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Expert Answer: How can I meet my protein needs through plants?

Oct 15, 2021 | Tara Schmidt | @taraschmidt | Comments (12)

Written by Jason S. Ewoldt, M.S., RDN, LD. Jason is a registered dietitian for the Division of Endocrinology and the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program. 

When following a plant-based dietary pattern, the focus is primarily on plants and plant foods. This should include minimally processed whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, legumes whole grains and oils. It doesn’t necessarily mean animal products are off limits, but that the foundation of the dietary pattern is plants. If you are following a dietary pattern that reduces or removes animal products, such as a vegan or vegetarian diet, a concern might be getting enough protein. Though by eating a well-planned and balanced plant-based diet getting adequate protein does not have to be a barrier.

The recommended daily allowance for protein is about 0.36 grams per pound. This means a 200-pound adult should be aiming for around 70 grams of protein a day. With a little bit of planning, an individual following a plant-based diet should be able meet this recommendation consistently. Below are some of the top plant-based proteins along with their protein content. What are your favorite plant-based protein sources?

Tofu - 1 cup: 20 grams

Lentils - 1 cup: 18 grams

Beans - 1 cup: 15 grams

Peas -  1 cup: 9 grams

Quinoa - 1 cup: 8-9 grams

Soy milk - 1 cup: 7 grams

Nuts and nut butter - 1 ounce: 5-7 grams

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Tara Schmidt | @taraschmidt | Oct 26, 2021
In reply to @pfbacon "PS: I'm allergic to soybeans. Other beans disagree with me but soy products made me so..." + (show)
@pfbacon

PS: I'm allergic to soybeans. Other beans disagree with me but soy products made me so ill I was taken to the hospital several times until I figured out what was causing the reaction. I don't think I can go vegetarian or vegan entirely. Does cheese have enough protein? Would it make us dreadfully fat if we tried to meet protein needs with cheese? Thank you. Peggy

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While cheese does have protein, I don’t think it should be used as a person’s main source of protein. Eating it in moderation can absolutely be part of a healthy eating plan, but if you tolerate and enjoy dairy, milk or yogurt (which both contain protein) are likely more healthful choices, as they are less calorie-dense and would have lower amounts of saturated fat most often.

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