As more and more people adopt plant-based diets, the question of protein is at the forefront of many minds. How can you get enough protein if you’re not eating meat? Is plant-based protein as good as animal-based protein? The truth is, there’s a lot of misinformation out there about protein on a plant-based diet. Here’s everything you need to know:
1. You can get plenty of protein on a plant-based diet.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not difficult to get enough protein on a plant-based diet. Many plant-based foods are high in protein, including beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and tofu. In fact, the average adult only needs about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, and most plant-based foods contain more than enough protein to meet that requirement.
2. Plant-based protein is just as good as animal-based protein.
Protein is made up of amino acids, and both animal-based and plant-based protein contain all the essential amino acids our bodies need. The myth that plant-based protein is somehow inferior to animal-based protein is just that – a myth. In fact, studies have shown that plant-based diets can be just as effective for building muscle and improving athletic performance as diets that include meat.
3. You don’t need to combine proteins at every meal.
Another myth about plant-based protein is that you need to combine different types of protein at every meal to get all the essential amino acids. While it’s true that some plant-based proteins are incomplete (meaning they don’t contain all the essential amino acids), you don’t need to worry about combining them at every meal. As long as you’re eating a variety of plant-based foods throughout the day, you’ll get all the essential amino acids you need.
4. There are plenty of plant-based protein supplements available.
If you’re still worried about getting enough protein on a plant-based diet, there are plenty of protein supplements available that are made from plant-based sources. These supplements can be a convenient way to boost your protein intake, especially if you’re an athlete or trying to build muscle.
5. Don’t forget about other important nutrients.
While protein is important, it’s not the only nutrient you need to worry about on a plant-based diet. Make sure you’re also getting enough iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, which can be harder to get from plant-based foods. Fortified plant milks, leafy greens, and nutritional yeast are all good sources of these nutrients.
In conclusion, there’s no need to worry about protein on a plant-based diet. As long as you’re eating a variety of plant-based foods throughout the day, you’ll get all the protein and other nutrients your body needs. So go ahead and enjoy that vegan burger – your body will thank you for it!
