As the new year approaches, it’s a common time to consider adopting healthier habits. Whether you’re a fan of setting specific resolutions or just aiming to improve your lifestyle in general, the transition to a new year is an ideal moment for such changes. And instead of waiting until January 1st, why not get a head start? A simple yet effective way to kickstart your resolution is by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet. This change can significantly contribute to your overall health, offering a range of essential nutrients and benefits.
Is a plant-based diet healthy?
Science has shown time and time again that diets rich in plants are optimal and can contribute to enhanced heart health, a lowered risk of type 2 diabetes, reduced inflammation and aid in maintaining a healthier weight. You don’t have to be vegan or adhere to a 100% plant-based diet to reap these benefits, but in general your diet should incorporate vegetables and whole, minimally processed foods.
The best plant-based fitness products at Vitacost
Whether you have been vegan for years or are just interested in incorporating more plant-based products into your life, here are 10 customer favorite plant-based fitness products to add to your holiday wish list.
Organic Nutrition Vegan Protein Shake Plant Based Smooth Chocolate
This individually packaged drink is the perfect post-workout sustenance for on the go. Containing 16 grams of plant-based protein, 22 vitamins and minerals and no artificial flavors or colorings, you can feel good about packing this in your gym bag.
What customers are saying: “I love this protein shake. The flavor and nutrition are unbeatable. I was so thankful to learn Vitacost delivers it to Canada because I couldn’t find it here anywhere.” -Lynda
About Time Vegan Protein plus Coffee
Protein powder with coffee? Say no more. Peas provide the protein content of the drink while instant coffee gives it a caffeinated boost. Perfect for after those early morning workouts to help you power through the rest of your day.
What customers are saying: “For breakfast it is my favorite. I mix it in the Vitamix and it is thick and creamy! -Bbangela
Aloha Plant-Based Protein Bars
This sampler pack lets you get a taste of all of the flavors, so you don’t have to pick just one. Each bar contains 14 grams of brown rice and pumpkin seed protein mix but leaves out the gluten, soy, stevia and dairy making them a great choice for a variety of diets.
What customers are saying: “I have tried so many keto/low sugar protein bars and some are just ok. Aloha is the best tasting bar out there! Good for you ingredients and so yummy. Highly recommend!!” -Elizabeth
Laird Superfood Hydrate Coconut Water + Aquamin Drink Mix
It is time to put aside the sugary sports drinks and pick up this all-natural hydrating mix. It combines the electrolytes in coconut water with the mineral-rich calcified marine algae to optimally hydrate and refuel your body. It makes an excellent post-workout thirst quencher or just something to have on hand to maintain hydrated throughout the day.
What customers are saying: “Has a light flavor and keeps you hydrated. This is a healthy replacement for those sugary sports drinks.” -RJCs
Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant-Based Energy plus Focus
Pre-workout beverages are all the hype, but it can be very hard to find one that is effective and not full of artificial ingredients. Look no further. This powder combines an organic nitric oxide blend made from spinach, kale and beets and caffeine from coffee fruit extract to make for an energy and performance boosting powerhouse without any artificial or untested ingredients.
What customers are saying: “I absolutely love this pre-workout shake. It gives me energy that’s upbeat and not shaky. And the best part is there is no crashing whatsoever.” -Michael D.
OM Organic Mushroom Nutrition Energy
Cordyceps, lion’s mane and reishi come together with natural caffeine from guarana and yerba matte for sustained energy without the unwanted crash. It also contains vitamin C to support your immune system and can be easily mixed on the go.
What customers are saying: “I really like this easy-to-use packet of mushroom drink. It’s my guilty pleasure because it’s such a better deal to get the canister but so easy to actually drink the single serving. Tastes pretty good- very sweet from the monk fruit added. Wonderful nutrients and great array of ‘shrooms. Makes me feel sharp and energized.” -Mae B
MRM BCAA+G Reload™ Island Fusion
Known for their ability to help recover and build muscle, the BCAA’s (branched-chain amino acids) in this product come from all-natural vegan sources. Take during and after exercise to help reduce muscle soreness and optimize muscle growth.
What customers are saying: “I love the taste, not too strong or sweet. I feel revived day after work outs. There is no added caffeine so I can take it late in the evening and still go to sleep without being wired.” -Terri
Codeage Liposomal Multi Amino+ BCAA & EAA Supplement
This vegan supplement contains both BCAAs as well as essential amino acids (meaning amino acids you can only get through your diet) making it a great product for muscle recovery and growth. It utilizes a liposomal delivery system to maximize absorption. It also comes in capsule form making it perfect for on the go.
What customers are saying: “I really like the included ingredients and the dosage in this supplement. Just what I was looking for. Vegan and made in the USA also which is awesome. The pills are easy to swallow and do not upset my stomach. I take this mostly after working out for recovery. I feel it is working great for me. The liposomal delivery is a great plus for absorption. I can recommend this one.” -MagieBe
Schimdt’s Aluminum-Free 24-Hour Odor Protection Vegan Natural Deodorant Stick
We couldn’t complete our round up without a couple of our favorite non-edible fitness products. This deodorant is all-natural, vegan, aluminum free and has a great refreshing scent that lasts for up to 24 hours. With Schimdt’s, you can feel good about what you put on your under arms!
What customers are saying: “No irritation; refreshing scent lasts all day. Great knowing that it’s a natural product!” -ENSF
Jason Body Wash De-Stress Hemp Seed Oil
Vegan and free of phthalates, sulfates and parabens, you are going to want to add this body wash to your gym bag. The addition of hemp seed oil will help calm your system following an intense workout and the aloe, lavender and oatmeal will make sure to keep your skin soft and hydrated all day.
What customers are saying: “We ran out of our body wash and searched for one at the store. And this is what we opted for because it smells pleasant, NO THC, Parabens, Sulfates, Petrolatum or Phthalates and it is affordable. I’d be honest, I have never heard of this brand before, so we were kinda hesitant at first. It truly delivers what it claims. It leaves my skin moisturized after every use and it leaves this pleasant garden scent after shower. I’d definitely buy this again.” -quinndipity