8. Pumpkin Seeds
Eight grams of protein per 50g, nutrient-rich and versatile pumpkin seeds are known to promote health in a variety of ways, from preventing cancer to regulating blood sugar. Click here for some pumpkin seed recipes.
9. Spirulina
This is another nutrient-rich fresh-water alga (plural: algae). Chock-full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, spirulina is one of the few sources of plant-based protein that packs a bioavailable protein punch to the tune of 60-70% of its volume and that’s including all the essential amino acids (28g per 50g)! Phytonutrients in spirulina boost the immune system and support brain health.
10. Tahini
Like other nuts and seeds, the crushed sesame seeds that make tahini have lots of plant protein and healthy fats. With 10g of protein per 50g, tahini is great as a vegetable dip, on salads, by the spoonful, and like you would eat any nut butter. The oil in sesame seeds are known to lower blood pressure and help to prevent heart disease. Phytochemicals in sesame are also effective analgesics.
Eating a wide assortment of plant-based protein foods will ensure you get all of the necessary amino acids to nourish your body and support metabolism and energy production.
With these varied and delicious protein sources and a guideline for how much to eat, it’s important to note that it is possible to eat too much protein (especially animal proteins) over the course of time, which isn’t a great idea; too much protein without balance of other foods can tax the kidneys and cause other ill effects.
So make sure you get enough plant-based protein in your diet and the comprehensive packages of nutrition they offer!