“What are some good sources of protein in a plant-based diet?”
This is a much better question than “Where do you get your protein?” The truth is, if you’re eating enough food through a variety of healthy plant-based foods you’re getting enough protein.
However, for the disbelievers (or doubters) out there here are some good protein sources.
Sources of Plant Based Protein
Hemp Protein
- Over 30% protein
- High bioavailability rate/body utilizes efficiently
- Comes in chocolate or vanilla milk, seeds, powders, raw
Some old stand-bys:
- Legumes (beans, peas, lentils)
- Nuts/nut butters
- Broccoli
- Spinach
Sunshine Burgers
While many meat analogues are not ideal in terms of health there are some which are healthy and good sources of protein too. The Sunshine Burger is one.
Made from all natural ingredients of:
- Organic cooked brown rice
- Organic ground raw sunflower seeds
- Organic carrots
- Organic herbs and sea salt
Sunshine burgers supply 8 grams of protein for only 190 calories. Eat on a whole grain bun with a salad full of raw crunchy vegetables and you have a healthy meal.
Don’t I need complete proteins to be healthy?
Yes and no.
Complete proteins are proteins which contain all the essential amino acids, the ones your body can’t produce and must obtain from food.
While you do need all of these essential amino acids you don’t need them all in the same food at the same time. The old practice of combining foods to make a complete protein is outdated and unnecessary, even though some of those combinations still make great meals.
- Beans and rice
- Beans and other grains
- Nut butters on whole grain breads
Your body will utilize the amino acids efficiently whether they are eaten together or not. If you’re still concerned, there are complete proteins available in a plant-based diet.
Soy and quinoa are complete sources of vegetarian protein.
Sources of soy:
- Edamame/soybeans
- Tempeh
- Tofu
Quinoa is an “alternative grain.”
It is used like a grain but is actually a seed. It’s’ a great source of protein by itself and is magnified further when adding beans, greens or any other healthy food.
Eat, enjoy and don’t worry!
Everything you need is in there!