Protein powder is an essential part of any gymgoer's diet if they are looking for muscle buildup and gain. Whey protein powder has several health benefits, such as weight loss, increased muscle mass, and strength. 

However, several people believe there are natural alternatives to store-bought protein powder that are healthier and safer. One such alternative is sattu. Sattu is one of the most common ingredients in many Indian households. It can be consumed as a drink, paratha, or laddu. It has been a part of our diet since forever. 

People have been comparing whey protein powder and sattu powder for ages now. There are several opinions on the internet, but the golden question is, can you replace whey protein powder with sattu for muscle gain? First, let's understand what sattu really is.

What is sattu powder?

Sattu is a powder made from roasted horse gram. It is a common food item in Indian kitchens and is densely packed with protein. It can be consumed as a drink, or the flour can be used to make other foods like cheela, laddoo, and paratha. It is an excellent source of high-quality plant-based protein, containing around 3.36g of protein in each tablespoon.

Sattu powder vs. whey protein powder

There are differences between sattu and protein powder, as sattu is a natural protein source, and protein powders are made from whey protein obtained from milk. Both have different amounts of protein per scoop, and the preference is solely based on your fitness goals and lifestyle. 

Benefits of Sattu Powder:

  • Sattu does not only provide protein but also other nutrients such as fibre, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals (iron, magnesium, calcium, and zinc).
  • It digests slowly in the system, thus providing energy throughout the day. 
  • It helps in aiding digestion, promotes a healthy gut, and improves the absorption of nutrients. 

 

Benefits of protein powder:

  • Whey protein gets quickly absorbed in the body, which helps with post-workout muscle recovery. 
  • Whey protein is a good choice to build and strengthen lean muscles. 
  • It's fast-absorbing, which means better delivery of essential amino acids to the body.

 

What should I choose?

Both are great sources of protein and what to choose simply depends on your requirements. Sattu enriches the body with plant-based protein and other nutrients. While whey protein powder ensures quick absorption and muscle buildup, If you are looking for a more efficient and consistent protein source, whey protein is the choice, as it helps with muscle healing, buildup, and gains. 

Also Read: Try these quick sattu recipes for healthy digestion this summer