To many, the only way to get protein is to eat red meat, fish, white meat or eggs. Yes, these are high protein foods but what do vegetarians and vegans do for protein?
There are some very good high quality non animal sources of protein available so no need to panic!
These are my top six:
Bee Pollen
Not exactly non-animal and not great for vegans but excellent for vegetarians. Fresh bee pollen not only contains a high amount of protein but it also contains vitamins (very high in B vitamins) and minerals.
Sprouts
For a complete spectrum of protein (all eight essential proteins that must be obtained via the diet), alfalfa is the best. You can sprout most grains, legumes, pulses and other seeds (chia, mustard, clover etc.). Sprouts are also high in vitamins, minerals and enzymes (because they are live foods). If you rotate and eat different sprouts each week, you will be getting all the protein you need and then some.
Wheatgrass
I have to admit I am not a fan of wheatgrass. It's like Marmite - you either love it or you hate it. I'm the latter. This however, does not stop me from taking it whenever there is an opportunity (mostly in juices which I down in one!). Books have been written on the benefits of wheatgrass and many health institutions have it as a daily elixir for their guests.
Wheat grass contains, enzymes, vitamins (A, B, C, E & K), protein and is very high in chlorophyll (oxygenates the blood). It is also a powerful detoxifier so go easy!
NB: Wheatgrass has a cooling effect on the body and is therefore not suitable if you are always cold or have a weak constitution. If this is you and you still wish to take wheatgrass, take it in powder form. It is less potent.
Blue Green Algae
Spirulina, Chlorella, E3 Live are just a few of the algae sources of high quality protein, not to mention the high nutrient content.
E3 Live
E3Live is an Aphanizomenon Flos Aquae, a freshwater edible species of blue green cyanophytas. Containing countless naturally occurring vitamins, minerals and nutrients, E3Live's unique liquid form also functions as an incredible energy enhancer.
o Increase energy, stamina and feelings of wellbeing
o Maintain optimal brain function, mental clarity and creativity
o Increase mental focus and concentration
o Cleanse and nourish the blood through the power of chlorophyll
o Help normalise weight
o Support and balance immune system
o Help maintain intestinal regularity
o Reduce recovery time after athletic performance
o Promote the growth of stronger nails, smoother skin and silkier hair
Information: http://www.kiki-health.co.uk.
Chlorella is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and chlorophyll. Spirulina like Chlorella, is an excellent source of essential fats and is rich in beta carotene.
Nuts & Seeds
The best way to obtain protein from nuts and seeds is to sprout (or soak) them. When you sprout nuts and seeds the natural oils become more digestible, the nutrient content is boosted several times over, the enzymes inhibitors are removed and of course, proteins are already there in the form of amino acids, so your body has less work to do.
Download my factsheet on nut butters to get the low down on the nutrients found in nuts and seeds.
Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a good substitute for people who have sensitivities to glutinous grains. It is a high quality protein grain which contains all eight essential amino acids, including lysine. If you sprout buckwheat and plant it in soil, you end up with buckwheat greens. These are a delicious salad vegetable that offers an excellent source of vitamins, enzymes, chlorophyll and the flavonoids rutin and quercitin.
The easier you can make the digestion of food for your body, the more it will reward you! Guaranteed!
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