The results from my last checkup have shown that my cholesterol level is above normal. What I feared has come upon me. You see, even though I try to eat as healthy as I can and I’m physically active (I like yoga and hiking, my high cholesterol is genetic – it runs in the family. My doctor suggested that I should start taking a cholesterol-lowering statin drug, but I refused to do so as I wanted to check if there were other alternatives to naturally lower my cholesterol levels. So I did a thorough research on the matter and discovered that cutting meat and dairy from my diet would be a good start. My health is my biggest wealth, so I decided to go vegan for that purpose.

Since a vegan diet excludes all animal-based products, now I mainly consume plant-based foods. Moreover, to ensure a proper protein intake, I eat protein-rich foods such as beans, nuts, legumes and soy. Another thing that I’m really excited about is the new ingredient I add to many of my shakes, pancakes and whatnot – vegan protein powder. Many people think that only athletes buy vegan protein powder but that is far from the truth. When you buy vegan protein powder of good quality, you buy yourself kind of a medicine in the form of powder. Why medicine? Because it helps in the recovery of damaged muscles, assists in weight loss and it is a great dietary supplement for a better body nourishment.

The first time I went online to buy vegan protein powder was due to the fact that a dose of this protein was enough for me to meet my daily protein intake. Not to mention how convenient it is – I use it in smoothies, mixtures for baked goods and sweets. But once I felt the amazing benefits it had on my overall well-being, I decided to keep on using it. What are its benefits, you ask? Take a look at some of them.

Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular disease is one of the main causes of fatalities and heart disease kills more people than cancer or any other illness. Diets that are low in saturated fats and cholesterol can help improve heart health and the use of a vegan protein powder can also boost cardiovascular health and lower cholesterol.

Improved Digestion

Vegan protein powders are loaded with healthy fibers that naturally improve digestion. Poor digestion can result in fatigue, a poor immune system and make you feel bloated. Remember that fruits are also rich in fibers and can be easily combined with different kinds of vegan protein powders in smoothies for the ultimate yummy taste.

Better Joint Health

A study has shown that plant-based supplements can help improve joint mobility and even help reduce the effect of arthritis. If your joints are in a bad condition or your muscles are sore more than 2-3 days, you won’t be able to perform your exercises properly, or not at all. This protein, besides being a healthy addition to your food regimen, it is also a great supplement to take after working out as it reduces the feeling of fatigue and soreness.

When it comes to vegan protein powders, you have a wide variety to choose from – hemp, brown rice, soya and pea. Your choice should depend on your dietary needs and of course, food preferences. Consider buying protein powder in small doses first, until you find out which kind you like best.

After being on this diet for a couple of months and using a vegan protein powder to add to the nutritive value of some of my meals, I got good news. The results of my last checkup showed that there is a slight but positive change in my cholesterol levels. You see? Your body will reward you, so make sure to take good care of what you feed it with.