PLANTS AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO MEAT CONSUMPTION
Number 1: Believe in Beans
Beans are a fabulous source of macro nutrients! Everything from chickpeas to black beans or kidney beans… almost all beans contain high amounts of protein. Protein exists in every cell in your body, it’s extremely important to get proper amounts of protein for repairing cells and making new ones.
Not only are beans a great meat alternative, but they are also high in fiber. Most Americans are currently not consuming enough fiber. This makes this swap even more beneficial. Beans just happen to be one of the cheapest fiber-containing options consumers can purchase. Whether the beans have already been cooked and canned or they are still dry, there a so many varieties of this nutritious ingredient. You truly cannot deny the versatility of this product!
Number 2: Level up with Lentils
Lentils come in all different types of colors so you can always switch it up! They are a quality source of plant-based protein that help aid digestion. Additionally, lentils are high in iron and easier to digest than other meat alternatives. They are fantastic in Indian inspired dishes, so go look up some recipes once you finish reading here!
Number 3: Versatility with Veggies
Many people are not aware that certain vegetables are high in protein! Broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower all contain surprisingly high amounts of protein. Not only are you incorporating protein into your diet, but you are also consuming large amounts of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Here at SCT, we offer many different air-dried and freeze-dried vegetable variations. Different dried vegetables are great in soups, stews, frittatas, and more! By dehydrating and rehydrating the vegetables you still get the great nutrients while making shelf life significantly longer. Keep veggies in mind!
Number 4: Quick Fix Quinoa
Quinoa is not only a superior carbohydrate, but it also contains protein! Not many people know that it is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids necessary for rebuilding the body.
Quinoa also happens to be a great gluten-free alternative for consumers. From tri-color quinoa, golden, and other varieties. The possibilities with this delicious complex carbohydrate are endless! You can enjoy quinoa in everything from salad toppings to quinoa burgers to quinoa nourish bowls. Feel free to get creative with all the unlimited uses!
Number 5: Serve up Seeds
It does not matter whether it’s poppy, chia, sesame, flax, sunflower, or hemp seeds. These plant-based proteins are an amazing meat alternative. Seeds are great for on the go and a quick healthy snack fix. These small-but-mighty proteins are a perfect addition to smoothies or yogurt and the industry has been incorporating them into products for years. Seed butters are very popular alternatives to peanut butter, for those allergic to peanuts. They are also used in seed milks! Milks such as hemp milk or sunflower seed milk are popular alternatives for individuals who are allergic to dairy products.
Some seeds are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids which lets you reduce meat or fish consumption while retaining the benefits of omega-3s! They are proven to help lower susceptibility to several chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Not only do seeds taste good, but they are also good ingredients to incorporate in a balanced diet. We can offer you the best quality products, whatever your seed needs are. Seeds are no longer just for the birds!
The health-related information in this blog is generally accepted as true. Of course, we aren’t nutritionists or physicians so make sure to check in with your doctor before making any major changes to your diet.
