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13 Surprising Meat Free Protein Sources.

Vegetarians always rely on meat free protein rich foods. However it's important to note that all foods do not contain all essential amino acids. Protein is important for various body functions and it's a need to have protein in your diet. Protein is build up of amino acids. Our body can not synthesize all amino acids. The amino acids that can't be synthesized by the body must be obtained through your diet. Meat contains all essential amino acids that are not synthesized by the body to build proteins. However most people don't like eating animal source of proteins. If you are totally dependent on a vegetarian diet for proteins, then you must add a variety of pulses in your diet to compensate for the essential amino acids that are lacking in a vegetarian diet. It is always not possible to have a variety of vegetarian foods to include all amino acids.

To suffice the need for proteins for vegetarians, there are some meat free protein rich foods. There are some foods that contain all amino acids just like animal sources.

Boldsky will share with you some amazing sources of proteins. Have a look at some protein rich foods for vegetarians.

Avocado

Avocado

It is one of the rich sources of protein. Avocados do contain fat but that is a good fat, that your body needs. Avocados are also loaded with protein. You can have it with salads or smoothies. If you have avocado, there is no need for some other source of protein.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas

Half a cup of chickpeas contains more than seven grams of protein. You should always include chick peas in your diet, if you are not having meat. They are one of the best protein rich foods for vegetarians.

Lentils

Lentils

It is one of the best meat free protein rich foods. The combination of a high fiber content and protein makes lentils a fulfilling meal choice. It keeps your blood sugar levels stable. Lentils are also rich in iron. Lentils are easy to prepare and take less time to cook than most beans and legumes.

Beans

Beans

They are counted among the best sources of protein. You can choose from many different types of beans. Whether that's black or white. Whichever bean you choose, it will contain as much protein as the other. One cup of kidney beans contains around 15 grams protein.

Green Peas

Green Peas

They are one of the best meat free protein rich foods. Just one cup of peas contains 8 grams of protein. It also gives 100 percent of your daily vitamin C allowance. It is also rich in fiber.

Sun Dried Tomatoes

Sun Dried Tomatoes

One cup of sun dried tomatoes contain 8 grams of protein. Sun dried tomatoes are a delicious addition to your salad. You can also prepare a dish from them.

Nuts

Nuts

Nuts contain lots of healthy fats and are packed with protein, making them an ideal snack. You choose raw nuts as opposed to those full of salt and sugar. You can also eat nut butter by spreading on toast, or eating straight out of the jar. Make sure you choose nut butters which contain as less extra ingredients as possible, in order to make it more pure and healthy.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin Seeds

They are one of the best sources of protein. Pumpkin seeds are full of protein. A delicious way to have pumpkin seeds is to sprinkle them on top of your oatmeal or salad or adding them to sweet dishes.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds as protein as present in egg. Hemp seeds can be added to salads, rice dishes, cookies, oatmeal or even mixed up in a green smoothie. It is one of the good sources of protein

Chia Seeds

Chia Seeds

It is one of the high protein foods. Chia seeds are full of proteins as well as antioxidants, fiber, omega 3-fatty acids. You can sprinkle them over salads, yogurt and oatmeal.

Quinoa

Quinoa

It contains 8 grams of protein per cup. It contains essential amino acids that our bodies need. It is referred to as the ‘perfect protein'. You can have it with soup, syrup and fresh fruit.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal

Eating a bowl of oatmeal is a great way to start your day, as oats release their energy slowly. They are rich in proteins. One cup oats contain 26 grams of protein. You can make delicious oatmeal for breakfast or add them to smoothies like this banana oatmeal smoothie.

Brown Rice

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a healthy food option. It contains B-vitamins, essential fatty acids, fiber, manganese, and phosphorus, as opposed to white rice, which is heavily processed. There is 4.5 to 5 grams of protein in a cup of brown rice.

Story first published: Saturday, February 7, 2015, 17:30 [IST]
Read more about: health wellness protein