10 Top Vegan Bodybuilding Supplement Stacks for 2023

1. Plant-Based Protein Powders

Plant-based protein powders are an essential part of any vegan bodybuilding supplement stack.

They provide the necessary amino acids to support muscle growth and repair.

Look for powders made from sources like pea, rice, or hemp protein, which are easily digestible and offer a complete amino acid profile.

Some popular options include:

1.1 Pea Protein Powder

Pea protein powder is a great option for vegans as it is rich in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that help with muscle recovery and growth.

It is also easily digestible and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

1.2 Rice Protein Powder

Rice protein powder is another excellent choice for vegans.

It is easily digestible and contains all the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth.

Additionally, it is hypoallergenic and free from common allergens like gluten and dairy.

1.3 Hemp Protein Powder

Hemp protein powder is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant and is a complete protein source.

It contains all nine essential amino acids and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it beneficial for overall health and muscle recovery.

1.4 Soy Protein Powder

Soy protein powder is a popular choice among vegans due to its high protein content and complete amino acid profile.

It is also rich in phytoestrogens, which may have additional health benefits for some individuals.

1.5 Combination Protein Powders

Combination protein powders, such as those that blend different plant-based protein sources, can provide a more comprehensive amino acid profile.

These powders often combine pea, rice, and hemp proteins to offer a well-rounded protein source.

• Pea protein powder
• Rice protein powder
• Hemp protein powder
• Soy protein powder
• Combination protein powders

 

2. BCAA Supplements

BCAA (branched-chain amino acid) supplements are crucial for vegan bodybuilders as they help support muscle recovery and prevent muscle breakdown.

BCAAs are made up of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine.

These amino acids play a vital role in protein synthesis and muscle growth.

Some popular vegan BCAA supplements include:

2.1 Vegan BCAA Powder

Vegan BCAA powders are specifically formulated to provide the necessary amino acids for muscle recovery and growth.

Look for powders that are derived from plant-based sources and free from any animal-derived ingredients.

2.2 BCAA Capsules

BCAA capsules offer a convenient way to supplement with essential amino acids.

These capsules can be taken before, during, or after workouts to support muscle recovery and prevent muscle breakdown.

2.3 BCAA Energy Drinks

BCAA energy drinks combine the benefits of BCAAs with additional energy-boosting ingredients like caffeine.

These drinks can provide a quick and convenient source of amino acids and energy before or during workouts.

2.4 BCAA Gummies

For those who prefer a more enjoyable way to consume BCAAs, BCAA gummies are a tasty option.

These gummies provide the necessary amino acids in a chewable form, making them a convenient and delicious addition to any supplement stack.

2.5 BCAA Tablets

BCAA tablets offer a simple and easy way to supplement with essential amino acids.

These tablets can be taken with water or added to shakes or smoothies for a quick and convenient source of BCAAs.

• Vegan BCAA powder
• BCAA capsules
• BCAA energy drinks
• BCAA gummies
• BCAA tablets

3. Creatine Supplements

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in small amounts in animal products, but it can also be produced synthetically or derived from plant-based sources.

Creatine supplements are popular among bodybuilders as they can enhance muscle strength, power, and performance.

Some vegan-friendly creatine supplements include:

3.1 Creatine Monohydrate

Creatine monohydrate is the most common and well-researched form of creatine.

It is typically derived from plant-based sources and is suitable for vegans.

Creatine monohydrate supplements can help increase muscle strength and power, allowing for more intense workouts and better overall performance.

3.2 Creatine HCL

Creatine HCL (hydrochloride) is a form of creatine that is more soluble and may be easier to digest for some individuals.

It offers similar benefits to creatine monohydrate and can be a suitable option for vegans looking to enhance their muscle strength and performance.

3.3 Creatine Ethyl Ester

Creatine ethyl ester is a form of creatine that is believed to have better absorption and utilization in the body.

While research on its effectiveness is limited, some individuals may find it beneficial for improving muscle strength and performance.

3.4 Buffered Creatine

Buffered creatine is a form of creatine that is less likely to cause stomach discomfort or bloating compared to other forms.

It can be a suitable option for individuals who experience digestive issues with other types of creatine supplements.

3.5 Micronized Creatine

Micronized creatine is a form of creatine that has been processed into smaller particles, allowing for better absorption and utilization in the body.

It offers similar benefits to other forms of creatine and can be a convenient option for vegans.

