Vegetarian Protein Sources: Know Them, Eat Them

Protein is one of the most essential parts of our body. The growth of our hairs, development of our muscles, bones, ligaments and other tissues primarily depends on our protein intake. Without protein human body would lack the necessary hormones and enzymes which are crucial for digestion, metabolism and other important processes. Proteins are available in different types of foods. It’s a myth that only non-veg products like meat, fish etc. are rich in proteins. Vegetarian items can also provide all the necessary protein ingredients to the body. Like non-veg protein sources, vegetarian proteins sources are also many. The only thing you need to know is which food item or which vegetable give you the optimum amount of protein and how to consume them.

Soy products are one of the richest vegetarian protein source. Tofu, tempeh, soy milk are very useful to your health. They can work as alternatives to non-veg food products for the vegans. Cereals and grains like rye, rice, pasta, millet, oatmeal, wheat germ, wheat, buckwheat etc. can also do wonder in providing protein amount to the body. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, filberts, hemp seeds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds and cashews are also protein-filled foods. Among protein-rich vegetables, yucca, brussel sprouts, beets, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, eggplant, green peas, green pepper, potatoes, spinach, tomatoes, turnip greens, watercress are worth mentioning. Seaweeds such as Seaweed spirulina and kelp are also among rich vegetarian protein source.

Vegans should not worry about getting enough protein as long as above mentioned vegetables and products are available for consumption. If you eat a reasonably varied diet and include protein products to your daily platter you can keep yourself away from protein deficiency problems like kwashiorkor.

When you have an infection you should always go for a good amount of protein because it helps you create antibodies that your immune system needs to counterattack disease. At time of injuries also, you need more proteins thus helping your body in blood clotting.