A vegan lifestyle is a way of living that avoids all animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, dairy and honey. There are many reasons why people choose to adopt this diet. Some have ethical concerns about the treatment of animals for food while others may be looking to improve their health by avoiding certain foods that can cause inflammation or other chronic conditions. Whatever your reason for following a vegan lifestyle and diet there are some key nutrients you should consider eating more often!
6 Vegan Foods That Are Rich In Protein:
Soybeans
Soybeans are a great source of protein in vegan foods. They are, however, high in fat and also contain phytoestrogens that may affect hormone levels and certain nutrient absorption rates. Soaking soybeans before cooking them can help reduce the amount of these components but if you have concerns it is best to consult with a physician or nutritionist first.
Quinoa
This gluten-free grain contains all of the essential amino acids and has a protein content about 20% higher than other non-meat sources which make it a perfect vegan food! It does not need to be soaked like beans though so it is easier to prepare quickly on busy days. The downside is that Quinoa prices tend to fluctuate due to shortages caused by its rapid growth popularity over the last decade.
Lentils
Lentils are a great source of protein and fibre. One should aim to consume at least one serving of lentils throughout the day. They are rich in carbs as well as nutrients that will help you remain energetic throughout the day. The downside? They are a bit difficult to digest so you may want to prepare them with more water and cook for less time than the package instructions suggest.
Tempeh
Tempeh is made from soybeans which contain high levels of protein, fibre, iron, B vitamins as well as Vitamin C. Tempeh has about five times the amount of omega-three fatty acids found in other beans or grains making it an excellent food choice for vegans who need their nutrients to be not only plant-based but also easily absorbed by our bodies. The drawback? It can take longer than other vegan food sources like tofu or seitan due to its fermentation process and sometimes people find that they cannot tolerate this type of product because it contains gluten.
Vegan Protein Powders
Not a typical vegan food but a very important supplement that will make your life easier. These are made from soy, rice, hemp, and pea proteins. Many contain added vitamins, antioxidants and blends as well. Investing in a vegan protein powder will eliminate all the issues caused by animal protein like whey or casein. It is the perfect fit for lactose-intolerant people.
Hemp Seeds
The high omega-three fatty acid content makes these a great vegan food for people looking for plant-based protein sources rich with essential nutrients needed by our bodies. Hemp seed contains all nine amino acids which help build muscle mass while boosting metabolism at the same time! You can add them to your favourite oatmeal recipe or smoothie but they do cost more than some others on this list so it’s important to monitor how often you consume them because too much can burn a hole in your pocket.