Proteins In a Plant Based Diet

Where Do You Get Your Protein? The Truth About Plant-Based Protein Sources

Learn more about plant based sources of proteins and how to get it in maximum quality

If you’re following a plant-based diet, you’ve probably been asked this question more times than you can count: “Where do you get your protein?” It’s a common concern, and there’s a lot of misunderstanding about how protein works on a plant-based diet. But the good news is, you can absolutely get all the protein you need from plant-based sources—and I’m here to explain how.

Why Protein is Such a Big Deal on a Plant-Based Diet

When I’m coaching my clients, one of the first things they often ask is, “Will I still be able to build muscle or stay strong on a plant-based diet?” My answer is always, “Yes, absolutely!” Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall health.

In traditional diets, most people rely on animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs for their protein intake. But plant-based eaters need to be a bit more strategic, as plant proteins are sometimes seen as less “complete” compared to their animal counterparts. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get enough protein; it just means you need to know where to look and how to combine your foods.

The Misconceptions About Plant-Based Protein

This is often a big concern for my clients, I say to them, “You don’t have to eat meat to get protein.” Many people believe that plant-based diets can’t provide enough protein, but this is simply not true. Yes, it’s a myth that keeps circulating, but the reality is, there are plenty of plant-based protein sources that can meet your body’s needs.

My clients often ask about this, and I love breaking down the truth: plant proteins come in all shapes and sizes, from beans and lentils to quinoa and hemp seeds. And while some plant proteins may not have all the essential amino acids in one food (like animal proteins do), you can still get complete proteins by eating a variety of plant foods throughout the day.

Why Protein is Important and How to Get Enough

Protein is vital for a host of bodily functions. It helps build and repair tissues, supports muscle growth, keeps your immune system functioning properly, and even plays a role in creating enzymes and hormones. This is why I make sure my clients have a solid understanding of how to get enough protein on a plant-based diet.

Here’s how to make sure you’re getting your protein:

• Diverse Protein Sources: Mix and match your protein sources throughout the day. Beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, hemp seeds, and even green peas all contain significant amounts of protein.

• Complete Proteins: Some plant foods, like quinoa, buckwheat, and hemp seeds, are complete proteins, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. Combine foods like rice and beans to create a complete protein profile.

• Supplement If Needed: If you’re really active or have higher protein needs, consider a high-quality plant-based protein powder. I often recommend pea protein or a blend of rice and pea protein for my clients.

One thing I emphasize when coaching is that you don’t have to stress over each meal having a “complete” protein. Your body pools amino acids from all the foods you eat throughout the day, so as long as you’re getting a variety, you’re good to go.

A Little About Me

For those of you who are new here, I’m Rashon Fuller, a certified holistic wellness coach specializing in plant-based nutrition and holistic health transformations. Over the past 8 years, I’ve guided clients through their health journeys, helping them build healthier, more sustainable lifestyles that work for their unique needs.

My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to make plant-based eating easy, enjoyable, and effective.

Want to Work With Me?

Are you struggling to get enough protein on a plant-based diet? Or maybe you’re just tired of feeling like you’re always defending your dietary choices? I’d love to help you navigate your plant-based journey with confidence.

Through my Quantum Coaching Program, I’ll guide you step-by-step to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs, including protein, so you can thrive. [Learn more about my coaching here] or reach out directly to schedule a consultation. Let’s get you on the path to better health, one meal at a time.