Proteins help us repair tissues, create enzymes and hormones, bolster our immune system, and balance our fluids. Because of their amazing function, proteins are regarded as a great superfood.
These days more and more people are switching towards plant-based protein as a healthy alternative. In fact, the Information Food Information Council reported that 28% more people have been eating plant-based protein since 2019. Also, due to social media and increased awareness about vegetarian and vegan food options, interest and demand for plant-based protein are on the rise.
I’ve done some research on why plant-based protein is a good option for a weight loss journey and which products can help you achieve your fitness goals. Here’s what you need to know:
Some Benefits Of Plant-based Protein
If you’re looking for an alternative to meat-based proteins, you should ensure that your plant-based protein can meet your fitness goals. Also, including more plants in your diet is always a good idea.
According to research, switching to a plant-based diet can help us reduce the risks of cancer. Also, since protein-based meals have a low glycemic index, they can help manage type 2 diabetes and encourage weight loss. These plant-based proteins contain a large amount of fiber that promotes a healthy gut and good gut bacteria and improves digestion.
Also another study reported that a plant-based diet also helped lower risks of cardiovascular diseases in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. And according to World Resources Institute, plants cause lower greenhouse gas emissions than meat. They also make a bigger difference in the betterment of the environment. And when you know you’re eating protein that grew from the ground rather than the feedlot, you can rest easy about animal cruelty.
You Don’t Sacrifice On Taste And Nutrients With Plant-Derived Proteins
If you’re thinking that plant-based proteins are a sacrifice in taste and mouthfeel, think again. Here are some plant-based proteins you should go for:
Quinoa
If you think quinoa is a wimpy side dish or a minor ingredient in a salad, think again. This is a fluffy, nutty-flavored grain high in protein, complex carbohydrates, potassium, and calcium. It can be prepared quickly on a stovetop and added to many Mexican dishes, casseroles, and a side for stews and curries.
You can also sprinkle this on leftover salads or mix it with milk and cinnamon to have a fulfilling porridge for breakfast.
Chia Seeds
Haven’t boarded the chia seed bandwagon yet? You should! For such a small food, they pack a punch. They’re remarkably nutritious, with high amounts of fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3. However, they’re not exactly known for their taste. You can add them to different recipes to make them taste better.
You can add them to smoothies and low-fat milk-based puddings. You can add them to your homemade basil pesto sauce to add to your pasta or salad dressings for some texture. Their neutral taste makes them an excellent companion to sweet breakfast options without adding too many calories.
Rice And Beans
A complete protein-based diet has all the amino acids you need in your body that it can’t produce on its own. Also, it doesn’t matter which kind of beans you use because all beans are high in fiber especially when you eat them with brown rice.
The taste of the beans will depend on the kind of dish you’re making and the seasoning you’ll add. You can add them to your chili stew or stuff them in enchiladas and bread wraps as a filling.
Lentils
Are you looking for a fiber and protein boost? You’ll get 18 grams of protein and 14 grams of fiber in a cooked cup of lentils. This superfood comes in varieties of black, red, yellow, brown, and green lentils, with each variety having a different taste. Some have an earthy texture, while others have a creamy texture.
These are great companions of soups, curries, and salads and can substitute meat patties in burgers, casseroles, and tacos.
Tofu, Soy Crumbles, And Edamame
These are the highest sources of protein and vegan options. A half-cup serving of edamame provides 7 grams of protein, and 3 ounces of tofu supplies around 8 grams. Also, soy crumbles have 13 grams of protein in 0.25 cups. The best part about eating these plant-based protein sources is they can take on the flavor of the dish they’re being cooked in.
Whereas edamame already has a creamy and buttery flavor. To make a dish, you can fry the tofu in the shape of a taco or sandwich and then fill it up with anything you like. Also, you can replace ricotta cheese with silken tofu in your regular sandwiches.
Try Ka’Chava Meal Replacement Shake
This is an amazing blend of organic superfoods with various plant-based proteins. It’s a gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-free drink that can replace your breakfast or lunch meal if you have a busy schedule. You get all the protein and nutrients you need with two heaps of powder and 12-14 ounces of water. A single Ka’Chava 930-gram packet includes 15 meals of powder that you can blend in water or some milk if you prefer.
Also, based on the many plant-based protein powders on the market, this is one the closest things you can get to the real flavors. Like the chocolate Ka’Chava, the protein drink tastes just like a chocolate shake. I tried it, so I know. Amazingly, something that’s a blend of all the aforementioned plant-based proteins can taste so delicious. So, if you’re making a shake to drink after your work, you can simply mix the two tablespoons of power in cold water. You can add some ice to make a thicker shake, almost like a smoothie.
You can choose from their most popular flavors, chai, coconut acai, matcha, chocolate, and vanilla. With each of the flavors, you get a mix of digestive enzyme blends, omega EFA-fiver, probiotics, super greens, vitamin blends, antioxidants, adaptogens, proteins, and other healthy ingredients to keep you full for longer. So, if you’re on a busy schedule, don’t have time to meal prep, and need a quick and nutritious plant-based protein to help keep you full, I highly recommend this drink.
UpNourish Protein Drink From Plant-Derivatives
If you’re looking to put on muscle and can’t consume raw eggs and eat a lot of meat daily, plant-based protein is one of the best options. Consuming a large amount of red meat can put you at risk for cardiovascular diseases. So, one of the best options you can try is the UpNourish meal replacement drinks.
Many fitness experts use protein-based drinks to include more protein in their diet to heal tissue and accelerate muscle growth. You can consume this after your workout session to give your body the necessary nutrients it needs to function well. You get a variety of proteins, fats, greens, vitamins, and fruits in every spoon full of UpNourish drinks.
Moreover, if you lead a vegan lifestyle, I highly recommend ordering UpNourish, so you don’t miss out on any nutrients in your daily diet. The company offers many interesting flavors like double chocolate, strawberry, vegan mango, cookies and cream, Kesar badam, French vanilla, and spearmint.
Looking to bulk up your muscles? You’ll need around 3000-5000 calories a day. UpNourish can ensure you’re getting the necessary amount of nutrients in your body. Order it now from Amazon.
Plant-based protein is here to stay. And I’m convinced that it should be a staple in your diet if you’re a fitness enthusiast. It can be difficult to eat that amount of protein while you’re consuming regular food daily. Drinks like Ka’Chava and UpNourish are great options toensure you get your daily dose of nutrition.
If you’re looking to order for yourself or your partner, visit Amazon now!
