Protein Powder for Sensitive Stomachs
Since Mike and I have gone low-carb, protein powder is a big part of our lives. This post is sponsored by Deerland Probiotics & Enzymes through Kitchen PLAY; all opinions are my own.
Protein powder is a major staple in our house. However, I notice every time I increase my protein shake intake, my stomach is not thrilled with the decision. It took a while for me to make the connection, but I now recognize the pattern.
After doing some homework, I realized it’s quite common for protein powder to cause digestive issues. Many people notice upset stomachs when they increase their protein intake.
Why Does Protein Powder Hurt My Stomach?
Protein creates large peptides when it’s not broken down into the smallest composition. Large peptides can cause stomach upsets such as bloating, nausea, and cramping.
Thankfully, there’s an answer to this problem. Look for products that contain ProHydrolase.
What is ProHydrolase?
ProHydrolase is an enzyme blend that helps break down protein quickly and efficiently. The large peptides I mentioned above, ProHydrolase breaks them up to reduce stomach discomfort due to consuming protein.
While researching ProHydrolase, there are a lot of scientific studies and big words to sink your teeth into. As interesting as that all is, if you’d like a quick and easy example of how ProHydrolase works, this is my favorite:
Picture trying to move a piece of large furniture through a small door. You have to take the furniture apart to move it into the room. Once it’s in the room, you have to reassemble the furniture to use it. You can’t always tackle this job yourself, and often need to call for help.
Protein is the furniture and ProHydrolase is like a professional mover who can quickly disassemble and reassemble your bookshelf, so you have full use of it right away.
It all makes sense to me after using that analogy. It’s also quite eye-opening because if your body isn’t breaking down proteins well, you might be wasting it — literally.
If protein isn’t broken down properly, a lot of it is excreted instead of absorbed.
Other ProHydrolase Benefits
When your body absorbs protein efficiently, it takes full advantage of essential amino acids used for muscle building and muscle recovery.
- Reduced stomach discomfort.
- Increased amino acids in the blood.
- Decreased C-reactive protein levels.
- No raise in insulin.
- Non-GMO Project Verified.
- Star-K Kosher certified.
ProHydrolase works with several types of protein, including whey, soy, egg, casein, hemp, and pea.
Search for protein powders that contain ProHydrolase. ProHydrolase is not a stand-alone product – rather, it’s included in protein products. I quickly found a delicious protein powder that contains ProHydrolase on Amazon.
Ways to use Protein Powder
If you think protein powder is just for smoothies, you’re missing out. You can add protein powder to so many foods. It adds flavor, balances sweetness out a bit, and makes foods more filling. Here are some things I regularly use protein powder in:
- Smoothies
- Energy bites
- Baked goods
- Yogurt
- Keto fat bombs
Low-Carb Protein Shake Add-Ins
I’m a huge fan of smoothies for breakfast. Since starting the keto diet, I had to find low-carb mix-ins to add to protein shakes. Here are some tasty low-carb foods to add to smoothies:
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Spinach
- Chia seeds
- Coffee
- Peanut butter powder
- Avocado
- Coconut
- Pumpkin
- Cinnamon
- Mint
- Peanut butter
- Yogurt
I use macadamia milk for the liquid and, of course, my protein powder that contains ProHydrolase!
I’m no longer hyper-aware of my stomach after drinking a protein shake. Ever since I switched to a protein powder with ProHydrolase, I feel nothing after smoothies — as it should be!
I didn’t know that excess protein could cause stomach upset. Your post was very informative and helpful!
I learn something new everyday! I never knew this about protein and how too much can lead to stomach aches. I’ll make sure to pay attention to the ingredients next time!
I will be looking for this ingredient next time I buy protein powder. I like that it helps with digestion.
I totally have to tell my hubby about this. His stomach is super sensitive.
This is nice to know that there is a protein powder that does not cause gastric irritation. I want to give my family the best nutritional supplements without the upset stomach. I will have to check the labels more carefully and look for the ones with prohydrolase.
I love how this protein powder does not raise insulin. I think it is super appealing too for those who have sensitive stomachs. These add-ins are helpful too.
This is something I need to try. I do have a sensitive stomach, so I’m interested in giving this a try. I think protein powder is so great for you too.
I never thought about protein powder having an effect on people’s stomachs, but I can see why it would! It’s good to know that there are other options.
I’ve used protein powder in pancakes before and it was delicious! These are great ideas to get started and help with stomach sensitivities.
I am going to have look for this type of protein. A lot of protein supplements make me feel so sick.
I actually really love adding protein powder to my every day breakfasts and meals. It’s got a great taste and flavor that I love.
I really thought I was a weirdo that I couldn’t handle a lot of protein powders. I’m so glad to know I’m not the only one! I struggle getting enough protein in so this is definitely going on my check out list.
I know so many friend that has a sensitive stomach. They will find this ridiculously good. No one wants a super sensitive stomach.
This would be a great option for my husband who suffers from stomach problems.
I’ve never heard of ProHydrolase! Can’t wait to try your shake! I had stopped making them because I always felt nauseous.
This is so amazing, I need a good protein option and the traditional ones have been giving me tummy problems.
A powerful way to consume protein for those who need it for healthy well-being. I would like to try this one out for my smoothies. A great way to add more nutrition to the daily diet.
Must be rough to have a sensitive stomach but this looks really good. I would def try
Love these suggestions too!
ahh, this is great info to know — thanks for sharing
ProHydrolase has been a game changer for me!!! I always make sure it is in any protein powder I buy!!