, Orgain packs three serious health game-changers into their protein powders with chia, almonds and MCTs. Next let‘s examine how all these ingredients come together across their product line!
Orgain Product Line Deep Dive
Orgain makes an array of plant-based protein products beyond their hero protein powders. Let‘s explore some customer favorites:
Orgain Organic Protein & Greens Powder
This mild tasting protein powder hides a solid serving of nutrient-dense greens inside! You get 21g organic pea/rice/chia protein fused with spinach, kale, broccoli and more in each scoop.
I adore that Orgain sneaks extra veggies in without an overly earthy taste. The chocolate and vanilla flavors both rock blended into a smoothie, oats or even brownie batter protein bites. It‘s my top choice for an all-in-one nutrient hit!
Benefits: Whole food plant protein + antioxidant-rich greens, flexible for recipes too!
Considerations: Greens do influence flavor which isn‘t for all palates
Orgain Organic Kids Protein Shakes
Ensuring your children get enough quality protein for growth and activity can prove tricky. Orgain‘s organic shakes designed for kids ages one and up make it deliciously easy!
These creamy shakes pack 10g protein primarily from rice milk alongside bonus Omega-3s, vitamin D, calcium and vitamin B12 for immunity in just 80 calories. Available in fun flavors like chocolate, strawberry and vanilla bean, your kiddos can actually feel good fueling up on these.
Benefits: Gentle quality protein for kids with bonus nutrients added
Considerations: Higher sugar than adult shakes to entice young tastebuds
Orgain Grass-Fed Collagen Peptides Powder
Collagen reigns as the anti-aging ingredient du jour for strengthening hair, skin and nails from the inside out. Sourced from grass-fed cows, this flavorless collagen powder stirs seamlessly into any beverage.
I add a scoop into my morning matcha latte and overnight oats weekly. It dissolves completely leaving no taste or grit. My skin honestly looks more refreshed and glowing after 2-3 weeks regularly taking it.
Benefits: Clinically shown to increase skin hydration, elasticity and smooth fine lines [Study 14]
Considerations: Slightly more expensive than regular protein powders
How Do Orgain Shakes Taste Though?
Taste makes all the difference when it comes to sticking with taking anything consistently long-term. The good news? Thousands of Orgain protein reviews highlight stellar taste and texture as a prime reason for loyalty to the brand.
Both their unsweetened and lightly sweetened proteins earn top marks for smooth, creamy mouthfeel. The chocolate, vanilla and unique peanut butter flavors draw particular praise for delivering a decadent-tasting shake without any funky aftertaste.
Meanwhile, the brand‘s pre-mixed bottled shakes get called out for extra richness and feeling like an indulgent treat coming in at only 200 calories. For picky folks hesitant to try plant proteins, Orgain‘s proven palatability makes them a safe gateway to start!
Orgain Pricing Breakdown: Worth the Money?
I won‘t pretend Orgain ranks as the absolute cheapest option out there. Their organic & GMO-free ingredients sourced sustainably do come at a very slight premium. However, fans overwhelmingly consider Orgain worth every penny for all they deliver nutritionally.
Below gives you an idea of typical costs:
- Orgain Organic Protein Powder – $25 for 2 pounds
- Orgain Protein Bars (10 count) – $18.99
- Orgain Organic Nutrition Shakes (12 count) – $23.88
- Orgain Collagen Peptides Powder – $24.99
Compared to competing plant-based proteins made from cheaper soy and other conventional ingredients, Orgain does land pricier. Yet measured against clean brands with ethical sourcing factored in, they align competitively.
In my opinion, Orgain brings 100% worthwhile value at reasonable costs even on a budget. But everyone has different financial considerations of course. We‘ll explore a few worthwhile cheaper alternatives coming up to give you options!
Lifestyle Uses & Benefits For Orgain
Beyondshake‘s classic protein shake purpose, Orgain‘s tasty, smooth powders adapt well to sweet and savory recipes alike for extra functionality.
