Vegan and vegetarian diets are growing steadily in popularity. In addition, a growing number of Americans are looking to simply reduce their intake of animal products.
These diet changes are often due to religious reasons, health reasons, or concern for animal welfare.
Because of these trends, people are now on the lookout for plant-based sources that can provide them the necessary protein they need.
Regardless of the reasoning, going meat-free does have its downsides. People that do not eat meat or animal products often do not consume the necessary amounts of protein, calcium, iron, and B-12 their bodies need.
Luckily, nature provides many foods that are very rich in protein. These can help you feel full and can help replace the protein missing from a meatless diet.
Better yet, these foods often have less calories than their animal-based counterparts. This can be helpful for those who are conscientious about their food intake.
Below are 10 of the most protein-rich, plant-based foods, along with their protein content per serving.
- Tofu (10g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Tempeh (15g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Edamame (8.5g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Lentils (8.8g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Chickpeas (7.3g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Peanuts (20.5g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Almonds (16.5g protein per 1/2 cup)
- Spirulina (8g protein per 2 tablespoons)
- Quinoa (8g protein per cup)
- Large Baked Potatoes (8g each)
