Deficient Vegans
By: Muscle Deficient Vegan & Protein Deficient Vegan
Language: en-us
Categories: Health, Fitness, Arts, Food, Education, Self Improvement
The podcast for anyone who’s ever been told vegans can’t get strong, stay fit, or live fully. A mix of science-backed nutrition, exercise advice, vegan food and recipe tips, and just the right amount of chaos to help you thrive on plants and laugh along the way.
Episodes
Vegan Gifting Guide - Fitness & Nutrition Edition
Dec 15, 2025In this episode we go through some things to avoid, along with some recommendations, for vegans getting or buying gifts for the holidays. We focus mostly on kitchen and gym equipment that helps support a healthy lifestyle, but we do discuss other categories briefly as well.
PDV Video on Best Vegan Protein Sources
Chapters
0:04 Holiday Gifts for Vegans
3:05 Vegan News and Innovations
3:16 Navigating Gifting as a New Vegan
4:57 Tips for Shopping for Vegans
18:58 Recommended Gifts for Vegans
19:09 Kitchen Essentials for Vegan Cooking
25:19 Specialty Kitchen Tools...
So Your Kid Wants to Go Vegan
Dec 08, 2025Send this this one to the parents you know with a kid who's decided to go vegan or vegetarian. We discuss everything from mindset to practical tips and advice on how to help support a new vegan in your family or in your life.
Best Vegan Protein Sources Database
Chapters
00:02 Introduction
01:45 Vegan Bodybuilding News
02:54 Restaurant Closures
04:05 Supporting Your Vegan Child
08:01 Concerns of Parents
10:11 Addressing Health Concerns
12:18 Social Aspects of Veganism
13:47 Cooking Challenges
15:23 Cost of Vegan Food
16:49 Is It Just a Phase?
18:17...
Protein vs Fiber
Dec 01, 2025This week we dive into the discussion around protein and fiber. Information online pits these two nutrients against each other, but do you really need to choose between them? We don't think so!
We also talk about the differences between vegan and plant-based in our myth of the week.
Chapters
0:04 Welcome to Deficient Vegans
0:38 New Season of Stranger Things
1:44 Protecting Endangered Dolphins
3:23 Social Media and AI Trolls
5:34 Protein Versus Fiber Debate
9:48 The Importance of Fiber
12:36 Understanding Protein's Role
16:09 Benefits of Dietary Fiber
18:17 Recommended D...
Finding Vegan Protein At Restaurants
Nov 24, 2025In this episode, we talk about how to find restaurants with reliable vegan protein options. Whether that is fast food, road trips, or trying to find sit-down restaurants near you with protein options, we've got you covered with our time-tested tips and tricks. The same ideas will also work for just finding more general vegan options, even if you aren't specifically seeking out protein.
Chapters
0:02 Welcome to Deficient Vegans Podcast
0:18 News Updates
3:26 Thoughts on Wicked
4:12 Main Topic: Finding Vegan Protein
10:38 Sneaky Non-Vegan Ingredients
15:40 Tips for Chain Restaurants
21:33...
Surviving the Holidays as a Vegan (Without Losing Your Mind)
Nov 17, 2025The holidays are here, which means travel, family gatherings, work potlucks, awkward conversations, and the annual tradition of someone proudly offering you a dish that’s “definitely vegan” (it’s not).
In this episode of Deficient Vegans, we’re breaking down how to survive the holiday season as a vegan with your sanity, nutrition, and boundaries intact.
YouTube - High Protein Pizza Dough and Fresh Vegan Mozzarella
Chapters
0:02 Introduction to Holiday Survival
0:25 New News Update
2:43 Navigating Holiday Stress as a Vegan
4:38 Setting Boundaries with Family
Hitting Your Protein Goals on a Budget
Nov 10, 2025In this episode, we talk about hitting your protein goals on a budget as money is tight with the holidays coming up. We introduce a new interactive protein database that features over 200 vegan protein sources, sortable by cost, protein content, and other criteria. We also discuss the latest news, including Miyoko's Creamery's potential comeback and a new sunflower-based meat substitute from Brazil. Finally, we break down some of the cheapest and most expensive protein sources and bust the myth of needing to eat only complete protein sources.
Links mentioned in episode:
Blog post...
Duration: 00:34:48Does meal and protein timing really matter?
Nov 03, 2025In this episode, we talk about timing for meals, protein, supplements, and macros. Which ones matter and which ones don't? We also tackle our myth of the week!
