Myth Busting: PROTEIN

So there are tons of misconceptions that people have about vegans. That they are all either hippies, or super militant animal activists comes to mind. (I will a address this another time.)

 But I thought I'd start with the number one most annoying, and most misunderstood stereotype.

  Peace and Love and Stuff

So the myth that I am talking about is "vegans don't get enough protein."

I mean, do you even lift Bro?  >.< 

But seriously...

I don't know a lot of people are under the impression that vegans only eat iceberg lettuce, and sprout sandwiches...but seriously we don't.

Places vegans get protein

* Beans
* Nuts
* Seeds
* Legumes
* Lentils
* Dark leafy greens
* Whole Grains
*Soy and Soy Products Ex: Tofu, Tempeh, Seitan,

There are also many types of faux meats that can be good when you are transitioning, but I wouldn't recommend eating those on a daily basis. They are helpful with cravings especially at the beginning, but they are highly processed foods. In general I would stick to wholefood meals, especially if you are looking to be active! Here is an example of a great breakfast:

Protein Packed Breakfast (Fruit, Nut, Seed Oatmeal and Whole Grain Pesto Toast) 

  

And while the list I created contains the best plant sources of protein, many types vegetables I didn't mention also contain protein.

And its not like we eat these by themselves. (Steamed broccoli all day yo!)  Its easy to mix and match these things into wonderful recipes that can satisfy even a super athletes needs. (Check out my available recipes!)

Below is a snapshot from cron-o-emer, the online app I use to track my nutrition. I have focused in on the protein section so you can get an idea of my daily intake of protein from eating a plant based (mostly whole) food diet. On cron-o-meter you enter a bit about your lifestlye, and then the foods you eat, and Tah-Dah! It keeps track of everything from calories and fat to vitamins and minerals. You can even enter your exercise.

 I just want to add a disclaimer that I didn't set out that day to try and get an impressive amount of protein. It is just an example of how I usually eat.

Just Another Day in the Life of a Culinary Genius    

I recommend checking out this website if you are unsure about your nutrition intake!

 Again while I selected this day as a good example, I didn't set out to eat any differently that day. I just entered my intake. Based on my weight 110, and active lifestyle it was recommended that I get at least 46 grams of protein daily. I usually intake around 70ish grams. Now I live a fairly active lifestyle, so I air on the side of caution with protein making sure to get enough. For the average person cutting meat out of their diet, I really don't believe protein to be a serious obstacle.

The fact that you need meat to stay fit is a myth. In fact I highly recommend you check out my favorite vegan athlete Tim 'Livewire' Sheiff.

Click here! Tim Sheiff: Parkour Champ

I drool a bit every time I watch one of his videos...

As you can tell, I probably care a bit more than the average person about my health. So when I get put down by the average Burger King eating, multiple video game hour playing, cigarette smoking, uninformed citizen that I must not be getting enough protein, its quite difficult for me not to become upset. I usually just appease myself by rolling my eyes and feeling superior  ;)

Queen of the World, Yo. 

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for some protein packed recipes for the athletic vegan, more myth busting, and travel advice and stories.  :)