Difficulties of Being Vegetarian
Whether going vegetarian or vegan, if you've tried eating just greens for a day, you would know the difficulties of sticking with your diet. Salad stops are not as easily available too, and even if they are, the price is going to make your head spin.
Anyhow, these are but small inconveniences compared to the health benefits and wholesome diet of fresh produce. A little hassle can be afforded by a disciplined and nutritionally-sound lifestyle, since it is your body and your family that reap the benefits.
Here, let's cover on protein as a macronutrient for your body's essential functions.
How Much Protein
Protein makes up about 30% of your daily diet... or at least it should. To calculate how much is enough for you, the body needs 0.8g of protein per kg of your body weight daily. And if you have a rather active lifestyle (akin to moderate/intense exercise 2-3 times a week), your body requires 1g per kg of body weight.
Where To Get Protein
Plant based protein like beans, lentils, nuts and tofu are incomplete sources of protein, but when combined can provide far more nutritious and complete protein than animal-based protein. Going vegetarian is healthier in the long run for the body to break down essential amino acids easily.
Protein and Exercise
Protein builds muscle by repairing it, and during exercise it provides 10-15% of fuel for the workout.
Hence protein intake during the first 30 minutes of the recovery process can be highest then. Also, there is increasing absorption of protein in the body over a 7-day period when sedentery people first begin training.
Protein Shakes
Should you find yourselves unable to attain the needed amount of protein daily to sustain your body, you may consider protein supplements. Vegetarians will find this hard to source from daily natural foods, having to consume a variety of nuts/grains, mushrooms and brocolli/green leafy veges just to have enough.
Do contact me for a disciplined workout plan and diet or if you require a nutrition shake to aid your daily functions.
This is me with a giant bowl of salad and enormous fork and spoon to match, in Swensen's. |