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats Video
Chapters
0:03 Welcome to the Podcast
0:14 Meal and Protein Timing
4:16 Protein Timing Myths
10:16 Macro and Supplement Timing
17:21 Timing vs. Overall Intake
18:13 Myth of the Week
22:11 The Soy Stigma
25:12 Upcoming Episode Teaser
Send us a text
⭐️ Deficient Vegans Discord ⭐️
Protein Deficient Vegan Website
Stocking Your High Protein Vegan Pantry
Oct 27, 2025In this episode, we embark on an essential discussion about stocking a high-protein vegan pantry and fridge. There is a focus on underscoring the importance of having accessible and diverse sources of protein at home to streamline meal prep and achieve nutrition goals.
TVP Apple Cinnamon Muffins on YouTube
Chapters
00:02 Welcome to the Deficient Vegans Podcast
01:14 Stocking Your Vegan Pantry
09:58 Exploring TVP Options
15:08 High-Protein Vegan Snacks
16:48 Protein Sources in the Pantry
22:16 Fridge Essentials for Protein
27:09 Freezer-Friendly Vegan Proteins
29:29...
What equipment do you really need for home workouts?
Oct 20, 2025In this episode, we dive into the essentials of building a home gym and what workout equipment can optimize at-home fitness routines. The conversation begins with a reminder that fitness is a personal journey, and the equipment you need largely depends on your individual goals and fitness level.
High Protein Pumpkin Spice Seitan YouTube Video
Chapters
00:05 Home Workout Essentials
00:16 Equipment for Beginners
02:25 Intermediate Gear Upgrades
04:23 Advanced Strength Training
07:11 Cardio Equipment Options
09:56 Importance of Consistency
12:39 Creative Workout Solutions
14:33 Pros and Cons of Home Workouts
18:24...
Tracking Progress: Tools and Apps for Vegan Fitness
Oct 13, 2025In episode 21 of the Deficient Vegans podcast, we discuss various methods for tracking fitness and nutrition progress. We explore the utility of tracking apps, tips for maintaining motivation, and avoiding burnout from over-tracking. The episode highlights specific apps for different activities, such as Strong and Hevy for lifting, and fitness wearables like Fitbit. Nutrition tracking and the importance of monitoring macros and micronutrients, especially for vegans, are covered. We caution against misinformation around high-calorie vegan protein sources and emphasize the use of efficient protein options like tofu and TVP. Additionally, we mention the release of a new long-form cooking...
Duration: 00:45:16Busting Fitness Myths
Oct 06, 2025In this episode of the revamped Deficient Vegans Podcast, formerly known as the VeGAINS Fitness and Nutrition Podcast, we discuss our journey to offering vegan fitness and recipe content. We also debunk common fitness myths and respond to a listener Q&A on protein powder recommendations.
EarthChimp 10% Discount Code
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Deficient Vegans Podcast
00:27 The Evolution of Our Brand
01:00 From Recipes to Fitness: Our Journey
01:58 The Emergence of Protein Deficient Vegan
04:13 Combating Vegan Myths and Misconceptions
07:36 Introducing the Deficient Vegans Podcast
08:31 Busting Fitness Myths
11:53 Debunking...
State of the Podcast Update - Future Plans
Sep 02, 2025Just a brief update about the future of the podcast. The name will be changing to "Deficient Vegans" on Monday, October 6th. We just wanted to give some info and a heads up so you all aren't surprised when you see the change in your podcast app!
For YouTube listeners, the new channel for the podcast will be at: https://www.youtube.com/@DeficientVegans
Send us a text
⭐️ Deficient Vegans Discord ⭐️
Protein Deficient Vegan Website
Muscle Deficient Vegan Website
Follow us on social media:
M...
A Beginner's Guide to Resistance Training
Sep 16, 2024In this episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we give a comprehensive introduction to resistance training. We explain what resistance training is and how you can start with simple exercises using body weight or small weights. We discuss the key benefits, including muscle growth, bone density improvement, and enhanced mobility. The episode covers various training tools like resistance bands, dumbbells, barbells, and machines, and emphasizes the importance of having a program and sticking to it. We also talk about essential concepts such as sets, reps, progressive overload, and goal-setting. Lastly, we offer some practical tips on staying consistent, proper...
Duration: 00:42:14Exploring Basic Exercise Types for Beginners
Aug 27, 2024In this episode, we discuss different forms of exercise suitable for those new to fitness. We cover flexibility, mobility, strength training, and cardio, providing valuable insights and practical tips. They also highlight yoga, Pilates, P90X, and even exercise video games as effective ways to get started. The episode concludes with recent vegan fitness news and a discussion on homemade vegan recipes including pizza sauce and cashew mozzarella.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to VeGAINS Fitness and Nutrition Podcast
00:22 Exploring Flexibility Exercises
04:56 Understanding Mobility and Foam Rolling
07:59 Diving into Resistance and Strength Training
12:17...
