If you’re of a certain age you remember the Segway.

It was hyped as the revolutionary invention that would change personal transportation forever.

Cities were expected to be redesigned for it, and it was going to transform how we commute.

Then reality hit – it was an overpriced toy for tourists and mall cops, and tragically, its founder even died riding one off a cliff.

I didn’t make that part up.

Plant-based protein is the Segway of the nutrition world.

It’s been hyped up as the next big thing, but in reality, it’s just not delivering on its promises.

Here’s why plant-based protein is a scam.

The Bioavailability Issue

First off, let's talk about bioavailability.

Bioavailability refers to how well and how quickly our body can absorb and use the protein we consume.

Animal proteins like whey, casein, and even egg whites score high on the bioavailability scale. This means your body can efficiently use these proteins to repair and build muscle.

Plant-based proteins?

Not so much.

The most common plant-based proteins – soy, pea, rice – all have lower bioavailability.

They lack the full spectrum of essential amino acids required for muscle growth and repair. A study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that animal proteins are far superior in promoting muscle protein synthesis compared to plant-based proteins​​.

Incomplete Proteins

Most plant-based proteins are incomplete.

This means they don't contain all nine essential amino acids your body can't produce on its own.

Sure, you can combine different plant proteins to get a complete amino acid profile, but that’s like trying to patch a sinking ship with duct tape.

It's inefficient and impractical for anyone serious about their muscle gains.

According to a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, complete proteins from animal sources lead to better muscle protein synthesis and overall muscle mass maintenance​​.

In contrast, plant proteins, even when combined, often fall short in both quality and efficiency.

Muscle Building and Recovery

Let's face it, if you’re hitting the gym hard, you need real protein to recover and grow.

Animal protein sources like beef, chicken, fish, and dairy not only have higher bioavailability but also provide other crucial nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which are essential for muscle function and recovery.

Plant-based proteins are often loaded with anti-nutrients like phytates and lectins that can interfere with the absorption of minerals​​.

And don’t even get me started on the fiber content.

While fiber is great for digestion, too much of it can slow down the digestion process, delaying the delivery of those precious amino acids to your muscles.

The Real Data

Let’s dive into some data.

A study conducted by the University of Tampa compared muscle mass gains between groups consuming animal protein versus plant protein over a 12-week period.

The animal protein group showed a significant increase in muscle mass and strength compared to the plant protein group​​.

Another study from McMaster University found that individuals consuming whey protein post-workout had a 31% increase in muscle protein synthesis compared to those consuming soy protein, which only showed a 15% increase​​.

Environmental and Ethical Myths

And for those of you clinging to the environmental and ethical high ground, thinking plant proteins are better for the planet, think again.

Monocropping for plant protein production is destroying ecosystems and depleting soil quality.

The irony is palpable – you’re sacrificing your gains and the environment for a protein that doesn’t even deliver.

Stick to What Works

The fitness industry is saturated with trends and fads, but plant-based protein is one that needs to be taken out back and shot.

Your gains, your body, and your sanity depend on real, bioavailable, complete proteins – the kind you get from animals.

Don’t fall for the scam. Stick to what works: real food, real protein, real results.

So next time someone tries to sell you on the latest pea protein isolate or soy blend, just remember – you're not a cow, so stop eating like one.