• Creatine monohydrate
• Creatine HCL
• Creatine ethyl ester
• Buffered creatine
• Micronized creatine

4. Omega-3 Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that play a crucial role in overall health and well-being.

They are particularly important for vegans as they are commonly found in fish and seafood.

Omega-3 supplements derived from plant-based sources can help ensure an adequate intake of these essential fats.

Some vegan-friendly omega-3 supplements include:

4.1 Algal Oil

Algal oil is derived from algae and is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

These fatty acids are important for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation in the body.

4.2 Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is derived from flaxseeds and is a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid.

While ALA needs to be converted to EPA and DHA in the body, it can still provide some benefits for overall health and well-being.

4.3 Chia Seed Oil

Chia seed oil is derived from chia seeds and is another plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids.

It contains a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining a healthy inflammatory response in the body.

4.4 Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp seed oil is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant and is a rich source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

It can help support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.

4.5 Walnuts

While not a supplement per se, walnuts are a vegan-friendly food source of omega-3 fatty acids.

They can be included in the diet as a snack or added to meals for an extra boost of healthy fats.

• Algal oil
• Flaxseed oil
• Chia seed oil
• Hemp seed oil
• Walnuts

5. Pre-Workout Supplements

Pre-workout supplements can help boost energy, focus, and performance during workouts.

Vegan-friendly pre-workout supplements are formulated without any animal-derived ingredients and can provide the necessary nutrients to enhance your training sessions.

Some popular vegan pre-workout supplements include:

5.1 Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural stimulant that can help increase energy levels and improve focus during workouts.

It can be consumed in the form of coffee, tea, or as a supplement to provide a quick energy boost before hitting the gym.

5.2 Beta-Alanine

Beta-alanine is an amino acid that can help improve endurance and reduce fatigue during high-intensity workouts.

It works by increasing the levels of carnosine in the muscles, which helps buffer lactic acid and delay muscle fatigue.

5.3 Citrulline Malate

Citrulline malate is a compound that can help improve blood flow and enhance muscle pumps during workouts.

It can also help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, allowing for longer and more intense training sessions.

5.4 Beetroot Powder

Beetroot powder is rich in nitrates, which can help improve exercise performance by increasing nitric oxide levels in the body.

This can lead to improved blood flow, enhanced endurance, and reduced fatigue during workouts.

5.5 Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola rosea is an adaptogenic herb that can help improve energy levels, reduce fatigue, and enhance mental focus.

It can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience stress or fatigue during intense training periods.

• Caffeine
• Beta-alanine
• Citrulline malate
• Beetroot powder
• Rhodiola rosea

6. Multivitamin Supplements

Multivitamin supplements can help fill in any nutritional gaps in a vegan bodybuilding diet.

They provide a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and well-being.

Look for vegan-friendly multivitamin supplements that are specifically formulated to meet the needs of active individuals.

Some key nutrients to look for include:

6.1 Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is essential for vegans as it is primarily found in animal products.

It plays a crucial role in energy production, nerve function, and red blood cell formation.

Look for a multivitamin that provides an adequate amount of vitamin B12 to support your body’s needs.

6.2 Iron

Iron is important for vegans as plant-based sources of iron are not as easily absorbed by the body as animal-based sources.

Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells and oxygen transport.

Ensure your multivitamin provides a sufficient amount of iron to prevent deficiency.

6.3 Calcium

Calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function.

While many plant-based foods are rich in calcium, it can still be beneficial to supplement with a multivitamin that provides an additional source of this important mineral.

6.4 Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.

It is primarily obtained through sun exposure, but supplementation may be necessary, especially for individuals who live in areas with limited sunlight or have limited sun exposure.

6.5 Zinc

Zinc is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions in the body and plays a crucial role in immune function, protein synthesis, and wound healing.

Ensure your multivitamin provides an adequate amount of zinc to support your body’s needs.

• Vitamin B12
• Iron
• Calcium
• Vitamin D
• Zinc

7. Glutamine Supplements

Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in muscle recovery and immune function.

While the body can produce glutamine, intense exercise and stress can deplete its levels.

Supplementing with glutamine can help support muscle recovery and immune health.

Some vegan-friendly glutamine supplements include:

7.1 L-Glutamine Powder

L-glutamine powder is the most common form of glutamine supplement.

It can be easily mixed with water or added to shakes or smoothies for a convenient way to supplement with this important amino acid.

7.2 Glutamine Capsules

Glutamine capsules offer a convenient way to supplement with this important amino acid.

