the uber-cool packaging, supermodels and promises of supplements can be dizzying. we try them, love them, find something we like better, and ditch them (brutal, aren’t we?)

still, some products stay in our rotations because, well, they work. there's our fave collagen, gut restorer and of course, there's the most important – protein.

at its simplest, protein is a molecule made from chemicals called amino acids. these teeny tiny superheroes carry oxygen through our blood, boost our immune system, support detoxification, help build lean muscle and give our skin great glow. basically, we can't get through a day without them.

because we're time-poor and occasionally reach for ice cream instead of a chicken salad, a quality daily powdered plant protein is crucial. it’s convenient, effective and does all the heavy lifting our bodies need to function at top level.

most importantly, nuut doesn’t contain any nasties. here’s a quick run-down of what it isn’t giving you:

these dairy-derived protein sources are high in sugar lactose which causes bloating, flatulence, and gastrointestinal distress.

 

2. gluten

food sensitivities to gluten can trigger an immune-mediated response in the gut that results in inflammation. this can lead to various health problems, from hormonal imbalances, skin conditions and fatigue, to mood swings, headaches and bloating.

 

3. dextrin and glucose

dextrin is derived from wheat or corn, most of which is genetically modified. it's made up of polymers of glucose that raise your glycemic load and can cause insulin spiking, excess fat storage, and cardiometabolic health over time. it can also trigger gastrointestinal distress due to its low digestibility when used to increase fibre content in products.

 

4. artificial sweeteners

the most common artificial sweeteners used are sucralose (splenda), aspartame (equal, nutrasweet), and saccharin (sweet'n low). 100% unnatural chemicals can cause illnesses ranging from headaches and gastric distress to mood issues and weight gain.

 

5. skim milk powders/milk solids

skim milk powders and milk solids are popular cheap bulking agents high in lactose sugars. they can cause bloating, gastrointestinal distress, flatulence, constipation, and loose stools.

 

6. soy protein

soy is a complete protein derived from a plant source. still, much of it is genetically modified and can be exposed to pesticides. it also naturally contains isoflavones - phytoestrogen compounds that mimic estrogen. while phytoestrogens can benefit everything from bone health to heart disease, they can also function as endocrine disruptors and cause hormonal disturbances.

 

7. vegetable oils and fats

vegetable oils and fats are used in weight loss and protein supplements to increase richness. derived from processed, hydrogenated sources that contain trans fats, they are more harmful than saturated fats. trans fats raise triglycerides and bad (ldl) cholesterol levels, while lowering good (hdl) cholesterol – a recipe for metabolic dysfunction. 

 

8. thickeners and gums

thickening agents and gums, including xanthan gum, are manufactured from soy, corn, and wheat that cause bloating and gas in some people.

 

9. fillers

fillers are often added to bulk up the protein and include ingredients like coconut flour or psyllium fibre, resulting in gastrointestinal discomfort in those susceptible to digestive issues, such as constipation or bloating.