Quick Reads: Four Ways to Beef-Up With Plant-Based Protein

Every training diet needs plenty of protein. After all, protein is the main factor in maintaining and gaining muscle. While many believe that the best sources of protein are meat products, there are many plant-based protein alternatives that provide the same amount of protein with less sodium and preservatives. These vegetarian options also contain vitamins and dietary fiber.

Some tips to integrate more plant-based protein in your diet include:

Becoming friends with beans. Beans are an excellent source of protein and are extremely versatile, too. Sprinkle cooked beans on a salad of dark, leafy greens for a satisfying and protein-packed lunch.

Nosh on nuts. You probably have heard that nuts are full of protein, with almost seven-grams per ounce! Sprinkle dry-roasted nuts in stir-fry, add to pad thai or simply pour a handful for snacking!

Learn to like lentils. Lentils are worth loving with around 18-grams per cup (cooked). Make soup, stew and salads with these versatile, tasty legumes.

Choose chia seeds. With approximately two grams of protein per tablespoon, try sprinkling a few chia seeds on your salads, cereal and soup to help fuel your fitness routine.