Best Vegan Sources Of Protein

A common misconception among people is about the protein required for optimal health. The truth is, the actual amount of protein required for your physical well-being is much less — about 0.8g of protein per kg of your body weight. Vegan diets can easily accommodate this much protein when planned properly. Here are some of the best sources of protein for vegans:

Lentils

Whether you choose brown, green or red lentils, each contains a high protein content and is a great source of essential nutrients like potassium and iron. Lentils are an easy and quick source of protein, offering approximately 8-9g of protein for every 100g serving. Lentils can be consumed in many ways, such as with rice, stewed, curry, salad or as soups.

They also contain high fiber, which feeds the good bacteria in your colon, and are also rich in folate and reduce chances of diabetes, heart diseases and excess weight. 

Soy

Soy products such as tofu, soy milk and tempeh are great vegan sources of protein. Besides being a high-quality protein source, soy also contains ample amounts of all nine essential amino acids and is one of the best substitutes for meat. This nutrient powerhouse is also a good source of fiber, calcium, zinc, magnesium and iron. All Alpha products are made from high-quality soy that mimics the texture, juiciness and taste of actual meat, thus providing an exceptional eating experience.

Chickpeas

Cooked chickpeas contain over 7.25g of protein per ½ cup. This rich source of protein can be eaten cold or hot and paired with other dishes such as salads and sandwiches. You can also prepare a creamy, lemony hummus from chickpea paste and relish it with pita bread.

Nuts and Seeds

Another versatile form of vegan protein is nuts and seeds. You can include these in your diet as a snack, late-night munchies or use them in your meals. Most nuts and seeds provide enough supply of amino acids and are tiny powerhouses of energy and nutrients. The protein content of some nuts is mentioned below:

• Almonds: 3g for every 6 almonds
• Cashew Nuts: 3g protein for every 10 cashew nuts
• Pistachios: Over 1g protein for every 10 pistachios
• Hemp Seeds: 5g protein for every heaped tablespoon
• Pumpkin Seeds: 4g protein per tablespoon

Seeds are also an excellent vegan source of omega-3 fatty acids with low-calorie content. Other options, such as nut butter, chia seeds and pumpkin butter, also contain impressive amounts of protein.

Spirulina

This superfood for vegans is a nutritional powerhouse that provides around 8g of protein per 2-tablespoon serving. As one of the highest vegan sources of protein, spirulina has between 55-70% protein content. These blue-green algae are packed with nutrients like manganese, vitamin B, iron and many others. Spirulina is available as a supplement or a powder and can be added to salads, smoothies, soups, water or fruit juices to boost their protein content.

If you’re looking for a convenient way of consuming protein, try Alpha’s Protein Supreme Breakfast Burrito or Chik’n Fajita All-day Burrito. Don’t forget to try the savory breakfast sandwiches, available in three flavors — Meatless Sausage, Chick’n & Maple Waffle and Meatless Spicy Chorizo, which come with juicy vegan patties squeezed between fluffy muffins. These are the perfect way to start your day and get the required dose of protein for your body. Order your vegan burritos and sandwiches from Alpha today, or visit an Alpha store near you for the best-quality protein-packed products.