Plant-Based Protein 20 g Vanilla
California Gold Nutrition SPORT
Plant-Based Protein 20 g Vanilla
4.4
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(5225 ratings)
Sodium 360 mg
Potassium 260 mg
Iron 6.9 mg
Score 88.0
A dependable plant-based protein powder with 20g protein per serving, good macronutrient balance, and essential minerals, suitable for general health and fitness goals for vegans.
Quantity: 32 Ounce(s)Servings size: 31 Gram(s) (29 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
General Health
Fitness
Heart Health
Muscle Gain
Energy
leaderboard Score 88.0
A dependable plant-based protein powder with 20g protein per serving, good macronutrient balance, and essential minerals, suitable for general health and fitness goals for vegans.
insights Analysis
California Gold Nutrition SPORT Plant-Based Protein in Vanilla flavor is a solid option for individuals seeking a vegan-friendly protein supplement. Each serving provides 20 grams of protein from a blend (implied by 'plant-based protein' in title, typically pea, rice, or hemp), with a modest 120 calories, 2 grams of fat, and 5 grams of carbohydrates. It also includes beneficial electrolytes like sodium and potassium, along with iron, which are important for overall health and athletic performance. The product's large number of positive reviews suggests good palatability and efficacy among users, reinforcing its market standing as a reliable choice.
- Provides 20g of plant-based protein per serving, ideal for muscle maintenance and growth, catering specifically to vegan and vegetarian diets.
- Contains essential electrolytes like 360mg Sodium and 260mg Potassium, aiding in hydration and nerve function, particularly beneficial post-exercise.
- Offers 6.9mg of Iron per serving, which contributes to energy production and oxygen transport, a valuable addition for plant-based diets that sometimes lack sufficient iron intake.
- Low in calories (120 per serving), fat (2g), and carbohydrates (5g), making it suitable for various dietary goals including weight management.
- Highly rated with over 5000 reviews, indicating broad consumer satisfaction and trust in the brand and product.
- Compared to some alternatives, the protein content of 20g per serving is good but not the highest available within the plant-based category, with some competitors offering 25g or more.
- While containing some key minerals, it lacks the comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile found in 'all-in-one' nutritional shakes.
- The price per serving of $1.20 is competitive but not the absolute lowest for plant-based protein, as certain pea protein isolates can be found for less per gram of protein.
- Individuals with sensitivities to specific plant-based protein sources (e.g., pea, rice, or soy if used, though not explicitly listed for this product) should verify the exact protein blend to avoid allergic reactions.
- The sodium content (360mg) should be considered by individuals on sodium-restricted diets, although it's within a reasonable range for an electrolyte-contributing protein powder.
$34.89($1.20 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 34.89 | |
 Amazon | $ 286.99 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Iron supplements are highly effective at replenishing iron stores and increasing hemoglobin levels in individuals with diagnosed iron deficiency. Consistent use under professional guidance can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue and weakness. Their effectiveness can be influenced by the form of iron and other dietary factors.
Iron supplements are commonly used and effective for increasing iron levels and treating iron deficiency anemia, which can alleviate symptoms like fatigue and weakness. Their effectiveness depends on the severity of the deficiency and adherence to the prescribed regimen. It is important to confirm iron deficiency with a healthcare provider before initiating supplementation.
Yes, iron supplements are effective in reducing fatigue when it is caused by iron deficiency anemia. By restoring adequate iron levels, they improve the body's ability to transport oxygen, leading to increased energy and reduced feelings of tiredness. Noticeable improvements typically occur after several weeks of consistent supplementation.
Potassium supplements can contribute to the maintenance of healthy blood pressure, especially when dietary intake is insufficient. Potassium helps balance the effects of sodium on blood pressure, promoting fluid balance. It is most effective as part of a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
If low energy or fatigue is due to iron deficiency anemia, iron supplementation can help restore iron levels and oxygen transport, which may improve energy. For individuals with adequate iron stores, iron supplementation is not typically associated with increased energy. Consulting a healthcare professional to identify the root cause of fatigue is recommended.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
For most healthy adults, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day. However, the average American consumption often exceeds this amount. Individuals with certain health conditions, like high blood pressure, may be advised to consume even less.
Iron supplements are often best absorbed on an empty stomach, ideally an hour before or two hours after meals. However, taking them with a small amount of food can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects for some individuals. Co-administering with vitamin C can enhance iron absorption.
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for iron varies by age, gender, and life stage. For adult men, it's typically 8 mg, while for adult premenopausal women, it's 18 mg. Pregnant women have significantly higher requirements, around 27 mg per day.
