If you’ve ever felt bloated after a whey shake—or been sidelined by a gurgling stomach when you need to focus—this article is for you. While animal-based proteins can wreak havoc on digestion, vegan protein powders often offer a smoother, more comfortable experience. Here at NØRSE CØDE, we’re on a mission to blend ancient Nordic wisdom with modern nutrition science. The result? Plant-based fuel that’s kind to your body and the planet. Let’s break down why vegan protein is easier on your gut, and how upcycled barley plays a key role in our approach to clean nutrition.
It’s no secret that many people struggle with whey or casein proteins. Sure, they have a strong amino acid profile—but for some, they bring along unwanted baggage:
Over time, these digestive nuisances can chip away at your energy and focus—not to mention disrupt your workouts or daily routine. That’s where vegan protein powders come in, offering a cleaner alternative that sidesteps the usual suspects of dairy-based distress.
(Curious how plant-based powders stack up overall? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Plant-Based Protein for a deeper dive.)
By removing lactose entirely, dairy-free vegan protein drastically cuts down on the bloating or GI distress some people experience with whey. This is especially important if you’re sensitive to lactose or dairy proteins. Think of it as smoother fuel: easier in, easier out, promoting better gut health and easy digestion.
At NØRSE CØDE, we skip soy and dairy because they’re common triggers for inflammation or digestive upset. Plant-based proteins like peas and barley (in its high-protein form) tend to be gentler. They also come without the saturated fats you often find in animal products, making them an excellent choice for those seeking vegetarian protein powder options.
While older plant powders had a reputation for being “chalky” or incomplete in amino acids, times have changed. By combining different sources—like pea and barley proteins—formulators can create a complete amino acid profile, often delivering fewer digestive side effects than dairy. This makes plant-based protein powder a top choice for those seeking nutrient-dense, allergen-free options.
(For a closer look at how upcycled barley and pea work together, see The Health Benefits of Upcycled Barley and Pea Protein (And Why They’re Better Together).)
When we set out to make plant-based performance nutrition, we knew we wanted a blend that was bold, clean, and easy on the stomach. Enter our trio: upcycled barley, pea protein, and a dash of acacia.
Barley is an ancient grain known for its resilience—thriving in rugged Nordic climates for centuries. We source it upcycled from the brewing industry (Brewer’s Spent Grain or BSG). By the time we refine our barley to about 85% protein, most of the fiber is removed, meaning it’s less likely to cause bloating. This high-protein fraction still carries the benefits of barley’s amino acid profile—but without the heaviness of intact grains.
Pea protein is a staple in plant-based formulas for a reason. It’s rich in BCAAs for muscle recovery and known for being easy on digestion. By blending barley and pea, we ensure you get a full spectrum of essential amino acids.
Since we refine our barley to a high-protein fraction, we add acacia for a prebiotic boost. Acacia helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria, promoting regularity and assisting in overall digestive health—without the bloat some fibers can cause.
Digestive comfort is essential if you want to stay focused, energized, and ready to push your limits—whether that’s hitting a personal record on leg day or simply tackling your daily to-do list. NØRSE CØDE was built to give you the bold, clean vegan protein powder you need—without the bloat or dairy-related setbacks.
Bottom Line: Vegan protein powders—especially those crafted with care—are simply easier to digest for many people. We created NØRSE CØDE to help you conquer your goals with comfort and confidence. Because when your gut feels good, your whole body is ready to unleash its full potential.
Our commitment to quality means we use only non-GMO ingredients, making NØRSE CØDE one of the cleanest vegan protein powders on the market. With no artificial sweeteners and a focus on plant-based nutrition, we're proud to offer a product that supports both your health and environmental sustainability.
