Article

3 Smart Ways Vegetarians Get Their Protein

Written by Missy Diaz

Topic: Fitness and ExercisePublished October 31, 2012
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It has been proven again and again in various scientific journals that eating a meatless diet is not detrimental to one’s health. In fact, some vegetarians are quite healthy and this is because those who choose this diet are very savvy about food choices and recipe ingredients in general. In order to get the various nutrients a vegetarian needs due to their lack of meat, they use alternative sources. They read and learn about nutrition and what they need to supplement. Because of this many learn about appropriate substitutions to meat and what meat provides. See how some vegetarians they get their fill of protein below.

1. Beans -

This is perhaps the most popular method of getting protein sans meat in your diet. The good thing is that beans are versatile and can be placed on just about anything; including salads, rice, pasta and so much more. There are also many varieties of beans with each one having a different texture and taste. Kidney beans go well with pasta dishes, pinto beans go well with rice and most beans go good on salads. Also the nutrient profile of each bean is different with some providing plenty of fiber, Vitamins, iron and more - alongside with protein. As you become savvy with the different types of beans, and their taste you will adapt and add them accordingly to your various dishes.

2. Nuts -

They say good things come in small packages and we couldn’t agree more when it comes to nuts. They are small but mighty. An almond nut is a powerhouse of nutrients with protein being one of the biggest nutrients it encases. This is one of the many ways a vegetarian stays full and healthy, by eating a variety of nuts. The more the merrier and better for your palate. As with beans, nuts too are versatile and can be added and consumed in a multitude of ways.

3. Protein Packed Smoothies -

For those who love to get their nutrition via smoothies, blenders are one of the most used items in their kitchen. In fact, we have yet to meet a vegetarian that doesn’t love and use a blender on a regular basis. The reason for this fondness is that through a smoothie, you can create a variety of protein packed lunches. There are green smoothies, calcium fortified smoothies, iron rich smoothies and any combination thereof. Pretty much any fruit or veggie that can be blended can make for a great lunch or afternoon snack. There’s even a blogger who goes by the name of (Incredible Smoothies) that showcases nothing but a series of healthy nutrition rich smoothies everyday. Some ingredient mixes can yield enough protein, fiber, Vitamins and more to deliver your daily recommended allotment. Vegetarians are no different than you and me when it comes to diet and nutrition. They still need the same amount and type to be healthy, but they acquire it through different means. Never underestimate the nutrition savvy of a vegetarian - they have ninja skills in the kitchen.

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About the Author

Missy Diaz writes about nutrition and diet for various web magazines including Self Growth among other publications.
She is a savvy vegetarian that loves to educate others on the merits of a meatless diet.