Designs for Health is known for its practitioner-grade nutritional supplements, and its protein powders are no exception. The ingredient list for each product is meticulously crafted to support different dietary needs and sensitivities, with options ranging from grass-fed dairy to various plant-based and Paleo sources. By understanding the specific ingredients in each formula, consumers can make informed choices based on their health goals, whether it's supporting muscle growth, aiding digestion, or adhering to a specific diet like Paleo or vegan.
Core Ingredients in Designs for Health Protein Powders
Designs for Health offers a variety of protein powders, with different core protein sources catering to distinct needs.
WheyCool™ Protein Powder
This product is centered around a non-denatured, grass-fed whey protein concentrate derived from cows grazing on pesticide-free pastures in New Zealand.
- Whey Protein Concentrate: As the primary protein source, it contains the full spectrum of whey's natural immune-boosting components.
- Sunflower Lecithin: Used as an instantizer to help the powder mix easily without clumps.
- Natural Flavors: Sourced from natural ingredients to provide flavor profiles like vanilla and chocolate.
- Stevia Leaf Extract: A natural, certified organic sweetener used in flavored versions to avoid sugar or artificial alternatives.
PurePaleo™ Protein Powder
For those seeking a dairy-free and Paleo-friendly option, PurePaleo™ uses HydroBEEF™, a bone broth protein isolate.
- HydroBEEF™ Bone Broth Protein Isolate: This highly concentrated, hydrolyzed beef protein is sourced from Swedish cows and contains naturally occurring collagen peptides. Hydrolysis breaks the protein into smaller peptides for easier absorption.
- Natural Flavors: Depending on the variant (e.g., chocolate or vanilla), natural flavors are added.
- Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs): A source of healthy fats.
- Stevia Leaf Extract: Provides sweetness without sugar.
- Silicon Dioxide: Functions as an anti-caking agent to maintain powder consistency.
PurePea™ Protein Powder
PurePea™ is a plant-based option using pea protein isolate derived from non-GMO, North American-grown yellow peas.
- Pea Protein Isolate: The main ingredient, providing a rich source of vegan protein.
- Natural Flavors: Used in flavored versions.
- Luo Han Guo Extract (Monk Fruit): A natural sweetener used in some variations to provide a pleasant taste.
- Steviol Glycosides: Derived from stevia leaf, it is used for natural sweetness in the Organic PurePea variant.
- Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum: A fiber and thickening agent.
Phytotein™ Vegan Protein Powder
Phytotein™ uses a multi-source plant protein blend for a comprehensive amino acid profile.
- Organic Protein Blend: A mix of organic pea, sunflower, pumpkin seed, sacha inchi, and rice proteins.
- Sweetener Blend: Uses both steviol glycosides and luo han guo extract.
- Fiber Blend: Includes guar gum, gum acacia, and xanthan gum to improve texture and digestive health.
Comparison of Key Protein Ingredients
| Ingredient | Source | Dietary Suitability | Key Advantages | Typical Use Case | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whey Protein (WheyCool™) | Dairy (Grass-fed cows) | Vegetarian, Non-dairy intolerant | High bioavailability, complete amino acid profile, rapid absorption. | Post-workout recovery, daily protein supplementation. | Sourced from New Zealand cows for purity, non-denatured. |
| HydroBEEF™ (PurePaleo™) | Beef Bone Broth | Paleo, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free | Easily absorbed peptides, rich in collagen, supports connective tissue. | Paleo diets, muscle and tissue support, dairy sensitivity. | Derived from Swedish grass-fed, non-GMO beef. |
| Pea Protein Isolate (PurePea™) | Non-GMO Yellow Peas | Vegan, Vegetarian, Allergen-Friendly | Highly digestible, hypoallergenic, and economical. | Dairy-free protein boost, smooth texture in shakes. | Produced via natural fermentation without chemical solvents. |
| Multi-Plant Blend (Phytotein™) | Pea, Sunflower, Pumpkin, Sacha Inchi, Rice | Vegan, Vegetarian, Allergen-Friendly | Diverse amino acid profile, comprehensive nutritional support. | All-purpose vegan protein, metabolic health support. | Includes added fiber for digestive health. |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Formula for Your Needs
When selecting a Designs for Health protein powder, it is essential to consider the primary protein source and your personal dietary restrictions or health goals. For those who tolerate dairy and seek a high-quality, fast-absorbing protein for muscle repair, WheyCool™ is an excellent choice. Paleo dieters or those with dairy sensitivities will find PurePaleo™'s hydrolyzed HydroBEEF™ an effective and easily digestible alternative. Vegans, vegetarians, and individuals with food allergies can benefit from the clean, plant-derived protein sources in PurePea™ or the comprehensive blend in Phytotein™. Each product, regardless of its core protein, is characterized by Designs for Health's commitment to avoiding artificial ingredients and using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, ensuring a clean and effective supplement. Ultimately, a careful review of the specific ingredients for your chosen product is the best way to ensure it aligns with your nutritional requirements. For more information on their ingredients and sourcing, you can check the product specifications on retailer websites.
Common Protein Powder Ingredients and Their Functions
- Protein Source: The primary ingredient, such as whey, casein, beef isolate, or pea protein, provides amino acids for muscle building and repair.
- Natural Flavors: Add taste, with common options being vanilla, chocolate, or natural fruit extracts.
- Natural Sweeteners: Non-sugar alternatives like stevia leaf extract or monk fruit are used to sweeten products without added sugar.
- Emulsifiers: Ingredients like sunflower lecithin help the powder dissolve smoothly into liquids, preventing clumping.
- Fibers: Ingredients such as partially hydrolyzed guar gum or inulin can aid in digestion and add bulk.
- MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides): Provide a source of readily available energy, common in some Paleo formulas.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Some formulas, like meal replacements, contain added vitamins and chelated minerals for optimal absorption and nutrient completeness.
