There are many delicious forms of protein that you can include (and it’s not all tofu!) that can be used in limitless ways to get enough amino acids. Many of these foods are higher in protein per ounce than animal sources and include fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These foods Support the body’s muscular system and promote an alkaline environment, while animal-based foods promote inflammation and lead to an acidic body.

Protein supports the muscles, tendons, and collagen production in the body. The amino acids that make up protein also propel a healthy neurotransmitter function and aid in mental focus. Protein also keeps the body aging gracefully to prevent muscle deterioration or weak bones that can lead to osteoporosis.

You don’t need a lot of protein to obtain the amino acids your body needs to form complete proteins. One gram of protein per pound of body weight is more than twice the amount that most people need daily. If you’re active or into bodybuilding, you may need more, but generally speaking, 0.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight is more than enough (much people need less).

Whole food sources of plant-based protein include:

• black beans
• chickpeas
• edamame
• lentils
• green peas
• barley
• almonds
• pumpkin seeds
• spirulina
• chia seeds
• hemp seeds
• oats
• teff
• quinoa
• kale
• spinach
• peanut butter
• kidney beans
• navy beans
• adzuki beans
• black and wild rice
• whole food-based, plant-based protein powders

You can also use transitional forms of plant-based ‘meats’ that include: tempeh, tofu, meatless ‘meat’ crumbles, seitan, and other forms of vegetarian protein if they help you transition away from meat. While they’re not necessary to obtain enough, some people do find they help fill in the gaps and they enjoy the taste of them.

1. Protein-Packed Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
2. Quinoa, Lime, and Black Bean Salad
3. Raw Hemp Chia Seed Bars
4. Almond Butter Protein Balls 
5. Curried Kale and Quinoa Salad
6. Energy Boosting Vegan Superfood Protein Shake
7. Vegan Chil
8. More high-protein plant-based recipes here!

• 10 Vegan Foods Packed With Protein
• Busted! The Myth About Incomplete Plant-Based Protein
• An All Day Plan for Vegan Comfort Foods Loaded with Protein
• The Ultimate Healthy and Clean Protein Cheat Sheet
• How to Get Enough Protein Eating Meat, Dairy, Soy, and Gluten-Free
• How to Tell if You’re Getting Enough Protein
• 5 Soy-Free Foods With More Protein Than Beef
• Need Protein? Here are 9 Amino Acids Found Abundantly in Plants
• How to Get Stronger on a Plant-Based Diet
• See more Protein Posts here.

• Vegan Protein Powders
• Raw Nut Butters
• Raw Nuts and Seeds
• Bulk Beans/Legumes
• Bulk Grains 
• Vegan Protein Bars
• Vegan Meal Replacement Products

1. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Healthy Fats 
2. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Complex Carbs/Fiber
3. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Vitamin A
4. Plant-based Nutrition 101: B Vitamins
5. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Vitamin C
6. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Vitamin D 
7. Plant-Based Nutrition 101: Vitamin E 
8. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Vitamin K 
9. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Calcium
10. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Magnesium
11. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Iron
12. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Zinc
13. Plant-based Nutrition 101: Protein (CURRENT PAGE)