4 things you probably did not know about Plant-Based Supplements

When it comes to plant-based supplements, there are several options to choose from – be it B-complex vitamin or a hemp protein powder. And to make it more confusing, several companies have launched their own lines.

So how do you pick up the trustworthy ones?

“Consult a dietitian or physician and make sure that the supplements you are taking contain safe quantities of active ingredients and are actually proven to drive results,” says a trainer and registered dietician based in New York City.

Besides checking with an expert, here are a few more helpful tips that will help you select a trusted brand. Read on for expert advice about how to decode supplement labels and find the right fit for you.

Here are four steps to help you find the Best Plant-Based Supplements:

1. Check for certifications

   Look for certifications from a governing body. Just because a brand says its “all natural” or “organic”, you don’t have to believe it.

   For example, a bottle with a “USDA Organic” label tells you that at least 95 percent of the product’s ingredients are truly organic. Also, look for indicators that tell you the supplement contains zero genetically modified ingredients. Those missing this label could contain pesticides.

   If you see these stamps on your brand, it means the supplements have been evaluated recently.

2. Look for words that indicate quality

   Besides symbols that denote quality supplement (USDA organic, non-GMO), look for terms like raw and sprouted. Raw foods are not chemically altered, processed or cooked which preserves their enzymes and nutrients. Sprouted seeds also contain more nutrients, like fiber, and are low glycemic.

   If you’re looking for a plant-based protein powder specifically, nutritionists recommend that you buy product that contains branched chain amino acids, like leucine, isoleucine and valine, which promote lean muscle mass.

   Also, its a good idea to check the ingredients, ensure all the food sources included in the supplement are, in fact, from plants and real foods.

3. Steer away from artificial stuff

   Certain phrases indicate that a product’s contents aren’t so high quality, and could potentially harm your health. Anything that says flavored with artificial ingredients or containing artificial colors should be avoided. You can also step away from “all natural’ products, as that could mean it’s still grown with pesticides. Also, extracts, such as Stevia extract versus whole Stevia leaf as a sweetener, means you should pass, because extracts go through chemical processing. Step away from those with carrageenan, too (promotes inflammation).

   You’ll also want to avoid hydrogenated oils, because they can increase inflammation and could possibly increase your LDL cholesterol. Others to steer clear of: magnesium stearate (which may prevent nutrient absorption and impair your immune system) and titanium dioxide (it can also affect your immunity).

4. Pick your pills or powder.

   There are several high-quality supplements, but here are a few of our favorites. As always, check with your doc before trying any new vitamin or supplement.

   Many of the products in the new Plnt line at the Vitamin Shoppe are non-GMO, like the protein powder, as well as organic and free of artificial stabilizers or preservatives, like the milk thistle capsules.

   Garden of Life line is another top choice. Their plant-based protein powders include pre-workout mix and a recovery formula for after exercise. They contain no ingredients that are banned by sports leagues.

   New Chapter has a line of supplements — from multivitamins to blends meant for specific purposes, like boosting your immune system, bumping up bone health or nixing stress — that are certified USDA Organic and non-GMO.

   Offerings from Raw Green Organics also get a USDA Organic label. Check out their multivitamins, vegan protein powder, and drinks mixes, like Super Greens and Raw Beet Root Powder.

   Already have some vitamins, protein or other supplements at home? check the labels and you can even read more about it on the USDA site.

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