Vegetarian Protein Food Sources: Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a pivotal role in the functioning and overall health of the body. They are the building blocks of life and aid in cell repair. Eating protein makes you feel full for longer hours and helps build muscles. Getting enough protein on a regular basis is important for overall health as it supports cell structure, immune function, movement and chemical reactions. While most of us think that the best sources of protein are non-vegetarian foods, here we bring a list of vegetarian foods that are a great source of protein.
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Vegetarian Protein Food Sources
1. Tofu
Tofu is known as a complete protein source that provides protective plant compounds that benefit the body. It is extremely rich in nutrients including protein, fibre, carbs, calcium and copper that support heart health, and bone health and help in managing cholesterol. A half cup of firm tofu offers 21.8 grams of protein which is enough to meet daily requirements.
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2. Lentils
Lentils are extremely healthy foods that are abundant in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein, potassium and zinc. They are a healthy source of plant-based protein and fibre that helps in managing sugar levels, reduces the risk of certain chronic illnesses, and supports the digestive system.
3. Beans
Best protein sources for vegetarians (Image Credits: Canva)
Apart from being an excellent source of fibre, beans also contain good amounts of protein that protect the overall health. Fibre and protein help to keep the body full for longer hours by preventing frequent hunger. According to WebMD, a single serving of beans contains about 15 grams of protein which is three times more than rice and wheat.
4. Hemp Seeds
Also known as industrial hemp, hemp seeds have certain beneficial nutrients and antioxidants that can aid overall health. It is rich in vitamin E boosts the immune system and fights free radicals that cause oxidative stress. About 3 tablespoons of hemp seeds contain about 9.46 grams of protein.
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5. Nutritional Yeast
Nutritional yeast is another food that is a great source of plant protein and is commonly used in vegan cooking. It also contains all nine essential amino acids with high-quality plant protein that makes it a great addition to your diet.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)