The different types of vegan protein powders are yellow pea, hemp and brown rice. These proteins do not come from animal or dairy sources. Soy is technically considered to be another one of the vegan protein powders, but some forms are thought to be cancer-promoting. Veganism is a more restrictive form of vegetarianism, in which no animal, dairy or animal by-products are consumed, so non-animal forms of protein are an important part of the diet.
One of the types of vegan protein powders that is growing in popularity is hemp powder. Derived from natural hemp seeds, it contains up to 80 percent useful, digestible protein. This makes it one of the vegan protein powders that are highly effective at replenishing protein levels, especially after a strenuous work out. Hemp protein powder is quite filling and has a nutty taste that goes well with bland foods, such as oatmeal.
The protein in hemp powder closely resembles what is found within the human immune system. Consuming this type of powder to fulfill protein needs can help boost an individual's natural defenses. It tends to cause a chemical reaction in the body that stimulates the production of antibodies.
Brown rice powder can be a good substitute for soy protein powder. It is somewhat similar in taste and tends to be allergy free. Brown rice powder is one of the vegan protein powders that is diverse enough to combine in smoothie drinks or a regular protein shake. This powder is also gentle on the digestive system and contains enough usable protein to help rebuild muscle tissue after a stint in the gym.
Yellow pea protein powder tends to get used by extreme athletes. It may be used in combination with brown rice powder in order to make a complete protein. Yellow pea protein only contains some of the essential amino acids, while brown rice contains other complementary enzymes. One of the benefits of yellow pea protein is that it contains the same levels as dairy and egg sources, but is not as harsh on the body.
Most forms of vegan protein powders are more accommodating to the digestive system than animal and dairy forms. They tend to be hypoallergenic, but some do take on a chalky taste. While brown rice and pea protein powders are more adept at stimulating muscle growth, hemp protein powder is not as efficient at this. Soy protein is one of the more popular forms of vegan protein powder and is usually found in a wide variety of protein shakes and nutritional bars.