Why and How to Start Moving More Every Day
Aug 12, 2024What if simply strolling around your neighborhood could drastically improve your health? In this invigorating episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we explore why mid-year is the perfect time to reboot your fitness goals just in time for summer. Learn about the benefits of daily walking, including "cozy cardio," a delightful and enjoyable way to get your steps in. We underscore the importance of daily movement for heart health, cardio endurance, and bone strength, while also tackling the hidden dangers of excessive sitting.
Excessive sitting may be silently sabotaging your muscle recovery, even if you're a regular...
All About Protein
Aug 06, 2024Can a vegan diet truly provide all the protein you need for optimal health and fitness? Join us on this enlightening episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, where we uncover the remarkable benefits of protein for vegans. Promising insights into how protein functions as a fundamental building block for bones, muscles, organs, and even hair, we emphasize its crucial role in muscle growth, recovery, and overall wellness. You'll learn how protein helps curb cravings, supports weight loss, and maintains bone health, particularly vital for women aiming to prevent osteoporosis. Discover why protein is an indispensable part of a balanced...
Duration: 00:30:31The One About (Dietary) Fat
Jul 29, 2024In this episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we unpack the intricacies of dietary fats, comparing their caloric density to proteins and carbohydrates and stressing the importance of mindful consumption to manage your calorie intake effectively. We dive deep into the necessity of accurate portion measurements for high-fat foods like peanut butter and the critical role of essential fatty acids.We also break down the various types of fats, identifying polyunsaturated fats as the champions for health.
Switching gears, we share our most recent culinary escapades in Chicago, including a quirky chat about the outrageously entertaining shark...
The One About Carbohydrates
Jul 22, 2024In episode 13 of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, we dive deep into the role of carbohydrates in the diet. We discuss the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates and the body's ability to generate glucose The episode also covers glycogen storage and its importance for athletes, recommendations for carbohydrate intake, and tips for replenishing glycogen during intense workouts. We end the episode with vegan news items including Walmart's new vegan line, lab-grown meat for pets in Britain, and highlight a few interesting recipes they've tried.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:13 Deep Dive into Carbohydrates<...
The One About Fiber
Jul 15, 2024In this episode of the Deficient Vegans Podcast, the hosts delve into the topic of fiber, discussing its role in overall health and its classification as a carbohydrate that does not count towards calorie intake. They examine the health benefits of fiber, including its impact on reducing all-cause mortality and lowering the risk of colon cancer, as supported by meta-analyses and studies. The hosts also highlight different types of fiber—soluble and insoluble—and their respective health benefits, such as lowering LDL cholesterol and aiding digestion. The episode concludes with recommendations for daily fiber intake, practical tips for incorporating fibe...
Duration: 00:22:21Hitting Your Protein Target Without Powder
Jul 08, 2024What if you could completely transform your vegan fitness and nutrition game with easy, high-protein recipes? Join us in this episode as we unveil our newly split websites, ProteinDeficientVegan.com and MuscleDeficientVegan.com, designed to cater to all your vegan protein and fitness needs. We'll redefine what it means for food to be "high protein" by emphasizing the importance of scrutinizing nutritional labels and avoiding misleading marketing tactics. Learn to evaluate recipes effectively, ensuring they meet a sufficient protein content without solely relying on MyFitnessPal. Our commitment to transparency in labeling will empower you to make informed choices, and...
Duration: 00:27:00Tackling Vegan Myths and Misconceptions
Jan 21, 2024Ever wondered if vegans really just live on a diet of "rabbit food"? This week, we're plucking apart the misconceptions surrounding veganism. We'll also squash the protein deficiency scare, reassuring you that with a dash of insight and a sprinkle of planning, building muscle on a plant-based diet isn't just possible, it's been done by many vegan athletes.
Hold onto your aprons as we stir the pot on the quality of plant-based proteins, proving they're anything but incomplete. We serve up facts on how to create a well-rounded amino acid profile with mouthwatering vegan foods, and when...
Vegan Micronutrients
Jan 12, 2024Unlock the secrets to thriving on a plant-based diet as we traverse the landscape of micronutrients essential for vegans. We'll explore the mighty kale's calcium offerings and dive into the ocean of algae oil for that omega-3 goodness. Come along for an inspiring journey into the world of vegan nutrition, where knowledge meets flavor and every bite is a step toward a healthier you.
Referenced in episode
Wholier Multi-vitamin
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:09 Understanding Micronutrients
00:55 Importance of Iron in Diet
04:24 Vitamin B12: The Essential Nutrient
07:02 Vitamin D...
