As a vegan, one of the more difficult tasks is ensuring you're getting enough protein. But it doesn’t have to be! There are many surprising sources of vegan protein that you probably didn’t know about. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 of the best sources of vegan protein. So whether you’re looking for a new way to get your daily dose of protein or just want to expand your knowledge, read on for more information!
Why Is Protein Necessary For Your Body?
Protein is an essential part of a healthy diet because it helps build muscle, repair tissues, and produce hormones. Without enough protein, your body can’t function properly and you may experience fatigue, poor digestion, and even difficulty concentrating.
Some Sources Of Vegan Protein
1. Protein Supplements: Protein supplements are an easy way to get your daily dose of protein, and they come in a variety of flavors. Popular vegan-friendly options include plant-based proteins such as pea protein, rice protein, and hemp protein.
Some Good Protein Supplements include:
1. Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are becoming increasingly popular as a vegan food because they contain 4g of protein per tablespoon! They can be added to oatmeal, smoothies, or salads for a protein-packed meal.
2. Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds are an excellent source of vegan protein, with a wide variety of options to choose from. Almonds, walnuts, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds are all packed with protein as well as essential vitamins and minerals. These can be added to salads or morning oatmeal, blended into nut butter, or eaten as a snack.
3. Legumes: Legumes are an excellent source of vegan protein and fiber, with options such as lentils, chickpeas, adzuki beans, black beans, kidney beans, and more. These can be added to soups and stews, used as a base for veggie burgers or tacos, or mashed up into a delicious hummus dip.
4. Quinoa: Quinoa is often referred to as a “superfood” due to its high protein content and numerous other health benefits. It can be used as a replacement for rice or pasta in salads, soups, or casseroles, or simply enjoyed as a side dish.
5. Spirulina: Spirulina is a type of algae that is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. It can be added to smoothies, blended into spreads and dips, used in baking, or even taken as a supplement.
Benefits Of Vegan Protein Sources
Not only are these vegan protein sources delicious and versatile, but they also offer numerous health benefits. Eating a variety of plant-based proteins can help you meet your daily requirements for essential vitamins and minerals, as well as promote a healthy digestive system. Furthermore, these vegan proteins are more environmentally friendly than animal products.
Comprehensive Chart of Vegan Protein Sources
To make it easy for you to keep track of your daily vegan protein intake, here’s a comprehensive chart of vegan protein sources.
Food |
Serving Size |
Protein (g)
|
Nuts and Seeds |
1 oz. |
6-9 g
|
Legumes |
½ cup cooked |
7-10 g |
Protein Supplements |
1 scoop |
20-25 g |
Quinoa |
½ cup cooked |
4 g |
|
|
|
Spirulina |
1 tablespoon |
2 g |
How To Incorporate Protein Supplements Into Your Diet?
If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, protein supplements are an easy way to do so. You can take them as a shake or smoothie after a workout or before bedtime, mix them into oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast, or use them as a base for veggie burgers and tacos. Protein supplements come in many different flavors, so you can find the one that best suits your taste.
Conclusion
By incorporating these 5 surprising vegan protein sources into your diet, you’ll be able to get all of the essential nutrients you need for a healthy lifestyle. So go ahead and give some of them a try! You may just find yourself becoming a vegan protein enthusiast.
FAQs
Q: How much protein should I get from vegan sources?
A: It is recommended that you get 10-15% of your total daily calorie intake from vegan protein sources. This equates to about 0.8g of protein per kilogram of body weight, or roughly 50-75g for an average adult.
Q: Are there any vegan protein sources that are low in calories?
A: Yes! For example, nuts and seeds are a great source of vegan protein that is low in calories. Legumes, quinoa, and spirulina are also relatively low in calories. Protein supplements can also be a good option for those looking for low-calorie sources of protein.
Q: Are there any vegan protein sources that are high in iron?
A: Yes, there are several vegan protein sources that are high in iron. These include tofu, tempeh, nuts and seeds (especially pumpkin and sunflower), beans and lentils, dark leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), quinoa, and fortified plant-based milk (including soy milk).
Q: Do I need to take protein supplements if I’m vegan?
A: Not necessarily. Many vegans manage to get all the protein they need from plant-based sources such as nuts and seeds, legumes, quinoa, and spirulina. However, protein supplements can be a convenient way to ensure you're getting adequate amounts of protein in your diet.
Q: Which are some good sources of protein supplements?
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