Protein is very important to the overall health of the body. It helps keep you fuller longer, helps encourage muscle growth and tissue repair as well as many other things. For vegans protein is especially important as many times protein is found in meat and vegans refrain from eating meat. There are many different foods vegans can eat to ensure they get the adequate amount of protein in their diet. Below are 5 of the most popular sources of protein for vegans.
Quinoa: Quinoa is a grain that is often cooked in the same style as rice. It is loaded with both protein and fiber both of which vegans need. Most 1 cup servings of quinoa offers 8 grams of protein making it one of the top protein filled foods. Although it does not have a huge amount of flavor that makes it very easy for adding it to other dishes. It is great when mixed in with soups, cereals, salads and a variety of other dishes. It is easily available at most supermarkets.
Beans: Beans are one of the top vegan foods there is. They are not only delicious but they are also very filling and very versatile since there are so many different options. There are kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, fava beans and so many other great varieties. Just two cups of beans offer more than 20 grams of protein. Beans are great as a side or as the whole meal when added with other ingredients. They are a great add to soups, rice, chicken dishes, pasta dishes and so many other great meals. They are very easy to find both in the produce section as well as the canned goods section of most supermarkets.
Walnuts: nuts in general are very healthy and offer great protein benefits however walnuts offer a lot of extra benefits. Each cup of walnuts offers around 12 grams of protein. They also offer tons of antioxidants that not only help your heart but also your skin and other parts of your body. Walnuts also help you feel fuller longer helping you to eat less. They can be eaten on their own or even added to other dishes. They can be added to desserts such as cakes or brownies or added to dishes like sweet potatoes or stuffing for a nice sweet flavor. They are very easy to find and are available in most drug stores and supermarkets.
Tofu: tofu is very popular among vegans. Just a half of cup can have more than 15 grams of protein. Tofu also offers a ton of other nutritious benefits such as amino acids. One of the best things about tofu is it can be added to any dish and will take on the flavor of anything it is mixed with. Tofu is great in salads as well as soups and is great sprinkled on top of dishes like pasta and veggies. Tofu works really great with a variety of sauces cause it really absorbs a lot of flavor. It is typically very easy to find in local and organic supermarkets.
Chia seeds: many vegans think of chia seeds as one of the best products available because of how filling it is and how many benefits it offers. Chia seeds are filled with fiber and amino acids as well as protein. Each tablespoon offers around 2 grams of protein. It can literally be added to any type of dish from yogurt to oatmeal and cereal and even smoothies. It is a great source of protein.
