When it comes to protein, many people may understand it as coming exclusively from animal sources. However, in reality, plants are also excellent sources of protein and are increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals. Consuming protein from various plant-based sources is essential for building sustainable good health. Today, we will address the question of why plant-based proteins are considered strong choices and why one should opt for them. Additionally, we will explore the essential amino acids found in plant-based foods. Read on to find out more!

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Hightlight

• What is Plant-based Protein?
• 5 reasons to consume plant-based protein
  • Plant-based protein is sustainable
  • Plant-based protein promotes strong health
  • Plant-based protein is more beneficial for animals
  • Plant-based protein is a good alternative for those allergic to animal protein
  • Plant-based protein provides essential amino acids that the body needs
• What are amino acids?
  • Do plant-based sources provide sufficient amino acids daily?
  • Comparison table of amino acids in chicken breast and 5 types of plant-based proteins
• Summary

What is Plant-based Protein?

Plant-based protein shares similarities with animal-based protein but often contains lower amounts of fat and provides better nutritional value. This is because it contains essential amino acids that aid in cell building and repair in both animals and humans. Additionally, it helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions and various diseases, making it popular among individuals looking to reduce their meat consumption since the protein content in plants can serve as a replacement for animal-based protein.

While plant-based protein is commonly found in Legumes, Seeds, and Nuts, it can also be found in other vegetables such as Broccoli, Kale, Asparagus, and Mushrooms. Furthermore, grains like Barley, Quinoa, Lentils, Rice, and Spelt are excellent sources of protein and various nutrients.

5 reasons to consume plant-based protein

Plant-based protein is sustainable

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The production of animal meat requires a significant amount of natural resources, such as land, water, and animal feed. This leads to environmental destruction and the release of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. In contrast, plant-based protein production utilizes fewer natural resources and emits fewer greenhouse gasses.

Experts have found that 75 percent of agricultural pollution comes from animal-derived products. Therefore, shifting towards a plant-based diet is a crucial part of addressing agricultural pollution, as plant-based protein requires fewer resources for production compared to animal-based protein. This makes it a top sustainable choice for addressing environmental concerns.

Plant-based protein promotes strong health 

It contains lower levels of saturated fats and cholesterol compared to animal-based protein, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Additionally, plant-based protein is rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin B, as well as other beneficial compounds that contribute to good health. Moreover, it also includes healthy fats that are beneficial for overall health. Legumes and whole grains are examples of plant-based proteins that are highly nutritious.

Research has shown that a plant-based diet can lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index (BMI), reducing the risk of stroke and heart disease. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, a plant-focused diet can help control blood sugar levels, and consuming plant-based foods as a primary part of the diet may reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Plant-based protein is more beneficial for animals

Animals such as cows, pigs, and chickens are often kept in large-scale factory farms where they are confined in small, sunless spaces and do not receive proper nourishment. This kind of farming also contributes to animal cruelty.

In the United States, approximately 95 percent of livestock are raised in industrial or factory farms, as reported by the ASPCA. These industrial farms generate excessive pollution as they are designed to meet the increasing demand for animal meat and products. This results in the mistreatment and immense suffering of animals. Therefore, increasing the consumption of plant-based foods and reducing the consumption of animal meat and products not only benefits human health but also the planet and animals.

Plant-based protein is a good alternative for those allergic to animal protein

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There are quite a number of people who are allergic to animal proteins, such as milk, eggs, and meat, which means their bodies may not receive a sufficient amount of protein. Therefore, plant-based protein is a good alternative for those who are allergic to animal proteins as it does not trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, it helps provide the body with an adequate amount of protein.

Plant-based protein provides essential amino acids that the body needs

Proteins from certain plant sources, such as Soybeans, Lentils, and Quinoa, are complete proteins, meaning they contain all the essential amino acids that the body needs. While some animals like chicken, fish, and eggs also provide complete proteins, plant-based proteins are a great choice as they are sustainable, promote strong health, and are beneficial for animals. They serve as an excellent option for individuals allergic to animal proteins and provide a source of complete proteins.

What are amino acids?

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Amino acids are small molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. They are the building blocks of proteins and play a vital role in the body, such as supporting growth, repairing tissues, synthesizing hormones, enzymes, and other essential compounds, aiding in digestion, and transmitting cellular signals.

There are a total of 20 types of amino acids, divided into two categories: essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids.

• Essential amino acids:

These are amino acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own and must be obtained through dietary intake. There are nine essential amino acids: isoleucine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine, methionine, and histidine.

• Non-essential amino acids:

These are amino acids that the body can synthesize on its own. There are 11 non-essential amino acids: alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine, and tyrosine.

Good sources of amino acids include animal products such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy, as well as plant-based sources like legumes, seeds, and grains. People following a vegetarian or vegan diet should ensure they consume a diverse range of foods to get an adequate supply of essential amino acids from plant-based sources, as different plant foods contain different essential amino acids.

Do plant-based sources provide sufficient amino acids daily?

Many people may believe that the quantity and proportion of amino acids in those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet are often lower than those who consume animal products. However, the truth is that all types of plant-based foods contain all 20 amino acids, including the 9 essential amino acids. For those who are unsure whether they are getting enough protein each day or are unable to consume large quantities of food, they may seek assistance from complete plant proteins from Plantae. These complete plant-based proteins offer high protein content with low calories and are rich in up to 5 different types of plants, such as lentils, yellow beans, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and organic rice. They provide all 9 essential amino acids, making them suitable for health-conscious individuals, people following vegetarian, vegan, keto, or diabetic diets. Additionally, they use natural sweeteners from stevia without any synthetic chemicals or additives.

Comparison table of amino acids in chicken breast and 5 types of plant-based proteins

	Histidine	Isoleucine	Leucine	Lysine	Methionine+Cysteine	Phenylalanine +Tyrosine	Threonine	Tryptophan	Valine	Amount of all essential amino acids
Quantity of nutrients that is recommended to consume per day(RDA)	700	1400	2730	2100	1050	1750	1050	280	1820	12880
Chicken Breast	839	1104	1861	2163	821	1718	1109	283	1165	10963
5 Plants from Plantae
Soybean	1097	1971	3309	2706	1202	3661	1766	591	2029	18332
Pumpkin Seed	770	1265	2388	1220	922	2790	985	569	1559	12468
Pea	586	983	1680	1771	468	1669	813	159	1035	9164
Sunflower Seed	632	1139	1659	937	494	1169	928	48	1315	8321
Organic Rice	153	281	538	235	286	565	233	75	397	2763

Recommendation for the number of nutrients per day (RDA): Comparison table of amino acids in chicken breast (mg/100g) and 5 types of plant-based proteins 

Summary

Plant-based protein is a great option for both your health and the planet. It is more sustainable than animal meat production, promotes better health compared to animal-based protein, and offers more benefits for animals as well. It is an excellent alternative for those with allergies to animal protein, as it provides all the essential amino acids that the body needs. If you are looking for a better option for your health and the environment, plant-based protein is the answer for you!

For those seeking healthier choices, you can order plant-based protein from Plantae here and find more related articles at

• How good is Plant-based Protein?
• Plant-Based Protein vs. Whey Protein: Which is Better?