Essential Plant Protein Benefits Everyone Needs To Know

Nowadays, more people get into a plant-based lifestyle. These people either increase their plant-based food consumption or remove all food items sourced from animals completely. Because of the lack of meat and dairy in their daily consumption, some people were concerned about the plant-based diet’s lack of protein. However, those who chose to live a vegetarian and vegan lifestyle can get this very important nutrient through plant protein supplements.

Plant-based protein is something that not everyone knows about. Here are several facts that could help you learn more about plant protein, including all its benefits and where to find them.

Table of Contents

What Are The Benefits Of Plant Protein?

Those who want to scale down on their animal-based food consumption or remove it from their diet entirely can choose to include plant protein in their diet for its numerous benefits.

Studies suggested that eating more plant-based food could reduce the risk of cancer. Other studies claimed that it is an ideal way to lose weight and manage type 2 diabetes. More recently, a 2019 study claimed that switching to a plant-based diet lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease in middle-aged adults. It can significantly reduce death caused by heart diseases as well.

Aside from its health benefits, plant protein has many perks for the environment. According to the World Resources Institute, plant food items have lower negative effects on freshwater consumption, land use, and greenhouse gas emission. Most importantly, it helps people feel at ease if they are highly concerned about animal cruelty.

What Are The Common Sources Of Plant Protein?

Most plant foods contain minimal amounts of protein. However, some of them have higher levels of this essential macronutrient than others. Some of the top sources of proteins in plants include:

Spirulina – 39 grams per serving
Lentils – 18 grams per cup
Black Beans – 15 grams per cup
Chickpeas – 14.5 grams per cup
Oatmeal – 14 grams per cup
Pumpkin Seeds – 12 grams per cup
Amaranth – 9 grams per cup
Nutritional Yeast – 9 grams per cup
Hemp Seeds – 9 grams per serving
Quinoa – 8 grams per cup
Kidney Beans – 8 grams per cup
Almond Butter – 8 grams per serving
Buckwheat – 6 grams per cup
Kale – 2 grams per cup

You may mix and match these food items in your meal to get as much protein as possible. You could also add a serving of plant protein supplements to boost your protein servings every day.

How To Add Plant Protein To Your Diet?

There are numerous ways to enjoy protein-rich foods sourced from plants. For example, you could add soy and soy-based ingredients like tofu and to your usual dishes. Tofu can replace your usual scrambled eggs, while soy milk can replace your usual dairy milk.

Nuts are also a great source of plant protein. You may eat it as it is for your snacks or add them to your granola. You may also grind it to make your favourite plant-based butter like almond butter or hazelnut butter. Meanwhile, chickpeas can serve as a tasty dip for your finger foods.

Plant proteins can be a great source of nutrients for your body. You can also invest in supplements that will provide this essential macronutrient without the hassle of food preparation.