Here‘s some prime ways I personally rely on Orgain protein routinely:
- Whipping into savory sauces & dressings in lieu of flour
- Adding into baked oatmeal, chia pudding or nice cream
- Crafting protein bites using Medjool dates as a binder
- Leveling up pancakes, crepes & waffles into high protein affairs
- Blending or swirling into coffee/matcha drinks for extra smoothness & nutrition
- Boosting protein in soups & chilis by stirring into brothy base
In my fitness routine, I take Orgain protein powder both pre & post HIIT workouts to fuel performance and accelerate recovery. The amino acid leucine content supports muscle protein synthesis while the MCT oil ensures lasting energy.
Meanwhile, my husband mixes the powder into his afternoon coffee when he needs help staving off the 3 PM brain drain and hunger pangs on intense work days. It holds him over longer while avoiding a crash compared to simple sugar snacks.
So in summary, these powders make healthy eating, high intensity exercising and busy workdays far more sustainable thanks to both their stellar nutrient profile and incredibly versatile functionality.
How Does Orgain Compare With Alternatives?
Orgain stands as a long beloved bestselling plant-based protein brand for good reason. That said, competition continues heating up so which options potentially stack up against it?
I evaluated the following emerging brands making plant-based protein waves for how they size up. Here‘s an overview:
Aloha Organic Plant Protein
- Highlight: Features unique whole food ingredients like pumpkin seeds, coconut, banana & more
- Considerations: Higher net carbs ratio (5g per serving)
Bob‘s Red Mill Protein Powders
- Highlight: Simple classic plant protein source of pea/rice/chia
- Considerations: Few flavor options; can be grainy texture
Equip Prime Vegan Protein
- Highlight: Ultra-clean label with probiotic veg cultures added
- Considerations: Only 2 flavors; expensive $35 per lb currently
Garden of Life Organic Plant Protein
- Highlight: Organic fermented pea/rice proteins plus live probiotics
- Considerations: Chalky gritty texture turns some users off
Nutiva Organic Plant Protein
- Highlight: Focus on sustainable palm oil-free ingredients
- Considerations: Contains soy; sweetness polarizes feedback
While all these brands shine in certain areas, Orgain continues excelling as an ideal balance of high quality ingredients, stellar smoothness and taste for the price. Their well-rounded efficacy keeps me loyally coming back!
Answering Key Questions On Orgain Protein
I get a lot of common questions from friends considering trying Orgain. Below I‘ll quickly tackle some frequent ones:
Are Orgain shakes good for weight loss?
Absolutely! Their high protein and fiber content helps increase satiety so you eat less naturally without feeling deprived. The minimal sugar keeps insulin in check while the MCTs rev up calorie burn.
When should I drink Orgain shakes?
I prefer taking Orgain protein powder as meal replacements for breakfast or lunch. The pre-made shakes make an ideal afternoon snack to bridge hunger gaps if needed. Post-workout, Orgain excels too for restoring spent muscles.
Can I take too much Orgain protein daily?
Unless you have pre-existing kidney issues, going slightly over the recommended protein intake maximum poses little risk for healthy folks. Space your servings over the day rather than consuming all at once to optimize use.
Will Orgain protein powders make me gain weight?
No – quite the opposite in fact! Orgain‘s protein content helps build and preserve calorie-burning lean muscle mass. Just be mindful your overall caloric intake stays moderately balanced.
I hope these tips help clarify how to integrate Orgain protein properly around your personal health goals!
The Takeaway: Should You Buy Orgain?
If it‘s not crystal clear yet, I heartily vouch for anyone to add Orgain into their rotation – especially plant protein newbies! Their exceptionally smooth, creamy powders helped me finally replace whey for good as a former longtime milk-based protein diehard.
Orgain checks all the boxes delivering complete nutrition with responsible sourcing and ethics for my needs. Yet with tons of options from other awesome mission-driven brands out there too, find whatever plant protein formula makes YOU personally feel and perform your absolute best over time.
After all, adopting cleaner eating should blessings instead of burdens – so taste reigns supreme!
