Debunking the Biggest Myths About Plant-Based Protein

This one’s been around for decades - and it’s not entirely wrong, but it is outdated.

Here’s the nuance:
Pea protein provides eight out of the nine essential amino acids your body needs to build and repair muscle. It’s only slightly lower in one — methionine, which is found in plenty of everyday foods like rice, oats, nuts, and seeds.

The key thing to know is that your body doesn’t require a complete amino acid profile in one meal or shake — it draws from what you eat throughout the entire day.

So if you’re enjoying a varied diet (and not living on shakes alone), you’ll get all nine amino acids easily.

✅ Science check: Nutrition research confirms that amino acids combine across meals - meaning your body “tops up” throughout the day, not meal by meal. The myth of needing a “complete protein” at every sitting has been thoroughly debunked.

At Second Nature, we chose pea protein because it delivers exceptional nutrition, high digestibility, and a smooth taste - all while keeping things simple, sustainable, and 100% plant-based.

Myth #2: “Plant Protein Doesn’t Build Muscle as Well as Whey”

The data says otherwise.

Muscle growth depends on three things:

1. Getting enough total protein,

2. Having access to all essential amino acids (which, again, come from your diet as a whole), and

3. Consistent resistance training.

When those boxes are ticked, pea protein performs just as well as whey.

A 2020 study published in Sports Medicine found no significant difference in muscle gain or strength improvement between participants consuming pea protein and those consuming whey protein over 12 weeks of weight training.

💡 Translation: your muscles don’t care where the protein comes from — only that they’re getting enough of it.

With Second Nature, you can recover, rebuild, and grow strong with the same results — minus the dairy, additives, and environmental impact.

 Myth #3: “Plant Protein Is Hard to Digest”

This myth comes from early versions of plant protein - gritty, fibrous, and less refined. Those days are gone.

Modern pea protein is highly digestible (with a digestibility rating around 90–95%) and naturally gentle on the stomach. It’s free from lactose and common allergens, making it ideal for anyone who struggles with whey-based powders.

We also avoid artificial fillers, gums, and sweeteners — so you’re getting pure, clean nutrition that your body can actually use.

✅ Science check: Studies show pea protein’s digestibility and absorption are comparable to animal protein, and many people find it easier on digestion than whey.

So if you’ve ever felt bloated or sluggish after other shakes, you might be surprised how light and balanced Second Nature feels.

Myth #4: “You Can’t Get Enough Protein Without Meat or Dairy”

This one’s all about perspective.

Meat and dairy are familiar protein sources - but they’re far from the only ones. Plants provide plenty of protein when eaten in variety.

Combine foods like:

• Legumes: lentils, chickpeas, beans

• Grains: oats, quinoa, rice

• Seeds & nuts: hemp, chia, almonds, sunflower seeds

• Vegetables: peas, spinach, broccoli

Each source contributes a slightly different amino acid profile and together, they add up beautifully.

A shake of Second Nature pea protein gives you a solid foundation (around 21g of high-quality protein per serving), and the rest comes naturally from the foods you already eat.

So yes - you can absolutely meet your protein needs without animal products. And your body (and the planet) will thank you for it.

Myth #5: “Plant Protein Is All Processed and Artificial”

Not all plant proteins are created equal.

Some powders on the market use harsh processing or artificial additives to mimic whey but that’s not what Second Nature is about.

We keep it simple:

• Pure pea protein isolate - nothing unnecessary added.

• No artificial sweeteners or synthetic fillers.

• Naturally smooth texture and flavour.

We believe your protein should nourish you, not confuse your body. The result is clean, effective nutrition that supports your health and your values.

💡 Tip: Check labels before buying. If you see long chemical names or “proprietary blends,” that’s a red flag. You deserve to know exactly what you’re fueling with.

Myth #6: “Plant Protein Doesn’t Taste Good”

Let’s be honest a decade ago, this one had some truth to it. But not anymore.

With Second Nature, taste was a priority from day one. We wanted a shake that didn’t just “get the job done” it had to be something you actually look forward to drinking.

That’s why we perfected our formula for a naturally smooth, creamy texture without chalkiness. Whether you’re blending it into smoothies, stirring it into oats, or baking it into snacks, it fits effortlessly into your day.

So if your last plant protein experience was gritty or bitter, it’s time for a do-over.

The Bigger Picture: Why Plant Protein Matters

Beyond performance, plant-based protein carries an added benefit it’s lighter on the planet.

Pea protein requires less land, less water, and produces fewer emissions than animal protein. It’s one of the most efficient, sustainable sources of amino acids available — even more eco-friendly than many other plant crops.

So every scoop supports not just your health, but a more balanced food system.

That’s what Second Nature is all about simple, natural nutrition that’s good for your body and gentle on the world.

Why We Chose Pea Protein

Pea protein checks all the boxes:

• ✅ Rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to support muscle repair.

• ✅ Highly digestible and allergen-friendly.

• ✅ Mild in taste and smooth in texture.

• ✅ Low impact on the environment.

And when combined with a varied, whole-food diet, it provides everything your body needs to perform and recover - naturally.

Because we don’t believe nutrition has to be complicated. It just has to be intentional.

 The Bottom Line

Plant-based protein has evolved - and the myths haven’t kept up.

Pea protein isn’t “missing something”; it’s simply part of a broader nutritional picture. When you eat a balanced diet, your body easily combines amino acids from different foods to create exactly what it needs.

You don’t need to chase “complete” meals or worry about missing out. You just need good nutrition, made simple.

That’s why Second Nature exists - to make choosing better fuel effortless, enjoyable, and effective.

Because the best protein doesn’t just build your body it supports your lifestyle, your mindset, and your world.
It’s not a fad. It’s not a compromise.
It’s Second Nature.