Typical daily supplemental iron dosages vary significantly based on individual needs, such as deficiency status, age, and gender. For adults, dosages might range from 18 mg for general support to 30-65 mg or more for treating iron deficiency. It is crucial to follow professional guidance due to the risks associated with iron overload.
Yes, vitamin C can significantly enhance the absorption of non-heme iron. This is why many iron supplements are formulated with vitamin C, or it is recommended to take iron with a source of vitamin C, like orange juice. This interaction helps convert iron into a more readily absorbable form.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Consuming too much sodium is strongly linked to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also contribute to fluid retention and may place extra strain on the kidneys. Limiting sodium intake is often recommended for overall cardiovascular health.
Consuming excessive sodium can contribute to elevated blood pressure in some individuals, particularly those sensitive to its effects. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues over time. Dietary guidelines often recommend limiting sodium intake for overall health.
Potassium and sodium work together to maintain fluid balance and regulate blood pressure. A higher intake of potassium can help counterbalance the effects of high sodium, promoting healthier blood pressure levels. This balance is crucial for cardiovascular function.
Individuals with impaired kidney function should exercise caution with potassium supplements. Kidneys are crucial for regulating potassium levels, and supplements could lead to excessively high potassium (hyperkalemia) in these cases. Consulting a healthcare provider is essential before supplementation.
Excessive iron intake, especially from supplements, can lead to iron overload, which can be toxic. In severe cases, it can damage organs like the liver and heart. Children are particularly vulnerable to accidental iron poisoning.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Calories | 120 Calorie(s) |
Total Fat | 2 Gram(s) |
Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Sodium | 360 mg |
Total Carbohydrate | 5 Gram(s) |
Protein | 20 Gram(s) |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 30 mg |
Iron | 6.9 mg |
Potassium | 260 mg |
Categories
Iron 88.0
Providing 6.9mg of Iron per serving is a significant benefit, particularly for individuals on plant-based diets who may be at higher risk for iron deficiency. Iron is essential for oxygen transport and energy metabolism, directly supporting overall vitality.
Sodium 85.0
The product contains 360mg of Sodium per serving, which is a moderate amount beneficial for electrolyte balance, especially for active individuals. This level helps replenish sodium lost through sweat, supporting hydration and preventing muscle cramps.
Potassium 80.0
With 260mg of Potassium, this protein powder offers a good contribution to daily potassium intake. Potassium is vital for nerve signals, muscle contractions, and fluid balance, complementing the sodium content for overall electrolyte homeostasis.
Goals
General Health 90.0
Providing 20g of plant-based protein, this product supports overall bodily functions, tissue repair, and immune health. The inclusion of iron, potassium, and calcium further contributes to a balanced nutritional intake essential for general well-being.
Fitness 89.0
The 20g of protein per serving is effective for post-workout recovery and muscle repair, crucial for fitness enthusiasts. The presence of electrolytes like sodium and potassium also aids in maintaining fluid balance and muscle function during and after physical activity.
Muscle Gain 87.0
With 20g of protein per serving, this product provides sufficient amino acids to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, a key process for muscle growth and repair. For optimal muscle gain, it can be easily incorporated into a higher-calorie, protein-rich diet, although individuals with higher protein needs might prefer a serving size that offers more protein.
Recommended Alternatives
80 Value 
Warrior Blend Protein Berry
Sunwarrior
4.4
★★★★★
(15376 ratings)
This alternative offers a very similar high-quality plant-based protein with excellent mineral content (Sodium 558mg, Iron 9mg) from a reputable brand, but at a significantly lower price per serving ($0.80), providing superior value for comparable benefits.
78 Value 
Warrior Blend Protein Chocolate
Sunwarrior
4.5
★★★★★
(2020 ratings)
As another flavor from Sunwarrior's Warrior Blend line, it delivers a similar protein and mineral profile (Sodium 521mg, Iron 8mg) at a more accessible price per serving ($1.06), making it a strong contender for better value in the plant-based protein category.
75 Value 
Pea Protein Vanilla Toffee
NOW Sports
4.2
★★★★★
(2672 ratings)
NOW Sports is known for its value. This large container of pea protein provides substantial servings of plant-based protein with good amounts of sodium (540mg), potassium (148mg), and iron (7mg) for its overall price, offering excellent cost-effectiveness for daily use.
