Protein – The Plant-Based Elephant In The Room
Blogs By Heidi
- November 9, 2022
Let’s get this one out of the way!
The first question most people get when they go plant-based is “but where do you get your protein?” Western society seems to have this obsession with protein – the fear of not getting enough and the belief that ‘more is better’, but think about the last time you heard of anyone with a protein deficiency! It just doesn’t happen. Speaking of elephants, and gorillas and zebras for that matter – these animals are herbivores and are perfectly strong and healthy! They get all their protein from plants.
Humans need between 8-10% of their calories from protein, and this is easily achieved by eating a variety of plant-based foods. Plant proteins are perfectly complete when it comes to meeting our dietary needs and are even more beneficial to us than animal protein. Did you know that broccoli contains more protein than beef per calorie!
Eating an excess of animal protein is actually detrimental to our health because it creates extra stress on the kidneys, liver and bones. And contrary to popular belief, protein does not create muscle mass. The amount of muscle we have is determined by genetics, hormones and the frequency with which muscle is loaded (weight lifting). As more comes to light about the benefit of a whole food, plant-based diet, even high performing and endurance athletes are thriving on this diet and experiencing superior performance.
As long as you are eating plenty of plant-based foods, you don’t need to worry about protein!
What do you think? I am interested to hear your thoughts on this!
