6 Major benefits of plant-based proteins to improve your health and prolong longevity

It's no secret that we need protein in our diet. This age-old macro-nutrient has been part of our diet since the dawn of time. We need protein to function at our best, as this nutrient is present in everything, including our cells, bones, muscles, and organs. It helps us stay fit, strong, feeling satiated, and gives us energy. It builds muscle, repairs tissues, and regulates hormones. Protein consists of 22 types of amino acids, and our bodies need all 22 amino acids to function. 9 of these are considered essential amino acids (complete proteins), and we need to get them from our foods. Unfortunately, there are only a few vegan protein-rich foods that have all 9 essential amino acids. These include quinoa, hemp, soy, and buckwheat. Therefore, we need to consume a variety of high-protein vegan foods to ensure we get a good balance of amino acids. Benefits of eating plant-based proteins There are many benefits to eating plant-based protein foods as opposed to animal-based protein foods. The latter, with their high-fat content, can trigger inflammation and lead to chronic illnesses. Luckily for us, plant-based protein is low in saturated fat, low GI carbohydrates, and rich in various nutrients. All factors which have immense benefits on our overall health. Let's explore them below! Lower risk of heart diseases and lower blood pressure A study done by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition concluded that the quantity of protein did not impact the risk of IHD (ischemic heart disease). Rather the higher intake of animal protein, which could cause an increased risk for IHD. The amino acid called 'glutamic acid' present in plant-based protein can lower blood pressure and control and prevent major cardiovascular risk factors. The American College of Cardiology also concluded that healthy plant-based foods, such as vegetables, fruit, and legumes substantially lowered the risk for CHD (chronic heart disease). Dietary pulses have been shown to significantly lower blood pressure. Less inflammation and better gut health Vegan and vegetarian diets could lead to less inflammation in the body. This is partly due to the higher consumption of fiber-rich foods and nutrients and less consumption of high-fat foods and animal products. And less inflammation means less risk for chronic illnesses. A journal by the American Heart Association has detected significantly lower CRP (a marker of inflammation) in participants on a protein-rich vegan diet. Higher animal protein intake can also increase the risk for IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). Where bacteria may favor an intestinal environment more exposed to animal foods. Since plant-based diets usually contain more fiber, vegans also tend to have better and more regular bowel movements. Lowering cholesterol Cholesterol is a dense fatty substance, often found in high-fat animal sources. Plant-based protein foods such as legumes are cholesterol-free and could reduce bad cholesterol levels more than other diets. By avoiding the lousy LDL cholesterols, which can clog and harden the arteries, we can improve our health significantly. "Based on the Katan equation, the lower dietary cholesterol content of nonmeat diets than of animal protein diets would be predicted to reduce total LDL cholesterol by 0.08 and 0.07 mmol/L, respectively, suggesting that the cholesterol-lowering effect of the nonmeat diets may, in part, be attributed to their lower dietary cholesterol content." - American Journal of Clinical Nutrition Weight-loss Almost all plant-based protein sources are lower in fat and calories compared to animal protein. So naturally, swapping animal protein for plant-based protein will reduce your overall calorie intake. It also contains a lot of fiber, keeping you fuller for longer. In contrast, animal protein contains no fiber. Studies have consistently shown that individuals consuming greater fiber have lower body weights than individuals who consume lesser amounts. A study was done in 2013 in South Carolina to determine the effect of plant-based diets on weight loss. After 6 months of a vegan diet, this group showed the most weight loss. When it comes to weight-loss, Dr. Michael Greger, an American physician, is an advocate for whole food plant-based diets. He suggests water-rich foods to fill you up, choosing low-fat foods, including more fiber, and avoiding animal protein to lose weight. Check out his video on evidence-based weight loss. Cancer prevention/ risk-reducing Some studies and research have suggested that a plant-based diet could aid in cancer prevention to some degree. Red and processed meats have been identified as increasing the risk of some cancers. And by removing these from the diet and replacing it with plant-based protein sources, you are automatically reducing your chances of getting cancer. Other beneficial Nutrients Omega-3 fatty acids are found in many plant-based proteins such as walnuts, chia/hemp/ground flax seeds and soybeans. Omega-3 may help in managing heart diseases and lowering blood pressure. Legumes have also been shown to provide high levels of potassium, magnesium, folate, selenium, phosphorus, B vitamins, iron, copper, manganese, and zinc. All of these essential minerals and vitamins are key to optimal health and bodily functions. These benefits are enough to convince us to include more plant-based protein resources in our diet! It will not do any harm in giving it a try, right?! The secret is to ensure you get a balanced diet that include all major macro and micro nutrients and not only focus on one nutrient or group. When we do this, a healthier, happier body and mind is to be guaranteed! For healthy, wholesome, plant-based protein resources, we've got you covered! Have a look at these product categories, they will fulfill all you protein needs: BEANS & LEGUMES NUTS SEEDS

6 Major benefits of plant-based proteins to improve your health and prolong longevity

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