Potential Protein Picks : sources of plant based protein

In the past decade, something that has really taken a toll over the nutrition talk is plant protein. People have been turning vegan quite rapidly hence eliminating the chances for animal protein. Initially, it was believed that animal protein is the richest source of protein available and that nothing can surpass it. But as times changed and people became more aware of plant protein found its people. This article will talk about how plant-based proteins are better and what are the sources that occur naturally!

Why plant protein?

People following a strict carnivore and omnivore diet include meat, eggs, and milk which are the richest source of animal protein. This makes it easy for them to fulfill their daily protein requirements. But people following a vegetarian or vegan diet attain these proteins from sources such as soya beans and quinoa which are also responsible for completing the requirements of amino acids. These people may also follow a varied diet of plant-based foods such as tofu, tempeh, lentils, nuts, seeds, and quinoa.

Plant-based proteins are not only naturally occurring but are also great ways of reducing the risks of chronic diseases like ischemic heart disease, type-2 diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. 

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 Sources of Plant-based proteins:

Below are a few, rich sources of plant-based protein one can inculcate in their daily meals to fulfill their daily nutritive requirements.

1. Tofu and Tempeh: these are the derivatives of soy. Soy is the richest known source of plant protein. Both tofu and tempeh act as good substitutes of meat and can be added to a variety of dishes. These are also rich in calcium and iron which also makes them a great replacement for dairy products.
2. Chickpeas: these are very versatile and can be added to dishes such as stews, curries, or even dips like hummus. Every 1/2 cup of chickpeas contains 7.25g of protein.
3. Spirulina: it is a type of blue or green algae which is rich in nutrients iron, B vitamins, and manganese. It can be added to smoothies or fruit juice to improve the protein content.
4. Quinoa: it is the grain that has a high protein content as well as iron, fibre, magnesium, and manganese. It is used as a base ingredient for rice, pastas, and soups.
5. Chia seeds: this is the only seed that is high in both protein and omega-3 fatty acids. These are used extensively in puddings, smoothies and fruit bowls.
6.  Protein-rich vegetables: dark, green leafy vegetables contain good amount of protein. Vegetables like brocolli, kale, spinach, mushrooms are great sources of vegan protein.

These were a few examples of plant-based protein sources which can be easily added to your daily meals. Protein plays a major role in proper growth and development, building and repairing the body cells and tissues, improving the hair, skin, and bone health, and managing certain body processes such as clotting and etc. Hence , protein plays a major role.

Although there are a lot of naturally occuring protein sources but many of them do not fulfill all nutritive requirements and this is where protein powders and bars come into play. Gytree focuses on making protein supplements which make sure to satisfy all nutrient requirements without you having to compromise on the quality.