Can I Have Plant Protein Powder Twice a Day?
blog FAQs, Vegan Protein PowderWhen we first started using plant-based protein powder, we wondered if taking it twice a day was a good idea. After experimenting and researching, we learned that yes, you can have plant protein powder twice a day—if it fits your dietary needs and overall nutrition. Here’s how to do it the right way.
1. Make Sure You’re Meeting Your Protein Needs
The most important thing is to focus on your total daily protein intake. If you struggle to get enough protein from whole foods, having plant protein powder twice a day can be a convenient way to help you reach your goals.
– General protein recommendations:
- For general health: 0.8g per kg (0.36g per pound) of body weight.
- For muscle building: 1.6–2.2g per kg (0.7–1g per pound) of body weight.
If you’re not meeting your protein needs with food alone, adding a second shake can be beneficial.
2. Balance Protein Powder with Whole Foods
While plant protein powder is convenient, it shouldn’t replace real food. Whole plant foods provide additional nutrients like fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants that powders may lack.
– Best practice: Use one shake as a post-workout recovery meal and the other as a snack or meal supplement, rather than replacing full meals.
3. Watch for Digestive Issues
We’ve noticed that some people experience bloating or digestive discomfort when consuming too much protein powder, especially if it contains added fiber, gums, or sweeteners. If you feel bloated or sluggish, try:
– Switching to a cleaner, additive-free protein powder.
– Drinking plenty of water to help digestion.
– Splitting your intake—one shake in the morning, one after workouts.
4. Avoid Relying Too Much on Supplements
It’s easy to overuse protein powder if you’re not careful. While having it twice a day is fine, your diet should still include whole plant-based protein sources like:
– Lentils
– Chickpeas
– Tofu & tempeh
– Nuts & seeds
– Quinoa
– Best practice: Treat protein powder as a supplement, not your primary protein source.
5. Choose a High-Quality Protein Powder
Not all plant-based protein powders are created equal. Some contain artificial sweeteners, fillers, or unnecessary additives.
– How to choose the best one:
- Look for organic, non-GMO, and clean ingredient lists.
- Avoid artificial sweeteners and gums that can cause bloating.
- Choose a blended protein (pea + rice, hemp + pumpkin seed) for a complete amino acid profile.
Final Thought
Can you have plant protein powder twice a day? Yes, as long as it fits into your daily protein needs and doesn’t replace whole foods. To make the most of it, choose a high-quality powder, stay hydrated, and balance it with real plant-based meals.
Now it’s up to you—listen to your body, track your intake, and enjoy plant protein in a way that supports your health and fitness goals!