Vegan diets consist of no food that is made up of animal substances. Since vegans do not consume any sort of meat, many individuals think that they are not getting enough protein in their diet. However this is a myth. When thinking about a vegan diet and protein, there are some things that should be considered.

Plant Based Forms Of Protein Are Enough

Many vegetables are excellent forms of protein. Broccoli, carrots and cucumbers are all sources of complete protein. By consuming these items daily, vegans can get an adequate amount of protein that they need. It is not necessary to take a multivitamin or consume an animal product to get protein into a vegan’s daily diet.

The Amount Of Protein Needed Is Less Than Most People Think

Many individuals have the wrong idea that a lot of protein is needed in a person’s daily diet. This is far from the truth. No more than 11% of our daily diet needs to be made of from protein. In fact, getting only 2.5% of protein in our daily diet is sufficient. This small amount of protein needed can easily be eaten in just one meal or can be spread out in snacks and meals throughout the day.

Vegans Will Not Suffer Ill Effects From Eating Just Plant Based Protein

Many individuals have the wrong idea that vegans aren’t as healthy as those that eat protein from animals. In reality, if vegans have a well-balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, their health can actually exceed those who consume a diet filled with meat. Even though meat does contain a lot of protein, it does also contain unhealthy things such as fat that is harmful to your health.

Simply Just a Myth?

The myth of individuals that practice this type of diet of are not getting enough protein is simply a myth. Vegans can get all of the vitamins, minerals and nutrients that they need by eating the right amount of items. You do not need to consume meat to fuel your body with the right foods it needs to function properly. If you are considering trying a vegan diet and whether or not you will be able to get enough protein you should remember that.

Final Note From Joan…

The average American diet that includes meat & dairy often results in too much protein which leads to many health problems such as kidney disease, osteoporosis, & cancers-among others. Recently more athletes & body builders are introducing more plant based foods as well….So remember to eat a variety of grains, vegetables, fruit& legumes(beans-peas-lentils)…Enjoy!!

ASK JOAN!

If you have any questions about a healthful Vegan diet for you or any of your family members please ask!

Key Takeaways:

• Plants can provide all the protein that you need. Vegetables such as potatoes and carrots are excellent food choices.
• The amount of protein needed each day is a lot less than most individual’s think it is. In many cases, only 2.5% of your diet needs to be made up of protein.
• Plant based proteins are actually better for you than traditional meat based proteins that tend to have a lot of fats and other unhealthy components.

(top photo courtesy of ”gobblegreen.com”)