Vegetables, pulses and legumes are primary protein sources for vegans and vegetarians. A meatless diet can provide all the nutrients one needs if planned well. Protein plays an important role in the growth, repair, and maintenance of our body tissues and is made up of amino acids - the building blocks of proteins. It is an important macronutrient for the body as it works from building and repairing tissues and hormone production to properly functioning the immune system.
While animal products are rich in protein, it is about time we break the myth that vegans or vegetarians lack nutrients. Getting all the protein one may need from a plant-based or vegan diet is possible. However, it takes some planning to ensure you get essential amino acids and vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins and iron.
This article discusses seven plant-based protein sources one must add to their diet.
Edamame
Protein: 11 gm per 100 gm
Talk about the healthiest appetiser ever - simply delicious to eat as a snack or thrown into soups or vegetable stir-fry.
Lima Beans
Protein: 7.8 gm per 100 gm
Lima Beans contain not only protein but also the amino acid leucine, which plays a big role in healthy muscle synthesis among older people
Soybean sprouts
Protein: 9 gm per cup
Soybean sprouts are crunchy and hefty doses of protein to plant-based plates. If you are tired of beans and sprouts, let you switch things up without sacrificing protein.
Green peas
Protein: 5.1 gm per 100 gm
Peas are a fantastic natural source of protein. They are flavourful, protein-rich and adaptable. So, you can add them to a variety of foods to create delectable dinners and snacks
Peanuts
Protein: 7 gm per 1 ounce
Yes, peanuts are technically vegetables. You can also integrate peanuts into unexpected recipes, from protein-packed pancakes to tacos.
Spinach
Protein: 5.8 g per 200 grams
Besides being very good, it offers extraordinary nutritional values and health benefits. Even better, it's easy to throw into pasta, salads, smoothies and bowls.
Fava beans
Protein: 7.6 g per 100 gm
Also known as broad beans, fava beans should be a bigger staple of our daily meals since they work in anything from soups, salads and even dips.