Many people wonder what the difference is between protein powder and meal replacement and when to choose the different options. Both variants actually work well to replace a meal. In general, it can be said that the meal replacement is best suited when you replace a main meal such as breakfast, lunch and dinner, while the protein powder is chosen instead when you need to increase the amount of protein in your diet.
When should I choose meal replacement?
The meal replacement mimics a composite meal containing protein, fat and carbohydrates. This means that in addition to 20 grams of protein per portion, you also get carbohydrates, fibers and healthy fats. In the meal replacement, we have added all the vitamins the body needs and a wide range of important minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium. Choose a meal replacement if you replace a main meal such as breakfast, lunch and dinner and feel free to take two portions for increased satiety. One portion contains 205 kcal and a double portion is more comparable to a lunch or dinner. For snacks, you can choose between meal replacement and protein powder.
When should I choose protein powder?
Our protein powder, as the name might reveal, contains mostly protein, but also B vitamins and zinc, which are needed for the turnover of protein and a functioning immune system. The protein powder is good to take as a snack or right after a workout. It also works great to mix protein powder into the porridge, filet, smoothie or soy drink to increase the protein content of the meal. If you eat a vegan diet, you can also have a protein drink as a meal drink to increase the total amount of protein in the meal.
High protein content in both protein powder and meal replacement
Protein is needed for a number of functions in the body such as building hormones, enzymes and muscles. If you exercise a lot or if your goal is to lose weight, it is especially important that you get enough protein. A high protein intake helps preserve muscle mass during ongoing weight loss and is the most important energizing nutrient to eat after a workout. A good benchmark is to consume at least 0.3 grams of protein per kg of body weight at each meal calculated on 4-6 meals per day (1). This also applies to the meal immediately after the training session. This means at least 18 grams of protein per meal for a person weighing 60 kg. The amounts agree well with the Nordic nutritional recommendations as well as dietary advice for athletes. Our protein powder contains 27 grams of protein per serving, while the meal replacement contains 20 grams. Both products are vegan and are good for both health and the environment.
References
1. The Swedish Olympic Committee. Dietary recommendations for Olympic athletes [Internet]. Stockholm: Swedish Olympic Committee (SOK); 2016. Retrieved from: https://sok.se/download/18.3e3b95e91555e5c9d8b6a15e/1466669159954/Nutrition recommendations+f%C3%B6r+Olympic+Idrottare_Version+hemsidan_juni2016.pdf