They can be taken with water or added to your daily supplement routine for easy consumption.

7.3 Glutamine Tablets

Glutamine tablets provide a simple and easy way to supplement with this essential amino acid.

They can be taken with water or added to shakes or smoothies for a quick and convenient source of glutamine.

7.4 Glutamine Gummies

For those who prefer a more enjoyable way to consume glutamine, glutamine gummies are a tasty option.

These gummies provide the necessary amino acid in a chewable form, making them a convenient and delicious addition to any supplement stack.

7.5 Glutamine Drinks

Glutamine drinks offer a quick and convenient source of this essential amino acid.

They can be consumed before, during, or after workouts to support muscle recovery and immune health.

• L-glutamine powder
• Glutamine capsules
• Glutamine tablets
• Glutamine gummies
• Glutamine drinks

8. Greens Supplements

Greens supplements are a convenient way to ensure you’re getting a wide range of essential nutrients from plant-based sources.

They typically contain a blend of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods that provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.

Some popular vegan greens supplements include:

8.1 Green Superfood Powders

Green superfood powders are a concentrated source of nutrients derived from various fruits, vegetables, and superfoods.

They can be easily mixed with water or added to shakes or smoothies for a quick and convenient way to boost your nutrient intake.

8.2 Wheatgrass Powder

Wheatgrass powder is made from the young shoots of the wheat plant and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It can help support detoxification, boost energy levels, and promote overall health and well-being.

8.3 Spirulina

Spirulina is a blue-green algae that is packed with nutrients, including protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It can help support immune function, improve energy levels, and promote overall health and well-being.

8.4 Chlorella

Chlorella is a freshwater algae that is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It can help support detoxification, boost immune function, and promote overall health and well-being.

8.5 Barley Grass Powder

Barley grass powder is made from the young leaves of the barley plant and is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

It can help support digestion, boost energy levels, and promote overall health and well-being.

• Green superfood powders
• Wheatgrass powder
• Spirulina
• Chlorella
• Barley grass powder

 

9. Nitric Oxide Boosters

Nitric oxide boosters can help improve blood flow, enhance muscle pumps, and increase nutrient delivery to the muscles.

They are often used by bodybuilders to improve performance and promote muscle growth.

Some vegan-friendly nitric oxide boosters include:

9.1 Beetroot Extract

Beetroot extract is rich in nitrates, which can help increase nitric oxide levels in the body.

This can lead to improved blood flow, enhanced endurance, and better overall performance during workouts.

9.2 Citrulline

Citrulline is an amino acid that can help improve blood flow and enhance muscle pumps.

It works by increasing the production of nitric oxide in the body, leading to improved nutrient delivery and muscle performance.

9.3 Pomegranate Extract

Pomegranate extract is rich in antioxidants and can help improve blood flow and reduce muscle soreness.

It can also enhance exercise performance and promote overall cardiovascular health.

9.4 Watermelon Extract

Watermelon extract is a natural source of citrulline and can help improve blood flow and enhance muscle pumps.

It can also help reduce muscle soreness and improve exercise performance.

9.5 Pine Bark Extract

Pine bark extract is rich in antioxidants and can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body.

It can also enhance exercise performance and promote overall cardiovascular health.

• Beetroot extract
• Citrulline
• Pomegranate extract
• Watermelon extract
• Pine bark extract

 

10. Joint Support Supplements

Joint support supplements can help promote joint health, reduce inflammation, and support overall mobility and flexibility.

They are particularly beneficial for individuals who engage in intense workouts or have joint-related issues.

Some vegan-friendly joint support supplements include:

10.1 Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a compound that is naturally found in the body and plays a crucial role in joint health.

Supplementing with glucosamine can help support cartilage health, reduce joint pain, and improve overall joint function.

10.2 Chondroitin

Chondroitin is a compound that is naturally found in cartilage and connective tissues.

It can help support joint health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall joint function.

10.3 MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

MSM is a sulfur compound that can help reduce inflammation, support joint health, and improve overall mobility and flexibility.

It can be particularly beneficial for individuals with joint-related issues or those who engage in intense workouts.

10.4 Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that contains a compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

Supplementing with turmeric can help reduce joint pain, support joint health, and improve overall mobility and flexibility.

10.5 Boswellia

Boswellia is an herb that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

It can help alleviate joint pain, improve mobility, and promote overall joint function.

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
• Turmeric
• Boswellia