Where do you get your protein?!?

As a vegan, one of the most common questions I get is "Where do you get your protein?"

Well when last did you ask an elephant where they get their protein from?

PLANTS!

 picture from: http://desktopwallpaperswide.com

People tend to think that the only source of protein is found in meat and dairy... 

This couldn't be further from the truth!

 Protein is found in leafy greens, nuts, legumes and seeds.

We do not need animal protein to function as healthy and happy humans.

This being said, protein deficiency is common in both meat-eaters and vegans.

So in order to make sure you are eating enough protein you can do this simple calculation:

body weight x 0.8 = g of protein needed on a daily basis

eg: 60kg x 0.8 = 48g

The average woman needs about 46 grams and the average man 56 grams.

Pregnant woman need up to 71grams a day.

So here are a few examples of how to get your protein in as a vegan.
(Please note that the following are brand and product specific and are just meant to be used as ideas to proof the point that protein can be obtained from plants)

250g soy milk  - 8g

50g nuts - 9g

1 cup of chickpeas - 15g

1 Fry's original burger - 13g

= 45 grams

See, easy!

* Zanzibar Lentil Dip / Spread *

Blend in a food processor:

2 diced onions

2 tsp chopped garlic

2 tins brown lentils

3/4 cup olive oil

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp fresh ginger

1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Stir in roughly chopped fresh coriander.

Enjoy as a dip with crackers or as a spread on potatoes, seed rolls or any fresh bread with slices of avocado pear.

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