Plant protein vs whey - my 6-month experiment results

Carlos D.3/15/2026526 views
As a competitive powerlifter, I was skeptical about switching from whey to plant protein. I tracked everything for 6 months: **Setup:** Switched from whey isolate to Orgain Organic Protein. Kept everything else the same - calories, training program, sleep. **Results:** - Squat: 405 → 420 lbs (+15) - Bench: 275 → 280 lbs (+5) - Deadlift: 495 → 510 lbs (+15) - Body weight: 198 → 196 lbs (-2) - Body fat: ~14% → ~13% (estimated) **My takeaway:** Zero difference in strength gains. Actually felt LESS bloated and recovered faster. The "you need whey for gains" myth is completely busted in my experience. The key is hitting your total protein target (I do 1g per lb of body weight). The source doesn't matter as long as you're getting complete aminos, which pea+rice blends provide. Happy to answer any questions about plant-based athletics!

3 Replies

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Jordan T.3/15/2026
This is incredibly motivating! I just started lifting and was worried about protein. How many scoops of Orgain do you use per day?
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Carlos D.3/15/2026
@jordan_green I do 2 scoops (42g protein) split between post-workout and evening. The rest comes from tofu, tempeh, lentils, and beans throughout the day. Easily hitting 190-200g total.
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Mike R.3/15/2026
Fellow plant-powered lifter here. Can confirm - been vegan 4 years and hitting PRs regularly. People always ask "where do you get your protein?" and I'm like... everywhere? 😄

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