Q. When should I take pea protein isolate?

A. It depends on your lifestyle and goals, we recommend the following optimal serving times. Immediately upon waking | 30 minutes post workout | Before you go to bed. Any other time during the day when you require additional protein intake.

Q. What does it taste like?

It has a neutral vegetable taste. If you wish to enhance the taste, then you could try making your shake with almond milk or soya milk, or even blend peanut butter or banana into your protein shake.

Q. How much protein should I take?

A. It is recommended that you consume between 2-5 servings per day, dependant upon your own personal needs. A serving would be classed as 30g (one scoop) of pea protein isolate. It is recommended that you take 1g of protein per pound of body weight, so adjust your intake accordingly.

Q. Why do I need to take protein?

A. Consuming a protein shake can help muscle growth. It is a widely researched fuel that has been shown to help muscle growth, recovery and repair after intense exercise or workout.

Q. Is all pea protein isolate the same, regardless of which brand it is?

A. As with so many things in life, if you don't ask the right questions, you won't get the right answers! The quality of protein can vary significantly and therefore the protein content will do too. In addition, just because a product may be called Pea Protein Isolate it doesn't mean that it only contains plant-based protein. We recommend you read the ingredients and nutritionals on the label to better understand exactly what you are buying. We can assure you that our Pea Protein 85 is purely pea protein isolate.

At Protein Works we are committed to transparency and openness in all our products and that is why we provide the following information on all our protein products:

Protein Insight - a complete breakdown of the types and quantities of protein contained in the product

Q. How can I tell if the protein I use is a good quality protein?

A. Key signs to look for are the level of protein declared on the label. Look for pea protein isolate with a minimum of 85%.

Q. What does "dry basis" and "as-is" mean when talking about protein content?

When you see a protein powder that states on the label the protein is given as "dry basis " this means that the moisture present in the powder is included in the total protein value. Moisture in dry protein powders are typically around 4%. However, when a protein supplement is stated "as-is" this means the actual protein content of the powder with the water content excluded. In other words, the true protein you will be consuming.

As protein prices have increased significantly over recent years due to the large demand in the sports nutrition sector, some brands may not give you all the facts in regards to the true level of protein in their products. At Protein Works we believe in transparency to give you the utmost confidence when choosing your protein supplements. On all our protein products you will see both the as-is and dry-basis values declared. Once again, it's all about knowing what to look for.

Q. Is pea protein isolate powder suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

A. Yes it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Q. Can I take plant-based protein with other supplements?

A. The simple answer is yes. We recommend you always check serving instructions on each product if you plan on taking a combination of supplements. Pea protein is most commonly taken with creatine, oats, BCAA and glutamine. In fact the uptake of protein can be improved by introducing high GI carbohydrates.

Q. Can I take too much protein?

A. If you don't burn the excess calories that come with the additional protein, it may lead to increased body fat. No other side effects have been noted in research carried out.

Q. What if any side effects will I get from taking pea protein isolate?

A. We haven't heard of any nasty side effects from taking pea protein powder other than maybe increased flatulence!

Q. Do any foods contain pea protein isolate?

A. No, there are no foods that contain pea protein isolate. There are many foods that contain high levels of protein, such as red meat, chicken, turkey, fish, eggs and cheese.

Q. What does pea protein isolate actually do?

It plays a vital role in post workout nutrition. It gives your body a sustained release of protein that is low in fat and carbs at that vital time after you've exercised when your body is in a catabolic state.

Q. What effects should I expect from taking pea protein isolate alongside my training regime?

A. Results vary depending on your diet, nutrition, training and individual body type. For an average individual, it can help increase  lean muscle mass and support an increased metabolic rate. It can also aid reduced muscle breakdown post exercise and improved recovery times, as well as faster muscle repair post workout. In simple terms, you should be able to get back in the gym quicker for your next workout .

Q. Who should take / benefit from using plant-based protein?

A. Bodybuilders and strength athletes. Endurance athletes. Those on a controlled weight loss diet. Those new to weight training. People involved in team sports. Vegans and vegetarians looking to add a quality protein source to their diet. People with a lactose intolerance.

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