TOP 10 PLANT PROTEINS
These plant-based foods contain the amino acids and other key nutrients essential to a healthy diet.
BY MARY SAVAGE
However, this mindset started to shift some years ago, introducing a gradual movement that’s expanded our
awareness. Today, you will find a huge variety of plant-based proteins that have a growing appeal, even beyond vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. These choices are becoming part of the mainstream dialogue when seeking healthier food options.
Plant proteins tend to have more fiber and fewer calories, but take longer to digest and are absorbed more slowly.
Even so, plant proteins typically do not cause the gas, bloating and digestive distress often associated with certain
foods, such as dairy. Greens also have an abundance of naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients.
When you consider plant proteins vs. a sirloin steak, pound for pound the plant proteins pack a greater nutritional profile with fewer calories and more fiber. However, not all of the “essential” amino acids are found in one plant based protein bowl. Eating plant proteins often means taking a collective approach by including several sources to ensure you’re getting all the essential amino acids.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top plant protein choices as recommended by dieticians and nutritionists:
SPIRULINA
This blue-green algae is considered a true “superfood,” given its unsurpassed nutrient concentrations. A twotablespoon serving (30ml) provides 8 grams of complete protein plus 22% of your daily requirement of iron and thiamine, and 42% of daily copper.
It also offers magnesium, riboflavin, manganese, potassium and trace amounts of many other nutrients, including essential fatty acids (EFAs).
What makes spirulina such a superstar? It’s a compound called phycocyanin, a naturally occurring pigment that
is rich in antioxidants; it also has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Studies on spirulina have linked it to health benefits such as promoting a stronger immune system, reducing
blood pressure, and improving blood sugar and cholesterol levels. This algae is particularly supportive when fasting, as it provides the necessary nutrients to help the body cleanse and repair itself, while curbing the appetite.
OATS AND OATMEAL
This grain is hardy, warming and filling, and an excellent addition to any diet whether consumed as oatmeal or granola. A half-cup (120ml) of dry oats offers roughly 6 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber, along with iron, manganese, calcium, zinc, phosphorus and folate.
Oats also contain phytochemicals, including beta-glucans—a naturally occurring fiber that helps to reduce cholesterol. This versatile grain can be used in many recipes, from cookies and bars to veggie burgers and a meatless loaf.
CHIA SEEDS
Although these gems have been around for centuries, they have recently risen in popularity due to awareness of their dense nutritional profile. A serving of just two tablespoons (30 ml) offers 6 grams of protein and 13 grams of fiber.
They also provide iron, calcium, zinc, selenium, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. These tiny seeds swell when placed in liquid and form a gelatinous outer shell, much like tapioca, making them an ideal thickener for puddings or an egg replacer. Since they have little to no taste, they can be added to any beverage, smoothie or baked goods.
Whether you consume them whole or ground, these ancient seeds will “level up” any dish, snack or beverage.
LENTILS
Originating from the pea family, lentils pack a powerful serving of proteins, carbs, fiber, vitamins and trace minerals. One cup of cooked lentils provides about 18 grams of protein plus potassium, folate, phosphorus, iron, copper, vitamin A and some of the B vitamins.
And there’s more good news: in that same serving, you’re getting roughly half of recommended daily intake of fiber, plus this type of fiber is particularly beneficial to promoting the good bacteria found in your colon.
Lentils can be added to soups and stews for a creamy texture or they can be sprouted and tossed in salads for extra crunch. However you choose to enjoy lentils, your entire body will thank you.
NUTRITIONAL YEAST
This pantry favorite is versatile, savory and delicious with a cheesy flavor. It complements almost any dish where you’d sprinkle a bit of cheese and makes an excellent dairy-free cheese replacement in baking and cooking.
The large yellow flakes are a form of deactivated yeast and provide a complete protein source, offering 14 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber per each 28-gram serving. It is an excellent source of all the B vitamins and is particularly high in B12. It also provides zinc, copper, magnesium and manganese. Some brands are fortified, so the nutritional information might vary.
HEMPSEED
Also known as hemp hearts, these soft and nutty seeds come from the Cannabis sativa plant; same family as the marijuana plant. However, these seeds have such a minuscule amount of THC, they are generally considered non-psychoactive.
Hempseed is another complete protein, making this an ideal addition to any diet. Two tablespoons provide 10 grams of easily digestible protein, plus they are a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, along with a decent amount of iron, zinc and selenium.
Add them to smoothies, sprinkle over yogurt, toss into a salad or enjoy a handful straight from the bag. They have a delightful nutty taste that might surprise you.
GREEN PEAS
There is nothing quite like freshly picked peas: crunchy, juicy and sweet. Whether you enjoy these fresh from the pod or fresh-frozen in a salad, stir fry or stew, these green gems are incredibly nutritious.
One cup offers 9 grams of protein plus 25% of your daily fiber. They are packed with vitamins A, C, K, iron, many B vitamins and trace minerals. Peas help to normalize the body’s fluid levels, maintain cell function, control blood sugar and the fiber helps to lower cholesterol. Pass the peas, please!
SPELT & TEFF
These ancient grains have risen in popularity due to their exceptional nutritional offering. Spelt belongs to the wheat family and contains gluten; teff, on the other hand, is gluten free and comes from an annual grass.
Cup for cup, both provide the highest amount of protein (per cup) of all the ancient grains – weighing in at about 11 grams per 240 ml. Likewise, both offer substantial nutrients including complex carbs, fiber, iron, B vitamins and several trace minerals. And they make an excellent alternative grain when looking to try something new.
SOYBEANS
You’ve likely heard of tofu, tempeh and edamame, but did you know they all come from the same plant? Yes, they are all derived from soybeans.
Another plant-protein jewel, Soybeans are also a complete protein, meaning they provide the body with all the essential amino acids that are required. Regardless of how you consume them, all three contain 10-20 grams of protein for about a half-cup serving.
Soybeans also help to protect cells from oxidative damage, help lower cholesterol, regulate estrogen levels, retain bone mass, boost immunity, reduce hypertension and improve digestion.
AMARANTH & QUINOA
To the naked eye, these ancient grains almost appear to be cousins, as both are small, round and hard. However, they don’t grow like other grains and are prized for being gluten free.
Equally protein-dense, one cooked cup of either grain offers 8-9 grams of a complete protein, along with being a good source of complex carbs, fiber, iron and phosphorus.
Both amaranth and quinoa are available ground and often used as a flour alternative. When cooked whole, these grains make delicious salads or side dishes that are combined with herbs and chopped vegetables – much like couscous. They are also an excellent addition to hot cereal or substitute breakfast option.
Whether you’re new to plant-protein alternatives or switched to a plant-based diet years ago, there is plenty to choose from. This list gives you a jumping off point or perhaps reminds you of a few favorites to rediscover. Either way, these protein powerhouses make a great contribution to any balanced diet.
Mary Savage is a Certified Holistic Nutritional Practitioner, lifelong learner and journalist. She was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder in 2006 – prompting her to study nutrition. As a professional writer, she is an occasional contributor to nutritional websites and magazines. No part of her written work may be reproduced without express written consent and permission from the aforementioned writer. Follow her on instagram @savvynutritionist
References:
- com, 2019, The 17 Best Protein Sources for Vegans and Vegetarians, Petre, Alina
- Haas, Elson M., Staying Healthy with Nutrition, New York, Random House, 2006
- Balch, Phyllis A., Prescription for Dietary Wellness, New York, Penguin Group Inc, 2003