Normally in each newsletter that I send out, I try to answer a question that I’m often asked and seems to be confusion among my clients. In this weeks newsletter I answer the question on how to get sufficient protein when eating little or no meat. I thought because this is such a hot topic, I would turn it into a blog post as well.

While there are other sources of plant based protein that I don’t mention, these are three of my favorites options. Even if you’re a meat lover, give these proteins a try and see if you can partake in meatless Monday as an experiment – you may find yourself opting out of meat more often than you would have expected!

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It’s a common misconception that people who don’t eat meat, don’t get enough protein. While this may be true, it’s not because of lack of plant based options, it’s probably because they don’t know what their options are. Some of my favorite plant based proteins are beans, eggs and quinoa.

Beans:
– All beans are full of protein, low in fat, high in fiber and are what’s considered a “good” carbohydrate. Beans move through the digestive system slowly which allows for a gradual increase in a blood sugar and provides sustained energy for your body.

Eggs:
– Try having eggs a few days a week for breakfast or in your salad for lunch and you’ll get excellent protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure to eat the WHOLE egg, not just the egg white because whole eggs have almost every essential vitamin and mineral our bodies need to function. When eating eggs, opt for pasture raised as that is the very best conditions on the farm that translates to the best option for your body.

Quinoa:
– Now I’m saving my favorite for last – quinoa! If you know me personally, you know how much I love and advocate for quinoa. It’s a complete protein, offering all of the essential amino acids in a healthy balance and is gluten free (for those who can’t tolerate gluten). Quinoa is perfect in salads, stir fry’s, oatmeal, as a side dish, or even as a rice replacement. Try adding quinoa to something this weekend and see if you can skip that midday snack – maybe you’ll be full until your next meal? Try it and comment on this post and let me know what you think.