Why are so many people shifting to plant protein?
Over the last five years, plant-based diets, lifestyles and by default, plant-based foods have gone nuts, (see what we did there?) Around one in three Kiwis are now reducing their meat consumption or eating no meat at all. A recent study has analysed Google Trends data and found that New Zealand now ranks in the top 5 for veganism worldwide. (The study looked at the frequency of vegan-related search terms across all languages to determine where in the world veganism is most popular.)
Kiwis cited ‘overall health’ as the number one reason they are choosing to reduce their meat intake, followed by, ‘reducing chances of heart disease and stroke’ and ‘limiting cancer risk’ showing that messages around the benefits of meat reduction from authorities such as the World Health Organisation and World Cancer Research Fund are making an impact. Eating meat in the quantities that we do is not only unhealthy, but also unsustainable.
Thinking of moving to a plant-based diet — So what’s in it for me?
Many people also report increased fitness payoffs, more energy, reduced inflammation, and better health outcomes after making the switch.
But I worry about getting enough protein…
Where to source your plant protein
- Nut- and seed-based: hemp seeds, hemp protein powder, chia seeds, flax seeds, quinoa, almonds, cashews, Brazil nuts, pistachios
- Soy-based: tempeh, tofu, edamame, soy milk, TVP, soy protein isolate powder
- Bean- or legume-based: lentils, beans and rice, chickpeas, black beans, bean burgers, eggless eggs
- Pea protein-based: Pea protein, pea milk
- Grain-based: seitan, whole wheat flour, spelt, teff
- Veggie-based: potatoes, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms
- Other: spirulina
Hemp as a superfood plant protein
Our vegan-certified Kiwi Hemp Hearts are an extremely versatile superfood with 10 grams of protein for every 30-gram serving. We love to sprinkle them on cereal or porridge, over salads, poached eggs, avocado on toast, and into pretty much all baked goods – all quick and easy wins that add extra protein in a simple flourish.
Tips for thriving not just surviving on a plant-based diet
- PROTEIN – At every meal! (As per previous list)
- Eat lots of vegetables – Fill at least half your plate with colourful vegetables at lunch and dinner. Enjoy vegetables as a snack with hummus, salsa, or guacamole.
- Change the way you think about meat – If you still want to include meat in your diet, serve smaller amounts and don’t make meat the star of the show.
- Choose good fats – The fats in hemp seed oil, olive oil, olives, nuts and nut butters, seeds, and avocados are particularly healthy choices.
- Cook a vegetarian meal at least one night a week – Build these meals around beans, whole grains, and vegetables.
- Include whole grains for breakfast – Start with oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat, or barley then add in nuts, seeds and fresh fruit.
- Build a meal around a salad – Fill a bowl with salad greens and add in vegetables, herbs, beans, peas, or tofu.
- Eat fruit for dessert – A juicy peach, a slice of watermelon, or a crisp apple will satisfy your craving for a sweet bite after a meal.
Refrences
- https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1910/S00672/research-reveals-the-rise-of-plant-based-eating-in-nz.htm
- https://vegconomist.com/studies-and-numbers/study-new-zealand-is-now-the-fifth-most-vegan-country-in-the-world/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vegan-protein-sources-chart
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321474#15-best-vegan-proteins
- https://www.healthline.com/health/nutritionists-guide-to-plant-based-protein
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-much-protein-do-you-need-every-day-201506188096
- https://www.forksoverknives.com/how-tos/plant-based-primer-beginners-guide-starting-plant-based-diet/
- https://www.eatingwell.com/article/2053610/high-protein-vegan-diet-meal-plan/
- https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/