Vegetarian protein options

October 8, 5:12 PMSF Mind and Body ExaminerAna Poirier

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Avocados have some vegetarian protein. Phpto: Stock.xchng

Often when one decides to become vegetarian, where to get protein becomes a bit of an issue. It is important to understand that each individual has different needs and requirements. Also there are many different types of protein sources, in fact most whole foods have some protein in them.
 

Stress, emotional as well as dietary, lowers the body’s Ph and depletes protein. High intake of animal protein and cow’s dairy causes a progressive acidification of the body’s cells. The more acid the body becomes, the more digestive ability is decreased and assimilation of nutrients is hindered. When protein and nutrients are in short supply, the body will leach from itself, depleting healing energies and accelerating the aging process.
 

We do not need to eat large amounts of meat and dairy to get sufficient protein in a healthy diet. Protein can be found in many plant foods.
Men and O blood types tend to need more protein, however this does not mean one needs to indiscriminately stuff as much meat into the body as possible. Whether the choice is complete vegetarian or part time vegetarian, there are many ways to get your protein.

Beans – choose small ones (lentils, mung, split peas, aduki, black beans, navy) for best digestion. It is also a good idea to soak and long cook beans for optimum digestion.
 

Soy – soy is indeed a high protein vegetable food, however it also can be very difficult to digest and is a high allergen food. Fermented soy products are your best choice (natto, miso, natural shoyu or tamari, tempeh), as most other soy products are too highly processed. Tofu in small amounts can be agreeable for some and I generally recommend almond or rice milk over soy. It is important to note that soy contains a compound called genistein, which can potentially damage fertility in men. In fact tofu is eaten by Tibetan monks to cool the sexual fire.
 

Animal protein - If you choose to eat less meat, try organic eggs and a good quality plain yogurt or kefir (as long as you can tolerate dairy). If you do eat meat, it is wise to rotate as this will help avoid stagnancy and the health problems associated with beef. Try duck, pheasant, buffalo, lamb, chicken, turkey or fish. Go for less quantity and higher quality. Organic, free-range and grass-fed meats will be more nutritious, leaner, less toxic and more humanely raised than conventional meats. (Remember you take in the energy of the animal you eat – if the animal was in fear and abused this is what you eat).

Protein content in plant foods:

Spinach – 53%                 Broccoli – 45%
Spirulina – 65%                Lettuce – 34%
Lentils – 29%                   Pumpkin seeds – 29%
Sunflower seeds – 23%   Soybeans – 43%
Wheat germ – 31%          Quinoa – 15%

For comparison’s sake:    Sirloin steak – 28% Salmon – 57%

With so many options, choosing more vegetarian options can add interest as well as healthy options to the plate.

For more info: Devana Wellness

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Blue green algae - Vegetarian plant protein