Many protein powders contain the artificial sweetener sucralose. What about natural protein alternatives? Find out more in our article.
Our body needs protein, or rather the essential amino acids contained in protein, for healthy muscle building [1], hormone balance [2], and many other vital functions. Therefore, protein powder is an essential part of the diet not only for athletes but also for those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet. Naturally, most people want to do something good for their health with it. Unfortunately, however, most protein powders are filled with a variety of artificial flavours and sweeteners. One additive often in the spotlight is sucralose. This artificial sweetener is found in many protein powders, but is it really necessary?
Artificial Sweetener Sucralose
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener made from sugar through a multi-step process and contains no calories. It is about 600 times sweeter than sugar and is often used to make foods and beverages sweeter without increasing the calorie content. This is also the case with protein - whether chocolate, vanilla, banana, or strawberry, vegan protein or whey protein powder - most protein shakes in various flavours contain this artificial sweetener.
However, despite its many uses, sucralose is criticised. Studies have shown that consuming sucralose can lead to digestive problems in some people and may impact the gut flora [3]. If your protein shake causes bloating and discomfort, the sweetener could be the culprit! These potential side effects have led many to look for products with natural alternatives to sucralose.
Natural Sweeteners in Vegan Protein
There are several natural sweeteners that can be used as alternatives. The most popular ones include stevia, monk fruit, and xylitol. These ingredients are sweeter than sugar and are generally considered to be better tolerated than artificial alternatives.
- Stevia: A plant-based sweetener derived from the leaves of the stevia plant. Stevia is about 200-300 times sweeter than sugar and contains no calories [4].
- Monk Fruit: A calorie-free sweetener, about 150-200 times sweeter than sugar. It is widely used in Asia but not yet approved in Europe [5].
- Xylitol: A sugar substitute derived from birch bark or corn cobs. It has about the same sweetness as sugar but with lower calories and a lower glycaemic index [6].
Our vegan WAM Protein contains a pinch of stevia to enhance the natural flavour of the fruit powders and aromas. Due to the small amount, our WAM Protein is not overly sweet and has no unpleasant aftertaste. It is also heat-stable, meaning you can use WAM Protein for baking as well.
Benefits of Protein Powder with Natural Sweeteners
Natural plant-based protein powders without added sugar and artificial additives can offer numerous health benefits. They are often better tolerated than alternative protein sources and can reduce digestive problems.
Here are the benefits at a glance:
- Better Digestion: Natural ingredients are often easier to digest and can reduce bloating and discomfort.
- Higher Nutrient Density: Vegan protein powders often contain more micronutrients and phytonutrients that may be missing in highly processed products.
- Fewer Allergies: Artificial sweeteners and additives can trigger allergies and intolerances in sensitive individuals. Natural protein powders minimise this risk.
Sustainability of Vegan Protein Powder without Sucralose
Another advantage of natural and vegan protein powders, especially compared to dairy proteins, is their often better environmental footprint. Many manufacturers, like WAM, rely on sustainable farming methods without GMOs and environmentally friendly packaging. This means less plastic waste, easier recycling processes, and a lower environmental impact.
Personal Experiences and WAM Protein
For those looking for a product with natural flavour, free from artificial sweeteners, we have good news: WAM Protein is sweetened with stevia and does not use sucralose. Our plant-based protein is therefore less sweet and better tolerated. WAM Protein stands out with its light, natural flavour and creamy consistency and contains, in addition to 22g of protein per serving, a high content of leucine, the amino acid fundamental for muscle building and maintenance. Our high-quality plant-based protein thus has a high usable protein content, is on par with whey protein, and is free from lactose. A protein source without compromises!
Many customers who have switched from sucralose-containing protein powders to WAM Protein report positive changes. Here are some of the most frequent feedbacks we receive:
- Improved digestion and less bloating
- A more natural taste without artificial sweetness and aftertaste
- A generally better feeling after consumption
Vegan Protein Powder without Sucralose: Conclusion
In conclusion, it can definitely be worthwhile to switch to a protein powder without sucralose. They are often better tolerated, more natural in taste, and more sustainable. For those looking for a healthier and more environmentally friendly alternative, we can only recommend our WAM Protein!
In general, when choosing a protein powder, you should look for products made with high-quality, natural ingredients. This way, you can ensure that you are getting a product that is not only good for your body but also for the environment.
We hope this article has helped you understand everything about sucralose and alternatives in protein powders. If you have any further questions, just send us an email!
Sources
[1] Tipton KD, Wolfe RR. Exercise, protein metabolism, and muscle growth. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2001 Mar;11(1):109-32.
[2] Cao Y, Yang M, Song J, Jiang X, Xu S, Che L, Fang Z, Lin Y, Jin C, Feng B, Wu D, Hua L, Zhuo Y. Dietary Protein Regulates Female Estrous Cyclicity Partially via Fibroblast Growth Factor 21. Nutrients. 2023 Jul 6;15(13):3049.
[3] Conz A, Salmona M, Diomede L. Effect of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on the Gut Microbiota. Nutrients. 2023 Apr 13;15(8):1869.
[4] Arumugam B, Subramaniam A, Alagaraj P. Stevia as a Natural Sweetener: A Review. Cardiovasc Hematol Agents Med Chem. 2020;18(2):94-103.
[5] EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF); Younes M, Aquilina G, Engel KH, Fowler P, Frutos Fernandez MJ, Fürst P, Gürtler R, Gundert-Remy U, Husøy T, Mennes W, Moldeus P, Oskarsson A, Shah R, Waalkens-Berendsen I, Wölfle D, Degen G, Herman L, Gott D, Leblanc JC, Giarola A, Rincon AM, Tard A, Castle L. Safety of use of Monk fruit extract as a food additive in different food categories. EFSA J. 2019 Dec 11;17(12):e05921.
[6] Janket SJ, Benwait J, Isaac P, Ackerson LK, Meurman JH. Oral and Systemic Effects of Xylitol Consumption. Caries Res. 2019;53(5):491-501.
