Vegetarian Protein Sources 06/04/2010
There's so much hype in the athletic world about protein. Protein shakes, protein bars, make sure you're getting enough protein to rebuild your muscles! Well, when you combine the need for protein with scriptural wisdom to "eat meat sparingly" you will rationally come to the conclusion that there must be plenty of other sources for protein and that they would likely be BETTER for you than dead flesh! (not editing my personal phrasing there...and yes I do currently still eat some dead flesh). The counsel to "eat meat sparingly" is proven as inspired counsel. Red meat is horrible for you and ups your chances for strokes, heart attacks and heart disease. It also can contribute to gout (which I've heard is extremely painful and miserable), liver and kidney issues. Animal proteins are harder on your body to process than plant sources. I've always liked the fact that cows and horses manage to become quite muscular by eating plant foods, NOT by eating animal protein. So why don't WE get the protein straight from the plant source?! So here is a short list of alternative protein sources for those who want to consume less meat but want to make sure to get their protein! Quinoa (little yummy grain you can buy at Costco or health food stores) 1 cup cooked, 8 grams of protein Almond butter (health food stores) 1 Tbsp, 2.4grams protein Peanut Butter 1 Tbsp, 4.6 grams protein Soy (Tofu,soy milk, etc) 1/2 cup tofu, 10 grams protein All nuts and seeds All beans (black, garbanzo, kidney,lentils, peas, etc.) 1 cup cooked black beans, 15.2 grams protein Orange (I chose a random fruit, they all have some) 1.2 grams protein Your recommended protein intake? Well there is no one consensus but here's a ballpark from Web MD. I never count the grams or really worry about it. If you're eating a salad, add some garbanzo's, have a fruit or veggie snack with some peanut butter! Not a big deal, just pay a little bit of attention and remember even your grains, fruits and veggies are giving you some protein!
I would add another logical exception...if you are an athlete doing a lot of endurance training, up the protein. :) Many sources, including some scientists claim these numbers are too high...the jury is still out. Just do your best CommentsLeave a Reply | About Me
Amber Gurr I was first introduced to yoga in 2001 and quickly fell in love. In 2004, I completed my 500 hour teacher training with D'ana Baptiste and have done annual trainings since that time with notable teachers such as Mark Whitwell, David Williams, Baron Baptiste and Rolf Gates. I love teaching and I love seeing yoga bless both the physical and spiritual aspects of people's lives. I have a husband and 4 little boys, ages 9, 3, 2 and 0 that keep me busy and playing. I decided that now is the time for me to be home with my family so now I just sub a yoga class here and there. I also am a nutritional herbalist, herbalist, doula, have an Associates degree in music, teach piano and do some energy readings and healing here and there. I am excited to share some of the tid bits of truth that I have come across that have shaped my life thus far and hope that this sharing will assist many others in their journey. Namaste! |