87 Performance 
Vegan Smart All-In-One Nutritional Shake Vanilla
Naturade
4.4
★★★★★
(247 ratings)
While its price per serving is unclear, this 'All-In-One' shake likely offers a more comprehensive nutritional profile including vitamins, additional minerals (Sodium 520mg, Iron 9mg), and potentially superfoods, making it a 'better' choice for broader general health support beyond just protein.
86 Performance 
Vegan Smart All-In-One Nutritional Shake Chocolate
Naturade
4.4
★★★★★
(275 ratings)
Similar to its vanilla counterpart, this 'All-In-One' shake provides a wider range of nutrients and minerals (Sodium 550mg, Potassium 200mg, Iron 9mg) beyond just protein, potentially offering a more complete daily supplement for overall well-being, enhancing its 'better' status.
90 Performance 
100% Mass Gainer Chocolate Fudge Brownie
MuscleTech
4.3
★★★★★
(5058 ratings)
As a mass gainer, this product typically offers higher protein and calorie content for aggressive muscle gain, along with substantial electrolytes (Sodium 540mg, Potassium 460mg) and iron (2mg). For those with specific goals of rapid muscle and weight gain, it's a more targeted and 'better' alternative than a standard protein powder, though it comes at a higher overall price.
80 Budget
Warrior Blend Protein Berry
Sunwarrior
4.4
★★★★★
(15376 ratings)
Offers a good quality plant-based protein with strong mineral content (Sodium 558mg, Iron 9mg) at a much lower price per serving ($0.80 vs original's $1.46 calculated PPS), providing significant savings while maintaining relevant benefits.
78 Budget
Warrior Blend Protein Chocolate
Sunwarrior
4.5
★★★★★
(2020 ratings)
Another Sunwarrior plant-based protein with a comparable profile to the original, providing protein and minerals (Sodium 521mg, Iron 8mg) at a more affordable price per serving ($1.06 vs $1.46), offering good value for a similar type of product.
75 Budget
Pea Protein Vanilla Toffee
NOW Sports
4.2
★★★★★
(2672 ratings)
This is a reputable and cost-effective source of plant-based protein (overall price $2576 suggests better per serving value) with a good mineral profile (Sodium 540mg, Potassium 148mg, Iron 7mg), making it a cheaper option for similar core benefits.
80 Value
Warrior Blend Protein Berry
Sunwarrior
4.4
★★★★★
(15376 ratings)
This alternative offers a very similar high-quality plant-based protein with excellent mineral content (Sodium 558mg, Iron 9mg) from a reputable brand, but at a significantly lower price per serving ($0.80), providing superior value for comparable benefits.
78 Value
Warrior Blend Protein Chocolate
Sunwarrior
4.5
★★★★★
(2020 ratings)
As another flavor from Sunwarrior's Warrior Blend line, it delivers a similar protein and mineral profile (Sodium 521mg, Iron 8mg) at a more accessible price per serving ($1.06), making it a strong contender for better value in the plant-based protein category.
75 Value
Pea Protein Vanilla Toffee
NOW Sports
4.2
★★★★★
(2672 ratings)
NOW Sports is known for its value. This large container of pea protein provides substantial servings of plant-based protein with good amounts of sodium (540mg), potassium (148mg), and iron (7mg) for its overall price, offering excellent cost-effectiveness for daily use.
87 Performance
Vegan Smart All-In-One Nutritional Shake Vanilla
Naturade
4.4
★★★★★
(247 ratings)
While its price per serving is unclear, this 'All-In-One' shake likely offers a more comprehensive nutritional profile including vitamins, additional minerals (Sodium 520mg, Iron 9mg), and potentially superfoods, making it a 'better' choice for broader general health support beyond just protein.
86 Performance
Vegan Smart All-In-One Nutritional Shake Chocolate
Naturade
4.4
★★★★★
(275 ratings)
Similar to its vanilla counterpart, this 'All-In-One' shake provides a wider range of nutrients and minerals (Sodium 550mg, Potassium 200mg, Iron 9mg) beyond just protein, potentially offering a more complete daily supplement for overall well-being, enhancing its 'better' status.
90 Performance
100% Mass Gainer Chocolate Fudge Brownie
MuscleTech
4.3
★★★★★
(5058 ratings)
As a mass gainer, this product typically offers higher protein and calorie content for aggressive muscle gain, along with substantial electrolytes (Sodium 540mg, Potassium 460mg) and iron (2mg). For those with specific goals of rapid muscle and weight gain, it's a more targeted and 'better' alternative than a standard protein powder, though it comes at a higher overall price.