Around the world, most traditional diets are rooted in healthy plant-based meals. Just take a look at the Oldways Mediterranean, African, Asian, and Latin American Pyramids all of them feature fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and legumes as their foundation. Yet today, plant-forward meals can raise a common concern among diners: is it possible to get enough protein on your plate without meat The answer is a resounding yes!
To prove it, Meatless Monday is partnering with the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future. Their #PlantPowerProtein campaign shows that meatless meals are part of a healthy and balanced diet. What do we mean by plant protein An abundance of beans, vegetables, nuts, and seeds fall into this category. Read on for the top five reasons to make room for them on your plate!
1. Beneficial nutrients
With plant protein, you get a bigger nutritional bang for your buck. Many plant proteins (like beans, chickpeas, nuts, and seeds) offer beneficial nutritional properties, in addition to protein. Walnuts, for example, contain omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and vitamin E. Or, consider that one cup of beans provides as much protein as two ounces of beef, with the added benefit of being cholesterol-free.
2. Lower risk of disease
Although meat does provide protein, excessive consumption is associated with raised LDL cholesterol, clogged arteries, and risks such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Choosing plant protein in place of meat lowers the risk of these potential health problems.
3. It’s complete
Some people worry that plants don’t provide complete protein, or protein that contains all the amino acids that your body needs. Although not every plant protein is complete in itself (for example, grain foods are higher in the amino acid methionine, while legumes and soy foods are higher in lysine), the liver can store amino acids, so its not necessary to worry about combining complementary protein foods at every meal. By eating a varied diet with different types of plant foods (grains, legumes, soy foods, etc.), you can make sure that your body is getting the proper amino acid balance. Rice with beans, hummus with pita bread, and peanut butter with whole wheat toast are three examples of complete protein combinations.
4. Good for the planet
Meat production can take a heavy toll on water, land, and fossil fuel supplies. Plant-based foods are less draining to natural resources. Save water, conserve energy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making the switch to plant protein at least once per week.
5. It’s delicious!
Recipes with plant-based proteins are varied, fresh, and delicious. Check out a few of our favorites below, or browse our vegetarian recipe collection or 4-Week Vegetarian & Vegan Menu Plan. It’s time to embrace #PlantPowerProtein!
- Zucchini Noodles with Poached Egg Topper (15g protein per serving)
- Beet Burgers (12g protein per serving)
- Yellow Split Pea Cheesy Pasta (18g protein per serving)
- Lentil Lasagna (19g protein per serving)
- Mini Breakfast Pizzas (13g protein per serving)
Ed Rosenberg 
