Enter your search term below

Getting Started With Plant-Based Protein

If you're wanting to eat a more plant-based diet, then here's how you can ensure you're getting enough protein and options of what you can have.

Protein is one of the most important nutrients. It’s essential for keeping the body strong and functioning as it should. 

This is because protein is the main building block of the body – used to make cells, muscles, and skin. Plus, hormones, neurotransmitters, and other vital body components

The protein our body uses comes from the protein we eat. The DRI (Dietary Reference Intake) is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

But since a majority of protein comes from animal-based sources, getting enough protein as a vegetarian or vegan can be difficult. Which can make the body weak. 

However, there are several great, protein-packed plants out there that can keep your body strong and healthy.

 

Beans and legumes in jars

 

The Difference Between Plant and Animal-Based Protein

Stating the obvious – animal-based proteins comes from animals. And plant-based protein comes from plants. 

The BIG difference between these two types of protein is the amino acids they contain. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and essential to the body – being released when protein is broken down from foods we eat. 

The amino acid profiles between animal-based and plant-based proteins vary greatly. A ‘complete protein’ is made up of all 20 essential amino acids; animal proteins are ‘complete proteins.’ Plant proteins – in most cases – are not (and are called ‘incomplete proteins’).

This means, creating complete proteins for a plant-based diet is more difficult and takes more planning, but it is possible – by using ‘complementary proteins.’ This is the process of pairing two incomplete proteins together to make a complete protein. 

Classic examples of complementary proteins are beans and rice, peanuts with stir-fry noodles, or a simple peanut butter sandwich. 

 

Benefits of Plant-Based Protein

Despite not all plant protein sources being ‘complete proteins,’ there are many health benefits traced to diets high in plant-based proteins

Those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet experience better control over body weight, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of developing chronic disease. 

 

Bowl of Tofu

 

5 Awesome Protein-Packed Plants

 

1. Soy Foods

Soy is the best plant-based protein out there. Soy-based foods are complete proteins, and include: 

  • Edamame
  • Tofu
  • Tempeh

 

2. Spirulina

Spirulina comes from algae and is also a complete protein. Each serving contains 8g protein, plus multivitamins and antioxidants.

 

3. Legumes and Lentils

Legumes and lentils contain between 15-18g protein per 240ml. They also have tons of fiber and beneficial minerals.

 

4. Ancient Grains

Despite being grains, several ancient grains are filled with protein and complex carbs. Some examples are:

  • Quinoa
  • Wild rice
  • Amaranth
  • Spelt
  • Teff

 

5. Nuts and Seeds

Seeds, nuts, and butters contain 5-7g protein per serving. They also contain many other nutrients, including healthy fats.

 

Bowl of nuts, brazil nuts, cashews, walnuts, pecans

 

Ways to Add More Plant-Based Protein to Your Diet

Adding more plant-based protein to your diet could provide you with many health benefits. 

You can always add more plant protein to your diet. Here are some ideas that might fit your lifestyle:

  • Try one new plant-based protein a week
  • Add protein powder to smoothies
  • Prioritize a protein-packed breakfast
  • Include a high-protein food at every meal and snack

 

How will YOU be boosting your diet with plant-based with protein?

Looking for more information on keeping your body happy and healthy? We've got lots of great articles you can check out. Plus you can subscribe to our newsletter for articles in your inbox plus special offers, details on our upcoming events and the LiveFit Festival!

VIEW MORE ARTICLES

About the author

Allison Lansman

Allison Lansman, RDN, LD is a freelance writer and owner of The Freelance RD Health and Nutrition Writing Services. She is passionate about creating exciting, research-based nutrition blog posts with her professional background as a dietitian. Allie also prioritises creating for like-minded wellness brands who emphasise equity, sustainability, and non-diet approaches to health and nutrition.

others you may be interested in

WHY TURMERIC IS THE SPICE TO SPICE UP YOUR LIFE

You’ve probably heard the hype recently that Turmeric is the go to spice when it comes to the various health benefits, and you‘ll be pleased to know turmeric does actually live up to the hype.

Read more
The How and Why of Personalised Nutrition

It is a well-known fact that not everyone is the same. You are different in many ways to your partner, sister, friends, brother, mother, colleagues, and you know it and accept it. After all, what makes you unique is your points of difference.

Read more
10 Fruits for an Extra Energy Boost in Your Morning Smoothie

Try these 10 fruits in your smoothie to help beat morning fatigue with a boost of steady energy. A natural energy boost with all the right nutrients, these are the 10 fruits you should be adding to your morning smoothie.

Read more

JOIN THE SQUAD!

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and get news & announcements on LiveFit events first plus special ticket offers, healthy recipes, workouts, articles and so much more! It's free!