Whether you’re a vegan or a carnivore, protein is important to your body. It works to build and repair body tissues, and it regulates a number of body processes. While your body is able to produce some building blocks of protein on its own, there are others, known as essential amino acids, that you will need to take in through the foods you eat. For many, this means including protein-rich meats to their diets, but for those opting to go meat-free, they will need to be careful to eat a variety of non-meat protein options in order for their bodies to continue to function properly. Not sure which meatless foods contain protein? No problem. We’ve got 8 No Meat Protein Sources to add to your plate.
8 No Meat Protein Sources:
Beans and Lentils
Not only are beans and lentils outstanding sources of protein, containing up to 14 grams of protein per cup, they’re cheap, too!
Find out why beans and lentils are superfoods here!
Nuts and Seeds
With so many types of nuts and seeds available, it’s easy to find an option to meet your needs.
Read about how nuts can help you fight fat here.
Quinoa
Quinoa is high in protein, low in fat, and free in cholesterol. Plus, it’s gluten free! Try a Quinoa Protein Bar!
To learn more about the health benefits of quinoa, click here.
Tofu
The greatest thing about tofu is that it can easily be substituted for meat products. Anything chicken can do, tofu can do, too, but it’s 100% vegetarian.
Eggs
A single egg offers a wide range of nutritional benefits, including a high protein content. The average egg contains 6.29 grams of protein.
Greek Yogurt
While all dairy products offer a respectable amount of protein, Greek yogurt is the protein superstar! Not only does it offer twice the amount of protein as other yogurts, it contains half of the sugar.
Try a Sweet and Savory Yogurt Parfait.
Avocado
There are 10 grams of protein in a single avocado making it an excellent source of raw protein. Avocados are also rich in important omega-3 fatty acids to promote heart health. Try our Skinnylicious Protein Smoothie with Avocado.
Find out why avocado made our Superfood List here.
Cottage Cheese
When it comes to protein in dairy products, low-fat cottage cheese is the clear winner. Just ½ cup offers a whopping 15 grams!
Looking for delicious meatless recipes to add to your recipe book? Click here.
