High Protein Vegetarian Foods

There is always a lingering question on how to obtain enough protein in a vegetarian diet. Plant sources contain adequate amounts of dietary protein. Soy protein is equivalent to animal protein and can serve as an exclusive source of protein intake. With a reasonably varied diet, protein is protein regardless if it comes from an animal or a plant. With an array of selections, either raw or packaged, locating high protein foods takes little energy.

Benefits

Scientific studies confirm that vegetarians suffer less from health concerns including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes and cancer. A healthful vegetarian diet based on high proteins such as whole grains, pulses, nuts, fruits and vegetables is good for your heart and low in fat.

Types

High protein sources include but are not limited to: eggs, soybean, whole grains (brown rice, barley, quinoa, oatmeal and wheat), nuts and seeds (pumpkin, almond, hemp, sunflower and sesame), pulses (beans, peas and lentils) and almond butter. Vegetables include broccoli, kale, spinach, squash and pumpkin. Green plants such as algae and wheat grass are another high-protein resource.

Considerations

The amount of high protein needed depends on body type. Different foods contain different amounts of protein. Beans, pulses and soybean take the place of meat and fish as a major source of high protein.

Solutions

For those on the go who want a high-protein vegetarian selection, many options are available. In the refrigerator or freezer section of the grocery, one can select seitan (wheat-based protein), flavored baked tofu, soy sausage and deli meats, smart ground, BBQ ribs and gardenburgers.

Misconceptions

There is a misconception that a vegetarian diet cannot be healthy unless certain foods are combined for complete protein. Research consistently shows that vegetarians and vegans have a satisfactory protein intake. Eating enough variety daily can easily meet individual requirements.