Veganuary: Making the Transition to a Plant-Based Diet
Jan 02, 2024In this episode, we discuss the concept of 'Veganuary', where people try a plant-based diet for the month of January. We give advice on how to transition to being vegan. We suggest various tips and tricks. We also suggest plant-based alternatives for condiments, meats, and cheeses. Additionally, we recommend vegan-friendly snacks. We explain how to increase protein intake through vegan sources. We highlight some of the hidden non-vegan ingredients in goods. We also suggest some vegan-friendly restaurants. Lastly, we provide mechanisms to handle social situations. Finally, we introduce our new free Veganuary e-book. It contains a meal plan based...
Duration: 00:23:30Fundamentals: Macronutrients
Dec 21, 2023Unlock the secrets of macronutrients with us and the superb protein-deficient vegan on this latest Deficient Vegans Podcast! We're getting down to the nitty-gritty of your diet’s building blocks - protein, carbs, and fats - and how they fuel everything from your morning jog to your weightlifting session. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter nutrition advice as we tailor protein intake recommendations to fit your lifestyle, whether you're a gym warrior or a desk jockey.
Referenced in episode:
Peaceful Rebel Cheese
Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:23 Macronutrients
0:25 Protein
2:10 Carbohydrates
3:40 Fat
4:50 How to us...
Fundamentals: How Many Calories Should I Eat?
Dec 09, 2023Ever wondered how your body actually uses and burns calories? Today, we pull back the curtain on this fascinating process, revealing the four main factors contributing to your total daily energy expenditure. With our practical tips on calculating your daily needs, you'll be well-equipped to manage your weight effectively. We'll also touch on an often overlooked part of the fitness journey - the importance of tracking your weight. Yes, it's crucial, and we'll show you why! Need some inspiration in the kitchen? We've got that covered too with a vegan recipe roundup that's sure to get your taste buds...
Duration: 00:19:05Fundamentals: Tracking Calories
Dec 01, 2023In this episode, we touch upon the crucial role of tracking calories for effective weight management, advocating the use of popular apps like MyFitnessPal and Cronometer to log food intake accurately.
We also stress the importance of owning a kitchen scale for precise measurement of food portions. Emphasis is placed on tracking high calorie-dense food items such as oils, peanut butter and cheeses.
We also share a variety of new vegan, high-protein, holiday-themed recipes – such as a chocolate-vanilla pudding pie, TVP chocolate chip cookies, and gingerbread cheesecake.
Lastly, we ask listeners for recipe sugge...
Healthy Travel Tips
Nov 24, 2023Is maintaining a healthy lifestyle while traveling an impossible task? We thought so until we figured out some tips and tricks to stay on the wellness track, even when we're on the move. This episode is a survival guide for staying fit, hydrated, and well-rested on your journeys.
Check out the blog post this episode is based on:
Healthy Travel Tips
Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:03 Stay hydrated
2:28 Get better sleep
4:18 Food on the road
7:43 Plan ahead for local food at your destination
8:42 Use AirBNB (or a hotel with a kitchen)<...
Navigating the Holidays - Part 2/2
Nov 18, 2023Ever wondered how some people manage to stay fit and still indulge in mouth-watering holiday feasts? As your hosts, we promise to guide you through the complexities of maintaining a fitness-focused vegan lifestyle, especially during the festive season. We unravel the mystery of protein sourcing for vegans and how we handle the often taxing conversations with those who don't quite understand our lifestyle choices. Our advice? Always lead by example and refrain from engaging in arguments.
Check out the blog post this episode is based on:
Navigating the Holidays as a Vegan - Mentality
...
Navigating the Holidays - Part 1/2
Nov 09, 2023Ever thought you could enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving feast without breaking your fitness goals? Brace yourself as we unravel the secrets to maintaining a fitness-oriented lifestyle while keeping a keen eye on your fitness throughout the Thanksgiving season. From smart strategies like calorie-saving before the holiday, loading up on proteins, to taking charge of your food by bringing your own dishes, we've covered all bases. Plus, we've got a treasure trove of mouthwatering yet healthy Thanksgiving recipes just for you!
We've handpicked some of our most loved vegan dishes perfect for your Thanksgiving table - think high...
Vegan Fitness: Our top 10 protein sources
Nov 02, 2023Welcome to our inaugural episode!
Ready to step up your vegan fitness game? We're taking a deep dive into the world of plant-based fitness and nutrition, sharing some mouth-watering recipes, and, best of all, showing you how to pack in the protein without relying on supplements. Whether you're a seasoned vegan athlete or a newbie to plant-based eating, there's something for you in our conversation. Join us as we reveal our top 10 vegan protein sources — no protein powder required.
Ever heard of a protein-packed snack that tastes like an oatmeal cookie? Allow us to introduce yo...