A vegetarian often gets asked, How do you get your protein? 

It’s a common misconception that the only way to get enough protein your body needs is to eat meat.  And while I completely agree that our bodies need protein, I think people need to understand that there are plenty of protein-rich foods (eggs, cheese, beans, even bananas) including a variety of vegetables and plants.

Click Here to Get Leann’s FREE e-book: “26 Quick & Easy Clean Eating Recipes”

I would like to share some high protein plant options for those who either don’t eat meat or are cutting back:

Asparagus

Ok it’s not often a favorite vegetable, but when cooked correctly, asparagus can be delicious. Eight spears has 3.08 grams of protein. So grab some balsamic vinegar and grill up some of these greens tonight.

Quinoa

Still a new kid on the block, quinoa is quickly becoming popular. Many use it as an alternative to rice or oatmeal, so it’s good any time of the day. Plus it’s 14% protein.

Chia

Chia seeds are 21% protein and when eaten after soaked, it will do wonders for your digestive system. The great thing about Chia seeds is that they can be added to cereal, smoothies and baked goods and they will not affect the taste. 

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are filled with all kinds of healthy goodness – maganese, vitamin K, vitamin E, B vitamins, potassium, calcium, zinc and more. Add them to a salad or your favorite snack for 9.4 grams of protein (for one ounce).

Peanuts

Unsalted peanuts are a fantastic healthy snack, not only for their nutritious benefit, but they satisfy your apetite so you won’t go grabbing those potato chips. One ounce of unsalted dry roasted peanuts contain 6.71 grams of protein. 

Ok I know I said ‘Top 5’ but I can’t help but to give you a few more:

Spinach, Cauliflower & Broccoli

These veggies should be an important part of your diet. They are jam-packed with nutrients and health benefits. One cup of broccoli has about 5.7 grams of protein, spinach 5.4 grams and cauliflower 2.3 grams.

Looking for more options? Here is a inforgraphic from The GIVE Project: 

If you are trying to have a healthier family, start by replacing animal protein with a plant protein in one or two meals this week!

Click here to get more tips that can make a big difference in your family’s health.

Leann Forst, MBA, CHC — Family Health & Cancer Coach

Leann is a Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, holding a Master’s degree from Drake University and a Bachelor of Science from Upper Iowa University. Leann is accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. And she is an award winning author of 2 books “How to Get Your Kids to Beg for Veggies” and “100 Ways to Lose Weight”.

Born and raised as an Iowa farm girl, she moved to Texas in 1998 where she lives with her husband and 2 kids.

As a wife of a brain cancer survivor, Leann has a special interest in anti-cancer nutrition and detoxification. She works with individuals and groups, and speaks regularly at hospitals, schools and organizations to teach people how to attain optimal health by getting to the root cause of chronic and inflammatory conditions, while using healing modalities such as essential oils. Click here to get Leann’s free report, “37 Cancer Facts You Should Know…But Probably Don’t”. And take Leann’s Nutrient Deficiency Quiz here.

Comments

comments