Good Morning and Happy Sunday!
I was asked to write about some of my favorite plant-based protein sources and I am more than happy to do it!
If you have been eating animal protein and you want to eat more plant-based foods then this post is for YOU. Whether you are vegetarian or not, eating foods that are easier to digest is the key to living a healthy and long life.
Many people think that they have to eat animal protein to be nourished, and that is not the case. There are many people who thrive on eating plant protein. I firmly believe in being a FLEXITARIAN which describes those who eat a plant-based diet but also include eating meat when they need it. I encourage you to find what foods work for your unique body.
PROTEIN IS ESSENTIAL AS IT IS THE BUILDING BLOCK FOR OUR CELLS AND OUR DNA, SO MAKE SURE YOU ARE CONSUMING ENOUGH PROTEIN DAILY.
The Top 7 Plant-Based Protein Sources
- Spirulina – This contains the highest form of protein found anywhere in the world (70%). This superfood is a great recommendation for those seeking to lose weight and who want to maintain great health. I suggest adding a tablespoon to a smoothie each day, and you can even add one to a drink at night, as one ounce contains 16 grams of protein.
- Bee Pollen – These granules, created by bees from flowering plants, is another nutrient-dense food that has 5 to 7 times more protein than beef. These immune-boosting, little seeds contain protein, the power you need to ward off colds, and give you a boost of energy, too.
- Goji Berries – These red berries are not only a source of complete protein with 18 amino acids, but have 500 times more vitamin C per ounce than oranges. You can add these to trail mix, smoothies, soups, and salads, or you can eat them alone.
- Hemp – A complete source of protein (36%), hemp is also a rich and balanced source of Omega-3 and Omega-6, including the rare form of GLA (Gamma Linoleic Acid). Just three tablespoons has 11 grams of protein.
- Chia Seeds – These contain essential fatty acids, protein, and are a soluble fiber. The protein content is 4 grams per ounce, they taste delicious, plus they can be added to soups, smoothies, salads, or made into a chia pudding for breakfast or dessert.
- Quinoa – This super grain is honestly the most perfect, non-animal source of protein, and one cup cooked contains 8.14 grams of protein.
- Tempeh – I love this form of soy because it is fermented, and that means it is easy to digest. Soy can be hard for the body to digest, but, in this fermented form, it is ideal and a half cup has a whopping 15 grams of protein.
Give a few of these plant-based protein sources a try this week and let me know how it goes!
In Health and Happiness,
