What is Plant Protein?
Like regular protein, but with more leaves.
While we’re tempted to wax poetic here about amino acids, PH levels, and phytochemicals, the truth is plant protein is just that: protein. Your body doesn’t care whether you get it from a steak or a seed. The proof? Your body is designed (okay, just give us one mention of amino acids) to mix and match the nine essential amino acids you need from different plant sources. So you don’t lose a thing by choosing plant protein. In fact, by eating less meat, you’re more likely to gain something—such as less inflammation, better bone health, and the floaty happy feeling that comes with knowing you ate your veggies.
Plant Protein All-Stars
Catch them on a Lightlife ingredient list near you.
Soy
The only. The classic. Vegetarians and flexitarians go nuts over soy for its heart-healthy, bone-boosting nutrition as well as its versatility. Case in point: our Organic Soy Tempeh, made with fermented soybeans, has 16 grams of protein per serving. Say it with us: yum.
Quinoa
Known as a supergrain, but actually a seed (go ahead and impress your friends with that little known fact), this gluten-free wonder boasts impressive levels of iron, fiber, magnesium, manganese, and other things your body loves. Sneak it into tomorrow night’s dinner with our Smart Patties Original Burger with Quinoa.
Pea
Mom had it right when she told you to finish your peas. This dinner plate staple hides 8 grams of protein per serving in its little green self, plus loads of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and essential minerals. Lucky for you, we use pea protein in our Smart Dogs.
Rice and beans
The original power couple, Rice & Beans is meant for so much more than Taco Tuesday. The pairing of legume and grain equals 7 grams of complete, delicious plant protein. When you get bored of eating them plain, mix things up with our Organic Wild Rice Tempeh or Smart Patties Black Bean Burger.
Chickpeas
Salad topper, humus, falafel…the possibilities of the humble chickpea are rivaled only by the wonder of its nutrition profile. Just one cup nets you 12 grams of protein, plus fiber, folate, and manganese.
Hempseed
Don’t let your experiences with hemp necklace scare you away from this one. Hempseed is an under-the-radar, plant protein superstar, with just three tablespoons packing in 10 grams of complete protein, plus omega-3.
Chia
They call this one “superfood” for a reason. Two tablespoons of the small but mighty chia not only has 4 grams of protein, but also more vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and beneficial fatty acids than we could list here. It’s such a powerhouse that it was considered almost magical by the ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures.
Source : http://lightlife.com/what-plant-protein