Protein is extremely important for our body, playing a crucial role in building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall health.
For vegans and vegetarians, meeting protein needs can be a bit challenging since they don’t get it from traditional sources like meat and dairy. However, there’s no need to worry. There are plenty of delicious plant-based foods like almonds, lentils, chickpeas, and more, packed with protein to help you stay healthy and strong. Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist, shares five protein-rich natural foods you can easily incorporate into your daily vegan or vegetarian diet to meet your nutritional needs.
AlmondsIf you’re looking for a versatile natural protein option, almonds are an excellent choice. Known for their healthy fats, dietary fiber, and protein content, a handful of almonds must be a daily dietary staple due to their numerous health benefits. Did you know that each 30-gram serving of almonds contains six grams of protein, making them a satisfying snack that can sustain you throughout the day. A great way to incorporate almonds into your diet is by blending them with fruits and vegetables in smoothies or adding sliced or chopped almonds to salads and yogurts for added crunch and nutrition.
Peas Rich in diverse nutritional and bioactive components, peas offer numerous health benefits. In fact, peas are a notable source of protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals. Overall, incorporating peas into your meals can play a crucial role in managing lifestyle diseases related to heart and blood sugar, making them a powerful addition to a healthy diet.
Beans Packed with bioactive compounds, beans are a nutrient-rich food and must be a part of your regular diet. As per reports, cooked beans offer up to 25 gms of protein in a 1/2 cup serving, providing about 20 percent of the recommended adult requirement. The good thing is, there are numerous ways to incorporate this protein source into your diet—whether in soups, sandwiches, or curries, beans offer versatility and nutritional.
Amaranth Amaranth is a well-balanced food renowned for its significant protein content. Incorporating amaranth into your regular diet can contribute to various health benefits, such as lowering blood glucose levels, improving conditions associated with hypertension and anemia, and strengthening the immune system.
Chickpeas Chickpeas are rich in protein and offer several potential health benefits. When combined with other pulses and grains, they may help reduce the risk of several major diseases, including digestive disorders, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.Some of the other excellent protein-rich food options to consider include tofu, lentils, and quinoa, each offering substantial protein content along with a range of health benefits. These versatile ingredients can be used in various recipes, making the transition to a vegan diet both nutritious and flavourful.