Getting protein on a plant-based diet is easier than you think…

I’ll begin by answering the question above with a question: Where do cows get protein? Animals have to have protein to survive too…

The truth is that most of the food we eat contains some protein. And many plant-based foods are actually great sources of protein!

Nuts and grains are especially helpful when you’re trying to get the protein you need. You can also get protein from oatmeal, broccoli, beans, peas, corn, and many other vegetables.

This leads to another important question: How much protein do we need in our diet?

The resources I consulted suggest we need between 45 and 55 grams of protein each day. 

However, we’re not simply after protein for protein’s sake. What we’re really looking for is a way to replenish the amino acids that are essential to our health and well-being.

As Julieanna Heaver and Raymond J. Cronise explain in their book Plant-Based Nutrition: 2nd Edition, “Somehow people assume that protein comes only from animal products and that anyone avoiding them will be deficient. That’s a myth!”

As a way of further illustrating their point, the authors point to all of the large herbivores out there (like elephants and giraffe). They’re obviously able to get all of the protein they need from plants. So, why would we be any different? 

The truth is, many companies have discovered that protein sells. So they emphasize the protein content of their products on their packaging to drive sales. 

In the end, the important thing for you to understand is that you can still get all the protein you need eating a plant-based diet. In fact, as long as you’re eating a well-balanced diet, protein intake shouldn’t be a problem for you. 

Now, if you’re doing a lot of exercise while on your plant-based diet, your appetite may grow quite a bit. 

This can be a sign that your body is looking for more protein.

I suggest snacking accordingly so that you keep a healthy balance and compensate for some of the extra calories you’re burning off. Don’t overdo it on your snacking, but realize your body is going to want more food as you expend more energy.

For more information about how to use a plant-based diet to reach your weight-loss goals, be sure to take a look at the Plant-Based Diet Success Program. You’ll find out how you can adjust your diet to quickly and easily lose weight and feel great for life! 

Still have more questions? Follow the links below to find answers to other common questions people have about following a plant-based diet.